Your Cart is Empty
If you are a therapist, you have probably heard the term “therapeutic use of self.” Do you know what it means? Do you understand how to implement it into your daily treatments?
Today, we talk about what that term actually means and how you can focus on improving your ability to use it, in order to provide better treatments for your clients.
Parents and family members - this is a great episode to learn more about what therapists SHOULD be doing during treatment sessions. Do you feel like your child’s therapist is utilizing their therapeutic use of self effectively? If not, what can you do? Don’t be afraid to ask questions and find out how your therapist is doing!
SHOW NOTES
As occupational therapists, some of our most impactful tools aren’t found in a therapy bag or written into a treatment plan—they come from within. One of the most transformative tools we bring into every session isourselves.
This is known as the therapeutic use of self—a foundational skill that goes beyond technique to shape the heart of the therapeutic relationship. In this article, we’ll explore what it really means to use yourself as a therapeutic tool, and how both new and experienced professionals can intentionally cultivate this skill to build trust, support progress, and create lasting change for both the client and the therapist.
In simple terms, therapeutic use of self is the intentional use of your personality, communication style, empathy, and clinical reasoning to build a meaningful, trust-based relationship with a client. As defined by My OT Spot, it's "a means for encouraging clients to engage in occupation. It's the planned use of [the therapist's] personality, insights, perceptions, and judgments as part of the therapeutic process."
Similarly, LifeLong Learning with OT describes it as "being aware of yourself, your verbal language, body language, what personal information you choose to share, and using your own personality and interpersonal skills to build rapport and make the client feel at ease, motivated, and able to trust you." It’s more than being friendly or nice.
Therapeutic use of self involves deep self-awareness, emotional regulation, and the ability to adapt your communication style to meet the emotional and sensory needs of each unique client.
The therapeutic relationship plays a vital role in the success of therapy—sometimes just as much as the intervention itself. Here’s why:
Builds trust and safety: Many children with sensory challenges, autism, or trauma histories need extra support to feel safe. Your presence, tone, and emotional consistency help create that sense of security.
Motivates engagement: When a child feels connected to their therapist, they’re more likely to participate in activities, try new skills, and persevere through challenges.
Fosters emotional regulation: Children often co-regulate with trusted adults. If you stay calm, grounded, and attuned, your client is more likely to do the same.
Protects against burnout: Reflecting on your use of self can help you stay connected to your "why" and maintain emotional boundaries, especially during emotionally taxing sessions.
In short, the therapeutic use of self turns everyday therapy into a relationally rich experience that drives growth and healing.
Therapeutic use of self is a skill—and like any skill, it can be learned, refined, and strengthened over time. Here are 5 actionable strategies to help you use this approach with more intention and effectiveness.
Start by tuning into your own emotions, body language, and tone. Ask yourself:
Am I present with this client right now?
What is my facial expression and body posture communicating?
Am I unintentionally showing frustration, disinterest, or stress?
Mindfulness in your sessions allows you to respond instead of react. It also models emotional regulation for your client.
Every client comes from a unique background with their own lived experience. Learning to understand and honor different cultural norms, family dynamics, and communication styles is essential.
Take time to learn about your client's culture, family structure, and personal preferences.
Use continuing education, role-playing, or supervision to grow your interpersonal skills.
Seek feedback from colleagues and mentors to improve how you connect with diverse clients.
Therapy isn’t just about the child. Parents and caregivers are an essential part of the therapeutic relationship.
Ask about their goals, values, and priorities.
Show genuine interest in their challenges and successes.
Validate their emotions and offer encouragement.
A strong therapist-caregiver alliance can significantly improve carryover and client outcomes.
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Therapists who overextend themselves often struggle with burnout, compassion fatigue, or emotional detachment—all of which impact therapeutic presence.
Reflect on your workload and identify what may be draining your energy.
Build in time for restorative activities and peer support.
Talk to your supervisor if you need adjustments or help navigating challenges.
Prioritizing your wellness isn’t selfish. It allows you to be fully present and emotionally available for your clients.
Open, reflective communication is essential—both with your team and with families.
Collaborate with colleagues to share insights and brainstorm new approaches.
Debrief after tough sessions to process emotions.
Ask questions like: "How did that feel for you?" or "What could I try differently next time?"
Every conversation is a chance to refine your therapeutic presence.
Therapeutic use of self isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present.
When you bring your whole, regulated, and compassionate self into each session, you create space for safety, trust, and transformation. Whether you're an OT student, new grad, or seasoned therapist, this is a skill worth developing for life.
And for parents reading this: if something feels "off" in your child's therapy sessions, it’s okay to ask questions. A strong therapist-client relationship is essential—and you deserve to feel that your family is truly seen and supported.
BORING, BUT NECESSARY LEGAL DISCLAIMERS
While we make every effort to share correct information, we are still learning. We will double check all of our facts but realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views and opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties and what we have found to be beneficial that will be as evidenced based as possible. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or your children. Consult your child’s pediatrician/ therapist for any medical issues that he or she may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Rachel Harrington, Harkla, Jessica Hill, or any guests or contributors to the podcast, as well as any employees, associates, or affiliates of Harkla, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.
Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.
This podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast.
Comments will be approved before showing up.
