House-Tree-Person Assessment: When and How to Use It in Child-Centered Play Therapy

Play Therapy Podcast

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I respond to a question from Christina in Vermont regarding the first session with a child in the playroom and how to incorporate an intake assessment without deviating from the child-centered play therapy (CCPT) model. Christina specifically asks about the "house-tree-person" drawing assessment and how to approach it during that initial session. I explain that any assessment or directive activity must only be done in the first session to avoid disrupting the CCPT process later on. I share how I integrate this drawing assessment along with a kinetic family drawing to gain a helpful snapshot of the child without steering away from CCPT principles.

I also emphasize the importance of setting expectations and clear communication during the first session. By explaining the structure of the session to the child, I ensure they feel comfortable and informed. After the initial assessments, I make sure the child knows that moving forward, they are entirely in control of their play in the playroom.

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Common References: Cochran, N., Nordling, W., & Cochran, J. (2010). Child-Centered Play Therapy (1st ed.). Wiley. VanFleet, R., Sywulak, A. E., & Sniscak, C. C. (2010). Child-centered play therapy. Guilford Press. Landreth, G.L. (2023). Play Therapy: The Art of the Relationship (4th ed.). Routledge. Bratton, S. C., Landreth, G. L., Kellam, T., & Blackard, S. R. (2006). Child parent relationship therapy (CPRT) treatment manual: A 10-session filial therapy model for training parents. Routledge/Taylor & Francis Group. Benedict, Helen. Themes in Play Therapy. Used with permission to Heartland Play Therapy Institute.