What Parents Should Look For When Finding a Child Therapist

Just like adults, children sometimes need help with processing their thoughts and feelings, especially after events such as divorce, bullying, or the death of a close relative. Finding the right therapist for your child, known as vetting, can be a difficult process for parents. However, there are a few ways that you can make that process easier. Here's how:

Ask the child for their perspective

The type of therapist that you would choose for yourself might be different than the type of therapist that your child would choose for themself. Asking your child the type of person they would be willing to discuss their issues with is a priority to getting them the resources that they deserve. 

What type of therapy?

There are multiple ways that a therapist can work with your child. The most common ways are play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. Play therapy is when a therapist uses games, toys and dolls, to help the child work through their emotions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is when a therapist works with your child to understand their thoughts, words and actions. The age of your child can influence the type of therapy that is needed. For example, an elementary schooler will most likely benefit more from play therapy than a high schooler would. 

Ask around

Your everyday surroundings can be a referral source. Ask local parents, community leaders, employers, etc. to see if they send their children to therapy and, if so, who they go to. A positive review can go a long way. 

Check insurance company

It’s important to find a therapist that you are able to afford. Just because a therapist accepts insurance doesn’t mean that they will accept yours. When seeking a therapist, ask if they accept your insurance coverage.  

Questions to ask the therapist

When you get to the point of the process where you have narrowed down your search, it is important that you ask the therapist a series of questions to ensure that they are the best match for your child. Essential questions such as, “How many years of experience do you have?”, “Have you worked with children who have similar symptoms?”, “Do you accept my insurance policy?” and “How do you plan on helping my child?” can provide the answers that you need to make the decision. 

Using these tips will further your process in finding the right therapist for your child!

EJ Umoh, Intern for Main Line Family Matters