Psychodynamic, Attachment-based Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychotherapy.
DDP informed therapy
DDP stands for Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy. It is a therapy and parenting approach that uses what we know about attachment and trauma to help children and families with their relationship.
DDP was originally developed by Dan Hughes as a therapeutic intervention for families who were fostering or had adopted children, but it is now widely used to support all families who are facing problems. DDP actively involves the parent or carer in the sessions with the child/young person. This therapy encourages the child to rely on the parent or care provider, rather than themselves and as they experience empathy and attunement from their parents/carers, with the goal of reducing difficult behaviours and greater closeness to parents and carers will develop.
Dyadic Development Psychotherapy (DDP) involves creating a safe setting in which the child can begin to explore, resolve, and integrate a wide range of memories, emotions & current experiences that are frightening, shameful, avoided or denied. The Therapist uses a range of techniques including non-verbal attunement, reflective dialogue, acceptance, curiosity &and empathy, to enable the child to create a coherent life- story which is crucial for attachment security and is a strong protective factor. The PLACE model which is shared in the therapy is used (Playful, Loving, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy)
DDP begins with the therapist getting to know the parent(s)/carer(s). This process involves the therapist getting to know your child through you, understanding your own background and situation, and supporting you to understand your own possible difficulties with regards to parenting your child. You will be introduced to the PACE model and together with your therapist, you will become prepared and ready to involve your child in future sessions.
The next step involves you, your child and the therapist - prior to each session with your child, your therapist will make time to have a talk with you to discuss how your week has been and make plans about what you want to discuss during the meeting. With your child there, you and your therapist will then work together to help your child feel as emotionally safe as is possible, build healthy relationships, help them make sense of what has happened, and think about how your child coped / managed his or her past experiences.
Further Information
What to expect
DDP informed parenting support consists of a minimum 20 sessions, with the intial sessions focused on assessment, consultation and psychoeducation with parents/carers.
Following this, the sessions and intervention will be tailored flexibly around the needs of the family.
Family therapy
Family therapy sessions are highly individualized and tailored to meet the unique needs of each family. Various therapeutic approaches can be incorporated and utilized based on the specific challenges and goals of the family. Some of these approaches may include Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), TraumaPlay Therapy, and Attachment-based assessments and interventions.
During family therapy sessions, different types of interactions are employed to address the specific dynamics within the family system. These interactions can include one-on-one sessions with individual parents, sessions involving parents and their children, as well as sessions with the entire family unit.
1. One-on-One Sessions with Parents: Individual sessions with parents provide an opportunity to explore their own experiences, concerns, and perspectives. This allows the therapist to better understand the parents' needs and helps them build a therapeutic alliance. It also offers parents a safe space to process their feelings, gain insight, and develop strategies to support their children.
2. Parent-Child Sessions: These sessions focus on the relationship between parent and child. They provide a platform for parents to strengthen their bonds with their children, enhance communication, and address any specific challenges they may be facing. The therapist may facilitate discussions, guide activities, or utilize play therapy techniques to promote positive interactions and understanding.
3. Family Sessions: These sessions involve the entire family unit and aim to improve family dynamics, resolve conflicts, and enhance communication and cooperation among family members. The therapist creates a supportive and non-judgmental environment where family members can express themselves, listen to one another, and work together towards positive change. Various techniques, such as role-playing, brainstorming, and problem-solving, may be utilized to promote understanding and collaboration.
The integration of different therapeutic approaches and the use of various session formats allow family therapists to address the unique needs of each family. By tailoring the therapy to the specific challenges and goals of the family, therapists can promote healing, resilience, and growth within the family system.