Storytelling is one of the oldest and most respectful communication techniques in various cultures. In storytelling, the story, through the narrator, captures the attention, brings emotions, and affects the consciousness of the listener via dance, art, play, or music. The listener of the story can create his or her world with the help of symbolism occurring within the stories. Hence, the listener can put meaning into the story, which closely relates to him or her. It allows children to use their imagination and try to find a solution, therefore, training their brain. Storytelling, without a doubt, is known to be an important part of the brain development of children.
StoryPlay is a model of play therapy with a focus on the identification, access, and utilization of inner abilities, gifts, and skills of the children. StoryPlay aims to trigger a transformational change in traumatized children and adolescents who have experienced some difficulties and misfortune. The difference from narrative therapy is that the narrative therapist uses a question to initiate the experience of life events, while the story therapist stimulates transformational change based on behavior and emotions.
StoryPlay therapy consists of six roots, which represent its main essential principles. The first root is the taproot, which focuses on the utilization of the present, rather than seeking problems in the past, to initiate positive changes. The second root, transcultural wisdom and healing philosophies, consider the traditional rituals that focus on the ‘soul’ healing the patient spiritually. The third root uses real-life stories, myths, and metaphors to initiate the creative thinking of children. The fourth root, called Play Therapy, is used to encourage children to express themselves, including their emotions, desires, and experiences through the play of problem-solving. The fifth root evokes transformational changes via the use of natural resources like animals, plants, and even insects. The sixth root is using creative thinking and imagination to facilitate the healing process.