Supporting parents is a crucial component of effective psychological intervention with children. In this informative and practical talk, Educational Psychologist Sheryl Cohen provides a structured overview of the core principles and practices of parental counselling. Sheryl introduces a clear theoretical model to guide clinicians in their work with parents, offering a valuable framework to navigate common challenges. The talk explores therapeutic decision-making in the context of complex family dynamics, including how to approach defensive or hostile attachment presentations. Sheryl also provides guidance on when parent work is most appropriate and when direct child-focused play therapy may be indicated.
Sections
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the talk the participant will be able to:
Understand the foundational assumptions that inform effective parental counselling.
Apply a structured theoretical model to guide parent work in therapeutic settings.
Navigate difficult family dynamics, including managing hostility or resistance from parents.
Make informed clinical decisions about when to prioritise parent work versus direct child therapy.
Enhance confidence in working collaboratively with caregivers to support child outcomes.