Question

What are the similarities and the differences between directive and non- directive play therapy ?

Answer 1

• In directive play the therapist takes the lead and pre-plans the sessions with the child.The therapist sets out specific interventions and goals to be achieved in the sessions and knows clearly where they have to take the discussion with th child.Toys,other activities are already chosen by the therapist and then they initiate the play situations purposefully to help lead the child able to discuss their problems.
• In non-directive play therapy children are allowed by the therapist to take the lead.The therapist is flexible and goes along with the child.This helps in making room for the child to reveal what exactly is troubling them in natural and non-interfering manner.There are no parameters set for the sessions by the therapist,and dont guide the child in pre-planned manner.The child themselves acts out scenarios and makes up stories during the play,without the therapist interjecting in between.
• The similarity that exist between the two is that,they both can be used for treating same child concerns or disorders like anxiety,ADHD,bullying,depression etc.Both forms of therapy have the same healing power and providing a deeper level of understanding about the child's problems.