Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP)

Dyadic developmental psychotherapy has been developed by Dr Dan Hughes as a therapeutic approach that focuses on the relationship between child and parent or care giver. It is a widely recognized and respected approach that includes working with the child using a reflective dialogue, a conversation that includes both feeling as well as thinking. During this time the therapist explores all aspects of the child’s life, safe and traumatic, present and past and through the creation of a safe and secure connection , begins to support the child to experience a different understanding.

DDP seeks to help the child to experience security within the relationship with the parent using the technique of PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity and Empathy) In this way it is possible for the child to experience healing of past trauma through the safety of current relationships.

DDP has predominately been used in the past as family therapy developed for the treatment of traumatised children and those with attachment problems (fostering and adoption). However more recently the benefits have been recognized for families experiencing prolonged periods of stress, behavioural and relationship breakdowns and those struggling with managing the challenge of adolescence.

Sessions are conducted with both parents/carers and the child, individually and as a group over a period of time allowing space for reflection and future opportunities for discussion. Please ask for more details on how this approach can help you and those you care about.

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