Part 2: Parent-Child Therapy in the Early Years: Growing Stronger Together

A Series on Understanding Early Childhood Therapy

Part 2

Parent-Child Therapy in the Early Years: Growing Stronger Together

“The parent child connection is the most powerful mental health intervention known to mankind”

- Bessel Vander Kolk

Let’s start with the fact that I LOVE parent-child therapy!

During this precious time of huge emotional growth in the early years, sometimes children exhibit emotional or behavioral challenges that impact not only the child but the parent as well. So parent-child therapy gives support to both the parent and the child simultaneously. In my experience working with families, parents often LOVE getting to participate in their child’s therapy in this interactive way with the support of a therapist so not only is their child learning but they are learning too! That’s why Parent-Child Therapy is such a powerful and effective approach, especially when your child is little. It’s not just about helping the child; it’s about strengthening the bond between parent and child to support healing and growth for the whole family.

What Is Parent-Child Therapy?

Parent-Child Therapy is a relationship-focused form of therapy (backed up by lots of research) that involves both the child and their caregiver together during therapy sessions. Typically we see it is recommended in the early years for children ages 0-7 (although some parent child therapies have been adapted for older children too). It’s often used to support children dealing with anxiety, trauma, attachment challenges, behavior difficulties, or big life changes such as the arrival of a new sibling. Some popular parent child therapy services out there are: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Theraplay, Child-Parent Psychotherapy and Parent Child Relationship Therapy (& so many more).

We strive to help parents attune to their child’s needs, practice new supportive strategies and give children the space to learn together. Instead of focusing only on the child (like traditional therapy sessions), this type of therapy sees the parent-child relationship as the key to emotional development and behavioral change. Parents- this is a game changer and the way to turn those exhausting, difficult moments into moments you can manage.

Why the Early Years Matter:

We know that the early years are foundational for emotional, social, and relational development. During this time, children are forming the blueprint for how they see the world, connect with others, and regulate their emotions. That blueprint is heavily shaped by their relationship with their primary caregivers.

By focusing on that relationship early, parent-child therapy can:

• Promote secure attachment

• Reduce challenging behaviors

• Improve emotional regulation and effective communication

• Boost a child’s sense of safety and self-esteem

• Empower parents with tools and confidence

What Does It Look Like?

We PLAY! Sessions are always interactive and playful in order to meet your child where they are at. Depending on the sessions focus you might:

• Engage in guided play with your child (special play time)

• Practice new ways to respond to tough behaviors

• Reflect on your own parenting experiences and how they shape your responses

• Receive real-time coaching and support during interactions with your child

• Have some fun along the way!

Therapists create a safe space where both parent and child can be seen, heard, and supported- together!

When to Consider Parent-Child Therapy

• If your child has frequent meltdowns, fears, or has trouble connecting

• If there are constant power struggles between you and your child

• If your family has experienced stress, loss, or trauma

• If you find it difficult to play with your child

• If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to help your child emotionally

• If you want to deepen your bond and understand your child’s needs more clearly

Therapy Just Adds Tools

You know your child best. I’m just here for bonus support!

Participating in Parent-Child Therapy doesn’t mean you have messed up as a parent or anything is wrong with your child. It’s not about fixing you or your child—it’s about adding tools to your parenting toolbox and creating a stronger foundation for your relationship and emotional wellbeing for your whole family.

Curious to see if parent child therapy would be a good fit for you? Reach out to your pediatrician, a child therapist in your area or me (if your local in San Diego) and let’s chat :)

Click here to learn more about parent-child therapy services at Nyo Therapy: Early Years Child Therapy.

Stay Tuned for Part 3 talking more about parent child support specifically in the first year of life!