Talking To Kids About Therapy...
A child therapy session often feels interactive, involving play and activities. While children should clearly understand that they are meeting with a therapist (an expert in feelings), they should also anticipate that the time together can be fun, creative and warm.
Children should understand the reason for beginning therapy. It may be that the aim is to understand emotions more deeply, or address a specific transition or difficulty. This should be named to minimize confusion.
The set up of the first appointment (that the child attends) generally begins with child and parent(s) together in the room. This generally transitions into an opportunity for the child and clinician to meet and begin the process of building a relationship. Therapy can be parent-child, family, or individual. Establishing the objectives of therapy will inform which modality is utilized.
Over time, attending therapy appointments becomes more comfortable.
Before your appointment:
Acknowledge challenges: Let your child know that you recognize the challenges they and your family are facing.
Explain what to expect: Help your child understand what therapy is and what to expect during their first appointment. For example, you can say, "We're going to talk to a doctor about how we’re feeling, thinking, and behaving".
Reassure them: Let your child know that you'll be with them and that therapy is a safe place to talk about their worries.
Choose a good time: Avoid telling your child about therapy too far in advance, or they might become anxious.
Allow your child to feel a sense of control. Children often feel entirely out of control when they are told they must see a psychologist. You may allow your child a sense of agency in the process- including selecting a time or day for their sessions, a snack for beforehand, etc.
Explain what will happen at the psychologist’s office. Detail what to expect, what will be asked of them, how long the session will last, if they will be alone with the therapist, etc. This information will be discussed with you during your parent-only interview.
Liken the process to a medical appointment. Explain that in the same way that someone would see a dentist for a cavity, it is sometimes necessary to see a psychologist for emotional, behavioral, or family issues. We also see doctors for regular check-ups, even when nothing is wrong at all!
Plan the day. Establish a ritual that you and your child do together after each session. This can be particularly helpful if your child is anxious or not wanting to go to therapy. The ritual should be fun, predictable, and not new to the child.