Parent-Child Therapy: What You Should Know About the Process

When children develop psychosomatic symptoms such as stomach aches, sleep disorders or headaches, this can be an expression of inner stress – often associated with family tensions. Parent-child therapy offers targeted help in such cases. It strengthens the relationship between parents and children, improves communication and thus has a positive effect on the child’s mental and physical well-being. This article provides a detailed overview of the goals, methods and requirements of this form of therapy.

What is Parent-Child Therapy?

Parent-child therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses specifically on the dynamics within the family. It is primarily used when children suffer from psychosomatic complaints – i.e. physical symptoms with no organic cause. The underlying psychological stress is the focus of the therapy.

The aim of the therapy is to:

• Strengthen the relationship between parents and child
• Improve communication
• Resolve stressful conflict patterns
• Reduce stress that can trigger or exacerbate symptoms

Parents and children work together with therapists to identify and change unfavourable relationship patterns.

Find out more about family therapy at the Verus Bonifatius Hospital!

When is Parent-Child Therapy a Good Idea?

This type of therapy can be useful and effective in many situations. It is particularly common in cases of:

• Psychosomatic illnesses: e.g. recurring stomach aches or headaches, chronic fatigue, eating disorders or sleep problems
• Relationship conflicts within the family: tensions, misunderstandings, arguments or emotional distance
• Behavioural problems in children: withdrawal, anxiety, aggression or social insecurity
• Stress caused by separation or divorce: emotional insecurity or loyalty conflicts in the child
• School problems and pressure to perform: e.g. learning blocks or truancy

If you are unsure whether parent-child therapy is suitable for your family, we recommend psychotherapeutic counselling or an initial consultation at a specialised clinic.

Please feel free to contact us at any time if you have any questions!

What Methods are Used in Parent-Child Therapy?

Depending on the diagnosis and family situation, different therapeutic approaches can be combined. The following methods have proven particularly effective:

Systemic Therapy

This approach considers the family system as a whole. Relationship patterns, role distributions and communication structures are analysed and replaced with new forms of interaction.

Behavioural Therapy

The aim is to change problematic ways of thinking and behaving. Both children and parents learn to react differently in stressful situations.

Psychoeducation

Parents and children receive understandable information about psychosomatic complaints, their causes and coping strategies.

Play

Play helps express inner conflicts, especially in younger children. Therapists pick up on the child’s behaviour and work gently with the underlying emotions.

Relaxation

Methods such as progressive muscle relaxation or breathing techniques help to regulate inner tension and alleviate stress-related symptoms.

These methods are combined individually depending on age, symptoms and family dynamics.

Find out more about the therapy methods at our Hospital!

What Should Parents Bear in Mind Before and During Therapy?

In order for parent-child therapy to have a lasting effect, parents should meet certain requirements and actively participate:

• Openness and willingness to changeTherapy requires reflection and a willingness to honestly question one’s own behaviour.
• Active participationRegular attendance at sessions and the implementation of therapy recommendations in everyday life are crucial.
• Therapy is not a substitute, but a supplementIt does not replace medical care – especially in cases of severe physical symptoms. It is part of a holistic therapy plan.
• Patience and trust in the processEmotional processes take time. Setbacks are also part of the therapeutic process and are normal.
• Good relationship with the therapy teamA trusting relationship is the basis for successful cooperation.

Admission Procedure to a Parent-Child Hospital

Referral and Initial Contact

Admission is usually based on a referral from a doctor or psychotherapist. However, it is also possible to contact a private clinic directly.

Preliminary

A preliminary consultation serves to clarify the symptoms, expectations and family situation. The appropriate form of therapy is then decided upon.

Diagnostics and Therapy Planning

This is followed by comprehensive physical and psychological diagnostics. An individual therapy plan is then drawn up, tailored to the needs of the parents and child.

Implementation of Therapy

The therapy includes individual, couple and group sessions as well as accompanying measures such as counselling, relaxation exercises and family activities.

Aftercare

A stable transition back into everyday life is important. Recommendations for follow-up care, outpatient therapy or school support are developed together.

What are the Admission Requirements Depending on Insurance Status?

For Privately Insured Patients

With a referral from a doctor and confirmation of coverage by the insurance company, admission is straightforward. The Verus Bonifatius Hospital will be happy to assist you with the application process.

For Self-Paying Patients

A doctor’s recommendation is also required in this case. You are responsible for the costs.

For Patients With Statutory Health Insurance

Stricter requirements often apply here. A certificate of necessity from a doctor and the approval of the health insurance company are usually required. We strongly recommend that you contact your health insurance company at an early stage.

Find out about the admission requirements at our clinic!

FAQ

At What Age is Parent-Child Therapy Recommended?

Parent-child therapy can be beneficial even in early childhood, especially if emotional or psychosomatic issues arise. Depending on the child’s stage of development, the therapy is tailored to their age, for example through playful methods or parent-supported interventions.

Do Both Parents Have to Participate in the Therapy?

Ideally, both parents should participate in the therapy, as many relationship patterns can only be changed within the overall family context. If this is not possible – for example, due to separation or work commitments – the therapy will be adapted accordingly.

How do I Find a Suitable Hospital or Therapist for Parent-Child Therapy?

First, contact your paediatrician or a child and adolescent psychotherapist for an initial assessment. For holistic, structured treatment, we recommend a specialised facility such as the Verus Bonifatius Hospital, which specialises in parent-child relationships and psychosomatic disorders.