FAQ

Does my child need to have a mental health diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, therapy is very person-specific and can help your child (or your family) to explore emotions and behaviors that are coming up as they grow and change. 

How long does therapy last?

There is no set amount of time for this. Some people come in with a very specific goal and feel they have accomplished that after a handful of sessions. Others take years to process and understand events or experiences. There is no right or wrong – it is really based on how the individual and family feels they are progressing. 

So what do I tell my child about going to therapy?

It can feel hard to explain to your child what therapy is or why you want them to go. That being said, please don’t try to trick your child into attending therapy, honesty is best for everyone. Sometimes making an analogy to a doctor can be helpful for children – instead of a medical doctor who checks your body, a therapist is a doctor who can help with feelings, emotions and/or problems that come up. I have found that explaining therapy simply as a time when they get to play with a safe grown up who will help them learn about feelings, is sometimes all children need to hear. Please reach out to me if you want to discuss the most age appropriate way to talk about therapy with your child!