10 Things You Might Not Know About Being a Therapist for Kids

Being a therapist for children is a uniquely privileged role. It’s an honor to be invited into their lives, to walk alongside them on their journeys, and to help them navigate the complexities of growing up. As therapists, we form special bonds with our young clients, providing a safe space where they can express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Here are ten things you might not know about what it’s like to be a child therapist.

1. We Are Glad You Turned Up

When a child walks into our office, it’s a significant step. We understand that attending therapy can be daunting, and we appreciate the courage it takes for kids to show up. Every session is a new opportunity to build trust and make progress, and we are genuinely happy to see our clients each time they arrive.

2. We Will Always Be in Your Corner

One of our primary roles as therapists is to be unwavering supporters of our young clients. We are dedicated to advocating for their well-being and helping them navigate challenges. Kids can always count on us to be there for them, providing encouragement and support no matter what.

3. We Know You Don't Tell Us Everything

We understand that children may not share everything with us, and that’s okay. Building trust takes time, and it’s natural for kids to hold back some thoughts or feelings. We respect their boundaries and work patiently to create a space where they feel comfortable opening up at their own pace.

4. We Have to Have Therapy Too

Therapists need therapy too. Just like our clients, we benefit from having a space to discuss our own experiences and challenges. This helps us empathize with the vulnerability that comes with being in the client’s chair and ensures we remain emotionally healthy and effective in our work.

5. We Celebrate Your Progress, No Matter How Small

Every achievement, no matter how small it may seem, is worth celebrating. Whether it’s a child expressing their feelings for the first time or making a positive change in behaviour, we acknowledge and rejoice in these victories. Progress is often gradual, and each step forward is a triumph.

6. We Learn as Much as We Teach

Working with children teaches us valuable lessons every day. Their resilience, creativity, and honesty inspire us and provide fresh perspectives on life. We grow alongside our clients, learning from their unique ways of seeing the world.

7. We Respect Your Individuality

Each child is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet their specific needs. We honour their individuality and strive to create a therapeutic environment that respects their personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and preferences.

8. We Work Closely with Families

Therapy doesn’t happen in isolation. We collaborate with families, teachers, and other caregivers to create a supportive network for the child. This 360 holistic approach helps ensure that the progress made in therapy extends into the child’s everyday life.

9. We Deal with Heavy Emotions Too

Listening to and helping children navigate their emotional challenges means we often encounter intense emotions. It’s part of the job, and we have our own coping mechanisms and support systems to help us process these feelings so that we can continue to provide the best care possible.

10. We Are Continuously Learning

The field of child therapy is always evolving, and we are committed to staying informed about the latest research and techniques. Continuous learning allows us to provide the most effective and compassionate care to our clients, ensuring that we are always improving and growing as professionals.

Conclusion

Being a therapist for children is more than a job; it’s a privilege. We are invited into the lives of our young clients, sharing in their triumphs and challenges. It’s a journey of mutual growth and learning, one that we are honored to be a part of. Through trust, support, and a deep respect for each child’s unique experience, we strive to make a positive impact in their lives.