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
Wittie96
on
May 23, 2019
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First of all congratulations for wanting to prioritize your mental health. If you want you can sit down both of your parents and explain that you want to make an appointment with your primary care physician. From that point you can explain to your primary care physician that you would like to see a therapist. This way you can have the support of your doctor on your side. Most likely what will happen next is the doctor will refer you to a therapist. Good luck on your journey and I hope this can help you even a little bit. Seeing a therapist for the first time can feel like a daunting task but you got this.
Anonymous
on
Jul 12, 2019
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this may be a hard thing to do, but it’s best to get help instead of stay in the dark!! a way to tell your parents that you want a therapist is to be straightforward, instead of beating around the bush or trying to give hints. not being clear can cause your parents to be confused on what you want. you can tell them that you’ve been dealing with some personal problems lately, and although you do trust your parents and their judgements, you want a trained professionals who really knows how to help you, and knows what is best for you.
welcomingwillow
on
Jul 20, 2019
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Seeing a therapist is a big step forward in wanting to relieve stress. Therapy isn't just for mental illnesses; Therapy can be as simple as making a one-time-appointment to talk to someone about a big project coming up. Opening up a conversation about seeing a therapist seems scary, right? It doesn't have to be. Saying "Hey mom/dad/guardian, I was wondering if you could make me an appointment with a therapist." If they start to ask you questions on why, just let them know you aren't comfortable with answering. Or, if you are willing to open up, sit them down and have a serious conversation.
Anonymous
on
Jul 24, 2019
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The best thing to do is be honest. Not everyone's family is supportive of their journey, but if you feel that seeing a therapist will help you and you need parental support whether its emotionally or financially, it is best to sit down with yoour parents and let them know whats going on with you. You don't have to get into the heavy details, but let them know how you've been feelings and make it clear that you have considered your options and feel that the best one for you is therapy. Just like when making an good argument, consider how they might react, think about what questions they might have and come to the conversation prepared to address their concerns. You have so much more to gain by being honest and transparent about your needs than you do from putting off getting help.
Anonymous
on
Aug 4, 2019
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Well, mental health is as important as physical health. Taking care of one self is our greatest responsibilty. Polite discussion with parents to make them understand your need is paramount. Communication is the key. Parents want our well being and if we feel that we need help then they would surely understand. We need to communicate freely and responsibly with parents and explain to them why we need to see a therapist. After all its our body and if we think therapy will make us feel better then that what we should be doing. Parents ultimately would definitely understand and agree with you for your well being.
MissLisa
on
Aug 18, 2019
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If you are wanting them to know you are wanting to go and see a therapist then be open and honest with them. Tell them that you are wanting to go and see a therapist, your reasons for wanting to do so and that you would like their support and encouragement. However telling your parents that you are going to see a therapist isn't for everyone and it is much better to not tell your parents and seek the help and support that you need than to not tell your parents and not seek the help from a therapist because you are worried what your parents will think. Just be mindful that most parents want the best for their children and therefore most parents will be proud that you are reaching out and seeking support.
FreedomToBe
on
Sep 1, 2019
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You can start off by first centering around your feelings which make you want to see a therapist. It is they who drive you to take this journey. They are evident to you and if you are in touch with them, they will become evident to your parents. Communicate with them from that point of reference. I know this can get voulerable, but it is honest and it is true. You cannot control your parent's reactions, readiness to hear you, nor their opennes. The important thing is that you stay true to your feelings, desires and way in life. We all have this inner sese in us. If things don't work out with your parents and they act negaitively, you can always rely on yourself and your sense of personal truth. This will never fail you and it will ultimately guide you towards the right help when the conditions are right.
Anonymous
on
Oct 2, 2019
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I would sit them down and explain to them that you need someone to talk to, you have issues you want to deal with and you think seeing a professional would be good for tot and your mental health. Your parents love and support you and they will be able to help you and will be understanding. The first step is admitting you need help then it’ll go by smoothly after that I think. Therapy is very beneficial and even your parents would probably go with you if tou wanted them too. They will understand! Good luck and I hope you get the help you need
Anonymous
on
Nov 27, 2019
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Your parents are there to love and protect you. Asking them may be scary, but you need to trust that they will listen. The worst they will say is no. Just believe in them. Once you ask there will be a weight lifted off of your shoulders l, and you will get the help that you need. If they say no, you need to do why you need. Ask any of you trusted friends or adults in your life. They too will be willing to listen. You need to believe in yourself and do what’s best for you. “ You can do itâ€
Arial120
on
Dec 25, 2019
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Hey! Ive had times when i wanted to see a therapist too! I had no one to help to, no one to who could understand me! I didnt want to tell my parents about it, because i didnt want to upset them! So i just looked up online and got help! Most of them require a payment, so if you have access to a card or anything cool, if you dont then you can look for a free place! You can always go and talk to your parents and explain your situation and make them understand your need to see a therapist! Parents will always want good for their children right?
Hope i could help :)
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