Caroline Novack, LCSW October, 2025
Not sure how to bring up the idea of therapy with your child? You’re not alone.
Many parents wonder how to start this conversation in a way that feels comfortable and encouraging. Over the years, families have shared thoughtful approaches that helped them navigate it with confidence. Every child is different, so take what feels right and leave the rest.
Before you begin, take a breath. Most kids today already know something about therapy—through school, friends, or TV. You might find they’re more familiar with the idea than you expect. (We’ll also touch on what to do if your child resists the idea a bit later.)
1. Start with a Calm, Positive Tone
Children pick up on our emotions, so it helps to approach the topic calmly and confidently. Present therapy as something supportive and proactive—not as a punishment or a sign that something is “wrong.”
Use simple, age-appropriate language to explain what therapy is and why you think it could help.
For Younger Children
You might say:
“A therapist is a kind grown-up who helps kids feel better when feelings are big or things are hard.”
You can add:
“I’ve noticed you’ve been having a tough time with big feelings lately, and [therapist name] helps lots of kids who feel that way too.”
For Older Children and Teens
Try something more direct:
“A therapist is someone you can talk to about anything—someone who isn’t a parent or teacher and knows ways to help with stress and challenges.”
Or:
“You’ve seemed a little more stressed lately, and I thought it might help to have someone outside the family to talk to.”
2. Normalize the Experience
Let your child know that therapy is common and healthy. You might say:
“Just like we see a doctor when our body feels off, a therapist helps when our feelings feel big or confusing.”
(And you can always add, “No shots involved!”)
Explain that therapy isn’t only for kids in crisis—many people go simply to learn more about themselves and feel better.
For Younger Children
Ask your therapist about the toys and activities they use, then mention ones your child might enjoy—like games, Legos, drawing, or imaginative play. Encourage curiosity and let them ask questions.
For Older Children and Teens
Let them know therapy is their space—somewhere they get to decide what to talk about. Show them the website and suggest they read their therapist’s bio or see their photo so the experience feels more familiar and less abstract.
3. If Your Child Resists the Idea
Some kids are hesitant about therapy, especially if they’ve had a past experience that didn’t feel right. That’s okay—resistance can be part of the process.
Give Them a Sense of Control
Explain that therapy is meant to help them and that you’ll work together to find someone they connect with. You might suggest trying three sessions before deciding. That gives time to build trust without pressure.
Therapy only works if a child wants to be there—forcing it rarely helps.
Highlight What Makes Our Approach Different
At True Mind + Body and The Art of Well-Being, kids are active participants in the process. Fun and connection come first—sometimes they’re so engaged in play or movement that they don’t even realize they’re “doing therapy.”
You can also mention that other parents and kids have had great experiences with our team—it helps build trust before the first session.
Explore Creative and Movement-Based Options
If traditional talk therapy isn’t a fit, we offer approaches like inMotion Therapy and Art Therapy at The Art of Well-Being. These options are ideal for kids who express themselves best through movement, creativity, or play rather than conversation.
And remember, you’re not on your own in this process. Our therapists are experienced in helping even the most hesitant kids warm up—sometimes literally coaxing them out of the car.
Parting Thoughts
Introducing your child to therapy is an act of care and courage. When you frame it as something supportive and empowering, you help lay the foundation for a positive, lasting relationship with emotional well-being.
If you’d like support preparing for this conversation—or want to explore which approach might be the best fit for your child—we’re here to help.
