Child Analysis Using Kalff and Fordham

Kay Bradway and Brian Feldman

Abstract

Comparison of Brian’s Fordham-oriented developmental therapy with a psychotic 7-year-old boy and Kay’s sandplay therapy with a dyslectic 10-year-old girl. Several common elements appeared, including initial absence of verbal communication, communication through toys, concern with “good” and “bad,” use of “toys” in showing negative feelings toward therapist, providing selves with experiences of being in authority over the therapist. Other commonalities included providing for the passing of a concrete object between therapist and child the day before separation from the therapist, use of therapy to help with fear of uncontrolled anger, and production of angry feelings in both therapists. Finally, a growing love for therapist then reflected in external relationships, and increased capacity for learning. The overall common element in both therapies was the evidence of self-healing, with each child “running the show” when provided with a free and protected container by an empathic therapist.

Return to JST article list >>