Finding the right therapist for your child can feel like a big decision.
Whether you’re exploring therapy for the first time or looking for a new provider, it’s natural to have questions. Every child is different, and there’s no single therapist or therapy that’s right for everyone. What matters most is finding someone who understands your child’s individual needs and works with your family to achieve meaningful goals.
If you’re not sure where to start, here are five questions that can help guide your conversations.
1. Are they appropriately qualified and registered?
Before beginning therapy, it’s important to understand a therapist’s qualifications and professional registration.
Different therapies have different governing bodies, but a reputable therapist should be happy to explain their qualifications, experience and any professional memberships they hold. This helps give families confidence that they’re receiving safe, high-quality care.
2. Do they have experience supporting children with similar needs?
No two children are the same, but it can be helpful to ask whether a therapist has experience supporting children with similar conditions, challenges or goals.
That doesn’t mean they need to have worked with an identical diagnosis. Instead, it’s about understanding their approach, the types of families they regularly support, and how they tailor therapy to each individual child.
3. How will we decide on goals together?
The most effective therapy is built around the child and their family.
A good therapist will take the time to understand what’s important to you, whether that’s developing communication, improving mobility, building confidence or supporting everyday independence. Together, you should agree realistic, meaningful goals that can be reviewed as your child progresses.
4. How will progress be monitored?
Progress doesn’t always happen in big leaps. Sometimes it’s the smallest changes that make the biggest difference – small wins, big breakthroughs.
Ask how your therapist will review your child’s progress and keep you involved throughout the journey. Regular communication can help you understand what’s working, celebrate milestones and adjust goals if needed.
5. How can we continue supporting our child at home?
Therapy doesn’t begin and end with appointments.
Many therapists will suggest simple activities, exercises or strategies that can be incorporated into everyday life, giving families the confidence to continue supporting their child’s development between sessions. These don’t have to be complicated, but they can play an important role in helping children build on the progress they’re making.
Every Family’s Journey Is Different
Choosing a therapist isn’t about finding the “best” provider. It’s about finding the right fit for your child, your family and your goals.
At Therapy Stars Foundation, we know that every journey is unique. That’s why our grants can be used towards a range of recognised therapies delivered by appropriately qualified and regulated providers who meet our grant criteria.
If you’re considering applying for a grant, we’re always happy to answer any questions you may have. You can also find more information about the therapies we may be able to help fund, along with our eligibility criteria and application process, on our Apply page.
