Finding the right in-home therapist for your child can feel overwhelming especially when you want to ensure they truly understand and apply DIR/Floortime in a way that supports your child’s unique needs. With many providers offering in-home services, knowing what to ask can make all the difference.
This guide walks parents through the most important questions to consider so you can confidently choose a therapist who supports your child’s emotional, developmental, and relational growth.
Why Choosing the Right In-Home Therapist Matters
In-home therapy allows children to learn and grow in a familiar, comfortable environment. When grounded in DIR/Floortime principles, therapy becomes more than skill-building it strengthens emotional connections, supports regulation, and nurtures meaningful relationships.
The right therapist doesn’t just work with your child; they partner with your family.
Understanding the Therapist’s Approach
Not all in-home therapists follow the same philosophy. Before making a decision, it’s important to understand how a therapist approaches their work.
Questions to ask include:
- What is your therapeutic approach?
- How do you incorporate DIR/Floortime principles into sessions?
- How do you balance child-led play with developmental goals?
A DIR/Floortime-aligned therapist prioritizes emotional connection, shared attention, and relationship-based play rather than rigid milestones or compliance-driven methods.
Qualifications and Experience
Credentials matter but so does real-world experience, especially in home-based settings.
Ask potential therapists:
- What certifications or licenses do you hold?
- How much experience do you have working with children of my child’s age and developmental profile?
- Have you worked with children who have similar needs?
Therapists experienced in home environments are better equipped to adapt strategies to everyday routines, family dynamics, and real-life challenges.
Parental Involvement and Coaching
DIR/Floortime views parents as essential partners in the therapeutic process. Therapy is most effective when strategies extend beyond the session.
Important questions include:
- How do you involve parents during sessions?
- What coaching or guidance do you provide for daily routines?
- How do you help parents continue strategies between visits?
When parents feel supported and confident, progress becomes part of everyday family life—not just therapy time.
Session Structure and Flexibility
Children’s moods, energy levels, and regulation can change daily especially at home. Flexibility is key.
Consider asking:
- How long is a typical session?
- How do you adapt sessions if my child is dysregulated or resistant?
- How flexible are you with activities and pacing?
Therapists who follow the child’s lead and adjust to the moment help reduce stress and encourage deeper engagement.
Measuring Progress in DIR/Floortime
Progress in DIR/Floortime is often relational and emotional, not just milestone-based.
Parents may ask:
- How do you track and document progress?
- How will you communicate what my child is learning?
- What signs should we look for that therapy is helping?
Clear communication helps parents understand growth in areas like emotional regulation, communication, engagement, and connection.
Compatibility, Trust, and Comfort
Beyond skills and credentials, the therapist-child relationship matters deeply.
Reflect on the following:
- Does the therapist create a warm, playful, and respectful environment?
- Does my child seem comfortable and engaged?
- Do I feel confident asking questions or sharing concerns?
Trust and rapport are foundational. Therapy works best when children feel safe and parents feel empowered.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an in-home DIR/Floortime therapist is about more than finding someone with the right credentials, it’s about alignment, partnership, and trust. By asking thoughtful questions and observing how a therapist connects with your child and family, you can make an informed decision with confidence.
The right therapist transforms home-based therapy into a space for learning, play, emotional growth, and meaningful connection right where your child feels most at home
