Healing Our Children: Divine Energies in Play

Judy D. Zappacosta, MA, LMFT, CST-T

Abstract

Imagination, play, and unconscious energies create healing moments that remind the reader of children’s unique ability to articulate their own inner truth. Bringing together thoughts from Dora Kalff, Carl Jung, Erik Erickson, and Native American spiritual leader Black Elk, the world of childhood, play therapy, and sandplay are discussed and amplified by examples form specific casework involving young children. The poetic metaphors used by children bring poignancy to the therapeutic work involving such sensitive issues of abandonment and abuse. The talks of the therapist as container and holder of these extraordinary moments is noted.

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