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Using groups to strengthen Parent-Infant Relationships: A Training Workshop

Length: 2 days
Location: Anna Freud Centre
Tutor(s): Jessica James and Sheila Ritchie
Start time: 10:00
End time: 16:30
Timetable: Download timetable

In recent years there has been enthusiasm amongst professionals to offer parent and infant groups for help Mums and babies with early emotional and attachment difficulties. In practice leadership of these groups requires understanding of group processes and training in skills to engage infants equally as participants.

Who is this course suitable for?

Professionals working with infants and their families who want to extend their skills in groups. This might include health visitors, children's centre workers, baby massage teachers, psychologists, individual and group psychotherapists. The course is also suitable for participants who have completed the Anna Freud Centre module and introductory courses in parent infant work.

Aims of course

This two day workshop aims to develop group thinking and practice to produce leaders able to sustain successful parent and infant groups. There will be a focus upon ways of creating a group environment which maximises the potential for infant centred interactions. The teaching will draw upon models from parent-infant psychotherapy and group analysis. These will be adapted in relation to techniques and professional roles in different group settings.

Tutors

Jessica James, consultant parent-infant psychotherapist and group analyst working in the Parent Infant Project at the Anna Freud Centre

Sheila Ritchie, perinatal psychotherapist and group analyst in the Perinatal Parent-Infant Mental Health Service, North East London Foundation Trust. The workshop is a joint venture between these services.