How to Tell Your Child They're Going to Therapy

Deciding to enroll your child in therapy is a significant step towards their emotional and mental well-being, as it provides them with the tools to navigate challenges and develop resilience. Yet, discussing this decision with your child can feel daunting, especially when you want to approach it in a way that is both reassuring and constructive, ensuring they feel supported and understood.

I'm Hannah Ly, an LMFT and a Child Therapist specializing in working with children with anxiety in San Jose. I am here to guide you through this process. This guide offers practical advice for parents on how to communicate the concept of therapy to their children, emphasizing the importance of honesty, positive framing, and empowerment.

By fostering an open dialogue, parents can help demystify therapy, making it a positive experience that encourages growth and self-discovery. Let me offer tips to ease the conversation and support your child in attending therapy.

Step 1: Explaining Child Therapy in Child-Friendly Terms

When discussing therapy with your child, it's essential to use language that they can easily understand. The term "therapist" might be unfamiliar or intimidating to younger children, so consider using phrases like "feelings coach" or "feelings helper."

You can explain that these professionals are there to help them talk about their emotions and find ways to feel better. You might add that just as a sports coach helps with athletics, a feelings coach helps with emotions.

For older kids, terms like "counselor" or "therapist" are appropriate, as they are more likely to have encountered these before in school or through media. It can be helpful to explain that a counselor is someone who listens and provides guidance on how to handle life's challenges, much like a mentor.

Reassure them that seeking support is a healthy and positive step towards personal growth and well-being. This approach not only demystifies the process but also empowers children to be open and engaged in their therapeutic journey.

Step 2: Framing Child Therapy Positively

A crucial part of this conversation is focusing on the positive goals therapy aims to achieve. It's important to reassure your child that therapy is a supportive space to learn and grow, rather than a form of punishment. You might express this by saying, "Therapy will help us communicate with each other calmly and effectively," or "It’s a place where you can learn valuable skills, like how to make new friends and handle difficult emotions."

Emphasize the supportive aspects of therapy to encourage a positive view. Avoid using language that might imply they are at fault, such as phrases like "bad behavior" or "causing problems," as these can perpetuate feelings of low self-worth and hinder their willingness to engage openly in the therapeutic process.

By framing therapy in a constructive light, you foster a healthier mindset and encourage a more open and receptive attitude towards the experience.

Step 3: Explain what to Expect During Child Therapy

Prepare your child for what child therapy entails by sharing specific examples to help demystify the process. San Jose child therapists often provide valuable insights into their methods, which you can relay to your child to make them feel more comfortable. Explain that therapy might involve various activities such as talking about their thoughts and feelings, playing therapeutic games, or engaging in creative activities like art projects. These activities are designed to help them express themselves in a safe and supportive environment.

If possible, show them pictures of the child therapy space so they can visualize where they'll be. For children who experience separation anxiety, reassure them by explaining that you'll be there for the initial part of the first session, allowing them to adjust gradually.

This involvement and preparation can significantly ease any uncertainties or fears they might have, fostering a more positive therapy experience.

Step 4: Empowering Your Child for Therapy

Empower your child by actively involving them in the therapeutic process. Encourage them to express their thoughts and feelings about child therapy and discuss what they might hope to achieve or gain from these sessions. This dialogue can provide valuable insights into their expectations and help tailor the sessions to their needs.

For example, they can decide whether they prefer you to stay during the first meeting with the child therapist, which can offer reassurance if they're feeling anxious. Allowing them to make this choice helps them feel more in control of the situation and respects their growing sense of autonomy.

By fostering an open and supportive environment, you can help your child feel more comfortable and engaged in their therapeutic journey.

Step 5: Addressing Common Concerns in Child Therapy

Explaining the Purpose of Child Therapy

Help your child understand that therapy is a valuable tool for everyone, regardless of whether they are facing specific challenges. It's an opportunity to learn more about themselves and develop skills that can enhance their emotional well-being.

Emphasize that attending therapy doesn’t mean they are broken or need fixing; rather, it's a proactive step towards feeling better and discovering new ways to handle emotions and stress effectively.

Handling Reactions and Resistance towards Therapy

If your child shows hesitance or resistance towards therapy, it’s crucial to listen empathetically to their concerns and validate their feelings.

Create an environment of trust by encouraging an open dialogue where they can freely express any fears, misconceptions, or questions they might have.

This might involve reassuring them about the therapist's role and what they can expect from sessions.

Managing Stigma and Privacy

Addressing therapy openly within the family can help diminish stigma and normalize the experience, making it easier for your child to embrace the process.

Teach your child the importance of privacy in therapy sessions, explaining which aspects of therapy are private and personal, and which parts they might feel comfortable sharing with others, such as achievements or general feelings.

Using Resources

There are numerous resources, such as child-friendly books or educational videos, designed to introduce children to the concept of therapy. These resources can provide a gentle and informative overview of what therapy is all about, often portraying what a typical session looks like in an approachable manner.

Utilize these resources as a way to demystify therapy and make the idea more relatable and less intimidating for your child.

See a Child Therapist in San Jose! Get Started Today!

In summary, navigating the journey of therapy with your child involves understanding the positive impact it can have on their well-being. It's about creating a safe, supportive environment where they can learn to manage their feelings and stress with confidence. Incorporating approaches like play therapy can be particularly effective for children, helping them express themselves in a natural and engaging way.

By addressing any hesitations and embracing the therapeutic process openly, families can work together to build resilience and emotional intelligence. Remember, using resources can further ease the path, making the concept of therapy accessible and less daunting.

In conclusion, as a parent, you play a pivotal role in guiding your child through this process. Your empathy, patience, and understanding can help them feel comfortable and open to exploring their emotions. If you have concerns or questions, it's perfectly normal, and reaching out for professional guidance can be a step towards positive change.

If you're considering therapy, including play therapy, for your child and would like more information or personalized advice, I invite you to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me, Hannah Ly, a dedicated child therapist based in San Jose. Together, we can discuss your child's unique needs and explore how therapy might be a beneficial step forward. Please feel free to reach out and take the next step toward supporting your child's emotional growth and well-being.

Read More! Child Therapy Blog for Parents

About the Author, Hannah Ly - San Jose Child Therapist

Hannah Ly is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master's degree in Counseling from Western Seminary. Based in San Jose, Hannah specializes in working with children and families as a dedicated child therapist. With expertise in play therapy, she helps young clients express themselves and navigate their emotions through creative and engaging methods. Whether addressing anxiety, trauma, or other emotional challenges, Hannah provides compassionate and personalized care to support children on their journey toward healing and resilience. Her commitment to fostering a supportive therapeutic environment makes her a trusted resource for families seeking guidance in San Jose. Connect with Hannah for expert assistance as a play therapist, anxiety therapist, or trauma therapist.