Evidence for Psychodynamic Play Therapy With Parent Consultation as a Treatment for Somatic Complaints in Childhood

Abstract

This study explored the effectiveness of psychodynamic play therapy with parent consultation to treat somatic complaints. Evie was treated with 50 sessions of psychodynamic play therapy which incorporated parent consultation. Intervention included direct parent consultation aimed to improve the security of the parent–child attachment in tandem with building a long-term, secure therapy relationship with Evie. Variables were assessed pre- and post-treatment, utilizing the Reliable Change Index to examine statistically significant change over the course of treatment. Significant symptom improvement was observed in Evie’s somatization. Significant improvement was also observed in parent–child relationship indicators including relational frustration and discipline practices. No significant improvements were observed in communication, parenting confidence, involvement, or attachment at the end of treatment, but significant improvements were observed at 3-month follow-up in all areas. Results are discussed in terms of the effectiveness of psychodynamic approaches to treatment with children, particularly with regard to the “sleeper effect.”