Behaviors During a Session

Because therapy based on the principals of Theraplay is personal and intense, children often go through “stages” that brings out difficult behaviors in the process. Children typically show resistance after one or two sessions, which can be surprising for caregivers if they are unprepared. This can take the form of nonresponsive, angry, or even aggressive behavior toward the therapist. Successful resolution of this phase is essential to successful treatment. It usually lasts only one to three sessions, but it proves to the child that s/he is “worth the trouble.”