Virginia Axline, Founder of Non-Directive Play Therapy

The person primarily credited with the original development of Non-directive play therapy, now known as Child-centered play therapy, is Virginia Mae Axline. Born in 1911, Axline was a pioneer in the field of child therapy, studying with humanistic psychotherapist Carl Rogers and setting herself apart with her unique approach and profound understanding of children's inner worlds.

Principles of Non-Directive Play Therapy

Axline outlined the fundamental principles of Non-directive play therapy in her groundbreaking book, "Play Therapy," published in 1947. The book and the therapy it describes are based on the following principles:

1. Children are viewed as individuals in their own right, each with their own world of personal experiences.
2. Children possess the inherent strength and ability to solve their own problems when given the appropriate conditions.
3. Growth and change are facilitated when children are allowed to freely express themselves in a supportive environment.
4. A structured and predictable environment allows children to express themselves more freely.

The Role of the Non-Directive Play Therapist

In Axline's model, the therapist takes on a non-directive role. This means they are there to support and facilitate, but not to direct or control the play. The therapist is trained to recognize and understand the symbolic meaning of a child's play and to respond in ways that reflect acceptance, understanding, and respect. In her book, "Play Therapy," Axline identified 8 basic principles to guide Non-directive play therapists:

1. The therapist must develop a warm and friendly relationship with the child in which good rapport is established as soon as possible.
2. The therapist must accept the child exactly as they are.
3. The therapist establishes safety and permissiveness in the relationship so the child feels free to express their feelings completely.
4. The therapist recognizes and reflects emotions back to the child in such a way that the child gains insight into their behaviors.
5. The therapist maintains and deep respect for the child's ability to solve their own problems and make their own choices.
6. The therapist does not attempt to direct or lead the child's play in any way; the child leads and the therapist follows.
7. The therapist does not attempt to hurry the therapy process along; the child goes at their own pace.
8. The therapist establishes limits only when they are needed.

Influences on Axline's Approach

It's important to understand that Axline's work didn't emerge in a vacuum. Her method of play therapy was significantly influenced by Carl Rogers, the father of Client-centered therapy (or Person-centered therapy). Rogers believed in the inherent worth and potential of every individual, emphasizing the importance of unconditional positive regard, empathy, and congruence in the therapeutic relationship.

Axline applied these principles to her work with children, recognizing that they too could benefit from a therapeutic approach that emphasized their inherent value and the importance of a supportive relationship.

Legacy and Evolution

While Virginia Axline is recognized as the original theorist and developer of Non-directive play therapy, Garry Landreth has since contributed to its growth and refinement, calling his version of the method Child-centered play therapy (CCPT). The fundamental tenets Axline introduced remain central to the therapy, but research and practice over the years have enriched and expanded the approach.

Child-centered play therapy has become one of the most widely used and effective therapeutic methods for children worldwide. Its impact can be seen in various settings, from schools to mental health clinics, and has been a valuable tool for children facing a wide range of issues, from trauma to behavioral challenges.