When your child begins counselling or therapy, it can feel like you’re stepping into unknown territory. You want to help them thrive but may not know exactly how to best support them through this process. Counselling or therapy is a significant step toward your child’s mental health and wellbeing, and your role as a parent is crucial in helping them feel supported and secure.
Here are practical ways to guide and support your child as they engage in counselling or therapy.
Create a Safe and Open Space for Communication
Your child may feel vulnerable discussing their thoughts and feelings, so building trust is key. Encourage them to share, but avoid pressuring them to talk. A safe, non-judgemental atmosphere allows them to open up at their own pace.
Practical Tip
Instead of asking, “What did you talk about in counselling or therapy today?” try softer, open-ended questions like, “How are you feeling after your session?” This gives them the option to share as much or as little as they feel comfortable.
Example
If they don’t want to talk, reassure them with, “That’s okay, you don’t have to share anything. Just know I’m always here if you need me.”
Respect Their Privacy
Counselling or therapy is a personal process, and it’s essential to respect your child’s boundaries. While it’s normal to feel curious about what’s being discussed, trust the process and their counsellor or therapist.
Why It Matters
Respecting their privacy reinforces trust and helps your child feel ownership over their counselling or therapy experience. It’s also a way to show them you value their independence and emotional growth.
What You Can Do
Focus on being a supportive listener rather than trying to solve or “analyse” their feelings. Often, just being present for them is enough.
Be Patient
Counselling or therapy is not a quick fix; it’s a journey. It may take time before you see noticeable changes in your child’s behaviour or emotions. Growth happens gradually, and setbacks can be a natural part of the process.
Helpful Mindset
Think of counselling or therapy as planting a garden. It takes time for seeds to sprout and grow into something vibrant. Celebrate small victories, like your child opening up slightly more or learning something new about themselves.
Practical Tip
If your child seems to regress or have a tough day, offer reassurance, such as, “It’s okay to have hard moments. It doesn’t mean you’re not making progress.”
Collaborate with the Counsellor or Therapist
Building a strong partnership with your child’s counsellor or therapist can help provide the right support. Attend parent consultations if offered, and ask how you can reinforce the strategies being explored during sessions.
How to Approach This
Ask the professional general questions like, “How can we create a supportive environment at home?” or “Are there any strategies we can use as a family to help?”
What to Avoid
Avoid directing the sessions or requesting specific information about what your child has shared. The counsellor or therapist’s role is to maintain trust and confidentiality with your child.
Model Healthy Emotional Habits
Your child looks to you for guidance, even when it comes to managing emotions. Show them that it’s okay to feel sad, frustrated, or overwhelmed and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Lead by Example
Share moments when you practise self-care or handle challenges with resilience. For example, “I felt really stressed yesterday, so I took some time to go for a walk, and it helped me feel calmer.” This normalises the process of managing emotions and seeking balance.
Reinforce Their Progress
Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s growth, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and motivate them to continue their counselling or therapeutic work.
Practical Ways to Celebrate
- Write them a little note or send a thoughtful text to say, “I’m so proud of the hard work you’re doing.”
- Recognise milestones, like attending sessions consistently or trying out a new coping strategy.
Example
“You’ve been working so hard in counselling, and I can see your bravery in opening up. I’m really proud of you.”
Supporting your child in counselling or therapy is about being a steady, reassuring presence as they explore their feelings and develop healthier ways to cope. By providing an open and supportive environment, collaborating with their counsellor or therapist, and modelling emotional wellbeing, you’re helping lay the foundation for their personal growth and resilience.
Remember, you don’t have to have all the answers or do it perfectly. Your willingness to show up, listen, and care is what truly matters. Counselling or therapy is a team effort, and you play a vital role in helping your child feel validated and empowered along the way.
If you have questions or need additional resources, we’re here to help. At Well Connections, we believe that by working together, we can make a positive difference for you and your family.
Would you like personalised advice for your family?
Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can support you and your child on this meaningful journey.
📞 Book a Free Consultation Today:
📧 Email: info@wellconnections.co.uk