Child-Parent Relationship Therapy Near Me in Flower Mound and Southlake, Texas


Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT), also known as Filial Therapy, is a therapeutic approach that focuses on improving the relationship between a child and their parent(s) to address emotional and behavioral issues. This form of therapy emphasizes strengthening the parent-child bond, enhancing parental skills, and fostering a supportive home environment.

Key Components of Child-Parent Relationship Therapy

  1. Training and Empowerment of Parents:

    • Parents are trained to be therapeutic agents for their children.

    • They learn specific skills to use during play sessions with their child.

  2. Structured Play Sessions:

    • Parents conduct regular, special play sessions with their child, typically 30 minutes once a week.

    • These sessions are non-directive, meaning the child leads the play, and the parent follows, providing support and validation.

  3. Parental Skill Development:

    • Parents are taught skills such as reflective listening, recognizing and responding to their child’s feelings, setting limits when necessary, and encouraging the child's self-expression.

    • Emphasis is placed on developing empathy, patience, and understanding.

  4. Therapeutic Goals:

    • Enhancing the emotional connection between parent and child.

    • Improving the child’s self-esteem and emotional regulation.

    • Reducing behavioral problems by addressing underlying emotional needs.

  5. Professional Support and Supervision:

    • Parents participate in regular training sessions with a therapist to learn and practice CPRT skills.

    • The therapist provides feedback, support, and guidance throughout the process.

Benefits of Child-Parent Relationship Therapy

  1. Improved Parent-Child Relationship:

    • Strengthens the emotional bond and trust between parent and child.

    • Increases mutual understanding and positive interactions.

  2. Enhanced Emotional and Behavioral Regulation:

    • Children learn to express their feelings in a safe and supportive environment.

    • Parents gain skills to help their children manage emotions and behaviors more effectively.

  3. Parental Empowerment:

    • Parents feel more confident and competent in their parenting abilities.

    • They develop a deeper understanding of their child’s needs and how to meet them.

  4. Reduction in Child’s Behavioral Problems:

    • Addressing emotional issues can lead to a decrease in problematic behaviors such as aggression, anxiety, and defiance.

    • Creates a more harmonious and less stressful home environment.

Process of Child-Parent Relationship Therapy

  1. Initial Assessment:

    • The therapist conducts an initial assessment to understand the family dynamics, the child’s emotional and behavioral issues, and the parent’s concerns.

  2. Parent Training Sessions:

    • Parents attend a series of training sessions (typically 10-20) where they learn CPRT techniques and principles.

  3. Home Play Sessions:

    • Parents implement what they have learned by conducting structured play sessions with their child at home.

    • These sessions are recorded or observed (not always), and feedback is provided by the therapist.

  4. Ongoing Supervision and Support:

    • Regular check-ins with the therapist to discuss progress, challenges, and to refine skills.

    • Continuous support to ensure the therapy is effective and adjustments are made as needed.

Finding a Child-Parent Relationship Therapist

If you are interested in CPRT, consider the following steps:

  1. Research Qualified Therapists:

    • Look for therapists who specialize in child-parent relationship therapy or filial therapy.

    • Verify their credentials and experience with this specific approach.

  2. Ask for Recommendations:

    • Seek recommendations from pediatricians, schools, or mental health organizations.

  3. Consider Training and Certification:

    • Ensure the therapist has received proper training and certification in CPRT.

  4. Explore Local Resources:

    • Check with local mental health clinics, counseling centers, or family therapy practices that may offer CPRT services. The University of North Texas is home to the largest training and research play center in the world and has emphasized the importance of CPRT here.

Child-Parent Relationship Therapy can be a powerful tool to strengthen the parent-child bond, improve emotional well-being, and address behavioral issues in a collaborative and supportive manner. Reach out to Pineapple Counseling today at Flower Mound or Southlake, Texas where we have several therapists trained in CPRT services!