Research

An integral part of the Nana's Children model program is research.The effectiveness of play therapy has been recorded and documented for over 50 years, and yet the correlation between play therapy and academic achievement is one that must be explored and developed. With that in mind, Nana's Children implemented the Boxall Profile, a research study that incorporates teachers' knowledge of their students and playroom activities to determine treatment and a "point of entry" into a child’s mental health needs. (see www.nurturegroups.com). Dr. William Jenkins, PhD, RPT-S is the Director of Research for Nana’s Children and brings over 25 years of experience to Nana’s Team.

Since our beginning, we have conducted several studies which help us in developing current studies. A longitudinal study of two years evaluated reduction of anxiety and depression of children who were homeless, receiving treatment through play therapy (ten sessions or more). The findings were that for this population, more than ten sessions were needed to statistically significantly reduce symptoms and improve academic achievement. 

Nana’s Psychologist is currently conducting a study where clinical notes of Nana’s clients kept on Therascribe will be downloaded into an SPSS program in order to find “themes” on feelings described by children during sessions to their therapist. During supervision, the Nana’s Pilot Study Worksheet is used to help track and label this information. This research is not only important to aid the children emotionally, but also improve the level of understanding by the therapist in training. We anticipate the outcome of the study to show that children receiving  more than ten sessions of play therapy not only significantly reduce levels of anxiety and depression as measured by The Boxall Profile and RCMAS, but also increase academic scores, which help and/or aid in a better school environment.