My child is in therapy – now what? According to experts, nearly 20% of children and young people ages 3-17 in the United States have a mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral disorder. It’s important to remember that your child is not alone in their struggles, and neither are you. Deciding to seek treatment is not an easy decision, as we often want to be able to help our children ourselves without relying on outside resources. However, seeking assistance from a professional, such as a therapist, is often the best way to support your child’s well-being.
The Role of Parental Involvement in Treatment
When your child begins therapy, it is just the beginning of their wellness journey, and they still very much need your support and love. Research shows that parental involvement in treatment positively impacts children and adolescents, making therapy more effective. Your involvement may vary depending on your child’s age and needs.
The Wrap-Around Services Approach
At ICP, we utilize the wrap-around services approach to ensure the best possible outcomes for your child. This approach involves collaborating with parents, as well as other treatment providers such as doctors and teachers. By understanding your child’s functioning in different settings and identifying potential stressors, we can tailor the therapy to their specific needs. The therapist will start building a relationship with you during the first session, where you will provide observations and essential background information about your child. Subsequent sessions may involve different structures depending on your child’s age.
Supporting Your Child in Therapy
Working with teen clients requires a delicate balance between collaborating with parents and protecting the therapeutic relationship. Rest assured that if your child is ever in any danger or harming themselves, you will be notified immediately. Even if you are unable to participate in weekly check-ins, there are several ways you can support your child in therapy.
- Model Healthy Behaviors: Prioritize your child’s treatment by ensuring they are on time for their sessions and not missing them. This demonstrates that improving their mental health is a priority.
- Express and Cope with Emotions: Share your own experiences of coping with difficult emotions in front of your child. This teaches them that it’s normal to experience frustration and shows healthy ways to cope and express emotions.
- Practice Coping Strategies Together: Assist your child in practicing coping strategies such as deep breathing, going for a walk, or practicing mindfulness when they are experiencing intense emotions.
- Provide a Non-Judgmental Space: If your child is a teenager, create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to express their emotions and worries. Be curious and open, and listen attentively instead of immediately trying to solve their problems.
- Ask How You Can Support Them: Don’t forget to ask the most important question: “How can I support you?” Let your child know that you are there for them and ready to provide the support they need.
By actively participating and supporting your child in therapy, you contribute significantly to their overall progress and well-being.
Sources:
- Haine-Schlagel, R., Walsh, N.E. A Review of Parent Participation Engagement in Child and Family Mental Health Treatment. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 18, 133–150 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10567-015-0182-x
- 2022 National Healthcare Quality and Disparities Report [Internet]. Rockville (MD): Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US); 2022 Oct. CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK587174/
-Natalia Balagulska, MA, LPC
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