A Day in the Life of a Family & Child Therapist

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a family and child therapist, picture a day filled with creativity, listening, and a lot of teamwork. My work isn’t just about what happens in the therapy room, it’s about connecting with children, supporting parents, and helping whole families find their way forward.

Morning Calm Before the Storm: Before my first client arrives, I spend a little time going over my notes and making sure I’m ready. Sometimes this means checking in with a school or residential home staff, so we’re all working together to support the child.

Building Trust with Children: Not every child talks in therapy, and that’s okay; we communicate in other ways. A change in their breathing, a small smile, or the way they choose to sit can tell me a lot. Over time, even without words, trust grows.

Teamwork Makes the Difference: The best progress happens when therapy isn’t just a “once-a-week” event. I often work with schools, carers, and families to make sure the child is supported in every part of their life. We celebrate the little wins together, like when a child makes a decision on their own or asks for what they need.

Play and Creativity: In the afternoon, I might use puppets, art, or storytelling. Play isn’t just fun, it’s a way for children to explore feelings and experiences in a safe, gentle way.

Why I Love This Work: As a family and child therapist, I look for the small signs of hope and growth. It’s about helping children and families feel heard, valued, and supported because every small step forward can change a life.