Description
Book SynopsisCreativity in Counseling Children and Adolescents shows counselors and other mental health professionals how to use a wide variety of creative and experiential activities that emphasize strengths and skills-focused work. The first section addresses the basic tenets of experiential learning, guiding readers through ways to build a creative and interactive environment for counseling. Later chapters lay out methods for choosing activities and finding the right match between diverse interests, skills, abilities, and cultural considerations. Once an activity is identified and implemented, the book shows counselors how to help children make meaning and capitalize on the benefits of the activity through processing and transferring skills.
Trade Review"This book combines both theoretical knowledge and developmental components with practical and applied clinical applications. Readers will learn the theoretical and developmental principles necessary for working with adolescents and children and the importance of engaging the creative aspects of clinical work, which is foundational for affecting change in young clients. The authors do a masterful job of capturing the unique industry and artistry necessary for working with this population."
Shawn L. Spurgeon, PhD, fellow of the American Counseling Association
"This book was a pleasure to read! The authors have constructed a text that provides readers with strengths-based, experiential counseling activities that help promote change in youth. So few books have real-world applicability, but this text is practical, applied, and sure to assist mental health providers in supporting their young clients' change process. This book is essential for any mental health provider who works with young people and is searching for creative ways to invigorate their work."
Victoria Kress, PhD, distinguished professor of counseling at the Youngstown State University
"Through a social justice lens, the authors identify the realities of Western socialization as an oppressive underpinning to social structures that allow inequities and injustices to exist. By acknowledging a pathway of intentional personal and systemic behaviors that help to dismantle unjust practices, we are reminded that counselors and therapists are responsible for promoting social justice and for recognizing its direct impact on children, adolescents, and families."
Tiffany D. Stoner-Harris, PhD, assistant professor of counseling and integrated programs at Adler University
Table of Contents1. A Lens for Social Responsibility and Advocacy 2. Experiential Learning Theory and Theoretical Framework 3. Successful Counseling 4. Trust the Process 5. Strengths and Skills 6. Stress and Trauma 7. Treating DSM-5 Diagnoses 8. Parables, Storytelling, Literature, and Books 10. Expressive and Creative Arts 11. Scientific Thinking 12. Group Activities 13. Extracurricular Activities 14. Animal Assisted Activities and Interventions 15. Adventure Based Counseling 16. Final Reflections: Implications and Future Directions
