Centre for Child Studies

The Centre for Child Studies offers training courses as well as a range of services for families in conflict.

The Director of the Centre is Chip Chimera.

Training

 
Training at Graduate Certificate and Post Graduate Certificate integrate attachment theory, child development and the main models of systemic theories. Other models of practice with children and families are also integrated.

Attachment and Adaptation

21st, 22nd and 23rd May, 26th and 27th June
We are delighted to welcome back Dr Crittenden whose presentation at IFT in 2007 was so well received. This 5-day course introduces the Dynamic-Maturational Model (DMM) of attachment and adaptation and ties it to risk assessment and treatment.

MORE
BOOK NOW

Services for Families in Conflict

Parent Education Sessions 

We offer a three hour session for parents who are separating or divorcing which concentrates on the needs of children.  Two identical courses are offered close together to enable both parents to attend on separate evenings.  Parent coaching is also offered. 

Courses are scheduled at approximately 6 weekly intervals.  Please contact the Institute for the dates of the next courses.

We also offer parent coaching sessions for those who have attended our courses and are trying to put the ideas with regard to the needs of the children into action. 

We offer expertise in the assessment of the impact on children of enduring parental dispute and high conflict following divorce or separation.  Typically this involves conflict regarding contact or residence of the children.

Often such situations occur when less intense forms of intervention, such as mediation, have not been successful and when one or both parents have used the Court system over a protracted period of time.  We can be helpful to the Courts in making decisions regarding ongoing contact with the non-resident parent and in helping parents to understand the needs of the children.

Our approach is culturally sensitive and aims to avoid continuing conflict.  We use parent coaching and other reflective methods to help individuals minimise conflict and focus on the needs of the children, while developing conflict resolution skills. 

Therapy following Court Proceedings 

The Institute offers a range of therapeutic services to families, couples and individuals following court proceedings.  Where proceedings are adjourned we can provide a ‘trial of treatment’ to test the possibilities for long term change. 

We can be commissioned by local authorities to provide therapy where families are to be rehabilitated or where permanent separation is recommended.

Assessments for Court

Here at the Institute we have a number of experienced practitioners who are able to undertake a variety of assessments regarding children and families as detailed below. 

Our assessments are culturally attuned and where possible we aim to provide a skilled practitioner from the clients’ culture of origin.

Assessments normally take 12 to 16 weeks from the point of agreement about the work to be undertaken. All of our assessments are undertaken by appropriately qualified, skilled and experienced  Family Therapists.