The relational change mechanisms of child‐centered play therapy with children exposed to adverse childhood experiences

Abstract

The researchers examined the relational mechanisms and coregulatory change mechanisms of child‐centered play therapy (CCPT) with children (ages 5–8) who endured multiple adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). The researchers computed surrogate synchrony analyses to measure heart rate synchrony between counselor and child participants during CCPT treatment. Child participants received between 10 and 14 CCPT sessions in the elementary school setting. Participants and counselor wore Empatica© E4 wristbands during sessions to collect heart rate data continuously during play therapy sessions. The researchers found consistent, large child‐counselor heart rate synchrony levels across play therapy sessions. The researchers discuss the implications of this research for counselors and play therapists working with children impacted by ACEs.