Virginia Axline

Virginia Mae Axline
Born	1911
Died	1988
Nationality	American
Occupation	Psychologist, Author
Known for	Development of Play Therapy

Virginia Mae Axline (1911–1988) was an influential American psychologist and author, renowned for her pioneering work in the development of Play Therapy. Her contributions have had a lasting impact on the field of child psychology and psychotherapy, particularly in therapeutic approaches for children.

Biography

Virginia Axline was born in 1911. She pursued her education in the field of psychology, which led her to develop an interest in the therapeutic potential of play for children. Axline studied under Carl Rogers, a prominent figure in the development of client-centered therapy, at the Ohio State University where she earned her Ph.D.

Throughout her career, Axline emphasized the importance of creating a non-judgmental, empathetic, and accepting environment as a means of facilitating a child's growth and emotional healing. This approach formed the basis of her development of non-directive Play Therapy, which she detailed in her seminal book, Dibs in Search of Self (1964). The book recounts the therapy process of a young boy named Dibs and has been influential in the field of psychology and psychotherapy.

Play Therapy

Play Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses play to help children express their feelings, thoughts, and experiences in a natural way. Axline's approach to play therapy was revolutionary because it provided children with a safe psychological space to explore their emotions and experiences through play. Her method was characterized by allowing children to lead the sessions, with the therapist acting as a facilitative presence rather than directing the therapy.

Publications

Virginia Axline authored several influential books on the subject of play therapy and child psychology:

• Dibs in Search of Self (1964)
• Play Therapy (1947)

These works provide insights into her methods and the theoretical foundations of her approach to therapy with children.

Legacy

Virginia Axline's work has left a profound impact on the field of psychotherapy. Her development of non-directive play therapy has been integrated into various therapeutic practices and is considered a cornerstone in the treatment of psychological issues in children. Her emphasis on respect for the child's pace and emotional state in therapy sessions has influenced contemporary therapeutic practices.

See also

• Child development
• Counseling psychology
• Carl Rogers

Further reading

• Dibs in Search of Self by Virginia M. Axline
• Play Therapy by Virginia M. Axline