PT 212 History of Play Therapy

Course Objectives:​

​Exploring the historical foundations and key influential contributors such as Anna Freud, Carl Rogers, Virginia Axline and Clark Monstakas to the development of play therapy as a therapeutic approach, including significant theories and concepts. How those theories influence the future development of play therapy. Additionally, it enhances the professional knowledges and development of play therapists. Familiarity with the history of play therapy contributes to the development of a strong professional identity. It allows play therapists to situate themselves within the broader context of the field, understand its historical roots, and appreciate the contributions of previous generations of play therapists which enhance individuals’ commitment to ongoing learning and growth.

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Influential figures in Play Therapy

• Examining the evolution of play therapy: Trace the progression of play therapy over time, including its emergence as a distinct therapeutic modality and the influential factors that have shaped its development. Identifying the significant figures and understanding the perspectives and philosophies of these individuals can enhance one's understanding of play therapy principles and techniques.

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Evolution of Theoretical Approaches

• The history of play therapy reveals the evolution of various theoretical approaches within the field. By studying the historical development of psychodynamic, humanistic and cognitive behavioural approaches, play therapists can gain a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical foundations that underpin different play therapy modalities.

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Contributions of Sigmund Freud, Melanie Klein, Anna Freud, Carl Roger and Virginia Axline

• Exploring the play therapy pioneers and their early work

• Sigmund Freud and Psychodynamic play therapy and his work of “Little Hans”

• Carl Rogers’ Client-centered approach in therapy

• Virginia Axline and Nondirective Play Therapy and her work of "Dibs in Search of Self"

• Garry Landreth’s Child-parent relationship in play therapy

• Other theoretical approaches such as Filial play therapy, Gestalt play therapy and Cognitive-behavioural play therapy.

The development of Play Therapy in Hong Kong

• Increasing awareness and acceptance of Play Therapy in Hong Kong and the establishment of Hong Kong Association of Play Therapy (HKAPT).

• Play therapy approaches and techniques have been adapted to suit the cultural context of Hong Kong. Therapists incorporate cultural values, beliefs and practices into the interventions, ensuring cultural relevance and sensitivity in the therapeutic process.

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Reference : 

• O'Connor, K. J., & Braverman, L. D. (2009). Play therapy theory and practice: Comparing theories and techniques. John Wiley & Sons.

• Landreth, G. L. (2012). Play therapy: The art of the relationship. Routledge.

• Schaefer, C. E. (Ed.). (2011). Foundations of play therapy. John Wiley & Sons.

• 袁志文 (2020) , 香港阿德勒。 香港專業輔導及顧問協會出版

• 袁志文 (2024) , 遊戲治療百問百答。正向心理及遊戲治療出版