Overview

When Children Refuse School: Therapist Guide (Programs That Work) is a comprehensive resource for mental health professionals addressing school refusal behaviours in children and adolescents. This guide is part of the Programs That Work series and provides a structured cognitive-behavioural approach to assessment and treatment.

The guide is designed for use by licensed therapists, psychologists, social workers, and counsellors working in clinical or school settings. It offers practical strategies for identifying the underlying causes of school refusal and implementing effective interventions. While the companion parent workbook is sold separately, this therapist guide contains all essential materials for conducting a complete course of treatment.

Key Features

• Evidence-based cognitive-behavioural techniques tailored for school refusal
• Session-by-session guidance for assessment, psychoeducation, exposure, and relapse prevention
• Handouts and worksheets for both therapists and clients
• Assessment instruments to monitor progress and adjust treatment
• Flexible modules adaptable to different age groups and family situations

How to Use This Guide

Therapists can begin with the assessment chapter to differentiate school refusal from truancy and identify maintaining factors. The modular treatment chapters allow clinicians to select components most relevant to the child's presentation. The guide includes communication strategies for collaborating with parents, teachers, and school administrators. Progress monitoring tools are provided to track improvement over the course of therapy.

For optimal results, the guide should be used in conjunction with the companion When Children Refuse School: Parent Workbook, which aligns home and clinic efforts. However, the therapist guide alone contains all necessary resources for a full treatment programme.

Who Should Use This Book?

This therapist guide is intended for mental health professionals who work with children and adolescents, including psychologists, social workers, counsellors, and school psychologists. Graduate students in clinical psychology or social work will also find it a valuable teaching tool.

Parents seeking guidance are referred to the companion parent workbook. This guide assumes clinical training and should not be used as a self-help resource without professional supervision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this guide suitable for all ages?

Yes, the guide covers children from approximately 5 to 17 years old, with age-appropriate modifications. The strategies are designed to be flexible across developmental stages.

Does the guide include progress monitoring tools?

Yes, assessment measures such as the School Refusal Assessment Scale-Revised (SRAS-R) and daily rating forms are provided to track improvement over time.

Can this be used alongside medication?

This guide is a psychosocial intervention. It can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with pharmacological approaches when indicated. Always collaborate with the child's prescribing physician.

How long is the treatment?

Typically 12 to 16 sessions, but the guide allows for longer or shorter durations based on clinical need. The modular design enables therapists to adjust pacing.

Is training available?

While the guide is self-contained, workshops and online training modules may be offered by the authors or through professional organizations. Check the publisher's website for updates.

This book is an educational resource. It does not replace professional medical or psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified mental health provider with any questions regarding a child's condition.