Individual Therapy - Children &
Adolescents
Research tells us one of the most powerful predictors of positive outcomes in therapy is the positive therapeutic relationship between a psychologist and the client.
Investing in a strong therapeutic relationship is even more vital due to the unique needs and vulnerabilities of children. Here's how and why Jodie emphasises this with child clients:
1. Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment For children, feeling safe and at ease is paramount. Jodie dedicates time to create a welcoming, child-friendly space, adorned with age-appropriate materials and toys, ensuring that children feel comfortable and encouraged to express themselves.
2. Building Trust and Familiarity: Jodie understands that children may initially be hesitant or anxious about therapy. She invests time in playful activities and conversations to build trust and familiarity, allowing the child to gradually open up and feel more at ease during sessions.
3. Effective Communication and Understanding: Communication with children requires patience and adaptability. Jodie invests time in understanding each child's unique communication style, meeting them at their developmental level, and using language and techniques appropriate for their age and comprehension.
4. Incorporating Play and Creative Techniques: Recognizing that play is a child's natural mode of expression, Jodie incorporates play therapy techniques to facilitate communication and understanding. Through play, children can reveal their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a non-threatening and engaging way.
5. Establishing Consistency and Routine: Children thrive on routine and predictability. Jodie invests time in creating a consistent schedule and routine during therapy sessions, providing a sense of stability and security for the child.
6. Building a Therapeutic Alliance with parent's of children: Jodie understands the importance of involving parents and caregivers in the therapeutic process. She invests time in building a strong alliance with parents, educating them on how to support their child's therapy at home and providing guidance on how to reinforce therapeutic goals in the family setting.
7. Fostering Emotional Expression and Regulation: Jodie invests time in teaching children how to identify and regulate their emotions. Through play, storytelling, and creative activities, she helps children express and manage their feelings in a healthy and constructive manner.