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.