parents need to have FULL disclosure

make sure you know what people are telling your child about his trauma history

I am on my third book about adopting traumatized children and they all say the same thing - parents need to have FULL disclosure with their child's therapist. That is, they should either be in the room during all sessions (ideal) or be given complete info after each session. This is, of course, with the child's knowledge. The point is that trauma work is most effective when the child has securely attached to their adoptive parents, and secure attachment can't happen without trauma work. They go hand in hand, and the parents need to be there every step of the way.

If that approach is taken there there should be no danger of a therapist further traumatizing the child. If you're there, then you can intervene immediately. And then, of course, go find yourself a new therapist. :)

BTW, I am totally with you about churches inadverdently re-traumatizing. I had a church re-traumatize me about my past abuse, and I was an adult! Thank God for GOOD therapists.

Adoption Under One Roof - Comments for "Trauma Thursday: Traumatized Children and Ignorant Church Folk"

parents need to have FULL disclosure