Child-Focused Therapy Model for Separated Families
Child Focused Therapy (CFT model) is a therapeutic model that addresses many issues that often interfere with successful co-parenting.
Description of the Model
The Child Focused Separated Family (CFT) Model is an innovative, therapeutic intervention that addresses the needs of families and children in conflict. Traditional therapy can be manipulated and misused, often causing further damage. The CFT model addresses issues that typically interfere with good therapeutic outcomes. The model provides guidance to the therapist, from the initial phone call, throughout the therapeutic process. The model insists on engagement and buy-in from both parents, each session designed to address issues causing the child stress and anxiety, and providing practical solutions. There is a “semi-confidential” check in with the child, and alternating parents, where the child’s responses are shared with both parents. The check-in queries are simple, but loaded with psychological “process”. Preparation is needed before check-in questions, to ensure the child is not punished for speaking their mind. The child is asked questions with a parent present: what they enjoy about each home, what each parent does to make them feel safe and secure. Then the child is asked what can be improved in each household, or what each parent does that makes them feel anxious or unsafe. Questions typically are answered differently by the child, depending on the present parent. We discuss why that is normal, what factors make it difficult to be open with parents most importantly how to create a safe environment for children to express their truth. An individual portion of therapy is used to process the check-in, to ensure the emotional safety of the child, and help the child address concerns effectively.