This highly readable book provides a comprehensive theoretical and practical guide to non-directive play therapy, which is an effective and ethically sound method of helping troubled children and adolescents with their emotional difficulties. It draws extensively on case material to guide practitioners through the intricacies of establishing and practising this therapeutic approach.

Principles and background to the development of non-directive play therapy as a therapeutic method
An updated theoretical framework for this approach, including symbolic play and its role in therapy
Essential assessment, planning and practice issues and skills
Working with children and their families systematically
Play therapy in statutory settings
Presenting therapeutic material in court proceedings

This second edition has been thoroughly revised and updated to incorporate recent theory, research and practice developments. New issues addressed include: additional considerations when working with children in statutory settings, the integration of attachment theory within the book's Piagetian framework, using drawing, structured exercises and role play within a non-directive approach, and working with a wide variety of children's and adolescents' concerns.