Consider these things Before Your Child Starts Therapy

Before your child starts therapy, there are several important things to consider:

Disclaimer: Blogs are a great place to get helpful information but they should never replace mental healthcare and this blog is no exception. These blog posts do not replace mental health care and are not medical advice.

Identifying the Need

Determine why you believe therapy is necessary for your child. Is it to address specific emotional or behavioral issues, developmental challenges, or traumatic experiences? Clarifying the primary concerns will help guide you in selecting the right type of therapy and therapist.

Research Therapeutic Approaches

Familiarize yourself with different therapeutic approaches commonly used for children, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, family therapy, or art therapy. Each approach has its strengths and focuses on different aspects of a child's well-being.

Seek Professional Advice

Consult with a pediatrician, school counselor, or mental health professional to get their input and recommendations. They can help evaluate your child's needs and provide guidance on appropriate next steps.

Look for a licensed and experienced therapist who specializes in working with children. Research their qualifications, experience, and areas of expertise. It's essential to find someone who has experience dealing with the specific issues your child is facing.

Check Compatibility

Schedule an initial consultation with the therapist to determine if they are a good fit for your child. Assess their communication style, rapport with your child, and overall comfort level. Your child should feel safe, understood, and supported during therapy sessions.

Consider the practical aspects of therapy, such as the therapist's location, availability, and cost. Determine if the therapy schedule is feasible for your child and your family's routine. If your child requires specialized therapy, consider the potential travel or accommodation arrangements involved.

Collaborate with the Therapist

Establish an open line of communication with the therapist. Regularly discuss your child's progress, goals, and any concerns you may have. Different practices have different requirements, especially ones accepting insurance but typically, your therapist should be reviewing treatment goals and progress every few months. Actively participate in the therapy process by following through with any recommendations or homework assignments provided by the therapist.

Involve Your Child

Talk to your child about therapy and explain why they will be attending sessions. If they are 12 or older in Wisconsin they must consent to therapy. Ensure they understand that therapy is a safe and supportive space where they can express their feelings and work on personal growth. Encourage them to ask questions and share any concerns they might have.

But do not expect the child to talk about what was discussed in therapy with you. I recommend that you respect the child’s privacy, if (s)he wants to share with you, allow them to do it on their own but do not ask or pressure the child.

Manage Expectations

Understand that therapy is not a quick fix. It is a process that takes time and commitment. Set realistic expectations regarding the timeline and outcomes of therapy. Recognize that progress may be gradual and that setbacks can occur along the way.

Support at Home and School

Work with the therapist to implement strategies or activities at home that support your child's therapy progress. If the child’s mental health/behavioral issues are impacting their life at school, contact the teacher to let them know the child is in counseling and working on the issue. Also encourage the therapist to communicate with the teacher to discuss things that they can do at school to help the child, you will need to sign a release of information form for this.

Encourage open communication, active listening, and empathy within the family. Create a nurturing environment that promotes emotional well-being.

Remember that therapy can be a transformative experience for your child, providing them with tools to cope with challenges and thrive in their daily lives. By considering these factors and actively participating in the therapy process, you can support your child's growth and well-being.

If you are interested in therapy for your child, give me a call or an email to schedule a consultation. If I can’t help, I’ll be happy to refer you to someone who can.

Talk to you soon,

Carmelita