The Circle of Security - Brisbane

What is the Circle of Security? Who is it for?

The Circle of Security (COS) is an evidence-based approach to parenting that focuses on strengthening the parent/carer/child relationship and promoting secure attachment. Eligible NDIS clients may be able to claim for this service as part of their plan.

Social workers and therapists use the Circle of Security framework to support families within the context of risk and/or early intervention. During the process, relationship problems and challenges can be addressed, and the well-being of the child can be enhanced.

The Circle of Security Program is widely used with carers. It also works well for increasing awareness of attachment with extended family members, foster parents, and other care professionals. The program supports carers undergoing parental challenges and promotes strategies for managing difficult behaviours, such as how to address discipline issues and initiate healthy routines and boundaries.

Circle of Security sessions are often sought for children and families who may be experiencing:

• Neurodiversity, including Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD
• Developmental delay
• Anxiety and childhood depression
• Aggressive or challenging behaviours
• Grief and loss
• Attachment issues
• Adoption, fostering, and out-of-home care issues
• Trauma, abuse, and neglect
• School refusal
• Bullying

How does the Circle of Security work?

The Circle of Security prepares parents and carers with training and strategies so that carers can give children the emotional support needed to foster secure attachment, resilience, and enhanced school readiness.

The Circle of Security approach is implemented through a series of sessions; specific interventions may vary depending on the child's and family's needs. Social workers can tailor their support to meet your child's specific circumstances. They work in collaboration with you to enhance the parent-child relationship and promote your child's well-being.

What happens during a Circle of Security parenting session?

Sessions take place weekly for a minimum 50-minute duration. The social worker looks closely at the quality of the parent-child relationship to identify the patterns of interaction and attachment dynamics affecting the child’s emotional well-being. Over the course of the program, parents are assisted in learning about and applying Circle of Security concepts. These include the importance of secure attachment and its impact on their child's development.

Carers develop skills in being attuned to the child's needs, providing a secure base, and fostering a safe haven for the child. They receive guidance on how to attune to the child's emotions, validate their feelings, and respond appropriately. This helps children develop emotional intelligence and a secure base from which they can explore the world.

Circle of Security (Cos) assistance in Brisbane

Our social workers and therapists in Brisbane can assist parents and carers to address specific parenting challenges they may face. We help parents develop strategies for managing difficult behaviours, addressing discipline issues, and promoting healthy routines and boundaries.

If you require additional information on Circle of Security, please call our office at 07 3256 6320. Our mental health-focused reception staff will be only too happy to assist you with your enquiry about our service and can suggest the most suitable Psychologist for your concern.