Parent-child therapy: what you should know about the process

In this post, we will give you an overview of parent-child therapy and explain what you should know about the process of this form of therapy.

Parent-child therapy is a psychotherapeutic treatment method that focuses on the relationship between parents and children. This form of therapy is mainly used when psychosomatic diseases are present in children. Psychosomatic illnesses are physical complaints in which there are no organic causes, but which are caused by psychological stress.

In parent-child therapy, parents and children work together to resolve these complaints. The goal is to strengthen the relationship between parents and children, to improve the communication and thus reduce the stress that causes the psychosomatic psychosomatic complaints.

When is parent-child therapy necessary?

Parent-child therapy can be useful and necessary in a variety of situations. Here are some examples:

1. Psychosomatic diseases in children: As mentioned above, parent-child therapy is often used for psychosomatic illnesses in children. The most common psychosomatic complaints in children include abdominal pain, headaches and sleep disorders.
2. Problems in the parent-child relationship: When there is tension or conflict in the relationship between parents and children, parent-child therapy can help improve communication and understanding of each other.
3. Separation or divorce: A separation or divorce can be a great burden for children. Parent-child therapy can help support children during this difficult time and stabilize the relationship between parents and children.
4. Behavioral problems in children: When children show conspicuous behavior, such as aggression, anxiety or withdrawal, parent-child therapy can help identify the causes and work on them together.
5. Difficulties at school: When children have difficulties at school, this can also have an impact on the relationship between parents and children. Parent-child therapy can help improve the school situation and strengthen the relationship.

So there are many situations where parent-child therapy can be useful. If you are unsure whether therapy is an option for you and your family, it is best to speak with a psychotherapist or child and adolescent psychiatrist. In our next chapter, we will look at the process of parent-child therapy.

What methods are used in parent-child therapy?

There are several methods that can be used in parent-child therapy focusing on psychosomatic disorders. An important method is systemic therapy, which looks at the whole system in which the child and parents live. The interactions and relationships within the system are analyzed.

In addition, behavioral therapy is used to change the behavior of children and parents and establish new patterns of behavior. Psychoeducation is used to provide parents and children with information about psychosomatic illnesses and to help them cope better with symptoms.

Play therapy is used to help the child express his or her feelings and emotions, and to work through conflicts and fears Relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation and autogenic training can be used to reduce the child’s stress levels and increase relaxation skills.

Overall, parent-child therapy uses a variety of methods to help the child and parents cope with psychosomatic symptoms and improve their relationship. The focus here is always on strengthening the relationship and improving communication to improve the child’s well-being.

What do parents need to keep in mind during parent-child therapy?

When parents begin parent-child therapy with their child, there are several aspects they should consider to ensure that the therapy is successful. Here, an open attitude to therapy and active participation in it are of particular importance. Parents should get involved and be willing to work with their child to find solutions.

It is also important for parents to consider therapy as a complement to medical treatment. Although parent-child therapy can play an important role in the treatment of psychosomatic disorders, it should not replace medical treatment. Parents should therefore understand therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Furthermore, the relationship between the therapist, the parents and the child plays an important role in the success of the therapy. Parents should therefore take care to build a trusting relationship with the therapist to ensure open communication and a good working relationship.

To maximize the success of therapy, parents should ensure that they attend therapy sessions regularly and follow the therapist’s recommendations. Continued participation and implementation of recommendations are critical.

Finally, parent-child therapy requires time and patience. Parents should therefore not become impatient, but should engage in the process and be prepared for the fact that there may be setbacks. With patience and perseverance, parents can help ensure that the therapy is successful.

What is the process for admission to a parent-child clinic?

Admission to a private clinic for parent-child therapy is usually by referral from the attending physician or psychotherapist. It may also happen that parents turn to a clinic on their own initiative.

After referral, a preliminary consultation with an experienced therapist takes place to discuss the exact problem and the individual needs of the family. The type and duration of therapy will also be discussed at this time.

This is followed by a detailed diagnostic assessment to determine the family’s exact needs. Both individual and family factors are taken into account.

Based on the results of the diagnostics, an individualized treatment plan is created that is tailored to the needs of the family. This plan typically includes both individual and group sessions and incorporates a variety of therapy approaches.

During therapy, parents are encouraged to actively participate in treatment and cooperate with the child. In doing so, the therapists provide support and guidance to help families cope with their problems.

It is important to emphasize that parent-child therapy in a private clinic is not the only treatment option. Depending on the severity of symptoms and the underlying condition, outpatient or inpatient treatment at a public facility may also be an option. Parents should therefore choose the treatment option that is right for them in consultation with their doctor or therapist.

Admission requirements for parent-child therapy

For privately insured persons

For those with private insurance, the process for admission to a parent-child clinic is usually fairly straightforward. Since most private insurances cover the costs of such treatment, all that is needed is a referral from the attending physician or psychotherapist and confirmation that the costs will be covered by the insurance company. Often, the clinic itself can also help with the application for cost coverage.

For self payers

For self-pay patients, the process is similar. Again, a referral from a physician or psychotherapist is usually required. However, self-pay patients must pay for the treatment themselves. It is therefore advisable to find out about the costs and payment methods in advance.

For statutory insured

People with statutory insurance generally have a slightly more difficult time getting admission to a parent-child clinic. Although the costs for such treatment are also covered by the health insurance in certain cases, the conditions for this are often stricter. It is therefore advisable to contact the health insurance company in advance and find out about the exact requirements and the process for applying for coverage. Often, a doctor’s certificate of necessity is also required.

Published on: 20.03.2023