The need for good work with children is astounding. It seems that the problems children face have increased exponentially over the years all over the world. In spite of the popularity of Windows To Our Children, I was continually asked…
Basically, Gestalt therapy is a process-oriented mode of therapy that focuses attention on the healthy, integrated functioning of the total organism comprised of the senses, the body, the emotions and the intellect. It was originally developed by Frederick(Fritz) and Laura…
The Senses Touching: Putting objects in a bag and guessing what they are. Describing the feel of various textures. Finger painting; using wet clay; running ones hands through sand. Listing words that describe some touching sensation, (as bumpy, fluffy, slippery,…
Note:This handout was written to be given to parents and is also useful for teachers. The following is a brief description of the therapeutic process: Establishing the therapeutic relationship Your child and I will spend time getting to know one…
Did you know that children who wet the bed are actually trying to take care of themselves? When they were very young something was happening that made them anxious and they had no way of expressing themselves or finding some…
Work with children is in small segments. They may make one statement, as “yes, I get mad like that tiger sometimes,” and then close down. Resistance in children must be honored. When they close down it means they don’t have…
The following is a summary of what I have told parents about the kind of work I do. Ithinkitishelpfulforteachersandtherapistsaswell. ~Violet Oaklander, PhD I usually ask parents in our first session together, “What are you wanting by coming here?” (or something…
Anger is the most misunderstood of all the human emotions. We tend to think of anger as basically distasteful and abhorrent — something that we would rather not experience. Actually, I believe that anger is an expression of the self.…
Hint: One should feel better, calmer, and more peaceful after expressing anger in one or more of these ways. Sometimes the body feels very tired. Breathing deeply while doing any of these things is recommended. Focus is important. Punch a…
