How to talk to a therapist without your parents knowing?

You can talk to a therapist without your parents knowing. Sometimes, a therapist can be accessible at school. If you do not feel like you can approach your teacher(s), approach a different teacher. I feel most teachers are trust worthy, as they dedicate their life to working with students. If school is not an option, there are therapists available via phone and online (here!). Do not trust everyone you talk to, but if you have someone you can trust, they may be able to connect you to an adult who can help. Getting a therapist connection can also be found at local hospitals, however, this may be specific to Canadians.

Before I answer this I must say that if you need help you should not hide it from them, they should be able to help. But if for some reason you do not want them to know, there are paths that can be taken. The first step is finding one, this can be hard depending on where you live, and whether or not the therapist requires that your parents know (but this is uncommon). Because of doctor patient privilege-confidentiality-they will not be able to tell anybody about what is said-unless the therapist determines that there is a serious and imminent threat of a patient physically harming self or others-so they can not tell anybody. The next step is finding the best time, you need to have a time that will not alert your parents that something is wrong.

Unfortunately, in many states you need consent from your parents for therapy if you are a minor. However, what you discuss with your therapist will be confidential unless you bring up self harm or suicidal thoughts/ideation. You can maybe try talking to your school guidance counselor if you don't want your parents finding out? However, therapy can be extremely helpful so I highly recommend talking to your parents or a trusted adult who can help you figure out a way to get the help you rightfully deserve. It can be scary opening up about your mental health with your parents. But taking the first step to reach out for help can be highly beneficial!

If you are a minor and attending school, the best way is to talk to a school counselor. If you are a minor and not attending school, you can check the local laws about minors seeking therapy. However, in case you need urgent help, go immediately to the nearest hospital. You know you need immediate help when you have a problem that can't wait, when you don't feel safe or you're feeling that your emotions got heavier than usual, when you're having ideas about harming yourself or someone else, and when you experienced something traumatic, such as a sexual assault, bullying or being present in a violent scene. If you are an adult, you can talk to a therapist freely without letting your parents know. Keep in mind however that having people around you for help is primordial, and that you need to inform someone you trust about your situation.