Mindfulness-Based Play Therapy

This book presents an innovative, experience-based therapeutic framework that integrates mindfulness and family therapy within play-family sessions. By offering children a space to calm the “busy mind,” play therapy can evoke a state comparable to mindfulness meditation, allowing children to remain present, relaxed, and receptive to healing. With the right tools and techniques, therapists can guide children into this state of stillness, where deeper awareness supports emotional regulation, symptom reduction, and enhanced self-esteem. Grounded in traditional family therapy and play therapy, and informed by child development theory, interpersonal neurobiology, and mindfulness practices, this model supports healing and growth within the family context using both spontaneous and directed play approaches.

Key Features:

• Introduces a comprehensive framework integrating mindfulness, play therapy, and family therapy.
• Explains techniques for helping children access and sustain a calm, present-moment state.
• Demonstrates how play-family sessions can reduce emotional and physical distress while enhancing self-esteem.
• Draws from child development theory, interpersonal neurobiology, and mindfulness research.
• Offers guidance on using both spontaneous and directed play based on therapeutic needs.
• Provides practical tools and techniques for clinicians working with children and families.