ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on groupwork with children whose disabilities significantly impact on their being in the world because of the additional physical or sensory difficulties that can occur alongside intellectual disability, especially in the severe to profound range. It explores the different elements that need to be considered when working psychotherapeutically with children who have disabilities. The chapter presents overview of interventions from group therapeutic play to psychotherapy through play. It discusses neuro-developmental approach to the building of relationships, providing the interpersonal framework for all therapeutic interventions. The chapter describes the fostering of social connection, the awareness of the other, and then is considered through the use of groupwork that uses an embodied approach with the focus on rhythm, music and movement. It provides practical considerations in setting up and running groups for children with disabilities. Working with a child with a disability also means working with those who are part of that child's life.
