Reunification

therapy

Reunification therapy aims to reestablish a relationship between a parent and children that has been broken or damaged. The goal is to rebuild trust and improve communication in order to restore the child's sense of attachment to their parent.

Reunification therapy is a modality designed to support children in reconnecting with their parents.

Reunification Therapy can be very beneficial to the lasting health and well-being of the child.

Although reunification can be incredibly beneficial for the child’s health and family dynamics, it can also be a stressful time for the child/family/caregivers. Some common circumstances that lead to reunification therapy include:

  • Divorce

  • Abuse or neglect

  • Parent alienation/estrangement

It is common (but not required) for reunification to be court-ordered. It can be helpful to have a family law attorney to successfully navigate the emotions and legal ramifications of reunification therapy.

How does reuinifcation therapy work

Reunification therapy may vary for each family depending on the specifics of each case. The therapist will focus on understanding each parent individually, in addition to the child(ren). Reunification Therapy can be delivered across a variety of setting, such as the therapist’s clinic, at the family’s home, foster placement, state-provided meeting facility, or even public spaces (e.g., park, library).

Throughout reunification therapy, the therapist’s is focused on promoting healthy and productive communication and interactions between the parent and child. The therapist will highlight the natural attachment between the child and caregiver. Additionally, the therapist will address any long-standing emotional injuries that needs to be resolved in order for complete healing to take place. Tactics to achieve these goals include communication skills, emotional regulation, conflict resolution, trauma-informed care, healthy boundary and limit setting, and parent training.