Abstract
Despite a plethora of therapeutic approaches utilized when working with children, there is still a need for empirically based, child-centered, developmentally appropriate methodologies. This research aims to provide a greater understanding of the use of action-based metaphors when working with clients in early to middle childhood, while integrating various treatment modalities. While there are a countless number of metaphorical possibilities, there is a lack of research with a focus on the specific use of animal metaphors in child therapy. This child-friendly integrative approach proposes that therapists adjust their current working model to see the client as a whole, while integrating techniques from several theoretical orientations, therefore dissolving the boundaries between approaches and increasing the effectiveness of treatment. This research will contribute to the field of play therapy, both theoretically and practically, as it synthesizes current explanations, demonstrates techniques though the use of a clinical case conceptualization, and provides a framework for applying action-based animal metaphors. Counselors can then utilize this as a guide when working with children.
Rights Statement
Articles published in The Graduate Review are the property of the individual contributors and may not be reprinted, reformatted, repurposed or duplicated, without the contributor’s consent.
Recommended Citation
Gordon, Tricia J.
(2018)
Utilizing Animal Metaphors in Child Psychotherapy: An Integrative Approach for Therapists.
The Graduate Review, 3, 135-148.
Available at: https://vc.bridgew.edu/grad_rev/vol3/iss1/21
Included in
Child Psychology Commons, Clinical Psychology Commons, Counseling Psychology Commons, Theory and Philosophy Commons