Therapeutic Support

At PROGRESSO, therapeutic support is a fundamental component of our care approach. 

We offer a range of therapeutic methods that can be integrated as needed, depending on the specific issues of the children and adolescents. A weekly individual session with one of our external therapists is included in the programme.

BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY:

At PROGRESSO, we have developed a unique phase-based programme that provides youth with a structured framework in which they can feel secure. Through targeted feedback and the principle of "learning by effect," they gain an understanding of self-efficacy.

In our daily work, we integrate various behavioural therapy elements. These include individualised point systems, emotional emergency kits, reflection sheets, and other tools that help youth better understand and regulate their behaviour. 

Our approach supports youth in developing within a structured environment while simultaneously taking responsibility for their actions. This enables them to make positive decisions and strengthen their emotional competence step by step.

EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY:

Equine-assisted therapy is a holistic approach based on the special connection between humans and horses. This form of therapy focuses not only on interaction with the horse but also on understanding its needs. Youth learn to engage with the horse, forming a relationship built on trust and security.

It includes a variety of activities such as exercises with the horse, stable work, animal care, and actual riding. Each aspect contributes to deepening the bond between the young person and the horse.

Equine-assisted therapy offers numerous benefits. It enhances self-confidence and self-awareness, improves fine and gross motor skills, coordination, and balance, and fosters psychosocial sensitivity by teaching adolescents to interpret the horse's body language and respond to its needs. 

Our approach is designed to support both the emotional and physical well-being of youth. In a safe and supportive environment, they learn to take responsibility, build trust, and develop their personal abilities.

ART THERAPY:

Art therapy allows participants to explore their emotions and needs through creative expression. This form of therapy establishes a foundation for deeper self-exploration and identity development through artistic interventions.

Through it´s non-verbal approach, art therapy is particularly effective for individuals who struggle to express themselves verbally for various reasons. This may be due to emotional blockages or an inability to use language as a means of communication. In such cases, creating artwork can facilitate verbal expression and support communication. 

Visual creativity provides a space for personal exploration while strengthening interpersonal skills. Art therapy can be an effective method to enhance communication abilities and unlock access to hidden emotions and thoughts.

PSYCHOTHERAPY:

In the Algarve and Alentejo regions, we offer a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to the diverse needs of youth. These include behavioural therapy, depth psychology-based psychotherapy, somatic psychotherapy, person-centred therapy, and sexual therapy. Each approach is individually adapted to ensure the best possible support.

A strong relationship between the young person and their therapist is central to our work, as it forms the foundation for a successful therapeutic process. By fostering a trusting atmosphere, adolescents feel encouraged to openly discuss their experiences and challenges, helping them to achieve their personal goals and grow. 

We place great importance on ensuring that youth feel safe and understood throughout their therapy. Therefore, we carefully select the most suitable therapeutic approach for each individual, ensuring they receive the necessary support to reach their full potential.

PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT AND TESTING:

To provide even more tailored support, we offer in-depth psychological assessments and testings (as an additional service) within our care programme.

Depending on the individual’s accessibility and cognitive capacity, the assessment process may span several weeks. It involves systematically collecting and analysing information, incorporating existing reports and previous diagnoses. The process includes interviews, behavioural observations, and standardised testing.
The psychological assessment includes:

• Comprehensive cognitive testing: Measuring intelligence levels, concentration abilities, and perceptual organisation
• Screening for ICD diagnoses and a trauma checklist
• Questionnaires assessing emotional experience, aggression potential, self-esteem, and emotional regulation

The gathered insights are directly incorporated into the structuring of the care programme, allowing educational, therapeutic, and academic interventions to be tailored to the individual needs of each youth.

PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY:

In certain situations, medical treatment and supervision by a pediatric psychiatrist may be necessary. This is particularly relevant for young people experiencing depression, self-harming or aggressive behaviour, ADHD, acute psychosis, or severe impulsive emotional distress.

When pedagogical interventions alone are insufficient, psychotropic medication can help manage acute psychological crises, making youth more receptive to therapeutic approaches. Such emergencies are often linked to difficulties in impulse control, lack of insight, or severe restlessness. The aim of medical intervention is to ensure the youth’s safety, alleviate symptoms, and stabilise their condition.

It is important to emphasise that medication does not replace therapeutic support. Instead, it serves as a temporary aid for crisis management, while long-term progress is achieved through therapy, counselling, and pedagogical guidance. Our goal is to provide comprehensive support, ensuring that youth receive the necessary care in a protected environment as they navigate challenging periods.