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A Review of “Child-Friendly Therapy: Biopsychosocial Innovations for Children and Families”

Dr. Stern is a practicing psychologist, family therapist, international workshop leader, and is on the faculties of NYU School of Medicine and the Ackerman Institute for the Family. This book provides a comprehensive discussion of why incorporating families in the treatment of children is not only desirable but also mandatory for successful treatment. The author provides numerous techniques to facilitate parent/child empowerment in achieving treatment goals in both therapeutic and home settings. Dr. Stern divided her approach into three parts. In the first part, Dr. Stern discusses the overall principles and practices of child friendly therapy, including effective ways to set up the initial and follow-up sessions to most effectively utilize time and generate the needed information to assess problem areas and interventions. The second portion of the book focuses on the assessment of biophysical, social, familial, and educational factors. Dr. Stern uses this segment to remind clinicians of the importance of examining a broad array of factors that can affect a child’s functioning, rather than focusing exclusively on emotion-based pathology. Chart templates for efficiently organizing assessment information are provided to assist with information analysis. The third and final portion of the book addresses children’s emotional processing and its impact upon their reactions and the reactions of those around them. Dr. Stern also examines the role of group therapy in providing a support system for families. A segment on learning disabilities emphasizes the need for thorough screening, since children with learning disabilities exhibit many of the same symptoms as those who suffer from emotional problems. Throughout the book and in numerous appendices, Dr. Stern includes game and intervention strategies to assist clinicians and families in responding to numerous child behaviors. Children and families are encouraged to find and implement strategies that will work for them rather than adopting a “one size fits all” approach. I recommend this book for anyone who works with children and families for its therapeutic suggestions and numerous practical strategies.