What are some reasons a child may be referred?
M.B: Children are referred for therapy for several reasons. Very often the parents agree that their child has become symptomatic and will stipulate that the child goes to counseling. Along with the referral for the child is the addition that both parents shall participate at the therapists request. In instances of domestic violence or restraining orders, we will specify that they participate separately. One caveat about the parents participation it that the therapist must be very careful not to get drawn into the conflict and lose focus on the client, the child. If the parents need co-parent counseling, refer them out to another therapist. The intent of the parents participation is to give them feedback on how they can be better parents with suggestions on changing behaviors to assist the child. Education on how their behavior affects the child is very appropriate and beneficial. During the initial phase of the separation, and if the conflict is continuing, it is imperative that the ch
