Encouraging Your Teen to Try Therapy

With all the challenges that teens face today, they can use all the support they can get. Having a trusted, non-judgmental person to talk through things with can go a long way - this describes therapists and other mental health professionals in Michigan perfectly.

Benefits of Teen Therapy in Michigan

Seeing a therapist can have many benefits for a teen. It gives them another person to talk to about the challenges in their life. Therapists can help teens build coping skills that benefit them for years to come. If a teen is struggling with their mental health, a therapist can help them through that and prevent problems from getting worse. A therapist is also a good person to have around to talk to as teens transition from middle to high school and then high school to either work or college life.

What NOT to Say When Talking With a Teen About Therapy

However, convincing a teen to even try therapy can sometimes feel like pulling teeth. Before we discuss suggestions for encouraging teens to try therapy, here are some things that you should avoid doing:

• Telling your teen they “need” therapy
• Threatening consequences or withholding privileges from your teen if they don’t go to therapy
• Pressuring your teen to share what they discuss with their therapist

Doing any of these things could make your teen MORE resistant to therapy or create resentment, reducing the effectiveness of therapy if they eventually cave and decide to do it. So what can you do instead?

What to Say to Help Your Teen Consider Therapy

1. Focus on how they can benefit from therapy, NOT on the behavior you want them to change.

For example, you can point out that therapy gives them someone to talk to about whatever is on their mind. You can also mention that therapy might help them feel better if they've been struggling lately.

2. Ask them to try just one or two sessions.

Therapy can be scary and feel like a major commitment, resulting in resistance. A possible way around this is to encourage your teen to try just one or two sessions with a therapist. If they do this and don't want to continue, celebrate that they gave it a shot. Don't punish or berate them. Perhaps this isn't the right time for them to be in therapy, but you can try again later.

3. Try positive reinforcement.

If your teen does agree to go to therapy, you can increase their likelihood of sticking with it by "rewarding" them. If you're transporting them, ask if they want to stop somewhere they like to visit or grab a treat on the way home. Maybe prepare their favorite meal on the days they go to therapy. You can also tell them that they are doing great work for themselves by going to therapy. If your teen is resistant, offering positive reinforcement for conversations about going to therapy might move the needle towards them deciding to go.

4. Set an example.

This one is simple: go to therapy yourself. If you see a therapist, this could set a good example for your teen. Being honest within reason about how therapy has helped you might also inspire your teen to go.

5. Be proactive.

You don't have to wait until your teen is in a crisis to encourage them to talk to a therapist. If you know your teen is about to experience a major transition, such as your family moving to a new home, going off to college, or experiencing trouble with a relationship, you can explain to them that talking to a therapist might make it easier for them to work through those things.

Keep Trying: Therapy for Your Teen is Worth It

If these strategies don't work right away, it's ok to try again later. As long as you're having conversations about therapy and keeping things positive, there is a good chance of you planting the seed that eventually grows into them willingly agreeing to see a therapist.

About the Author: Teen Therapist Kyle Fisher

Kyle Fisher is a dedicated mental health professional with a passion for supporting teens and their families. With experience in therapeutic practices, he specializes in helping young individuals navigate the complexities of adolescence. Kyle is committed to fostering resilience and empowerment through evidence-based interventions, including mindfulness techniques and relaxation therapy. His warm and empathetic approach creates a safe space for clients to explore their emotions and develop coping strategies. Outside of his practice, Kyle enjoys engaging with the community and advocating for mental health awareness, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ population.