Theraplay® focuses on four essential qualities found in parent-child relationships which include: structure, engagement, nurture and challenge. The end result includes a changed view of the self as worthy and lovable and of relationships as positive.
The method consists of the client’s creation of a three dimensional picture with miniature figures in a tray of sand in the safe and trusting environment of a trained professional. A client can choose to talk or not talk during the process, and at their pace, have the opportunity to do the work of healing. The method of sandplay therapy is often used to compliment more traditional therapies and allow further healing to occur.
Emotional adjustments for the individual may be learning not only to cope with the behaviors and changes due to the brain/head injury itself, it may also be due to the persons emotional reactions and grief to their present situation as well as the person’s previous personality and coping style.
As appropriate, individual psychotherapy may be beneficial to assist with emotional reactions, thought distortions and the process of grieving their losses. A variety of cognitive behavioral strategies are often found helpful to assist with trauma recovery. Allowing the individual to acknowledge the multiple losses and begin the grieving process associated with the brain/head injury may further their emotional recovery.
Family members struggle with a variety of emotions. Family therapy is an integral part of recovery and stabilization for the individual in recovery as well as their family members. Finding a safe and understanding environment to assist family members navigate their emotions and adjustment is crucial for family functioning.
There are varying levels of worry and anxiety and specific anxiety disorders an individual may experience. A variety of strategies to assist with worry and anxiety may prove to be helpful. Often a combination of skills including relaxation, cognitive behavioral skills, dialectic behavioral skills, practicing mindfulness skills and allowing oneself over time to discover and understand the root of their worry and anxiety.