Psychoanalytic child psychotherapy is a highly specialised, evidence-based treatment which can address a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and mental health difficulties. Psychoanalytic child psychotherapists are trained to be able to treat any emotional or behavioural concern. This type of therapy is often sought when other therapies have not been able to help.

What Can Child Psychotherapy Help With?

• Relationship difficulties or social struggles
• Aggression, angry outbursts
• Low mood & depression
• Anxiety, irrational fears, or obsessive behaviours
• Sleep problems
• Bed-wetting or soiling
• School refusal
• Risk-taking, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts
• Emotional struggles linked to trauma, neglect, or loss
• Emotional or behavioural problems arising from physical illness
• Emotional or behavioural problems arising from developmental disorders such as autism

The Process of Psychotherapy

The process begins with an initial appointment to discuss concerns and determine if psychotherapy is the right sort of help. Following this a psychotherapy assessment might be arranged consisting of 2-3 sessions, the assessment gives the child an opportunity to experience what psychotherapy is like. The assessment is also an important step in beginning to make sense of the child’s difficulties. Parents involvement and support of therapy is important, separate parent sessions may also be arranged alongside scheduled review meetings.

Following the assessment a review meeting takes place to think about the assessment and whether to proceed with psychotherapy. Psychotherapy sessions last for 50 minutes and usually take place weekly.

Each child’s response to therapy is different. Some may feel better after a few sessions, others need much longer. Attending regularly is important for effectiveness.

But How Does it Work?

Psychoanalytic child psychotherapy is a non-directive, child led therapy which provides a safe space where children can explore and develop an understanding of their feelings and behaviours.

Child psychotherapists are trained to observe very subtle communications expressed by a child. Through combining observations with undirected talking, play, or creative activities, psychoanalytic child psychotherapists gather an understanding of the child’s view of the world, and of their struggles and worries. This understanding is gradually shared with child, helping them to gain insight into their difficulties, enabling change.

If you’re considering therapy for your child or have any questions about the process, don’t hesitate to contact me at Child Psychotherapy Perth based in the Northern Suburbs of WA.