Educational Therapist

Educational therapists provide one-on-one interventions to support students with learning challenges. They address academic, emotional, and behavioral barriers, helping students achieve success in school and life.

What is a typical day in Educational Therapy? 

– Assessing students to identify learning difficulties and developing individualized plans 

– Providing tailored interventions to address academic, emotional, or social challenges 

– Collaborating with parents, teachers, and specialists to ensure holistic support 

– Monitoring and documenting student progress and adjusting strategies as needed

What else might they be expected to do? 

– Conduct workshops or training sessions for parents and educators 

– Use assistive technology and specialized tools to enhance learning 

– Advocate for students in educational settings, including IEP meetings 

What type of training is needed for this career path? 

– A Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Education, or a related field is required. 

– A Master’s degree in Educational Therapy or a similar discipline is often necessary. 

– Advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Special Education, can lead to specialized roles. 

What kind of personality is needed to excel in this career path? 

– Empathetic, resourceful, and patient individuals thrive in this role. 

– Big 5 traits: Agreeableness and Emotional Stability. 

– Myers-Briggs types: INFJ or ISFJ often align with this career. 

What kind of interests do people in this career path have? 

– Passion for helping students overcome learning challenges and thrive academically (Social traits). 

– Interest in psychology, education, and developmental sciences. 

– Interests & Aptitude: Social (S), Investigative (I), and Artistic (A) 

Are there any innate skills or aptitudes required? 

– Strong interpersonal and communication skills to build trust with students and families 

– Analytical thinking for assessing student needs and developing strategies 

– Creativity to adapt interventions to suit individual learners 

What challenges can I expect to face if I pursue this career path? 

– Addressing complex and multifaceted learning challenges 

– Managing emotionally demanding situations and maintaining professional boundaries 

– Keeping up with advancements in educational therapy techniques 

What are the job prospects for this path in Kenya and Africa? What about International prospects for a Kenyan citizen? 

– Kenya and Africa: High demand for educational therapists in schools, private practice, and NGOs focused on inclusive education. 

– International: Educational therapists are sought globally, particularly in countries with established inclusive education systems, such as the USA, UK, and Australia. 

What should I focus on if I choose to pursue this career? 

– Develop expertise in learning disabilities, emotional regulation, and intervention techniques. 

– Gain hands-on experience through internships or working with special education programs. 

– Build strong relationships with schools, families, and other professionals. 

Which other careers or job roles can I progress to? 

– School Psychologist 

– Special Education Teacher 

– Behavioral Specialist 

– Educational Consultant 

– Clinical Psychologist