How to Tell Your Parents About Therapy

Talking to your parents about needing therapy as a teen can feel super daunting. Feeling a bit anxious about how they'll respond?  Whether it's overreacting, getting upset, or just brushing off your request for help, it's totally normal to have those thoughts! We totally get where you're coming from. It's always a good idea to plan out what you want to say ahead of time.  Think about what challenges you're facing and how you envision therapy making a difference for you.

Asking for help is a true act of courage. Being a teen can be tough, and it takes real strength to admit you need someone to chat with.  So many of us are guilty of pushing our feelings aside or pretending they don't exist. Let's be real about it!  Feeling a bit lost and ashamed of what you're going through? You're not alone, and it's okay to talk about it.  It's wild how our society keeps pushing these ideas, and you can totally see it happening in some families too!

Just the thought of starting therapy is a huge step towards self-improvement. Feeling like something's off in your life? You're not alone! It's time to seek that relief you deserve. Your feelings matter, and seeking therapy is a powerful step towards healing.  

8 Tips for Opening Up to Your Parents About Therapy

Opening up to your parents about mental health can feel daunting, but it’s so important to share what’s on your mind.  Feeling a bit lost or embarrassed about what’s happening? You’re definitely not alone. While there’s no promise of a positive result, keeping these tips in mind can totally help you get ready for that chat!   ✨ Eight tips for sharing with your parents that you need therapy:

1. Jot Down Your Worries  

Writing down your feelings and needs can be such a game changer! Feeling overwhelmed? This method is a game changer for organizing your thoughts!  Why not share your writing with your parents? You could read it to them or let them enjoy it on their own!  Whatever you choose to do with this writing, embracing this creative outlet can give you a fresh perspective on your next steps!

2. Choose Your Way to Share the News

Talking to your parents about therapy? You've got options!  How about planning a cozy sit-down chat?  Sometimes, it's just nice to chat about things while cruising down the road, keeping it chill and laid-back.  Some people leave a sweet letter for their parents to read while they're off at school.

There’s no perfect way to share this with your parents.  Being direct is key!  Don’t wait for things to spiral out of control! Take action. If you're finding it tough to navigate your emotions, remember that it's totally okay to seek support.

3. Talk about what’s going on

Just a little reminder: you don’t have to share it all, but loving parents always want what’s best for their kiddos!  But hey, they can't exactly read your mind, right?  Feeling scared is totally normal, but being real with your parents about what’s happening is important.  Talk about the symptoms you’re experiencing, when they feel most prominent, and why they are causing you distress.

4. Make it clear that you're ready for therapy

When parents find out their kids are facing challenges, it's so common for them to immediately switch into problem-solving mode. Feeling frustrated and misunderstood is so real for teens right now. Mention that you appreciate their support but are having a hard time and want to talk to a professional who can help you cope with your feelings.

5. Dive into that research!

Some parents know little about mental health treatment, whereas others are more informed. It may be helpful to do some of your own research about what you want ahead of time. What would you like in a therapist? What are you hoping to work on? Is it worth having a conversation with a school counselor or therapist first? Have you already talked to your doctor about what’s going on?

6. Prepare for resistance

Some parents will get angry or upset about their children wanting therapy. These reactions, while discouraging, are normal, and they aren’t your fault. It’s important to brace yourself for rejection, especially if that’s how your parents generally react to sensitive topics. Even if pushback arises, there are still steps you can take toward getting help.

7. Avoid the blame game  

Even if your relationship with your parents isn't the greatest, this isn't the moment to point fingers. This is really all about you and what you need. Blaming your parents will just make them defensive and could lead to more arguments. If they begin to blame themselves, just let them know that you're concentrating on your own growth.

8. Talk to Someone Else First

If you have a good relationship with a trusted adult, it might be a good idea to chat with them about therapy before diving in. They might have some good ideas on how you can talk to your parents. Even if you feel comfortable chatting with your parents, they can really be there for you during this tough time.