I want to see a therapist. How do I tell my parents?
416 Answers
Moderated by Danielle Johnson, MSED, Community mental Health Counseling, LMHC
Updated: Jun 10, 2022
eliaphant
on
Feb 21, 2018
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Tell your parents whats going on (it doesn't have to be full of details) and then simply ask them if you can see a therapist!
KaraFootball
on
Feb 21, 2018
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One of the best ways to do this is to sit your parents down and tell them you are struggling. Most parents just want their kids to be healthy and happy, and if you tell them the truth, they’ll usually understand.
carefreeHeart57
on
Feb 23, 2018
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Honesty is the best policy. Think about what you want to say in advance. Be clear, concise and factual. By approaching them in an adult manner without drama or being overly emotional, they will take you seriously and listen to your concerns.
Remember your parent care about you deeply. They will want to help you if they can.
Pumpkin74
on
Feb 28, 2018
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Be honest with them! You could write a letter explaining what you need and why you want to see a therapist. The more open you are to communication with them, the more they will support this idea. While you may not wish to reveal all of your personal life to your parents, there are some things you can share with them which will open up the doors of communication as a family. Remember, parents believe they can fix everything and would like to be involved as much as they can.
artsickprince
on
Mar 1, 2018
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Bring up things that your mental health has been holding you back from. Your grades, your relationships, etc. Tell them that you want to get better and that you think therapy will be beneficial for you. Give them time, they probably don't want to believe that you have been struggling without their knowledge.
elissforyou
on
Mar 1, 2018
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Try telling them how are you feeling, caus there's nothing to be embarrassed about. They will understand your choice if they care about you!
Anonymous
on
Mar 8, 2018
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I think you should just tell them the truth. Tell them everything. Not if they don't understand you, you should still go see a therapist. Let your parents guide you but if they do not support you on your journey of healing, then don't let their words stop you.
snakeskins
on
Mar 8, 2018
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That can be really scary. If you've got a good relationship and can trust them, be honest and straightforward with them. If they care about you they'll appreciate your honest and be happy you opened up to them.
WantToHelpp
on
Mar 9, 2018
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Talk to the one you’re more comfortable with. Tell them what you’re feeling. Tell them that it’s too hard to handle on your own and you need to see a professional.
Anonymous
on
Mar 24, 2018
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From personal experience, I found it really helpful to explain to my parents how I was feeling and show them that I was really struggling. This helped them to understand that I did in fact need help and so we came all came to the group decision that therapy was the best option.
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