| 1 | Parent interview: the play therapist will arrange a parent interview, with or without the child. During the interview, the therapist will ask about the child’s background and the difficulties he/she is experiencing. The parent(s) will be asked to complete the SDQ (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire) and set goals with the therapist. The therapist will explain the requirements and procedures of play therapy. If the parent(s) agree to the conditions, they will sign the Parent Permission Form and Agreement. If the parent(s) are unsure whether the child is ready to start a play therapy episode, we can arrange a 15-20 minute introductory session. |
| 2 | Play therapy episode starts. The carer will bring the child to Tokyo Play Therapy Room at the agreed time. Each session is 40 minutes long, and only the child is allowed to enter the playroom. After 40 minutes, the therapist will return the child to the carer. Sessions are scheduled weekly and will take place at the same time each week. A minimum of 12 sessions is required for one episode. |
| 3 | After the sixth session, the parent(s) and the play therapist will have a mid-review session. During the interview, the therapist and the parent(s) will discuss the achievements and changes observed so far. They will also discuss the possibility of extending the episode beyond 12 sessions. |
| 4 | If the child is finishing the episode after 12 sessions, the therapist will arrange an end-of-episode interview with the parent(s), with or without the child. |
