How to Talk to Your Child About Starting Therapy
So you’ve made the decision. You’ve scheduled the appointment. Now comes the part many parents dread: telling your child they’re going to therapy.
At Sunburst Psychology, we support families across Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, and Mercer Island through this moment all the time. You’re not alone. And yes, there’s a way to do this that won’t spark panic, confusion, or tears (yours or theirs).
First: You Set the Tone
Kids take emotional cues from the adults around them. If you sound nervous, apologetic, or over-explain, they’ll absorb that therapy is something to be anxious about.
Instead, be calm. Be clear. And most of all—be curious. You’re not presenting a problem. You’re offering support.
What to Say (Depending on Their Age & Temperament)
Here are some examples we’ve seen work well:
For Younger Kids (Ages 4–9)
“You’ll be meeting someone who helps kids with big feelings. You might play games, draw, or talk. It’s a safe space just for you.”
For Tweens and Teens
“Everyone needs someone to talk to sometimes. This is your space to sort things out. No judgment, no pressure. Just support.”
Keep it simple. Use words they understand. Avoid words like fix, problem, or behavior.
What Not to Say
🚫 “You have to go because you’re acting out.”
🚫 “If you don’t start acting better, you’ll be in therapy forever.”
🚫 “They’re going to teach you how to behave.”
Therapy isn’t punishment. It’s not school. It’s not about being “good.” It’s about helping your child feel better—and giving them tools that actually work.
Normalize, Normalize, Normalize
You can say:
“Lots of kids go to therapy—even if everything seems okay on the outside.”
“Grown-ups go too. I’ve talked to someone before.”
“It’s not forever. Let’s just try it and see how it feels.”
This isn’t about hype. You’re not selling therapy like it’s summer camp. But you are framing it as a positive, safe, and thoughtful step forward.
What Happens After the First Session?
We’ll check in with you. Share general insights. Talk about how your child responded. We’ll never leave you guessing—and we won’t put your child in the position of translating the experience.
At Sunburst Psychology, therapy is collaborative, relational, and emotionally attuned. We involve parents not because we assume you’re doing something wrong—but because what happens outside the therapy room matters too.
Serving Families in Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland & Mercer Island
We offer:
Child therapy for anxiety, neurodiversity, emotional regulation, and more
Parent training and consultation to support communication and connection
Family therapy when dynamics feel tense or disconnected
Online and in-person options to fit your family’s rhythm
