Based on extensive clinical experience, this book provides authoritative guidance and practical tools in a challenging area for child mental health professionals. The authors explain the many possible causes of problem sexual behaviours and demonstrate assessment and treatment procedures that have been shown to work with 4- to 11-year-olds and their families. Four chapter-length case examples illustrate how to integrate elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy, play and expressive therapies, and family-based approaches. Helpful reproducible worksheets and forms can be downloaded and printed in a convenient 8 1/2” x 11” size.

Audience:
Child psychologists, social workers, psychiatrists, play and art therapists, counsellors, child welfare professionals, and school psychologists.

Course Use:
Child psychologists, social workers, psychiatrists, play and art therapists, counsellors, child welfare professionals, and school psychologists. May serve as a supplemental text in graduate-level courses.

Author Bio:

Eliana Gil, PhD, is senior partner in a private group practice in Fairfax, Virginia, the Gil Institute for Trauma Recovery and Education, which provides therapy, consulting, and training services. She is also Director of Starbright Training Institute for Child and Family Play Therapy in northern Virginia. Dr. Gil has worked in the field of child abuse prevention and treatment for nearly 40 years. A licensed marriage, family, and child counsellor; approved marriage and family therapy supervisor; registered play therapist; and registered play therapy supervisor, Dr. Gil has served on the Board of Directors of the American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children and the National Resource Center on Child Sexual Abuse, and is a former President of the Association for Play Therapy. She is the author of acclaimed books and video programs on child abuse and related topics. Originally from Guayaquil, Ecuador, Dr. Gil is bilingual and bicultural.

Jennifer A. Shaw, PsyD, is a founding partner of the Gil Institute for Trauma Recovery and Education, and has worked in a number of clinical settings and capacities in metropolitan Washington, D.C. She provides individual, family, and group therapy to children and adolescents with sexual behavior problems, depression, anxiety, adjustment problems, and complex trauma. She has been the coordinator of the Boundary Project family-based program in two clinical settings: Childhelp Children’s Center of Virginia and the Gil Institute for Trauma Recovery and Education. Dr. Shaw has acquired specialized training and certification in conducting psychosexual risk assessments and treating sexual offending behaviours in adolescents and adults, and is currently working toward certification as a registered play therapist.