What therapeutic approach utilizes play therapy to help an abused child master their situation?

The therapeutic approach that utilizes play therapy to help an abused child master their situation is Theraplay. This approach is specifically designed to enhance attachment and help children learn and practice social skills through engaging and purposeful play. Theraplay involves activities that are structured around building connections and emotional strength, allowing children to express themselves and process their experiences in a safe environment.

Theraplay is particularly effective for children who have experienced trauma, as it fosters a sense of safety and trust, allowing them to reframe their experiences and promote healing through play. This technique emphasizes the importance of the parent-child relationship and aims to improve the caregiving environment by encouraging positive interactions through playful engagement.

Other therapeutic methods like Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy and Filial Therapy may incorporate play but focus differently on cognitive restructuring or parental involvement. Psycho-Analytic Theory, while foundational in understanding child psychology, does not specifically employ play therapy in the same manner as Theraplay does. Therefore, Theraplay stands out as the most appropriate choice for helping abused children process and master their situations through play.