Sensory Regulation, Theraplay®, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, and Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy Integration (STEDi) for Adoptive Children who have Experienced Developmental Trauma and Attachment Disruptions: A Mixed-Methods Preliminary Evaluation

Sensory Regulation, Theraplay®, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, and Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy Integration (STEDi) for Adoptive Children who have Experienced Developmental Trauma and Attachment Disruptions: A Mixed-Methods Preliminary Evaluation

Jack Purrington, Caitlin Manning, Georgia York · Journal of Child & Adolescent Trauma

An extended case study of eight adoptive families assessed an integrated therapy combining sensory regulation, play-based work, EMDR and DDP. Child-outcome questionnaires showed reductions in average scores on several trauma, behaviour and executive-function scales. The authors described these as tentative trends rather than conclusive treatment effects.

Limitations: Very small clinical sample without a randomised comparison. Child outcomes were caregiver-proxy measures, while interviews concerned parents’ experiences. Inclusion rests on measured child outcomes. The sample may overlap other STEDi and Chrysalis publications; it should not be treated as an independent replication. Research evaluates therapy provided by Chrysalis Associates, a service for adopted and care-experienced children. Authors have worked for the service; this relationship should be considered when interpreting findings.

Research type

Mixed-methods preliminary service evaluation

Source reviewed

Abstract

Peer reviewed

Yes

Age group

Mixed