How to Prepare Your Child or Adolescent for Therapy

Starting therapy can be an important and sometimes intimidating experience for children and adolescents. As a parent or caregiver, it's natural to want to support your child through this process. Research shows that a strong foundation of support from family can significantly improve the outcomes of therapy for young people. Below are some strategies to help prepare your child or adolescent for therapy—and how you, as a parent or caregiver, can also take care of yourself during the process.

Start the Conversation Early

One of the most important ways to prepare your child for therapy is by initiating an open conversation well before the first session. According to research, children and adolescents who are given adequate preparation for therapy are more likely to engage in the process and have positive outcomes. When talking to your child, use age-appropriate language and explain what therapy is, emphasising that it is a safe space where they can talk about their thoughts and feelings. Reassure them that therapy is confidential, and whatever they share with the therapist stays between them and the therapist (unless there are concerns about their safety).

Starting this dialogue early also helps to normalise therapy and reduce feelings of uncertainty or fear. Research from the Australian Psychological Society (APS) supports that clear communication from parents about therapy can lead to better cooperation from children and a greater sense of autonomy during the process.

Address Their Concerns

It’s natural for children, especially adolescents, to have reservations about therapy. They might worry about being judged, not liking the therapist, or having to talk about difficult topics. Research indicates that anxiety about therapy is common, particularly in young people, and that these fears can impact their willingness to participate. It's important to validate these concerns and talk them through with your child.

Encourage them to ask questions about what therapy will be like. They might wonder, "What will I talk about?" or "Will I have to go every week?" Discussing what therapy entails, how it can help, and answering their questions can ease anxiety and foster trust. You can also help by modelling a positive attitude about therapy. Studies show that parents who express support for therapy and encourage their child to view it as a helpful tool lead to greater engagement in the therapeutic process.

Normalise the Experience

Many children and adolescents may feel isolated or different because of their struggles, but it's crucial to emphasise that therapy is a common and beneficial practice. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), millions of children and adolescents benefit from therapy each year to address a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and mental health concerns. By normalising therapy and showing that it is a resource used by many people to improve their mental health, you can reduce the stigma and make your child feel less alone.

Sharing positive stories or examples of people (including friends, family, or public figures) who have had positive experiences with therapy can help your child understand that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Research supports that normalising the process in this way can lead to greater willingness to engage and an overall more positive attitude towards therapy.

Set Expectations

Setting realistic expectations for therapy is crucial. It's important to let your child know that therapy is a process that takes time. Research suggests that therapy is most effective when children and adolescents have a clear understanding of its purpose and limitations. Some children might expect to feel better immediately, while others might think that therapy won’t work for them. It’s essential to explain that change takes time and requires effort.

Let them know it’s okay if they don’t feel comfortable or have all the answers right away. In fact, it’s completely normal for therapy to take time before they begin to see significant changes. This can help your child understand that therapy is not about “fixing” them but about providing support and tools to improve their well-being over time. Let them know it’s okay to take their time and that progress might look different for everyone.

Prepare for the First Session

The first session is often the most anxiety-provoking part of therapy for children and adolescents. To make it feel less intimidating, you can help them prepare for what to expect. According to research from the Child Mind Institute, ensuring that children feel safe and comfortable during the initial session is key to building a trusting relationship with the therapist (Child Mind Institute, 2020).

You might suggest that your child bring a comfort item to the session—like a favourite toy, book, or even a notebook to write or draw in. This can help them feel more at ease and provide a way for them to express themselves. It’s also important to remind your child that therapy is a place where they can choose what to talk about, and they don’t need to share everything if they aren’t ready. Involving your child in the process by allowing them to help set goals for therapy can also create a sense of agency and control, and as a result, they are more likely to feel empowered and motivated throughout the process.

Care for Yourself as the Parent or Caregiver

Supporting your child through therapy is a significant responsibility, and it’s essential to remember that you, as a parent or caregiver, need to take care of your own emotional well-being too. Research indicates that caregivers who practice self-care are better equipped to support their children in therapy. Managing your own stress, seeking support, and practising self-compassion can help you be more patient and understanding with your child during their therapeutic journey.

Taking care of your own mental health also sets a positive example for your child, reinforcing that it’s okay to ask for help when needed. Whether it’s seeking your own therapy, joining a support group, or simply carving out time for rest and activities you enjoy, investing in your own well-being will ultimately benefit your child.

Additionally, keeping open lines of communication with your child’s therapist can be invaluable. Many therapists encourage ongoing communication with parents to ensure the child’s needs are met. This collaboration helps create a more cohesive treatment plan and provides an opportunity for you to express any concerns or share observations that might benefit the therapy process.

Preparing your child or adolescent for therapy involves creating a supportive environment where they feel heard, safe, and open to the process. By initiating early conversations, addressing their concerns, normalising the experience, setting realistic expectations, preparing for the first session, and taking care of your own well-being as a caregiver, you can help ease their anxieties and set them up for success. Therapy is a valuable tool for emotional growth and healing, and with your encouragement and support, your child will be ready for the journey ahead.

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