Considering Therapy and feeling uncertain? Read this.
Spring has arrived, and with it comes a gentle reminder of renewal and growth. For many of us, this season brings a sense of hope and fresh beginnings. Whether you celebrate Easter or simply appreciate the longer days and blooming flowers, spring offers a chance to pause and reflect:
How are you feeling in your family life right now?
Are there areas where you might be longing for a little more support for your child or adolescent?
For many parents, seeking therapy for their child can be an overwhelming decision. You might feel uncertainty or even shame, wondering if you’re doing the right thing. It’s completely normal to have mixed emotions when considering therapy, especially if it’s the first time. You may worry about how others will perceive your choice or whether you’re “doing enough” to help your child. Know this: reaching out for therapy is a brave and powerful step, and it’s one that many parents make because they want the very best for their child. Therapy isn’t a sign of failure—it’s an opportunity for growth.
If you’re thinking about therapy for your child or adolescent, here are a few strategies (incorporating concepts from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) that might help you navigate the decision with compassion and clarity:
1. Be Compassionate with Your Inner Voice (CBT)
It’s easy for parents to feel like they should have all the answers or that seeking therapy means they’ve failed in some way. You might think, “I should be able to handle this on my own” or “Other families don’t need therapy.” But these thoughts don’t define the reality of your situation. Seeking support is a natural part of being a parent. You’re not weak for needing help—you’re showing love and strength by seeking what’s best for your child. Sometimes, simply acknowledging that it’s okay to ask for help can create the space for healing to begin.
2. Embrace Where You Are Right Now (DBT)
There’s no need to have everything figured out before you start. Therapy is not about having all the answers—it’s about creating a space where it’s okay to explore difficult feelings without judgment. Whether you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or uncertain, those feelings are valid. You’re not too late to seek support for your child—you’re exactly where you need to be in this moment. Starting therapy is a courageous choice, and you can be proud of yourself for taking it.
3. Small Steps Are Still Progress
Big decisions feel less overwhelming when broken into smaller pieces. Try this:
List your concerns
Talk to a trusted friend, pediatrician, or school counselor
Reach out to one therapist this week—just to ask questions.
One step at a time is enough.
⸻
This spring, perhaps let your renewal begin with compassion for yourself and your family. Seeking therapy for your child is an act of care, a powerful statement that you are doing what it takes to support their growth. Whether you’re considering therapy for the first time or preparing for the first session, trust that every step you take matters. You don’t have to do this alone.