Helping Your Child Feel Ready for Therapy
Starting therapy can feel like a big step for both kids and parents. As adults, we know therapy is a supportive and helpful space, but for a child, it might feel like an unfamiliar experience. The good news? With the right approach, you can help your child feel prepared, comfortable, and even excited about therapy!
How to Explain Therapy to a Young Child
One simple way to explain therapy is by comparing it to visiting a doctor—but instead of checking on their body, I check on their thoughts, feelings, and how their brain works. You might say something like:
“A therapist is like a feelings doctor. They help kids understand their feelings, talk about things that might be tricky, and learn ways to feel better. Just like when you go to a doctor for a check-up, a feelings doctor helps make sure your feelings are healthy, too.”
“In therapy, you might play, draw, or talk, and we figure out what helps you feel happy, calm, and brave.”
Remember to reassure your child that therapy is a safe, welcoming place where they can explore their emotions without pressure.
It can also help to relate the benefits of therapy directly to their experiences. You could provide an explanation like:
“You know how it feels so scary in the dark? Therapy can really help with that! A lot of kids have worries about the dark and feelings doctors can teach you some tricks about what to do when you start to feel worried or scared.”
Books to Read Before Starting Therapy
If your child feels nervous or unsure about therapy, reading books together can help them feel more comfortable. Here are a few great options:
When a Donut Goes to Therapy by Erin Winters – A fun and lighthearted way to explain therapy to young kids using a donut character who learns about feelings.
A Feel Better Book for Little Worriers by Holly Brochmann & Leah Bowen – A gentle, reassuring book for kids who struggle with anxiety or new experiences.
How Big Are Your Worries, Little Bear? by Jayneen Sanders – A great book for kids who have trouble talking about their emotions and need reassurance.
Tips to Help Your Child Feel Ready for Therapy
Let them know what to expect – Explain that they might play, draw, or talk with their therapist, and that there’s no “wrong” way to do therapy.
Validate their feelings – If they feel nervous, reassure them that it’s okay to feel that way about something new.
Make therapy part of normal conversations – Avoid making it seem like a big or scary event. You might say, “Lots of kids go to therapy! It’s a special time just for you.”
Give them choices – Let them pick a comfort item to bring or a fun activity to do after therapy as a way to transition back to their day.
Therapy is a wonderful tool to help kids grow, understand themselves, and feel more confident. At TRAIN, we offer a free 30-minute consultation so you can ask questions and see if we’re the right fit. If you’re considering therapy for your child, let’s chat—we’d love to support you on this journey!
