ABSTRACT
The goal of puppet play is to help all children reveal what has been concealed through symptom formation, and, with the help of a treatment alliance, bring about positive changes in their lives. The appeal of puppets across ages and cultures lives on, with increasing use in many domains and, not surprisingly, psychotherapy. Popular hand puppets for children are King Friday and Lady Elaine from Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, as well as Kermit the Frog and the Cookie Monster from Sesame Street. Puppet therapy provided, first, pleasure; second, abreaction; and third, a strong treatment alliance that helped Joey to enjoy his sessions and feel more hopeful. Choice and variety are important in helping to make puppet play psychologically safe and rewarding. A small stage can be helpful, not just for puppet play but for many other dramatic play activities. Barbie's puppet play depicted a "Witch mommy" who left the house while her little girl was in bed.
