As an autism parent, finding the right therapist for your child is crucial for their development and well-being. However, there may come a time when you realize their current therapist isn't the best fit for your child's needs.
Deciding to sever ties with a therapist can be challenging, but it's important to prioritize your child's progress and overall therapy experience.
In this article, we'll provide a roadmap for autism parents on how to navigate the process of firing their child's therapist respectfully and constructively.
Reflect on Your Concerns
Unless your child is in immediate danger, before taking any action, reflect on the reasons behind your decision to stop working with the therapist.
Is it a lack of progress, a breakdown in communication, or a mismatch in their therapeutic approach? Identifying the specific concerns will help you articulate your reasons more effectively.
I suggest making a list of your concerns and questions as it will help you to put into words your issues and help you move forward without getting angry or upset.
Consult with Other Professionals
Seek input from other professionals involved in your child's care, such as pediatricians, educators, or other therapists. Discuss your concerns and get their perspective on whether a change is necessary. Their insights can provide valuable guidance and support your decision-making process.
This may involve speaking to a supervision practitioner or manager/owner at the clinic where the current therapist is working with your child. Again, if you have a list of the concerns you have written out, it will make this step much easier.
Communicate Openly and Honestly
If, after speaking to other members of your support team, you still think terminating the therapeutic relationship with your child’s therapist is the right move, I’d suggest you schedule a meeting with the therapist to discuss your concerns before you actually end the relationship!
Approach the conversation with openness, honesty, and a focus on your child's best interests.
Clearly express your reasons for wanting to make a change and provide specific examples to support your concerns. Remember to maintain a respectful tone and listen to the therapist's perspective as well, then…
Explore Alternative Solutions
During the conversation, explore alternative solutions that may address your concerns without severing ties completely. Discuss potential changes in therapy techniques, goals, or approaches that could better align with your child's needs.
If the therapist is receptive and willing to make adjustments, it may be worth considering a trial period before making a final decision.
You may be surprised to see they also have the same concerns, and there may be a way forward together. Or, if there is no chance of things continuing to work out, this meeting gives you the chance to end the relationship.
If you have a hard time with confrontation or one of your concerns is that the therapist will escalate the situation, don’t be afraid to have this entire conversation via email!
At any rate, you will want to have some sort of written documentation of the conversation and the last date of your child’s sessions with them, and email provides a great way to do that.
Also, include in the email that you will be requesting your child’s therapeutic records and inquire about any paperwork you may need to sign so those records can be released to you.
Seek Recommendations and Research
If you decide to move forward with firing the therapist, seek recommendations from trusted sources such as other parents, support groups, or professionals in the field.
Research potential replacement therapists thoroughly to ensure a better fit for your child's needs. Consider their experience, expertise, and approach to therapy, and what their current wait times are like.
Transitioning to a New Therapist
When transitioning to a new therapist, ensure a smooth handover of your child's therapy records, assessments, and progress reports. Collaborate with the new therapist to provide any necessary background information and set clear goals for future therapy sessions.
Be patient and allow time for your child to adjust to the change.
They may be sad to lose someone they were used to working with (or the fun toys and clinic equipment they got to use with them)! Honor those feelings and give your child time to make the transition to someone new.
Monitor and Evaluate Progress
After transitioning to a new therapist, closely monitor your child's progress and reassess their therapy experience…you may find it wasn’t the therapist, but rather the type of therapy you’re doing with your kiddo that is the problem.
Regularly communicate with the new therapist to discuss any concerns or improvements observed. Keep an open line of communication to ensure the therapy remains aligned with your child's evolving needs and your goals for them.
Conclusion
Severing ties with a therapist can be a difficult decision for autism parents, but it's important to prioritize your child's well-being and therapy progress.
By following this roadmap, you can approach the process respectfully and constructively. Remember that finding the right therapist is a crucial step in your child's development, and advocating for their best interests is a vital part of your role as an autism parent.
Drop a comment below and let me know: have you ever had to fire your child’s therapist? How did that work out for your family? I’d love to hear what worked (and didn’t work) for you!
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