Choosing a Therapist for Your Child
Key Considerations for a Meaningful Therapeutic Journey
When considering therapy for your child, there’s so much information out there that it can feel overwhelming. Choosing a therapist isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” task, it’s a deeply personal choice that can shape your child’s emotional well-being and development. Below, I’ll walk through key considerations to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your child’s unique needs.
Start with the Modality: Does It Align with Your Child’s Needs?
Therapists draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches, each designed to meet specific needs. Child-centred Play Therapy, for instance, uses the language of play to help children express and process their emotions safely and naturally. Studies show that this evidence-based approach is particularly beneficial for younger children and neurodiverse individuals who may have difficulty with verbal expression (Ray, 2011). It’s important to look for modalities that are:
Evidence-based: Methods backed by research, ensuring they have demonstrated effectiveness.
Child-centred: Approaches that place your child’s needs, interests, and pace at the forefront, allowing them to feel heard, safe, and respected.
Is the Therapist Qualified and Experienced?
While enthusiasm and empathy are essential, qualifications ensure that a therapist has the training to offer quality, safe care. Check if the therapist:
Holds appropriate licenses, qualifications or certifications and belongs to reputable professional bodies such as the Australian Counselling Association or Play Therapy Practitioners Association or Play Therapy Australia.
Has experience working with children of your child’s age, developmental stage, and needs. Working with young or neurodiverse children requires a distinct approach—ensuring the therapist has this experience can make a big difference.
Are They Neurodiversity Affirming?
Neurodiversity-affirming therapists recognise and embrace the unique ways in which children experience and interact with the world. This approach is strengths-focused, meaning it doesn’t seek to “fix” a child but instead works to help them understand, regulate, and celebrate their own unique identity. By choosing a neurodiversity-affirming therapist, you’re choosing someone who will support your child in feeling confident and safe in who they are (Armstrong, 2012).
Consider Trauma-Informed Care: Do They Recognise the Impact of Trauma?
Trauma-informed care means that a therapist is sensitive to the effects of trauma and focuses on creating a secure environment for healing. Trauma responses in children can manifest in unique ways, and a trauma-informed therapist has the expertise to understand and support these behaviours without judgment. Trauma-informed therapists understand that the therapeutic journey can’t be rushed and that true healing takes time, patience, and consistency (Porges, 2011).
Is the Therapist Family-Focused?
Family involvement is crucial. Therapists who value family-centered approaches will actively encourage your engagement and provide insights, so you feel empowered to support your child’s progress at home. Therapeutic modalities like Tuning into Kids® emphasize the importance of parents being involved in emotional coaching and support, helping to reinforce the therapist's work in everyday situations.
Trust the Process: Therapy Takes Time
Research supports that therapy is not an instant fix but a journey of small steps. Therapy for children often moves at a slower pace to allow for natural growth, security, and self-expression. For instance, in child-centred play therapy, sessions are carefully paced so children can open up gradually, building the therapist-child bond over time (Ray, 2011). This patient, trust-based process enables lasting change and emotional resilience, rather than forcing children through rushed or intensive sessions that may lead to stress or burnout.
Do You Feel Comfortable with the Therapist?
Trusting your gut is vital. While qualifications and approaches are essential, a strong therapist-parent relationship is equally important. Do you feel that the therapist is genuinely curious, warm, and empathetic? You’re the expert on your child, so a therapist who respects your insights and is open to collaboration will be the best partner in this journey.
Final Thoughts: The Journey to Emotional Well-Being
Choosing a therapist for your child is an important decision that can make a lasting impact. By focusing on evidence-based, child-centred approaches and prioritising trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming care, you’re setting your child up for a fulfilling journey of self-expression and growth. Remember, this journey is a marathon, not a sprint—and each small step builds toward a brighter future.
References:
Armstrong, T. (2012). Neurodiversity in the Classroom: Strength-Based Strategies to Help Students with Special Needs Succeed in School and Life. ASCD.
Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation. Norton.
Ray, D. C. (2011). A Therapist’s Guide to Child Development: The Extraordinary Normal Years. Routledge.
For more insights on navigating parenting and paediatric support, explore our resources on Inspiring Play or reach out if you’d like personalised guidance. Remember, you don’t have to walk this journey alone.
Visit our website at www.inspiringplay.com.au to learn more about our child-centred play therapy services.