How to Talk to Your Child About Therapy
If your child is starting therapy, you may be wondering how to explain it in a way that feels safe and normal. You might even feel a little nervous—after all, you want your child to feel comfortable, not worried or ashamed. The good news is that therapy can be introduced in a simple, reassuring way that helps your child feel at ease.
In this post, we’ll cover how to talk to your child about therapy, what to expect, and how to answer common questions they might have.
1. Keep It Simple & Reassuring
Children don’t need a long, complicated explanation about therapy. A simple, positive message works best.
Here are a few ways you might explain therapy to your child, depending on their age and understanding:
For younger children: “Therapy is a special time where you get to play and talk with a helper. They help kids with big feelings, just like a doctor helps with your body.”
For elementary-age kids: “You’ll meet with someone who helps kids and families figure out feelings and tricky situations. It’s a safe place to talk, play, and learn new ways to feel better.”
For older kids and teens: “Therapy is a space just for you, where you can talk about anything that’s on your mind. A therapist listens, helps with feelings, and gives tools to handle tough situations.”
The key is to make therapy feel safe, normal, and helpful rather than something to be feared or fixed.
2. Normalize Therapy as a Helpful Tool
Children take emotional cues from adults. If you present therapy as a normal and positive experience, they are more likely to see it that way too.
You might say:
“Lots of kids go to therapy. It’s just like going to a teacher to learn math or a coach to get better at soccer.”
“Therapists help kids feel strong and confident, just like a dentist helps keep teeth healthy.”
“Even grown-ups go to therapy when they need extra support!”
By normalizing therapy, you help remove any potential fear or stigma.
3. Address Common Worries & Questions
Kids might have questions about therapy, and it’s important to answer them honestly while keeping it reassuring.
Here are some common concerns children may have:
“Did I do something wrong?”
“No, you didn’t do anything wrong! Therapy isn’t a punishment. It’s a place where you can talk, play, and get support for things that might feel hard.”
“What will I have to talk about?”
“You can talk about anything you want! Your therapist will listen and help you figure out ways to feel better.”
“Will you be mad if I tell the therapist something?”
“No, therapy is a safe place to share feelings. Your therapist is here to help, not to get anyone in trouble.”
“Do I have to go?”
“I think you’ll like it! Let’s try it out together and see what you think. The therapist is really nice and wants to help.”
If your child is resistant, validate their feelings while keeping the conversation open-ended. Let them know you will check in after a few sessions.
4. Prepare Them for What to Expect
Children feel more comfortable when they know what’s coming. Give them a simple preview of what therapy will be like:
“Your therapist will have toys, games, and art supplies. You might talk, play, or do activities together.”
“Sometimes you’ll meet alone with the therapist, and other times we might all talk together.”
“There are no tests, no grades, and no right or wrong answers in therapy.”
“This therapist helps kids by playing with them! You might use toys, draw pictures, or do fun activities to help with feelings.”
This helps therapy feel like a safe and inviting space rather than something intimidating.
5. Be Open to Their Feelings
Your child may be excited, nervous, or unsure about therapy. That’s completely normal. Let them know it’s okay to have feelings about it, and that you’re there to support them.
You can say:
“It’s okay if you’re not sure about therapy yet. We’ll take it one step at a time.”
“I’ll check in with you to see how it’s going. You can always tell me how you feel about it.”
By creating a safe and open dialogue, your child will feel more in control and comfortable with the process.
Final Thoughts
Starting therapy can be a wonderful step for a child, especially when they feel supported and reassured. By explaining it in a simple, positive, and normal way, you help set the stage for a successful experience.
If you’re considering therapy for your child and want to learn more, feel free to reach out. I am here to help your child feel safe, heard, and supported!