Therapy That Fits: Putting the Child at the Centre

Every family is different. Every individual is different. That’s what makes the world so unique. There are countless brilliant minds working in different ways, making society rich and relationships both fascinating (and sometimes challenging!). We all recognise this truth, so why do we try to fit people into neat categories or take a “one size fits all” approach? It simply doesn’t work. 

In therapy, especially from a business perspective, it can be tempting to offer pre-set “packages.” These may be based on evidence, past success, and for some, they might be exactly what’s needed. But what suits one person may not suit another. Imagine going jeans shopping with your best friend. You share similar interests, enjoy spending time together, and even like the same style of jeans. But you’re 5’2” and your friend is 5’8”. You both find a pair you love, your friend tries on their size, and they fit perfectly. You grab the identical pair, only to find they’re far too long. They don’t fit. 

Therapy is no different. There are many types of therapeutic approaches (each with its own set of letters and intended outcomes), but just like jeans, what fits one family will rarely be an exact fit for another. That’s why therapy should be tailored to the specific needs of each family. Even within the same family, the approach may differ: who will be directly involved in therapy, and how will others be supported throughout a process that often affects everyone? 

So how do we know what will “fit”? In some settings, an assessment period can help. In others, detailed conversations with members of the individual’s wider “village” might be the key. Sometimes, flexibility is built into the process so adjustments can be made along the way. What matters most is keeping the person at the centre of decisions—in our case at Popeth, that means the child. Do they need individual sessions? Would they benefit from working alongside their caring adult? How will that adult be supported? Does the school need input? Who is supporting the family throughout? What role will social workers or medical professionals play? Each situation brings different answers. 

At the heart of it, meeting need means resisting the urge to apply a blanket solution. It’s about listening carefully, being willing to adapt, and ensuring that every decision keeps the person—child or adult—at the very centre. Because just like those jeans, therapy works best when it truly fits. 

Which one is the best fit?

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