Case Formulation Guide for Professionals Working with Children and Families
When child and family professionals such as play therapists and family therapists are presented with new cases, there is much to be learned in a short time. Working together with the family, therapists typically review the family’s history and relationships along with the parents’ or family’s reasons for coming. Regardless of theoretical orientation, therapists work with the family to establish treatment goals and an overall plan for moving forward. This can be an overwhelming task for relatively new therapists, and even for experienced therapists when confronted with complex and/or multiple traumas, attachment disruptions, and a multitude of other situations. Where does one start to tease apart the situation to determine which goals represent a starting place? There are no easy answers.
Read MoreTeletherapy Sessions with Animals: Initial Considerations
Reports by therapists suggest that their own therapy animals or family companion animals are being involved in their teletherapy sessions. This process is not as straightforward as one might think. This blogpost outlines some key considerations for therapists prior to involving any animals in their sessions.
Read MoreSupporting Parents in Times of Crisis to Help Regulate the Emotional Temperature at Home. Guest blog by Geraldine Thomas
When face-to-face therapy is no longer an option, what’s in the child’s best interests? This contribution by guest Geraldine Thomas of London (UK) explores considerations and ways that therapists can support parents in times of crisis to help them regulate the emotional temperature at home.
Read MoreThe Concept of Resistance In Therapy: A Reexamination During the COVID-19 Pandemic
While client “resistance” is a topic discussed by therapists in “normal” times, it takes on special significance during times of great stress. This article discusses some of the key factors that can influence client hesitation to engage in therapy during pandemics and other disaster situations, as well as suggestions for therapists to consider resistance as a normal part of the change process. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused large and sudden changes for everyone, including therapists and their clients. This blog discusses how therapists might think about and approach their clients with patience and empathy, even if it means that continuing telehealth therapy is delayed for a while as clients get their feet on the ground.
Read MorePandemic Response for Mental Health and Play Therapists – Some Thoughts and Considerations
The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in sudden and significant changes to lifestyle and wellness for vast numbers of people throughout the world. There is heightened anxiety about personal health, the health of loved ones, the health of the greater community, and notable worries about financial impact. During this period of physical distancing and community shut-downs or lock-downs, therapists themselves are being affected as well. There is much talk about telehealth, shifting therapeutic sessions to online formats. The level of stress among therapists is palpable and understandable. Some thoughts from the disaster mental health perspective are shared here for consideration and possible help.
Read MoreHow Parents Can Help Children Through Traumatic Events
Too often our world is shaken by traumatic events such as natural disasters (e.g., tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, floods), war, school and community violence, acts of terrorism, accidents, housefires/wildfires, life-threatening illness (and pandemics), separations, loss of a family member or pet, kidnappings, and so on. Such events can leave all of us feeling helpless, and children may be particularly sensitive to events that make them feel unsafe. This article discusses ways that parents can help their children through traumatic events and help them feel safe in the face of frightening or anxiety-provoking circumstances.
Read More