With school back in session, many parents are wondering how to approach the topic of therapy with their child or teen. This month’s newsletter provides guidance on starting that conversation and practical tips for explaining therapy in a way kids can understand. We invite you to share these insights with friends, families, or colleagues who may also find them helpful.
Normalizing Therapy for Children & Teens
Starting therapy can feel like a big step for both kids and parents. At Wellspring, we want families to know that therapy is a supportive, healthy step that many children and teens take. It’s a way to build resilience, manage emotions, and grow with confidence—just like learning new skills in school, sports, or other activities.
Talking to Your Child About Therapy
Keep it simple. Explain therapy as a safe place to share feelings and learn new ways to handle challenges—just like going to school to learn math or practicing sports.
Focus on growth. Therapy isn’t about being “in trouble.” It’s about learning skills that make life easier.
Involve your child. Let them have a say in choosing a therapist (younger, older, male, female, etc.). Giving them some control can reduce resistance.
Connect therapy to their priorities. Instead of focusing only on challenges, highlight how therapy can help with what matters most to them:
- Doing better in school or sports
- Managing stress or sleep
- Improving friendships and relationships
- Preparing for college or independence
Understand resistance. It’s common for kids (especially teens) to resist treatment. Understanding the reasons can help you respond with empathy.
Before pushing therapy, listen for what’s behind the hesitation. Are they worried about privacy? Feeling embarrassed? Unsure what therapy even is? Listening without judgment helps your child or teen feel respected.
Normalize it. Share that many children and teens go to therapy, just as many people regularly see a doctor or dentist.
Teens may not always know what they need, but giving them space to share and respond with care strengthens your relationship and makes them more likely to listen.
Therapy Is Like Having a Coach for Your Feelings
You can explain therapy in familiar terms:
“Going to therapy is kind of like having a coach when you play sports. A coach helps you practice, learn new skills, and get better at the game. You already know how to play, but the coach gives you tips and strategies so you can feel more confident and stronger on the field.
A therapist does something similar, but instead of sports, they help you practice ways to handle feelings, thoughts, or challenges. They’ll listen, give you tools, and cheer you on as you practice using them. Just like a coach wants you to succeed in your game, a therapist wants you to feel your best in everyday life.”
Avoid forcing therapy, as it can backfire. Instead, remind your child that therapy is available when they’re ready, and reassure them they won’t face challenges alone.
When Your Child or Teen Refuses Therapy
If your child or teen resists therapy, try these approaches:
- Listen and validate. Let them know it’s okay to feel unsure.
- Give them choices. Involve them in selecting a therapist, setting goals, or scheduling times.
- Connect it to what matters. Highlight how therapy can help with issues like sleep, school stress, friendships, or sports.
- Start with parent sessions when appropriate. Coaching for parents can shift family dynamics and often motivates children to join later.
Parent coaching can provide you with effective strategies and support to help ease resistance, strengthen communication, and create a positive path forward when a child is hesitant or refusing to begin therapy.
Parenting Support
Therapy works best when parents feel supported as well. Parent coaching helps caregivers:
- Navigate daily struggles calmly and consistently.
- Support healthy communication and emotional regulation.
- Build confidence in responding to meltdowns, defiance, or anxiety.
- Model positive coping strategies for children to follow.
Even if your child refuses therapy, parents can work with a therapist to learn strategies that reduce conflict and improve communication at home. These changes often encourage children to join therapy later.
Learn more about Parenting Support at Wellspring
When parents feel empowered, kids feel more secure.
Final Note
Therapy is not a sign that something is “wrong.” It’s a way for families to gain extra support and tools during challenging times. With open communication, parent coaching, and patience, therapy can become a natural and positive part of your child’s life.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re considering therapy for your child, teen, or family, we’re here to help. Contact Wellspring today to schedule an intake call with one of our Client Care Coordinators and explore the best support options for your family.