Parent-Child Relationship Repair
A reunification therapy alternative.
What is PCRR?
Parent-Child Relationship Repair (PCRR) is a service provided by licensed mental health professionals to mend relationships between a parent and their child(ren). It was formerly called reunification therapy but has evolved to PCRR to help families adjust to divorce, separation, or custody changes. Sometimes this is needed during a divorce or separation process or even years after a divorce, as parents have concerns for estrangement, conflict, or alienation in their relationships. This therapy has a structured process to assess the circumstances of the children involved and meet their needs.
In this therapy process, children are the primary clients, with the goal of promoting their emotional well-being and healthy development. However, children don’t exist in isolation—they are part of a family system. That’s why our approach addresses the whole family dynamic, including parents and caregivers, to repair relationships and reduce conflict. By working collaboratively, we strengthen communication, improve co-parenting, and create a supportive environment where children can thrive. This holistic, family-focused approach ensures lasting, positive outcomes for children and parents alike.
Who is the "client?"
Our approach
Mending a child's "wrinkled heart"
Children sometimes experience challenging situations that create strain in the parent-child bond. Dr. Guyette often describes this as putting “wrinkles” in the heart that represents the relationship. These wrinkles represent moments of hurt, misunderstanding, or disconnection.
The goal of relationship repair therapy is to help smooth out those wrinkles—creating space for healing and restoring trust. When these wounds are addressed, children no longer have to carry the weight of those unresolved experiences into their future. Repairing the parent-child relationship supports healthier development, stronger emotional well-being, and more positive relationships throughout a child’s life. This specialized therapy helps parents and children reconnect by reducing conflict, addressing emotional wounds, and fostering trust. Parents gain tools and strategies to support their child’s needs, improve co-parenting dynamics, and create a stable, nurturing environment.
Why have this therapy?
When children arrive at our office for relationship repair therapy, they often carry with them a weight of challenges and adversities they've encountered, stemming from the complexities of their family dynamics. These challenges may manifest in various forms, such as emotional distress, behavioral difficulties, or struggles with adjustment. It's crucial to acknowledge the impact these experiences have had on their lives and well-being. While addressing their past struggles is essential, it is equally important to adopt a future-oriented perspective. By focusing on the path forward, we can instill a sense of hope, resilience, and empowerment in these children. Through therapy, we work collaboratively to identify strengths, develop coping strategies, and set achievable goals that pave the way for positive growth and development. By nurturing a future-oriented mindset, we empower children to overcome their past challenges, embrace new opportunities, and thrive in their journey towards healing and well-being.
THE ICEBERG EXPLANATION
When a child resists a parent
What's the cause?
Based on research and clinical experience, there is usually not a singular "cause" for why a child might resist contact with a parent. If you look at this metaphor of the "iceberg explanation," there can be factors intertwined that cause a child to resist a parent. The resistance is a "symptom" of bigger issues that vary from case to case.
On the surface, we might see a child talk poorly about a parent, refuse to talk to them, feel they're not being heard, or reject the relationship in other ways. It is important that there is a holistic assessment conducted so the provider can approach the sitaution that meets the needs of the child.
Is every case appropriate for PCRR?
No. Many of the children who engage in this therapy process often come from families entrenched in high-conflict situations, where the tumultuous dynamics pose significant challenges to their well-being and development. These families may be grappling with a multitude of complex issues, including alienating behaviors, domestic violence, substance abuse, and intense legal involvement. In such environments, children are often caught in the crossfire, exposed to ongoing conflict, tension, and instability that can have profound and lasting effects on their mental and emotional health. There are some cases where the time is not right to engage in PCRR this might be if there is untreated concerns of a parent or the child is not at amentally secure place to begin the process. Other recommendations might be recommended first or coinciding PCRR.
How do we start?
We’re here to listen, answer your questions, and help you take the next step.
We look forward to working with you!
Other FAQs
Do both parents need to participate in PCRR?
Whenever possible, both parents should be involved to reduce conflict and foster a supportive environment. However, the level of participation depends on the family situation and any court orders in place. Typically, the child(ren) are not in the room with both parents.
Is PCRR therapy covered by insurance?
We do not bill insurance directly from our office, however, many insurance companies will reimburse for services as the child(ren) are the identified client and if there is an appropriate diagnosis. Otherwise, many parents chose to split costs and are billed separately.
How long does PCRR therapy take?
There is no one-size-fits-all timeline. Some families see progress within a few weeks, while others require several months of therapy, depending on the severity of the conflict and the child’s readiness.
Is PCRR therapy Court-ordered or voluntary?
Both scenarios are common. Many families participate in PCRR therapy through a court order during custody disputes, while others seek it voluntarily to support their child’s well-being after separation.
Will you provide reports or summaries?
Summaries can be provided and are often helpful to the Courts when this is a court-ordered therapy; however, all PCRR cases must have what are called safe harbor agreements, so it is up to the discretion of the provider to provide a summary and what is included in it.
What if my child refuses to attend or participate?
Resistance is common in strained relationships. PCRR uses a gradual, child-centered approach that prioritizes emotional safety and trust, reducing pressure and allowing the child to engage at their own pace.
What happens if one parent does not cooperate?
While full cooperation is ideal, therapists can still work within the existing family structure. The focus remains on supporting the child’s emotional needs while encouraging both parents to prioritize the child’s best interests. In some cases, it is very helpful to have a Court Order.