Filial Therapy

Filial Therapy is a family-based approach where parents take on an active role in their child’s therapy through special child-led play sessions. Originally developed by Drs. Bernard and Louise Guerney in the 1960s, it empowers parents to strengthen their bond with their child and become key agents in their child’s healing and growth. With guidance from a trained therapist, parents learn new skills that help reduce challenging behaviours, build stronger connections, and create a more positive family environment. Filial Therapy has been shown to support families through a range of challenges, such as anxiety, trauma, attachment issues, and more, making it a valuable option for many families seeking support.

What to Expect

Filial Therapy consists of three phases:

Early Phase: Initial sessions involve gathering information about the family, observing parent/carer-child interactions, and setting goals for therapy.
Middle Phase: Parents/Carer learn and practice specific therapeutic play techniques, such as setting limits, empathic responding, and structuring sessions.
Closing Phase: This phase involves reviewing progress, refining skills, and planning for the continued use of these techniques at home.

How Long Does Filial Therapy Take?

Typically, Filial Therapy runs for about 16 to 24 sessions, depending on the family’s needs and goals. It is a commitment that requires active participation and ongoing practice of the skills learned in sessions.

Purposes of Filial Therapy

Filial Therapy aims to achieve the following:

Support children in recognising their emotions and expressing and managing them effectively.
Strengthens children’s trust and belief in their parents/carer’s.
Boosts children’s confidence in themselves and their decision-making.
Deepens parents’/carer’s understanding of their child’s emotions, behaviours, and overall development.
Allows parents/carers to practice new techniques with their child in a safe and encouraging setting through play.
Improves the parent/carer-child bond by empowering parents / carers to take an active role in their child’s growth and change.

Benefits of Filial Therapy

Strengthened Parent/Carer-Child Relationships: Deepens emotional connections and builds trust.
Improved Emotional Expression: Helps children express their feelings in a safe environment.
Increased Family Communication: Provides tools for healthier and more effective communication.
Long-Term Impact: Equips parents/carer with skills they can use long after therapy ends, enhancing the family’s ability to handle future challenges.