Parents play a crucial role in their child's journey towards emotional and psychological well-being. When a child is in therapy, parental support can significantly impact the effectiveness of the treatment. This article offers valuable advice on how parents can actively and compassionately support their children during therapy.

1. Open and Honest Communication:

The foundation of any supportive parent-child relationship is open and honest communication. When your child is in therapy, initiate conversations about their experiences and feelings. Encourage them to express themselves without judgment. Understand that therapy can be an emotionally charged process, and your child may need a safe space to share their thoughts and concerns.

2. Normalize the Process:

It's essential to normalize the idea of therapy as a positive and constructive tool for emotional growth. Explain to your child that seeking help for mental health is as natural as seeking help for physical health. Eliminate any stigma or negative connotations associated with therapy to create an environment where your child feels safe and accepted.

3. Attend Sessions Together:

Depending on the therapist's recommendation, consider attending some therapy sessions with your child. This allows you to understand the therapeutic process, provides an opportunity for you to learn effective communication strategies, and shows your unwavering support for your child's progress.

4. Respect Confidentiality:

Respect your child's privacy regarding what they share in therapy. Make it clear that what is discussed in therapy is confidential unless there are concerns about their safety. Trust is essential in therapy, and knowing their privacy is respected can encourage openness.

5. Follow Therapist's Recommendations:

Be open to and cooperative with the therapist's recommendations. This may include suggestions for activities or strategies to implement at home to support your child's therapeutic goals. Collaborate with the therapist as a team to provide the best care for your child. If there are multiple therapists working with your child or family, consider giving permission for the therapeutic team to collaborate and coordinate treatment. Ask questions about the scope of practice for a therapist. For instance, therapists offer different types of counseling while psychiatrists manage medications and give psychiatric evaluations. Sometimes, weekly therapy sessions may be supplemented with in-home therapy where a therapist comes to the house for several hours a week to do more intensive work with a client.

6. Be Patient and Understanding:

Understand that progress in therapy is often gradual and may involve setbacks. Be patient and compassionate as your child navigates their challenges. Offer a listening ear and emotional support during difficult moments. Understand that the length of treatment is individualized based upon each client.

7. Ask Questions:

Don't hesitate to ask the therapist questions about your child's progress, treatment plan, and any concerns you may have. A skilled therapist will welcome your involvement and provide you with valuable insights and guidance. Parents can email a therapist or schedule an appointment for a check-in every month or two.

8. Create a Supportive Environment:

Foster a nurturing and supportive home environment where your child feels comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions. Encourage open conversations and practice active listening. Your understanding and empathy can make a world of difference. Help your child’s therapist maintain a therapeutic environment by asking them if they prefer a child’s cell phone to stay out of the therapy session. Stay in the waiting room or return a few minutes before the end of the session so that you can be available if the therapist needs to speak with you.

9. Encourage Independence:

Empower your child to take an active role in their therapy process. Encourage them to set their own goals and be involved in decisions regarding their treatment plan. This promotes a sense of ownership and responsibility.

10. Practice Self-Care:

Supporting a child in therapy can be emotionally taxing for parents as well. Prioritize your own self-care, seek support from friends or a therapist if needed, and take breaks when necessary to recharge. A well-supported parent can provide better support for their child.

Supporting a child in therapy is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and a commitment to their emotional well-being. By fostering open communication, normalizing therapy, attending sessions when appropriate, and respecting your child's privacy, you can play a pivotal role in helping them navigate their challenges and ultimately thrive. Remember that your unwavering support can be a cornerstone in your child's path to healing and growth.

10 Ways to Support Your Child in Therapy