Assessments at Relational Roots help build a clear, compassionate understanding of a child or family’s needs. The process is relational, trauma informed, and systemic, exploring what is happening, why it may be happening, and what may help. I work collaboratively with families, carers, and professional networks to support understanding, planning, and next steps.
Assessments are available locally and regionally, with flexibility depending on need.
What to Expect
Every assessment is tailored to the individual child, family, and context. The process is collaborative, steady, and grounded in trauma informed and systemic thinking.
An assessment will Include
- A referral meeting to understand concerns, context, and goals
- Case familiarisation and review of relevant background information
- Interviews with parents, carers, or professionals
- Observation of parent–child interactions (in person or online)
- School liaison or observation, where appropriate and agreed
- Non directive, relational play based observation (e.g., Marschak Interaction Method)
- A systemic formulation meeting to share emerging understanding
- A written report outlining findings, formulation, and recommendations
- Risk and Safeguarding – Risk is always considered within the wider relational and systemic context. This includes exploring factors that may increase or reduce risk, patterns that contribute to escalation, and the strengths and protective elements within the family system.
Systemic Family Assessment
A relational, systemic assessment that explores patterns, relationships, and dynamics within the family system. This can be commissioned directly by families or by professionals supporting them. It is helpful for placement stability, reunification planning, or when families want a clearer picture of what is underpinning current difficulties.
What this assessment explores
- Parent–child interactions and relational patterns
- Attachment needs and emotional safety
- Strengths, protective factors, and resilience
- The impact of trauma, stress, or adversity
- Communication patterns and family roles
- Wider systemic influences (school, community, networks)
Outcomes will include
- A clear, compassionate formulation
- A systemic understanding of patterns and dynamics
- Practical recommendations for support
- Guidance for careers, parents, and professionals
- Relational strategies tailored to the family’s context
- A written report summarizing key findings and next steps
ASGSF‑Funded Specialist Assessment
This assessment is available to families through the Adoption and Special Guardianship Support Fund (ASGSF). It provides a detailed, trauma informed understanding of a child’s developmental and relational needs, with clear recommendations for support.
This assessment may include
- Developmental and relational history
- Trauma exposure and its potential impact
- Attachment patterns and caregiving experiences
- Current stressors and environmental influences
- Strengths, resources, and protective factors
Outcomes will include
- A detailed, trauma informed formulation
- A clear understanding of developmental and relational needs
- Recommendations for therapeutic, relational, and environmental support
- Guidance for families, careers, and professional networks
- A written report suitable for RAAs, LAs, and post adoption/SGO support teams
Assessments at Relational Roots aim to bring clarity, compassion, and direction. The focus is always on understanding the child or family within their relational and systemic context, and supporting meaningful, sustainable next steps.
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Get In Touch
A brief 20 minute consultation is available to help you get a sense of how I work and whether it feels like the right fit for you. Sessions are offered in Holbeck and online.