PSYCHOTHERAPIST CHILD JOB

Child psychotherapists work with children of all ages from birth to the age of 18. They use an integrative (incorporating differing psychotherapeutic theories) or psychoanalytical approach to treat children who have difficulties with behaviour, thoughts or feelings. These difficulties may include depression, anxiety, development delay, phobias, and aggression, and gender dysphasia, consequences of child abuse, self-harming, learning difficulties, eating disorders and psychosomatic disorders. Psychotherapists help children to understand their inner conflicts and to manage difficult feelings.

Work with parents and careers is an important component and they may often be involved in therapy sessions. Child psychotherapists work closely with other professionals in health, education and social services. Child psychotherapists work with children and families both individually and in groups. They are skilled in the observation, assessment and treatment of children and in understanding what children are communicating. In order to achieve this, they may use non-directed discussion but, particularly with younger children or children with learning disabilities, standard toys, such as a doll's house and family, puppets and drawing materials are often used, and sometimes water and sand.

The therapist aims to develop a rapport with the children and understand what they are trying to communicate through their behaviour and/or their response to the activities provided. Providing assessment and treatment of children and adolescents as individuals or (less frequently) in a group. Providing a regular setting and time where a supportive relationship can develop and appropriate treatment programmed can start - therapy takes place between one and five times per week, in sessions usually lasting 50 minutes for individuals, or longer for groups.

Planning how best to help a child and the child's family in consultation with other professionals in schools, children's hospitals, special needs centres, children's services and child protection agencies. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team comprising psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, paediatric nurses, and special educational needs coordinators (SEMCO’s), family therapists and community psychiatric nurses. Supervising trainee child psychotherapists and other therapists. Training other professionals in the community, including health visitors, social workers, teachers, midwives and nurses. Keeping abreast of developments in theory and research and undertaking continuing professional development (CPD).