What Is Inner Child Work in Therapy?

Written By Kritika Mehta

Have you ever had a moment where your reaction felt way bigger than the situation? Maybe you got emotional after a small comment, or you felt frozen when someone gave you feedback. Often, that reaction isn’t just about now—it’s your inner child showing up.

I often support young adults who are navigating anxiety, burnout, and the lasting impacts of childhood trauma. Inner child work is one of the most powerful tools I use to help them reconnect with parts of themselves that were ignored, hurt, or left behind.

What Is Inner Child Work?

Inner child work in therapy is the process of identifying, understanding, and healing the younger parts of yourself—especially the ones who didn’t get the care, attention, or emotional safety they needed.

These parts might carry shame, fear, perfectionism, or the pressure to be “the strong one.” They often show up in adulthood as anxiety, people-pleasing, or emotional shutdown.

Why It Matters—Especially for South Asian Clients

Many clients I work with share stories of growing up with high expectations, emotional distance, or feeling like their needs weren’t valid. We’re often taught to “tough it out,” stay quiet, or put family first.

Inner child therapy offers a gentle way to rewrite that narrative. It helps you:

  • Build self-compassion

  • Understand where your triggers come from

  • Stop blaming yourself for things that weren’t your fault

  • Set boundaries without guilt

What Does It Look Like in Therapy?

In our sessions, inner child work might involve:

  • Talking to your younger self

  • Painting connections or feelings that come up

  • Writing letters you never got to send

  • Guided imagery or mindfulness

  • Re-parenting practices: learning to give yourself what you didn’t get

You don’t have to do it alone, and you don’t have to rush it. I’m here to hold that space with you.

Start Healing Your Inner Child

You don’t need to be “broken” to do this work. You just need to be curious—and a little brave.

If you’re ready to explore therapy for childhood trauma, inner child work, or emotional healing, I’d love to support you.

👉 [Book a free 15-minute consult here]

Kritika Mehta