The therapeutic benefits of puppets
In dramatherapy:
- "Puppets are sometimes made as conscious self-representations or representations of others, but more often, puppets emerge that embody unconscious dynamics or parts of self that are not as easily or openly expressed.”(Matthew Bernier, Bernier, M & O´Hare, J. 2005, s.125).
- I often use puppets with clients who have SEND (e.g. autism) and mental health disorders stemming from issues such as bereavement and domestic violence.
- Puppets can take on different roles; they can be held, talked to and enable clients to explore difficult themes at a safe distance through interacting imaginatively with them. In symbolic play they might be a friend or someone the client has a difficult relationship with. The can also be used for story-telling that is based on fantasy or reality. Clients are then able to work through problems and find strategies for dealing with them. The puppets also provide the option for clients to try things out that they have not dared to do in real life.
- Puppets can be used with both individuals and groups. Group members can either participate in a story or situation or be a witness to it.
- Puppets come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are made with or without sound. In therapy it is important that clients have a wide range to choose from in order to decide the type of puppet they would like to engage with. For example, a child who is non-verbal may be drawn to a silent puppet.
- Puppets can either be brought or made using materials such as socks and gloves. Making puppets in therapy provides a great opportunity for children to personalise a puppet.
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