This is an introductory 4-day course on Dyadic Developmental Practice, Psychotherapy and Parenting, the intervention model developed by Dr. Daniel Hughes, the internationally acclaimed therapist and author of ground-breaking books on attachment and emotional recovery. This approach assists therapists and other professionals to understand and effectively support children, young people and their families. In this model, theory and research in the areas of developmental trauma, attachment theory, intersubjectivity and child development are integrated to produce a therapeutic approach used for relationship development and trauma resolution. DDP recognises the vital role which adoptive parents, foster carers and residential workers play as primary attachment figures in the recovery of traumatised, attachment-resistant children. The principles and interventions are presented through formal presentations, discussion, videotape of sessions, role-play, and hand outs.

This four day course is open to those professionals who have undertaken Level One training and are beginning to use the principles and interventions of Dyadic Developmental Practice, Parenting and Psychotherapy in their day-to-day work. It focuses on gaining a deeper understanding of the theory, successes, and barriers experienced by participants in applying the model in practice, more videos and discussion of DDP and the impact of participant’s own attachment experiences. It is helpful if participants have examples of their own DDP practice, such as case studies and/or recordings, to share with the group.

It is designed to provide support and guidance to adoptive parents and foster or kinship carers. Based on attachment theory and an understanding of the impact of trauma on children’s development and security.