Integrating interpersonal neurobiology with play therapy.

Abstract

Advancements in neuroscience support play and empathic attunement as contributors to brain development and formation. As such, a natural connection seems to exist between play therapy and current neuroscience concepts. This article assimilated theories from the interpersonal neurobiology model (Siegel, 2012), including the 9 levels of integration, with play therapy processes and practices. Identification of complementary components may bolster efforts to advocate for the play therapy field as well as inform intentional intervention by practitioners.

Examining perceived levels of stress, burnout, and job satisfaction among play therapists.

“…Because of shelter in place orders, play therapists were among the mental health practitioners who quickly adapted to provide virtual interventions (Agarwal et al, 2022). This presented potential challenges for play therapists, as much of play therapy work involves functions of attunement (Wheeler & Dillman Taylor, 2016), as well as embodying the "Be With attitudes" of "I am here, I hear you, I understand, and therefore I care" (Landreth & Bratton, 2019). Prior to the pandemic, there were very few examples of using telemental health in the practice of play therapy (see Hicks & Baggerly, 2017).…”

Incorporating interpersonal neurobiology in child parent relationship therapy.

“…Typical verbal counseling focuses heavily on the more complex areas of the brain, which is less likely to have significant meaning for children. Play therapy natu-rally engages children in the therapeutic process relationally, kinesthetically, and nonverbally, allowing children to communicate in ways that are developmentally innate (Wheeler & Dillman Taylor, 2016). Play is an essential part of healthy nervous system development, contributing to children's ability to self-regulate emotions and respond appropriately when faced with challenges (Wheeler & Dillman Taylor, 2016).…”

Integrative play therapy with adults with complex trauma: A developmentally-informed approach.

“…A developmentally sensitive approach in play therapy proves congruent with recent advances in interpersonal neurobiology, and is embraced as being complimentary to play therapy treatment (Hudspeth, 2016;Wheeler & Taylor, 2016). In children with developmental trauma, understanding the neuroscience of brain development and the impact of the therapeutic relationship plays a seminal role in healing the wounds caused by early interpersonal trauma (Kestly, 2014;Stewart, Field, & Echterling, 2016).…”