In 2002, a study of 2 500 children of divorced families who were observed for thirty years by Professor Mavis Hetherington of the University of Virginia revealed that the great majority showed very little long-term damage and, as adults, functioned well. However, of course, 25% of children did not do so well. Divorce can be the most devastating experience of a child’s life because it disrupts his/her developing sense of trust, security, and self, and understanding of fit into the family and other groups.

The one-day workshop will cover:

• Orientation: possible effects of divorce on children; assisting parents to support their children in a helpful manner
• Assisting children to identify and process emotions, whilst understanding a possible new identity
• Identifying adjustment issues and addressing it through therapeutic techniques
• Non-directive play therapy
• Case study: Identifying the specific problems that a child is dealing with in the context of divorce and/or separation; developing a treatment plan