11/07/2025
Chapter Eight from my book:
What I Have Learnt as a Special Needs Therapist
“Every child is a different kind of flower, and all together, they make this world a beautiful garden."
My journey as a special needs therapist has been more than a career. it has been a calling filled with life lessons that have shaped my heart, my mindset, and my mission. Working with children who have special needs has opened my eyes to deeper truths about patience, resilience, humanity, and unconditional love.
1. Every Child Is Unique
“A diagnosis may describe a condition, but it does not define a child.”
In every session, I’m reminded that no two children are the same. Autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, cerebral palsy. these are just terms. What matters most is the individual behind the label. Their interests, personality, and pace of learning guide the way I connect and provide therapy.
2. Celebrate Small Wins
Progress often comes slowly and in ways the outside world may overlook. But as a therapist, I have learned to celebrate every small victory. A child making eye contact after weeks, attempting a new sound, sitting still for five minutes. these are moments of triumph that show courage and growth.
3. Patience Is Power
This work has tested and refined my patience. Some days are hard. Some sessions are full of tears, meltdowns, and refusals. Yet I’ve learned that healing and growth are often happening behind the scenes, in ways I can’t always see right away. Patience allows me to hold space for these quiet transformations.
4. Families Matter Deeply
“To truly help a child, you must support their family.”
Therapy is most effective when families are involved. I’ve seen how parent engagement boosts progress, and how parent burnout can slow it down. Listening to families, guiding them, and empowering them to be confident advocates for their child has become an essential part of my role.
5. Communication Comes in Many Forms
I used to think communication meant words. But many children I’ve worked with have shown me otherwise. Through gestures, eye contact, behavior, or even silence, they tell me what they need and how they feel. I’ve learned to listen with my heart as much as with my ears.
6. Advocacy Is Not Optional
“When you speak for those who can’t, you help change the world.”
Being a special needs therapist also means being a voice for inclusion and justice. I advocate for accessible therapy, inclusive schools, and policies that recognize the rights and potential of every child. I have become passionate about raising awareness and shifting societal attitudes.
7. Relationships Build Progress
Techniques and tools are important, but nothing replaces genuine connection. Trust, empathy, and consistency are the foundation of every breakthrough. When a child feels safe and understood, their willingness to learn and grow increases.
8. The Learning Never Ends
Every child teaches me something. Every challenge pushes me to think deeper, learn more, and become better. I am constantly reading, observing, and evolving. not just because I want to be a better therapist, but because the children deserve nothing less.
In Closing
“They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou
Being a special needs therapist is a journey of the heart. I have learned that progress isn’t always measured by academic scores or perfect speech. it’s measured by joy, connection, and confidence. I carry the lessons I’ve learned from my children and their families with me every day, and I remain grateful for every step of this beautiful, challenging, and inspiring journey.
