Child and Family Therapy

What is Child and Family Therapy?

Family life often isn’t easy. Each family member brings with them a variety of life experiences, ways of communicating and expectations. Psychologists working in the specialist area of child and family therapy aim to support children and young people with emotional issues – instability and grieving, feelings of shame, sadness, anger, isolation, perceptions of little self-worth and self-blame. They help carers to develop coping strategies and to remain resilient. Psychologists work with caregivers and children and young people to build up relationships and establish bonds. They provide parenting advice and support with a focus on the psychological health of the carer.

There are many things that can make family life more stressful; these include illness, unemployment, moving home, new family members, divorce, bereavement and trauma. The effects of these changes can take many forms and are often ‘hidden’ such as sleep difficulties, increased irritability, under-achieving at school and difficulties in relationships. 

What is involved?

Research shows that Family Therapy is useful for children, young people, adults and older adults experiencing a wide range of difficulties and interpersonal issues and circumstances across the family life cycle. Family therapy aims to improve understanding between people and help them to communicate their feelings with each other. Sessions are designed to provide individuals with a safe place to express their feelings with family members and for them to communicate their thoughts and feelings with each other. The therapy involves people sharing their current issues and feelings and listening to each other. The therapist can help you and your family to learn better ways of relating to each other and how you may be able to help each other during times of difficulty.