Group Therapy Programmes
In addition to regular individual therapy, parent consultations and family therapy sessions, children staying on the Child Psychiatry Unit (KPA) take part in a range of structured therapeutic and pedagogical group programmes.
Social Skills Training – Clever Club
Our Clever Club group programme helps children develop the social skills they need to interact confidently and successfully with others through structured group activities and play-based learning.The programme focuses on building self-awareness and understanding of others, helping children recognise and manage emotions while developing empathy. It also encourages positive self-talk, strengthens self-confidence and supports children in learning and practising appropriate social behaviours and effective interpersonal skills in a safe, supportive environment.
Goals of the Clever Club:
- Recognise personal strengths and areas for growth
- Identify and express thoughts and emotions
- Communicate personal needs and wishes
- Respond constructively to criticism and others' expectations
- Develop verbal and non-verbal social skills
- Understand other people's perspectives
- Improve emotional regulation
Circus – Heugumper
“Heugumper” is a therapeutic and pedagogical programme offered at the KPA. It promotes both a sense of individuality and a feeling of belonging within the group. The focus is not on artistic performance, but on the playful development of a wide range of skills: physical(e.g. regulating the use of strength, perseverance, coordination and balance), psychological (e.g. trust and self-confidence, courage, overcoming fears, self-regulation and discovering personal strengths) and social (e.g. respect, consideration for others, tolerance and taking responsibility). The children are able to take on different roles, put their own ideas into practice and are supported in developing their personalities.
Children’s Cooking
Children’s cooking sessions take place regularly, with two children preparing a meal for the whole group with close support and guidance. In addition to cooking, the children are involved in all aspects of preparation, including creating the menu, finding suitable recipes, writing the shopping list and buying the ingredients. This activity strengthens the children’s self-confidence and encourages independence. The shared meal that follows is a well-earned reward for the young chefs and helps to strengthen the sense of togetherness within the group.
Parent Training
Parent training is a key element in supporting parents during their child’s inpatient treatment at the KPA. It gives parents the opportunity to address specific parenting questions in a small group setting. Alongside professional input and practical suggestions on specific topics (e.g. recognising positive behaviour, giving effective instructions and guiding children through appropriate consequences), the programme places particular emphasis on providing space for parents to exchange experiences and support one another. The aim of parent training is for parents to identify and overcome their own challenges and difficulties, enabling them to support their child’s development and provide appropriate encouragement. During the regular parent meetings, individual topics can then be explored in greater depth according to each family’s needs.