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Section2. Clinical Application

Integration of Play Therapy and Transactional Analysis

Pages 139-140
Published online: 28 Dec 2017
 
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This article extends the author's earlier description of the integration of Virginia Axline's (1947/1989) play therapy with transactional analysis (Conning, 1998). In play therapy, the communication medium is mainly in the intuitive domain, and the way this communication method plays into various transference tendencies is discussed. By focusing on the most appropriate transference stance, the therapist will find the child opening up in a predictable way, which is strongly therapeutic. By also providing appropriate intuitive feedback to the child, the therapeutic effect can be enhanced. Some children exhibit script symptoms, and the way these manifest is described. Philosophical differences between adult and child therapy are examined, which leads into a discussion of ethical issues specific to child play therapy. Drawing on the various concepts discussed in the article, a method is devised for measuring therapy effectiveness.

Additional information

Author information

Edward Conning

Edward “Ted” Conning worked as a counselor after taking early retirement from his work as an electronic engineer designing receivers for military aircraft. During his time as project manager he became interested in the work of Virginia Axline. He used his “hands off” theory on his team of men with the result that his workforce had a much higher sense of self and greater creativity skills. Ted's background in transactional analysis, together with his interest in play therapy, helped him develop a unique style of counseling for both children and adults. Sadly, Ted died in April 1998 after a brave fight against cancer.