The AutPlay® Therapy Handbook

by Robert Jason Grant

The AutPlay ® Therapy Handbook provides a thorough explanation and understanding of AutPlay® Therapy (an integrative family play therapy framework) and details how to effectively implement AutPlay® Therapy for addressing the mental health needs of autistic and neurodivergent children and their families. This handbook guides the mental health therapist working with children and adolescents through their natural language of play. Opening with an extensive review of the neurodiversity paradigm and ableism, the chapters cover AutPlay® Therapy protocol, phases of therapy, assessment strategies, and common need areas along with understanding neurodiversity affirming processes. Additional chapters highlight the therapeutic powers of play, integrative play therapy approaches, understanding co-occurring conditions, working with high support needs, and using AutPlay® Therapy to address regulation, sensory, social/emotional, and other mental health concerns that neurodivergent children may be experiencing. The handbook serves as a thorough guide for play therapists, child therapists, and family therapists who work with neurodivergent children and their families.

Genres: Counselling

468 pages, Paperback

First published November 10, 2012

Reviews

[Sarah Hubbard · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great “tweak” to child centered play therapy to adjust the theory to neurodivergent children. Lots of great resources and interventions in the back as well as some assessment tools.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr Robert Jason Grant's book is at the front lines of the fight against ableism and promoting the neurodivergent-affirming movement. This book has changed my perspective on working with clients who are neurodiverse and how to use their strengths to help them develop self-worth they need in navigating being different (not wrong, not bad) in a neurotypical society. This book is a well written text, with extensive knowledge of play therapy added in, as well as a wealth of resources ready to use with parents and clients. Dr Grant is very generous in sharing his knowledge and his resources toward supporting clients and equipping therapists to do so in a way that promotes a strengths-based neurodivergent approach. Highly recommend!

[Amy Blount · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a solid manual! Dr. Grant provides a thorough explanation of what it means to be neurodiversity-affirming through definitions, personal experience, case studies, and more. MAJOR bonus points for the play interventions and paperwork throughout the book!

Would bump .25 star down for the spelling errors - but still a must read for any therapist who treats children and teens.

[Bailey Frederking · Rating 5 out of 5]

Important, important work.