What is the therapist's approach when engaging with young children during a therapy session?

Engaging with young children in therapy requires an approach that emphasizes building a strong emotional connection and fostering a safe, playful environment. Being attached and proximate means that the therapist is present, attentive, and interactive, allowing for a natural rapport to develop.

Young children often express their feelings and thoughts in non-verbal ways, through play or art, as they may lack the vocabulary to articulate their emotions directly. By maintaining a close, engaged stance, the therapist can guide the child through their experiences, support them in exploring their feelings, and create a sense of trust. The ability to physically be nearby and to sensitively respond to a child's needs promotes comfort and encourages more open engagement.

This approach contrasts with other methods, such as being detached and observational, which might inhibit the child's willingness to engage or share. An authoritative and directive stance may not resonate well with young children, who thrive in environments that feel safe rather than controlled. A formal and structured interaction could also be limiting, as it might not account for the spontaneous and fluid nature of a child's expression. Engaging children requires flexibility, warmth, and responsiveness, making the attached and proximate approach the most effective.