Episode 9: Relationship Based Boundaries in a Child-Led Approach

In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses the importance of establishing boundaries within child-led therapy. She explains how locking the toy closet in her clinic serves as a safety measure rather than a restriction, emphasizing that structure and safety can enhance a child's autonomy. The conversation explores the balance between child-led practices and necessary boundaries, highlighting that boundaries are essential for creating a safe and predictable environment for children. Nicole encourages listeners to reflect on their own practices and consider how boundaries can support both the child's needs and the therapist's well-being.

Takeaways:

• Locking the toy closet is for safety, not restriction.

• Structure and safety enhance a child's autonomy.

• Child-led therapy requires establishing boundaries.

• Boundaries serve the relationship, not just control.

• Predictability is more meaningful than strict structure.

• Being child-led does not mean self-sacrificing.

• Boundaries help in co-regulating with children.

• Safety is the foundation of child-led therapy.

• Balance between structure and flexibility is crucial.

• Reflect on personal boundaries in therapy practices.

This podcast is reviewed by our team member, Meghann Beaton, who is an autistic adult. Meghann provides feedback and recommended edits priort to releasing our episodes to help ensure our content remains aligned with neuroaffirming principles and lived experience. We are deeply grateful for her insights, which continue to shape this space into one that centers safety, connection, and authentic communication.