What is Holding therapy?
Holding therapy is a controversial form of therapy that involves the physical restraint of a person, typically a child, by a therapist or caregiver. The aim of holding therapy is to create a strong bond between the therapist and the child and to help the child work through past traumatic experiences or emotional issues.
During holding therapy sessions, the child is held tightly by the therapist, often in a prone position, for an extended period of time. The therapist may also use verbal reassurances or soothing techniques to help the child relax and feel safe.
However, there is significant controversy surrounding the use of holding therapy, as it has been associated with physical harm and emotional trauma for the child. Critics argue that the therapy is invasive, aggressive, and potentially dangerous, and that there is little scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.
As a result, holding therapy is not widely practiced or endorsed by mainstream mental health professionals, and alternative forms of therapy, such as talk therapy or play therapy, are often recommended instead
Shervan K Shahhian.
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 