Bringing Your Teen to Therapy By Sam Holly

Bringing Your Teen to Therapy

By Sam Holly

Our teens are exposed to more responsibilities than ever before while experiencing various hormonal changes. Some teens easily balance these responsibilities and changes, while others may have struggles that can manifest as behavioral conflict, anxiety, or even depression. Therapy sessions give your teen a voice, as you, your child, and the therapist collaborates to focus on the possible, hidden dilemma.

It is understandable for your teen to be reserved and cautious when they think about speaking with a mental health professional. They may feel a sense of danger or humiliation if they are told to attend therapy. Opening space for your teen while in your home to share their thoughts on therapy may give you more questions that both of you can ask a therapist before coming in.

When teens’ ideas, perspectives, and values are taken into consideration, they are more likely to be invested in the process. It is wise to not force your teen into attending therapy but to receive an understanding of their experience when the word “therapy” is discussed. For most teens, going to “therapy” means that something is wrong with them and they need to be “fixed.”  

Here are several ideas that you can use to ease your teen’s unease toward therapy:

•       Have them join you in searching for a therapist
•       Ask them about their concerns and address each one that is brought to your attention
•       Reframe “therapy” into something less threatening such as “counseling”
•       Advise them that they will not be forced to engage with the therapist

Do you find that including your teen in various decisions and events builds a stronger sense of understanding, accepting, and connecting between you?