How to Ask for a Therapist

Talking to your parents and asking for help can seem difficult and often scary, especially if you think your parents may not be supportive to you seeking outside help. Here are some tips that can help the conversation with your parents go more smoothly.

• Take some time to think about your “why”: Why do you want to see a therapist, why will it be good for you to see a therapist, and what do you hope to gain from therapy.
• Prepare for the conversation. Write down what you plan to say or practice the conversation beforehand.
• Consider questions that may come up, such as: Why do you want to see a therapist? How long have you been feeling this way? Why can’t you just talk to me? Will you take therapy seriously?
• Also, prepare to tell your parents about therapy and the purpose of therapy. Such as, therapy is used for a wide array of issues, not just for mental illness. It can be a place for you to work through your struggles with a non-bias and supportive third party person, which can help you address your concerns faster and avoid unnecessary emotional distress.

Since you have some knowledge about therapy and already considered your “whys” for seeing a therapist it will be easier for you to answer questions that may come up when talking to your parents.