What to expect when taking your child to therapy

Starting therapy for your child can be daunting, but it's important to remember that it's a positive step towards helping them cope with their emotions and behaviours. Here are a few things to expect when your child begins talking therapy.

First and foremost, therapy is a team effort. The therapist will work with your child, but you and potentially other family members should also be involved. The therapist may recommend family therapy sessions or may ask you to participate in some way in your child's therapy.

In the first session, your child will meet with a trained therapist who will work with them to understand their thoughts and feelings. The therapist will likely use different techniques, such as play therapy or CBT, to help your child express themselves and work through any issues they may face.

Remember that the therapy process may take some time and consistency, so it's essential to be patient and encourage your child to attend their sessions. The therapist will likely provide regular updates on your child's progress and may recommend additional resources or strategies for you to use at home to support your child's therapy.

It's also important to understand that your child may not open up immediately. It can take time for children to trust and feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with someone new. If your child is hesitant to participate in therapy, reassure them that therapy is a safe space where they can talk about anything they want and that the therapist is there to help them.

Communication is vital, and you need to talk openly with the therapist about your child's symptoms and any concerns you may have. This will help the therapist understand the complete picture and effectively tailor their approach to meet your child's needs.

Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Therefore, it's important to work with the therapist to find the best approach for your child and to be open to trying different techniques if needed.

Another thing to expect is that therapy can be emotionally taxing for your child, so be supportive and understanding of their feelings, listen, and offer comfort if your child is struggling.

Finally, it's important to remember that therapy takes time and effort. It may take time for your child to see improvement and feel better. But with the help of a trained therapist and the support of family and loved ones, your child will have the tools to work through their emotions and behaviours and lead a happier and healthier life.