Filial Therapy
We provide training to parents in filial therapy. Similar to empathic, therapeutic play a therapist may provide, filial therapy teaches parents the principles and techniques of child-centered play, to be provided at home. Filial therapy enhances the childs therapeutic experience by having their own parent create the therapeutic play environment. Within 6-10 training sessions, parents are able to conduct play therapy with their child in their own home. Filial therapy can be learned individually or in a group setting.
What is filial therapy?
Filial therapy is a well-researched, structured therapeutic approach that allows parents to support their younger child using play — their primary mode of communication and learning. Therapeutic play helps children better communicate their feelings and strengthens the parent-child relationship. It also teaches parents a structure of setting clear and consistent limits while remaining empathic to the child's feelings.
What are the goals of filial therapy?
Gains achieved in filial therapy include: reduction in problem behaviors, improved family
interactions, better communication and problem-solving skills, and increased child emotional self-regulation. Studies show that children who receive filial therapy typically demonstrate fewer negative behaviors, while parents demonstrate more empathy and consistent limit-setting when engaged with their children.
Who may benefit from filial therapy?
Parents with children aged 3-11 are good candidates for this type of therapeutic work. Research shows that filial therapy benefits the whole family through increasing acceptance and understanding. Filial therapy also assists the child in developing and strengthening relationships with peers (play and social skills). Issues that are well addressed through this kind of therapeutic approach include:
- Worries and anxiety
- Behavior problems
- Anger
- Low frustration tolerance
- Impulse control
- Emotional sensitivity
- Friendship or sibling struggles