“Sam Feels Better Now! An Interactive Story for Children” is now released! Click on the widget on the right hand column of my page, and it will display several options to view and purchase the book. You can also go straight to its url on Amazon by clicking here.
The final cover for “Sam Feels Better Now! An Interactive Story for Children” is finished! Kevin Collier has done a beautiful job creating it. To see more of his work, click here visit his homepage.
My book, Sam Feels Better Now! An Interactive Story for Children will be released in July 2008. It is illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier, and Published by Loving Healing Press. Therapists will find this a useful tool in therapy with children who are experiencing a crisis, traumatic, or grief situation. This is an interactive picture book for children, ages 4-10. Therapists may use it in office as a series of sessions, or suggest it for parents to use at home with their children to supplement therapy. It provides a step by step foundation for working with children using play, drawing, and other interactive components throughout the story. At the same time, it includes a therapist guide in the back, and resources for further reading. Visit my Writing Page to read more!
I recently discovered Jacket Flap, an internet networking site for writers, illustrators, publishers, and more. View my profile, and add me as a friend!
If you are a parent interested in my book, Sam Feels Better Now: An Interactive Story for Children, I recommend that you discuss how it can be helpful with a professional who is trained in child therapy, play therapy, and trauma issues. For a list of play therapists in your area, visit the Association for Play Therapy’s Find a Play Therapist page. Thank you for your interest in my book, and I hope you find it a useful tool in your child’s life.
One of the most difficult and rewarding things that I experienced as an intern was running a support group for children who have experienced domestic violence. I have had the opportunity now to look back and rethink how the group was structured, and to integrate principles of crisis intervention, play therapy, and group work into a format that I believe is ideal for using support groups with children as a crisis intervention. It is a structured approach, which is in contrast to a traditional child-centered play group. However I used child centered principles in communicating with children during group, such as tracking their behavior, reflecting feelings, setting limits, and providing encouragement. This way of communicating with children, I believe provides a safe, stable environment, and shows caring and empathy for each child.
I have had many questions about my book, Sam Feels Better Now, over the past few months. Who is it for? Is it for parents? Is it for therapists? Is it for the child to read? People want to know how this book will make the most impact on a child’s life. It is the intention of this book to be a tool for therapists, and other adults who may be working with children who have experienced a variety of issues. These issues include experiencing a crisis, traumatic event, or grief. Sam’s character experiences something scary or awful, and it is intentionally left up to the reader to define what that is. That way, children who experience many different situations can relate to Sam’s character. Examples of children who will benefit are those who have experienced abuse, domestic violence, natural disasters, or car accidents. Therapists and caregivers may find this book useful for other situations children experience that are not listed here.
You may be wondering what a play therapy room looks like. Click on this link for the University of North Texas Center for Play Therapy and experience what a play therapy room can typically look like. Their website also is a good resource for parents who may have questions or concerns about play therapy. You may also view photos of a play room from Pam Dyson’s website. There are links to her website and blog on the right hand side of this page.
Here is a preview of the cover of my book, “Sam Feels Better Now: An Interactive Story for Children.” Sam is looking forward to meeting you!
Sam has seen something scary! After seeing the scary thing, Sam is experiencing some problems in his life. Can you help him to feel better? You Can! In “Sam Feels Better Now!: An Interactive Story for Children” you can help him to feel better by reading about Sam, his problems, and drawing pictures and telling stories about Sam.
Play Therapy Trainer, Supervisor, Counselor