Written by Mike Bartlett
If you’re reading this you are likely a parent or guardian who has requested or is considering therapy for your child. While each therapist at Turning Point is unique in how they approach new clients, there are some things that you can do to prepare your child for therapy.
Be honest with your child…
A genuine and authentic connection between the therapist and your child is fundamental. For this reason, your child should know what is happening, and why you believe a therapist in your child’s life would be helpful.
Encourage curiosity…
Your child may have questions about therapy, such as;
- What is therapy?
- How long is it?
- Will I be alone? Will you come with me?
- What do I have to talk about? Do I even have to talk?
- What if I don’t want to talk about it?
Your child should know that questions are welcome! Encourage your child to ask questions, you might even consider writing them down together and bringing them to their first session.
They are not in trouble…
It can be easy for a child to feel like they are attending therapy because they are in trouble, have done something wrong, or because there is something wrong with them that needs to be fixed.
While our therapists may periodically provide tools, strategies, or knowledge to you and your child, your child should know that therapy isn’t about fixing them as a person. Instead, your child’s therapy is about working together to better understand themselves, the problem, and how to find change.
Be prepared to collaborate…
Parents should also be prepared to participate in the process of their child’s therapy. At Turning Point Counselling each of our therapists has their own unique and contextual way of supporting parents and guardians in the work with their children.
Parents are encouraged to request a brief phone consult with their child’s therapists to review their individual terms of service, intake processes, and how they support children and their parents throughout the therapeutic process.