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The brief vignette that opens this chapter captures the essence of imaginary play and its privileged position within psychodynamic child therapy. The child’s private fantasies and anxieties, along with the meanings and interpretations she attributes to her daily experience, are vividly portrayed via action and narration. In the safe, nonconsequential setting of pretense with a trusted adult, wherein reality is mutually suspended, Sophia’s potentially unacceptable wishes and impulses can achieve full expression. Disavowed affects and unwanted roles are assigned to the therapist, who animates and elaborates them through her participation in the play. Sophia’s overall absorption and pleasure in playing is unmistakable. Indeed, both child and therapist are fully immersed in their imaginary activities, but Dr. Graber attempts to maintain a reflective stance as well, thinking about the play in the context of what is known about Sophia’s history and current situation.
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