Separation Anxiety and Resistance: Trusting the CCPT Process

Play Therapy Podcast

In this episode of the Play Therapy Podcast, I address two questions from Alison in Arkansas related to separation anxiety and resistance in child-centered play therapy (CCPT). Alison shares concerns about a 2-year-old client who exhibits extreme separation anxiety and a 5-year-old client resisting play therapy sessions. I offer guidance on why CCPT is essential for the 2-year-old and how to build trust and rapport patiently, even if it takes time. For the 5-year-old, I explain why playing games is still valid play and not avoidance, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the CCPT model without trying to control or direct the process.

I also highlight how the urge to intervene or “do something” can signal a deviation from the CCPT approach. Staying true to the model by trusting the child and the process ensures the best outcomes. This episode serves as a reminder to stay patient, maintain adherence to CCPT principles, and let the child work through their challenges in their own time.

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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.