A model for therapeutic educational psychology practice

The role of educational psychologists (EPs) in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people is increasingly being recognised in light of pressures on support services, and the identified importance of school-based provision. At the same time, EP practice has benefitted from psychological practice frameworks which support formulation and decision-making although, to date, none of these has focused on therapeutic work. This paper proposes a flexible, practical model, based on the constructionist model of reasoned action (COMOIRA) and informed by cognitive behavioural therapy, human givens therapy and motivational interviewing. It offers practical guidance and structure for EPs engaging in direct therapeutic work with children and young people, complementing guidance from the Division of Educational and Child Psychology (DECP) on the delivery of therapeutic approaches in school and communities. Further research and development of this model is encouraged by the authors.