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Caregivers play a crucial role in the play therapy treatment process. Helping caregivers to believe in play therapy as a modality is a large component of the growth and success of the child in treatment. Multiple methods of caregiver involvement and consultation are possible, depending on the play therapist's theoretical orientation. Some therapists include the caregivers in every session (Filial) while others hold consultations or "caregiver sessions" after a certain number of play therapy sessions with the child (CCPT). Deciding which method to use with each family is dependent on their specific needs.
Play therapists can effectively involve caregivers in treatment beginning from the initial phone call for services. Recommending exploration of the APT Parents' Corner, describing the logistics of the play therapy process, explaining basic nervous system regulation, and empathic listening can all be useful tools at the onset of services. During the intake appointment, allowing caregivers to tell the story of their child first, before discussing behavior concerns and treatment, can create a meaningful foundation for a positive therapeutic relationship. In future consultations, offering the caregivers examples and explanations of play themes while still protecting the child's confidentiality may be delicate but is also essential.
As play therapists, our ultimate goal is for the child and family to grow, heal, and move forward together outside of the playroom. Establishing a working relationship with the child's caregivers helps to ensure that the gains in play therapy are continued once counseling has terminated (McMahon, 2009).
