Theories for Children
11 theories available
In-Depth Explanation
Theories for Children
Children heal through play, not talk. These parent-friendly guides explain evidence-based approaches to helping kids process trauma, regulate emotions, and build secure attachments—with practical ways parents can support healing at home. Research shows that a parent's own healing journey is by far the most impactful thing they can do for their child—children often mirror and internalize their parents' unresolved struggles.
RAT for Children
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing adapted for children, using bilateral stimulation to help process traumatic memories.
Behavioral Therapy / Parent Training
Evidence-based strategies teaching parents how to help their child with ADHD through immediate feedback, positive reinforcement, and structured routines.
CBT for Children
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy adapted for children, teaching the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in age-appropriate ways.
Play Therapy
A therapeutic approach using children's natural language—play—to help them express feelings, work through experiences, and develop coping skills.
Sandtray Therapy
A non-verbal therapeutic approach allowing children to create miniature worlds in sand, expressing inner experiences that words cannot capture.
Theraplay
An attachment-based therapy using playful, nurturing activities to build secure relationships between parents and children.
Filial Therapy
A parent-child therapy where parents become therapeutic agents, conducting special play sessions with their own children.
PCIT: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
A parent-coaching approach teaching specific skills to strengthen the parent-child relationship and address behavior challenges.
CPP: Child-Parent Psychotherapy
An attachment-based treatment for young children (0-5) who have experienced trauma, working through the parent-child relationship.
Art Therapy for Children
A creative therapeutic approach using visual art-making to help children express emotions and process experiences beyond words.
Music Therapy for Children
A therapeutic approach using music interventions to help children regulate emotions, express themselves, and connect with others.