Because of the secretive nature and the regressed psychological nature of most child abusers, sexual abuse experiences are not likely to have been accompanied by the normal verbalized explaining and labeling. Much of the experience is stored in only one modality, probably either visual or kinesthetic. Thus, the information may not be readily accessible to the child when asked to tell what happened. Some of the basic goals in using nonverbal communication channels are: (1) establishing rapport by using the child's preferred modes of communication; (2) creating opportunities to symbolically re-enact the abusive situation until the child has mastered it. Basic techniques include drawing the event or experience being discussed, drawing a feeling, resource drawing, the use of clay, and play therapy and puppets. The steps in integrating the use of nonverbal and play materials are assessment, nondirective play, intentional therapeutic communication process, and involvement of parents and family members. 1 figure, 2 tables, and 16 references