The Play Therapy Dimensions
Model (PTDM) has been
developed by Lorri Yasenik and Ken Gardner, certified play therapy
supervisors and co-directors of The Rocky Mountain Play Therapy
Institute. PTIrl and PTUK together with PTI have adopted the PTDM as a
standard for good quality play therapy practice and clinical supervision. It
will be incorporated into the competency framework becoming an essential
part of the initial training of play therapists and a CPD/CE
requirement. It is an excellent method to use as a part of
clinical
governance procedures.
It is also recommended
that the book and accompanying DVD 'Play Therapy Dimensions Model - A
Decision-Making Guide for Therapists' by Lorri Yasenik and Ken Gardner
ISBN 0-9735628-0-3 is studied by every PTIrl member. Copies may be
obtained direct from the Rocky Mountain Play Therapy
Institute - www.rmpti.com
A brief introduction is given below
- Developed by Lorri Yasenik & Ken Gardner
- Based upon the Prescriptive Play Therapy approach as
expounded by Charles Schaefer
- The PTDM incorporates the theories and techniques of a variety of
play therapy approaches to address a spectrum of presenting issues and
problems enabling the construction of an individualised treatment plan
- The model encourages therapists to consider moving from their
original point of intervention or approach
- But it does not presume that movement has to take place
- It allows for movement within a session eg a child stops
metaphorical play and starts talking about problems as well as between
sessions
The Play Therapy Dimensions Model is a conceptual framework for:
- Play therapy practice and supervision
- Analysing changes in child’s play / behaviour
- Assisting session planning & decision taking
It works with a number of theoretical
approaches & techniques; is integrative; two dimensional.
The two axes are directiveness and consciousness:
Directiveness takes account of:
- The degree of therapist immersion
- The level of interpretation by the therapist
Consciousness considers:
- The child’s representation of consciousness in play
- The play activities and verbalisations
The four quadrants derived from the two axes are shown below
The book and DVD explains in detail, with
case examples, how the PTDM may be applied to practice and supervision.
