The strength and quality of the relationship between parents is fundamental to the development of young people’s brain architecture, function and capacity for resilience. Children’s brains are impacted by experience and the emotional environment in which they live. Consistent, positive parental alliance has been found to be critical for optimal child mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. In times of transition, parental alliance can be weakened and traditional methods of problem solving interventions tend to be slow, rarely resulting in new vision and generates defensiveness. By harnessing the principles of neuroscience and activating the reward brain, when working with parents we can significantly contribute to increased problem solving, improved decision making and lasting change.
This interactive presentation will outline a holistic way of working with families where the child is the primary client. Through experiential exercises and case examples, participants will apply learning and discuss practice issues. The presentation will also include role playing scenarios and will provide:
• Observation of leader role-play utilising the model
• Opportunity to practice skills through role-playing case examples

Take away benefits for participants will include:
• Application of neuroscience principles to parent feedback and education
• Ways to empower parents to achieve positive outcomes for their young people
• Understanding of how current practice can engage the threat brain response and as such limit positive results
• Techniques of motivational interviewing when working with families
• Exploration of the parameters of confidentiality and safety as it relates to working with young people and parents.