Working as a psychotherapist changes you. Anyone who says it doesn’t probably doesn’t enjoy what they do. I say this because I can no longer be the same as before when it comes to children.

Before I worked with children, seeing a child on the street, in the park, or at the mall—or having to interact with one—was a relatively limited event. If we happened to meet on the street, I might smile or make a funny face to get a smile back. In a more private setting, where I had more space, time, and intimacy, I would tickle them a few times, make airplane games with them in my arms, play with toys, or share a piece of chocolate (without their parents knowing).

Since becoming a children’s therapist, these interactions have become immensely richer. Now, I am fascinated by exploring a child’s emotions, thoughts, and fantasies, striving to understand as much as possible about their inner world. And children notice it too. From being just some cousin or uncle, I’ve become, “Mom, Dad, when are we going to Gabi’s again?!”

Gabriel Ariasu