Integration of Play Therapy and Transactional Analysis

Abstract

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.