ABSTRACT
To set a foundation for Creative Play Therapy, the introduction provides an overview and brief history of the field of play therapy, its effectiveness, and how neuroscience supports it. Play therapy has a long history dating back to the early twentieth century, and research has provided empirical support for its effectiveness. Play has been demonstrated to facilitate communication, promote emotional wellness, enhance social relationships, and increase internal client strengths in the context of a therapeutic relationship. The neuroscience base of play therapy is discussed, showing that play is able to help facilitate neural changes necessary for healing. Child-centered play therapy, which is grounded in person-centered theory, is the basis for Creative Play Therapy, and basics are discussed in the introduction. A summary of the sequence of the Creative Play Therapy book is also included.
