How to Talk About Therapy to Your Child

Today, one in six children has a mental illness. Mental illness could include anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. 

If your child is suffering, you might consider therapy. But how do you talk about therapy with your child? 

Since it’s a new situation, you might feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what to say. While this might be the case, it doesn’t have to be. Read this guide on how to talk about therapy with your child today!

How To Explain Therapy for Children

Child play therapy is a common feature your child will experience. Since play is children’s primary language, child and adolescent therapy focuses on this. 

Tell them they’ll be going to a doctor. Therapists will talk to them when they feel bad, sad, or mad. 

Discuss a time they’ve felt sad and how a therapist will listen. Therapy can help them address and overcome problems. 

For older children, talk to them about their fears of going. Explain how a therapist won’t tell them what to do but instead are a listening ear. They’ll help them open their mind to various opportunities to make the best decisions. 

A New Adventure

Tell children how special it’ll be to talk to someone and play. Decide whether you should join in on the first few child therapy sessions. 

Let them know that counselors will keep their secrets if they’d like. If there’s something of concern, the therapist will bring it up.

For hesitant children, include them in the selection process for a therapist. Encourage them to give therapy a chance, even if they’re hesitant. Rapport building is a part of therapy to make the other person feel comfortable. Teens will be able to find constructive methods to deal with anger, sadness, etc. 

Why They’re Going

Introducing therapy should be about helping a child/family, not as a punishment. Talk about the ways it’ll help them. 

Children will enjoy having a safe place to discuss their fears/anger. Let them know in advance about an upcoming appointment. There are also books available online to explain it to your child. 

Speak with your child using age-appropriate language. Tell them they can be silly and discuss happy times with their therapist. 

For older children, let them know the therapist will help them grow. It’ll give them a new take on ideas. 

For younger children, have them bring their favorite games to therapy. This will help your child feel more comfortable. Answer questions they might have to calm their fears. 

Understanding How to Talk About Therapy With Children

After exploring this guide on how to talk about therapy with your child, you should better understand how to proceed. Take your time discussing the upcoming appointment with their child and answer questions or fears they might have.

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