title: Exploring play therapy in pediatric oncology: a preliminary endeavour.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To discuss the benefits and feasibility of play therapy in pediatric oncology.
  
  
  METHODS
  This is highlighted through the use of a case report of non-directive play therapy with a 4 y- old girl, diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. The outcome of play therapy was examined using a combination of qualitative and quantitative assessments.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The benefits of play therapy with this child were manifested in better illness adjustment and general mental well-being, enhanced coping, and normalization.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Having illustrated benefits of play therapy in pediatric oncology, this paper discusses its feasibility and proposes avenues for clinical practice and research endeavours.
authors: Department of Clinical Psychology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Hosur Road, Bangalore 560029, India. uchari@gmail.com
authors: Uttara
authors: U
authors: Chari
authors: Uma
authors: U
authors: Hirisave
authors: L
authors: L
authors: Appaji
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010989:Play Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D054198:Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome