Working with Relational Trauma in Children’s Residential Care
Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) is a therapeutic approach, based in attachment theory, which is used to support children who have experienced relational trauma. By consciously offering PACE (playfulness, acceptance, curiosity, and empathy), adults can help children – and each other – to feel more secure and open to others.
This guide provides an overview of DDP and explores how it can be used to support children in residential care settings. Case studies, examples, and expert guidance from the authors’ extensive experience demonstrate how to apply the principles of DDP to daily practice. From integrating the PACE model into conversations – both with children and colleagues – to balancing physical safety with relational safety in secure care situations, this book offers a way to build a culture of support throughout the whole structure of residential care settings.
This guide provides an overview of DDP and explores how it can be used to support children in residential care settings. Case studies, examples, and expert guidance from the authors’ extensive experience demonstrate how to apply the principles of DDP to daily practice. From integrating the PACE model into conversations – both with children and colleagues – to balancing physical safety with relational safety in secure care situations, this book offers a way to build a culture of support throughout the whole structure of residential care settings.
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Reviews
This is a wonderful book that affirms the importance of DDP in the relationships of children in out of home care. It also explores the beautiful themes that shape the identity and capacities of children - love, trust, shame. It offers direct applications of DDP for practitioners in this context. Kim Golding and her colleagues reflect on the how relationships have the power to transform childhood pain and trauma into meaning that heals.
This book will be of great value not only in residential care but anywhere where DDP is practiced. Based on the authors' wealth of experience this book is full of conversations and stories that beautifully illustrate DDP principles to practice, whilst providing safety and new knowledge of self and other.
Grant, Thompson, and Golding present an innovative exploration in Working with Relational Trauma in Children's Residential Care, skilfully uncovering the transformative impact of Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) on the lives of children in residential care. This timely and accessible book seamlessly blends DDP with insights from contemporary neuroscience, providing a fresh perspective on applying these principles to therapeutic environments for children with profound trauma experiences. The authors showcase the remarkable effectiveness of the DDP approach, cultivating a therapeutic atmosphere that warmly and playfully invites children into a realm of safety. Through co-regulation and a 'symmetry' of presence with the child, their approach encourages children to process their trauma-related experiences, creating an environment where they can securely embark on a journey of emotional healing and growth.
If you care about children, please take this book with you wherever you go and devour it. You'll learn that residential treatment is not a place of last resort; it can be a place that gives rise to hope.
This is a must have for any residential setting that is looking to embed or introduce therapeutic care. This is wonderfully written by Kim, Edwina and George who have a wealth of expertise that enriches each chapter and creates a fantastic guide for all practitioners.
