Helping Your Child Overcome Resistance to Therapy Treatment
/As a parent, finding out that your child needs therapy can be overwhelming. Not surprisingly, the news can be even more worrisome for your child.
It can often be difficult to convince your child to to willingly attend therapy, especially when they are unsure of what they need or the process involved. Having worked with families in the Philadelphia and the Philly suburbs for over 30 years, I’ve figured out some helpful ways to get kids into the office for treatment and keep them in therapy once they come for their initial intake – and wanted to briefly these pearls with you.
Understand your child's perspective
Your child may resist therapy treatment for numerous reasons. For instance, your child may feel like they are not in control of what is happening or embarrassed about the situation. Take time to listen to your child's concerns and acknowledge their feelings. Understanding your child's perspective and letting them know that their feelings are valid is essential in getting them to attend therapy and engage in the process.
Build a relationship with a therapist
Every child is unique, and finding a therapist who can cater to your child's specific needs is crucial. Building a relationship with a therapist before the actual appointment can help create trust between your child and the therapist. Also, it can help ease your child's fear of the unknown and create a positive attitude towards therapy.
Use activities
In some cases, young children find it difficult to articulate how they feel. It is essential to note that play and interaction is the natural language of children. Incorporating activities such as drawing, playing with clay or toys, or engaging in storytelling can help children express their feelings naturally. These activities can also help break the ice and make the therapy process feel less intimidating
Reward good behavior
Recognizing and rewarding good behavior can help motivate children to continue attending therapy. Rewards do not have to be material things; they can be as simple as praising their efforts or validating their emotions. Celebrating milestones and progress can reinforce positive attitudes towards therapy and make it feel less like a burden.
Be patient
At the beginning of treatment, I also acknowledge that many children have previously attempted therapy and convinced their parents that they were not benefiting from it. This resistance often arises when the therapeutic work becomes challenging. I explain to them the importance of persevering through these barriers in order to achieve their desired outcome, such as a change in behavior. This holds true for children struggling with social anxiety. They may believe they can take a break during the summer because their anxiety only arises in school. However, attending therapy and engaging in structured work on social anxiety is crucial. Consistent weekly attendance is of utmost importance to maintain the momentum and progress. Ultimately, successful therapy treatment takes time and patience.
Consistency is key in helping your child overcome resistance to therapy.
Be patient and consistent, and over time, your child will gain a better understanding of the therapy process, feel more comfortable, and make progress.
In conclusion, therapy can be a daunting thought for any child. As a parent, you need to understand your child's perspective, build a relationship with a therapist, use activities, reward good behavior, and be patient. With these tips, you can help your child overcome resistance to therapy, make progress, and improve their overall well-being. Remember, therapy is not a quick fix, but a journey that requires effort and determination.
- Jennifer Nickels, MSW, LSW
independent contractor at NOVITSKY MD boutique mind doctors
Learn more about my experience and approach here.