FILIAL THERAPY
The term "filial therapy" is derived from the Latin words for "son" or "daughter" and relates to the parent-child attachment. Filial Therapy is a psychoeducational program that uses play to enhance family connections. To strengthen parent-child connections, it combines family therapy and play therapy. Parents are trained to guide and participate in non-directive special play times with their children.
BENEFITS OF FILIAL THERAPY
HELPÂ CHILDREN TO EXPRESS AND UNDERSTAND THEIR OWN FEELINGS
HELPÂ CHILDREN TO INCREASE TRUST AND ATTACHMENT TO THEIR PARENTS/CARERS
HELP REDUCE PROBLEMATIC BEHAVIOURS IN CHILDREN
HELPÂ CHILDREN TO WORK THROUGH CONFLICT
INCREASE CHILD CONFIDENCE AND SELF-ESTEEM
HELP PARENTS TO BETTER UNDERSTAND THEIR CHILD'S DEVELOPMENT, FEELINGS AND THOUGHTS
HELP PARENTS TO LEARN THE IMPORTANCE OF PLAY ON CHILD OUTCOMES
HELP PARENTS TO COMMUNICATE BETTER WITH THEIR CHILD
HELP INCREASE PARENT CONFIDENCE AND LEARN ADDITIONAL CHILDREARING SKILLS
STRENGTHEN PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIPS WITHIN THE FAMILY
HELP FAMILIES TO HAVE MORE FUN TOGETHER
IMPROVE FAMILY COMMUNICATION AND COPING STRATAGIES
WHAT TO EXPECT
Filial Therapy can be a big commitment for your family but the reward is ever lasting
Structure of Filial Therapy
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Pre-screening call/ discussion of referral
Intake with Parents
Assessments with Parents
Assessments with Children
Whole Family Play Observation
Therapist and Child Demonstration Sessions for Parents to Observe
Parental Training Sessions x4
Parent and Child Supervised Sessions (Amount determined by goals and needs of each individual family)
Discharge Plan/ Implementing Filial Sessions at Home
Final Family assessments and Observations