Child-Centered Play Therapy in Management of Somatoform Disorders

Abstract

Introduction: Child-centered play therapy is a well recognized and research-supported form of child psychotherapy. Methods: Fifteen children in the age range of 5-11 years (eight girls and seven boys) with somatoform disorder were administered 25 sessions of non directive play therapy. Parents received 3 reflective counseling sessions. Children were assessed with Children’s Global Assessment Scale, Interview Schedule for Children and Adolescents, and Child Behaviour Checklist. Results: The mean scores on global functioning and social competence increased and symptom severity decreased significantly at post assessment. Conclusions: Child-centered play therapy along with reflective parent counseling is an effective intervention for somatoform