Expired An Introduction to Theraplay: Treating Trauma and Attachment Issues with Children and Parents

Children who have lived in unsafe environments, with inconsistent/ impaired caregivers or who have endured multiple losses may not be able to overcome these traumatic experiences without some type of intervention. Theraplay is a psychotherapy that focuses on the parent-child relationship as a vehicle to heal problems of trust, hyperarousal and connection in both children and parents. Theraplay is effective in treating trauma because the focus on building the attachment relationship. When trauma has occurred within a relationship, it takes a healthy relationship to heal it. Trauma can disrupt the parent-child relationship, and disruption (unplanned separations, untreated depression) can cause trauma. Treatment involves caregivers so that disrupted relationships can be repaired or new relationships developed. By nurturing the parent-child relationship, Theraplay creates a safe haven in which the child can feel wanted and valued and can develop their own unique personality.