The Phoenix is a mythical bird that has been incorporated, over the history of humanity, into cultural stories and religions around the world. The story is that 'When the Phoenix feels the end of her existence approaching, she builds a nest, sets it on fire, and is consumed by the flames. From the pile of ashes, a new Phoenix arises, renewed and powerful.
The Phoenix speaks to many themes (archetypes) including eternal life, death, resurrection, recovery, rebirth, renewal, fresh beginnings, self-regeneration, and healing. She symbolizes the eternal flame which be be faith, transformation, or will. Continually morphing, she represents the idea that the end is only the beginning.
The Phoenix can be a helpful symbol when you feel your need to regenerate any area of your life. This could be your health, relationship(s), a creative endeavor, your environment, your attitude, or the way you view the world. At the heart of Phoenix symbolism and meaning is faith, and knowing that you can begin again. Like the Phoenix, one can navigate through difficult periods in life and come through them stronger and more resilient than ever.
With the help of psychotherapy, you can discover inner strength, hope, and perseverance, and develop strategies and tools to make positive changes in your life; rising from the ashes of your own challenges to make something meaningful out of them.
Copyright © C. L. Bockwitz
404-702-2007 (confidential voice mail)
404.541.4690 (fax)
email: clbockwitz@aol.com
all appointments are conducted virtually
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Therapeutic use of play provides:
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Direct observation of post traumatic play themes.
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Predictable safety, which allows children to express, explore and resolve emotional experience and related feelings through symbolism.
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A method of communication and expression suited to the developmental/ emotional needs of the child.
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A relationship with an understanding, accepting adult, which enables the child to accept self.
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A way for children to express emotional issues nonverbally, but concretely.
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A way to play out (through symbolic play), that which cannot be talked out.
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An enjoyable and natural setting that allows for intense, interpersonal interaction.
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A chance for children to experience emotional successes.
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A focus on treatment for emotional problems rather than an exclusive goal of behavior change.
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A return of control to children over their environment and interactions.
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A chance to practice activities to gain mastery over the environment and the self.
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Toys and materials
In the play therapy room, toys and materials are selected to provide children with a variety of choices.
Toys are children's words, and play is their language. Therefore, toys and materials (the words) are specifically and carefully selected which facilitate expression of play activity (the language). The playroom is laid out in a specific and predictable way that enables the child to experience consistency and regularity. Children feel more secure in environments that are predictable. Play therapy provides safety; trust building, and corrective emotional relationship with an adult that promotes increased self-value.