Key Takeaways 

• Parents can ease their child's fears about therapy with reassurance and age-appropriate language.

• It's important to explain the benefits of therapy to your child.

• Parents should strive to normalize therapy and eliminate the stigma surrounding it.

 If you plan to send your child to therapy, you may have questions about how to approach the subject.

While therapy can be a positive experience, it may feel scary if it is their first time. Explaining what therapy is and using age-appropriate language may ease your child's fears.

Using Age-Appropriate Language

How you explain therapy will vary depending on your child's age. You wouldn't explain therapy to a young child the same way you would to a teenager. 

You can alleviate their concerns about visiting a counselor by using developmentally appropriate language that they can understand. 

Children Ages 2 - 6

It's important to be honest and direct with young children. Use simple language, such as, "We're going to see a doctor to talk about our feelings."

Tell them this type of doctor does not give shots and is more interested in talking or playing games together. Because young children benefit from repetition, you may want to remind them about the appointment throughout the days leading up to it.

Children Ages 6 - 12

Children in this age group are likely familiar with their school counselor, even if they don't see them regularly. Let your child know that the therapist they will see is similar. 

For example, you may say something like, "You know how your school counselor talks about feelings? We are going to see someone who is like your school counselor but with their own office. They would like to talk about how you've been feeling lately."

Teenagers

Teenagers frequently have their own opinions on therapy and might object to attending. However, as with younger children, it's important to be open and direct with your teenager. Emphasize that therapy provides a safe space to discuss their thoughts and feelings. 

Also, reassure them that what they share in therapy is completely confidential and that they may begin to feel better after attending sessions.

What To Tell Your Child About Therapy

It's important to explain to your child that counseling is a safe space where they can meet with a caring adult and explore their feelings. 

Assure them that whatever they might be facing, counselors are trained professionals who can offer emotional support.

Why They Are Going to Therapy 

There are many reasons why you might send your child to counseling. It's beneficial for them to understand why they are going to therapy in the first place. 

Let your child know that the counselor they will meet is specifically trained to teach coping skills and problem-solving techniques. You don't need to complicate the reasons for their visit.

What Will Happen in a Session

What happens during your child's counseling sessions will depend on your child and the specific therapist involved.

For play therapy, you can tell them they will play a game and do other activities while discussing their feelings. You can explain the process to them and mention that you can stay in the room initially if they would prefer.

Who They Will Talk to and How It Will Help Them

Children need to understand that a counselor is a safe person who can help them deal with their big feelings.

Let them know that it is common for people to go to therapy and that there is nothing to feel ashamed of.

Tell your child that by talking to a therapist, they can learn new ways to feel better and cope with challenges.

How To Address Common Fears or Questions

Therapy can be intimidating for children of any age. 

When you send your child to therapy, they may worry about getting in trouble or be nervous about having to talk about things they don't want to. They may be resistant to talking to a therapist as a result. 

Knowing how to address common fears or questions your child has can alleviate their worries.

• "Am I in trouble?" - "No, you're not in trouble. You're going to see a therapist because I care about you and want you to feel better."

• "Will I have to talk about things I don't want to?" - "Your counselor will never force you to talk about anything you aren't ready to talk about."

• "How long will I have to go?" Your answer to this question may vary. The best way to respond is to explain that it depends on their unique needs and progress, but it will likely take a few months.

Your child may have more questions about the process than what has been mentioned. However, it's important to be honest and reassuring in your answers.

Making Therapy a Positive Experience for Children

Before the first session, help your child see therapy as a positive tool. Normalize therapy and offer age-appropriate encouragement.

Have an open conversation with your child before and after sessions. Address any concerns that they have. Offer to practice the techniques and coping mechanisms they learned in sessions at home.

Helping Your Child Feel Comfortable With Their Therapist

The success of therapy depends on the rapport built between your child and their therapist.

For therapy to be effective, your child must feel comfortable expressing their feelings about it and whether they find it beneficial. 

If, for any reason, your child feels that therapy isn't working or that they are uncomfortable with their therapist, consider switching to a different provider.

Not every counselor is the right fit for each child. There must be a genuine connection for the therapeutic experience to be successful.

The Bottom Line

If your child could benefit from counseling, contact Emora Health. We can help connect you with the right therapist who can provide support and guidance for your child. 

Find a Virtual Therapist for Your Child with Emora Health

Emora Health connects families with licensed therapists who specialize in evidence-based treatments, such as behavioral therapy, CBT, and social skills training.

Emora Health emphasizes a holistic approach, addressing not only the child's ADHD symptoms but also the well-being of the entire family. By offering resources, counseling, and education, they help create a supportive environment where children can thrive.

Get started today.    

Sources 

1. Opland C, Torrico TJ. Psychotherapy and Therapeutic Relationship. [Updated 2024 Oct 6]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK608012/