How to Talk to Your Teen About Starting Therapy
Bringing up therapy without your teen shutting down is possible. Here’s how to frame it.
The short answer
Frame therapy as support, not punishment — “someone in your corner” rather than “something is wrong with you.” Give your teen a say in choosing the therapist, and normalize it the way you would any other kind of help.
If they refuse
A low-pressure first session often changes their mind. Reassure them about confidentiality (that their therapist won’t report every word home), and let it be their space.