ABSTRACT
Various treatment approaches conceptualize children’s problems differently, and the diverse views lead to very different avenues of intervention. This chapter discusses in a general manner how specific factors from different treatment methods may be utilized in combination with certain crucial variables in child psychotherapy. The significance of parents’ role in child psychotherapy is now universally acknowledged and strongly supported by family and cognitive-behavioural treatments. Parents may experience intense negative feelings about their child’s referral to the therapist, especially by agents other than themselves, e.g. teachers or a paediatrician. Parents often experience difficulties with what to tell their children when they decide to take them to a therapist. Absolute privacy and consideration are non-negotiable conditions for proper treatment, and psychotherapists are responsible for ensuring confidentiality. Cultural beliefs and values are reflected in parent-child interactions, longterm socialization goals, thoughts about illness and disability, and roles and expectations of family members and professionals.
