Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP)
An intervention for children aged 0-5 who have experienced traumatic events and/or are experiencing mental health, attachment, and/or behavioral problems.
Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP)
Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) is an evidence-based treatment for young children who have experienced traumatic events such as domestic violence, abuse, neglect, the traumatic loss of a loved one, or other challenging circumstances. CPP works with both the child and caregiver to help restore the child's sense of safety, attachment, and appropriate affect, and to improve the child's cognitive, behavioral, and social functioning.
CPP is designed for children from birth through age 5 and their caregivers. The treatment is relationship-based and focuses on the way the trauma has affected the caregiver-child relationship and the child's developmental progress.
Through joint sessions with the child and caregiver, the therapist helps the pair understand and address the emotional and behavioral difficulties that have resulted from the traumatic experience. The therapist supports the caregiver in creating a safe environment for the child and in responding to the child's emotional needs effectively.
Core Components of CPP
Focus on Safety
CPP prioritizes establishing physical and emotional safety for the child. The therapist works with caregivers to create a secure environment and helps the child develop a sense of protection and trust.
Trauma Processing
The therapy helps children and caregivers make meaning of the traumatic experience in developmentally appropriate ways. This might involve play, storytelling, or direct discussions depending on the child's age and abilities.
Emotional Support
CPP helps caregivers respond sensitively to their child's emotional needs and supports the development of healthy emotional regulation in the child.
Addressing Developmental Needs
The treatment addresses how trauma may have impacted the child's development and works to support healthy developmental progression.
Benefits of CPP
- Reduces traumatic stress symptoms in children
- Improves the quality of the caregiver-child relationship
- Enhances the child's sense of safety and security
- Supports healthy emotional and behavioral development
- Helps caregivers understand and respond to their child's needs
- Addresses the impact of trauma on the child's development
Who Can Benefit from CPP?
CPP is particularly beneficial for young children (ages 0-5) and their caregivers who have experienced:
- Domestic violence
- Physical or sexual abuse
- Neglect or maltreatment
- Traumatic loss or grief
- Multiple separations or placements
- Community violence or disasters
CPP is also effective for children who show symptoms of post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, or behavioral problems that may be related to traumatic experiences.
Explore Other Early Childhood Approaches
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
An evidence-based treatment for young children with behavioral problems
Attachment Biobehavioral Catch-up (ABC)
An intervention that helps caregivers provide nurturing care
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Help Your Child Heal from Trauma
CPP can help you and your child recover from difficult experiences and build a stronger relationship together.