Polyvagal Theory and Play Therapy with Children Who Exhibit Aggression

This chapter aims to help the play therapist reframe aggression, as well as understand how to work with aggression from a Polyvagal theory perspective. Safety for the child and therapist are paramount considerations. Learning how to establish safety within the child’s body, the therapist’s body, and in the therapeutic relationship are explored as well as highlighted in a case example. The need for caregiver involvement is also addressed.