7 Tips to Convince Your Teen to go to Therapy
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Teens and therapy sometimes go together really well. They have someone with authority that will listen and not judge them.
Other times, they refuse and don’t feel ready, even if they need it.
Read below for 7 tips to convince your teen to go to therapy:
1) Don’t force your teen. No one likes to be forced into something, especially talking to a stranger.
However, if there is a risk for self-harm or suicidal ideation, they do need professional help. No matter the situation, tell them where they are going, don’t make it a surprise.
2) Have an open conversation about the thought of therapy without judgement. Discuss potential pros and cons. Help to decrease the stigma of attending therapy.
3) Consider a second opinion. If your teen feels they don’t need it, speak with a healthcare or mental health professional to assess them and help back you up on the importance of therapy. This could be a doctor, school counselor, etc.
4) Help your teen research for a therapist they get along with. I suggest you both come up a few options and ask if they offer free consultations via phone or video.
This way, you get a feel for the individual and their personality. You can tell a lot about a therapist in a 15 minute conversation.
5) Meet the therapist yourself and visit the office if possible. Although your teen may not admit it, they will feel a lot better knowing you’re in it together.
Also, be open to attending a session to improve parent-teen communication if your teen invites you in.
6) Some parents come up with an agreement that if the teen attends therapy for at least 5 sessions and gives it a real chance, then the teen can decide if they continue.
7) Online counseling, something I offer for Georgia residents, is a great option as well. Maybe your teen is worried about not having enough time for homework and making the drive.
Or they may feel more comfortable behind a screen when talking about their issues.
A couple of books I recommend for parents to read:
– The 5 Love Languages of Teenagers: The Secret to Loving Teens Effectively
– Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood
Bonus Goodie! I’ve got a discount code for $5 off the Anti Anxiety Notebook. Use code rbcounseling5. This notebook keeps me sane with my busy schedule. The notebook has prompts to break down describe the situation you’re in, describe your thoughts, note the intensity, identify thought patterns, challenge your unhelpful thinking, and gives you room to do some extra journaling. It prompts you every step of the way. Obviously, I’m loving it. Check it out for yourself here.
To discuss how therapy could help you during this season of your life, please contact me or schedule your free 15 minute consultation.
You have already taken the first step in seeking help and I can’t wait to help you achieve your goals!
Want to read more? Here are a few of my related blog posts you may be interested in checking out!
– “8 Tips to Talk to Your Teen About Self Harm”
–“10 Steps to Find a Great Therapist”
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