Child Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT)
Alongside Play and Creative Arts Therapy, I also use the Child Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT) model to support families. This approach is based on the principles of Play Therapy and focuses on strengthening the bond between children and their caregivers through the power of play, connection, and understanding.
CPRT helps parents and carers develop new ways of relating to their child — shifting from focusing on behaviour alone to understanding the feelings and needs that drive it. The process helps adults learn to listen deeply, respond with empathy, and build trust and security within the relationship.
How It Works
CPRT typically takes place over a series of structured sessions, where parents or carers are guided through practical play-based techniques they can use at home. These include:
– Creating special one-to-one playtimes with their child.
– Using reflective listening to understand what the child is communicating through play and behaviour.
– Setting clear, consistent boundaries in a way that feels safe and respectful.
– Encouraging emotional expression and strengthening the parent-child connection.
Through this process, parents become more confident and attuned, and children begin to feel more secure, understood, and valued. Families often notice a reduction in challenging behaviours and an increase in warmth, cooperation, and trust.
My Approach to Supporting Families
In my work, I integrate CPRT principles to empower parents and carers as the most important people in a child’s world. My aim is to help families develop a stronger emotional connection and feel more confident in supporting their child’s wellbeing.
CPRT can be particularly helpful for families who are navigating emotional or behavioural difficulties, life transitions, or times of stress and disconnection. The approach not only supports the child’s healing but also strengthens the whole family system — creating a foundation of safety, understanding, and love.
If you’d like to know more about Child Parent Relationship Therapy or how it could support your family, please feel free to reach out — I’d be happy to talk through what the process involves and how it might fit your situation.