The collaboration that occurs between physical therapists and caregivers of children who receive
physical therapy is integral to both the functional outcomes of the child and the wellbeing of the
caregiver. Successful collaboration is dependent upon a variety of factors, including the
therapeutic relationship built within the caregiver-therapist dyad. However, the nature of these
relationships is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to explore the caregivertherapist
relationship from the viewpoints of both the caregiver and physical therapist. An
enhanced understanding of these therapeutic relationships may be of benefit to healthcare
providers. A qualitative case study methodology was used in which a caregiver and pediatric
physical therapist represented a bounded case. Each caregiver and therapist within a dyad
engaged in separate, semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Through within- and cross-case
coding, three major themes were identified: physical therapist as a guide, social and emotional
connection, and professional qualities and performance. These themes help to provide a rich
understanding of the therapeutic relationships that can occur between therapists and caregivers.