How to Talk to Children About Therapy: A Guide for Parents

What is NLP and how will it help my child?

Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) is a cognitive, solution focused therapy. It can help a young person understand how they think about things and challenge the beliefs and behaviours they may have that aren’t helping them. 

NLP is more practical than most therapies. During NLP therapy sessions children learn effective tools, strategies and ways of thinking that help them to deal with current difficulties. These are presented in a fun and accessible format and designed specifically for young people. Once they begin to use the techniques they can begin to feel empowered and take control of everyday challenges with more confidence.

How do I talk to my child about therapy?

Sometimes it can be tricky to begin a conversation with your child about going to therapy. Here are a few ideas that may help: 

Begin by finding out how your child is doing.

This is often easiest to do as a part of an activity, whilst playing a game or travelling in the car. An occasion where there is another focus too can help them feel more relaxed and more likely to open up. Choose a time when they are not tired or hungry! 

Help your child to view therapy as a positive option.

Reassure them that it is a route to feeling better and that there is no commitment - if it doesn’t feel right they can stop at anytime.

Normalise going to therapy for support.

Reassure them that they are not alone in finding things difficult and needing support. Share with them that you have had times in your life when you have felt worried or down and needed extra help too.

Describe what they can expect in a positive way.

Focus on what they will get from the positive results they will achieve rather than the problem emotions they are feeling at the moment.. This way they will have a positive association with the sessions rather than feeling uncomfortable or embarrassed about how things are currently.

Take it slow. 

Give them a bit of time and space to get used to the idea. Check in after a day or two and don’t be discouraged if their first response is negative, they may just need a little time to think it through. 

How do I support my child through the therapy process?

Encourage and support new strategies.

NLP focusses on learning trying out new tools and coping strategies. Practicing and forming the habit of using them day to day will be important. Your support and encouragement in this will be really valuable. 

If they open up their feelings to a therapist, try not to take it personally.

It’s often beneficial for a child to open up and speak with a trusted adult outside of the family who has emotional distance from a situation.

Let them know you are there for them when they need you.

Keep communication as open as possible. When they choose to open up to you, show empathy and focus on listening. Avoid trying to problem solve things in the moment. 

What next?

I would love to chat with you to see how I can help your child.
To find out more call me on 07498 414446 or email me at hello@heidigibb.com