citizensmemorial.com 9 Helping families heal together CMH Pediatric Clinic highlights the power of child-parent psychotherapy in treating early childhood trauma For more information about child-parent psychotherapy or to schedule an appointment, call the CMH Pediatric and Walk-In Clinic at 417-777-2121. When a young child experiences trauma, healing doesn’t happen alone—it happens in the arms of a trusted caregiver. Many families have found hope and resilience through child-parent psychotherapy (CPP), an evidence-based treatment model designed to restore the vital connection between children and their caregivers after trauma. Reestablishing trust CPP is one of the few therapeutic approaches developed specifically for children from birth to age 5. Whether a child has experienced abuse, domestic violence, the loss of a parent or a major disruption in their environment, CPP focuses on repairing and strengthening the parent-child relationship as the primary path to healing. “Early trauma can deeply affect a child’s development, behavior and sense of safety,” says Rachael Swopes, PhD, with CMH Pediatric and Walk-In Clinic. “But when we work with the parent and child together, we can help reestablish a sense of trust and emotional security that’s essential for healing and healthy development.” Building understanding In CPP, both the child and caregiver attend therapy sessions together. The therapist helps the caregiver understand how trauma may affect the child’s behavior and emotional responses and how the caregiver’s experiences may impact their parenting. Through guided interaction, play and discussion, CPP helps caregivers become effective sources of comfort, regulation and support. “Children don’t have the language to explain their trauma, but they show us through their behavior, play and relationships,” Dr. Swopes says. “CPP meets children where they are and helps their caregivers become the anchor they need.” Research shows that CPP can reduce symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression and behavioral problems in young children while improving caregiver mental health and the parent-child relationship overall. CPP is especially effective in communities experiencing intergenerational trauma, systemic stressors or limited access to early intervention services. Experienced providers With two trained and rostered childparent psychotherapy providers on staff—Dr. Swopes and Nicole Twenter, LPC—the CMH Pediatric and Walk-In Clinic can provide trauma-responsive care to families.
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