ABSTRACT
Perhaps the most important distinction between the child and the adult
clients is that children with difficulties rarely seek help themselves. Rather,
they are typically referred for help by concerned others, usually the child’s
family or teachers. It should not be assumed that because the child is deeply
unhappy about his or her circumstances and strongly desires change to take
place that professional intervention will be welcomed or accepted. Many
forms of therapy, particularly the psychotherapies, are based upon an
assumption that the client is a willing participant who actively wishes to
change. The reality is that many children who are brought to therapists come
unwillingly and respond only because of the power imbalances which they
perceive. Furthermore, successful work with children is likely to involve
direct support and intervention from others, such as parents, teachers, social
workers and peers.
