Child-Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT)

A supportive, play-based approach to help build attachment, strengthen connection, improve communication, and support your child’s emotional wellbeing.

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Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, often known as CPRT, is a structured, play-based therapeutic programme that helps parents and carers build a stronger, more secure relationship with their child. It is commonly used with children aged 3–10 and can be adapted for different family needs.

Through guided play, reflection, and practical skills, CPRT supports parents to better understand their child’s feelings, respond with confidence, and create a calmer, more connected family environment.

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How CPRT works

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CPRT is delivered over 10 weekly group sessions. Each session helps parents learn and practise child-centred play therapy skills that can be used at home during short, focused play sessions with their child.

• Learn practical skills: Parents are introduced to techniques such as reflective listening, recognising feelings, setting therapeutic limits, and responding with empathy.

• Practise at home: Parents use these skills in regular 30-minute play sessions with their child.

• Receive support and feedback: Group sessions provide space to reflect, ask questions, and build confidence alongside other parents.

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How CPRT can help

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CPRT is an evidence-informed approach designed to support both children and parents. It focuses on strengthening the relationship at the heart of family life, helping children feel safer, more understood, and more able to express themselves.

• Reduced emotional and behavioural difficulties.

• Improved communication between parent and child.

• Greater trust, security, and closeness within the relationship.

• Increased parental confidence, empathy, and understanding.

• Lower parenting stress and more positive family interactions.

When CPRT may be helpful

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CPRT may be a helpful option if you are concerned about your child’s behaviour, emotions, or confidence, or if you would like support in feeling more connected and confident as a parent or carer.

• Frequent tantrums, emotional outbursts, or difficulty managing big feelings.

• Anxiety, withdrawal, low confidence, or social difficulties.

• Challenges with listening, boundaries, or behaviour at home or school.

• Stress, frustration, or uncertainty around parenting responses.

• A desire to build more warmth, trust, and connection in the parent-child relationship.

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Taking the next step

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If you would like to learn more about CPRT, we would be happy to discuss whether this approach may be suitable for your family. Together, we can explore your child’s needs, your goals as a parent or carer, and the support that may feel most helpful at this stage