Hiring a School Therapist? Here are the 5 Criteria

The challenges children and teens face increase with each generation. In school, many are challenged by their special needs: A recent government survey indicated 1 in 50 schoolchildren has some level of autism. In addition, children are faced with peer pressure that is more sophisticated than in previous generations, easier access to alcohol and drugs, lack of privacy fueled by social media, cyber-bullying, and more. In the United States, it is no wonder that suicide is one of the leading cause of death in those 15 to 24.

School systems are trying to counter these pressures and support their students by employing on-site therapists to evaluate students’ mental health and to provide guidance to handle these challenging situations. What qualifies an individual for this critical position? Consider some important skills that school therapists need to possess:

1) Interpersonal Communication

School therapists interact with many different individuals on a daily basis. Managing a problem child requires a comprehensive treatment plan that expands to the classroom and home environments too. School therapists need to be effective communicators with students, parents, faculty, and sometimes medical personnel. Being skilled in written communication is also important for school therapists.

When evaluating a candidate for this position, pay attention to body language communication during the interview as well. How the candidate presents himself or herself during the meeting is telling. For example, an applicant who sits with arms folded in front may come off as uncaring and cold to students.

2) Diagnostic Capabilities

Good diagnostic skills are essential for a school therapist. Treatment protocols for students evaluated by a school therapist include a psychological testing as well as identifying physical problems that may contribute to behavioral or developmental problems. The therapist’s job is to assess the student, propose a theory about what may be causing delays or behavioral concerns, administer tests to support/negate the theory, and then consult with other professionals based on a preliminary diagnosis.

The candidate for a school therapist position should have training in diagnostic protocols and be up to date on current testing procedures. These include knowledge of physical, mental, and developmental evaluation standards.

3) Organization

School therapists deal with many different scenarios at one time. Therefore, a professional who is organized and able to multi-task is invaluable. Interview notes, test results, consultations, and meetings with parents all must be managed and documented. Therapists must consider student privacy, as well. Without a workable and organized system, it is impossible to handle the workload.

A first impression tells an interviewer a lot about a candidate’s organizational skills. Take note of the candidate’s appearance. Does the applicant keep notes and important documents in a binder? Is there a lot of shuffling looking for credentials or are things in their proper place?

4) Caring

Working with young people at any age requires a real love for the job. Caring is an important skill for school therapists and a trait that is appreciated by both students and parents. It is not difficult to tell the difference between someone just doing a job and a professional who truly wants to help.

The therapeutic process requires trust. Troubled children and teens need to know that they matter to authoritative figures like teachers or therapists so that they can build that trust. When evaluating a candidate for this position, spend time discussing the school environment, the students, and common problems. Create scenarios similar to situations in your school environment and ask for the candidate’s thoughts about how to deal with them, responses are clues to determining his or her caring attitude.

5) Patience

Overprotective parents, cold teachers, hormone-driven students – all these put pressure on a school therapist. Patience is probably one of the most critical requirements for any mental health professional. Part of developing this skill is experience.

Closely examine the background of the school therapist candidate, including previous jobs and education. Hiring requirements vary by school system, but a qualified candidate should have experience working with youth at the appropriate age level. Experience develops the patience and interpersonal skills necessary to handle tough situations and difficult clients.

There is no perfect list of skills that make a person a successful school therapist. The combination of ability, education, personality, and experience is what matters. Start the hiring process by considering academic requirements. Most school therapists have one of the following:

M.A., M.S., M. Ed.
Specialist Ed.S. or SSP
Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies
Doctoral PhD., Psy. D. or Ed. D

Once a candidate meets the educational requirement, look closely at work experience and personal recommendations. The face-to-face interview should help point to the right candidate.

Erica L. Fener, Ph.D., is Vice President, Business Development Strategy and Analysis at Progressus Therapy, a leader in connecting their candidates with school based occupational therapy jobs and early intervention service jobs.