[Psychotherapy for children. Generalities]

Child psychotherapy has limited use in an institution. Through play one can appreciate the conflicts and suggest solutions, either verbally or through the play itself. As a framework one can use a dynamic concept of development and learning, and an educational approach. First one must elaborate a clinical history, do a physical examination and apply psychological tests in order to make a good diagnosis. The approach and treatment should be interdisciplinary. The institutional difficulties for this type of work are mentioned.