Seeing a psychologist for the first time

Hi there,

If you've decided that it's time to take your kid to see a child therapist then it's important you talk to them before your first visit.  Talking to an unfamiliar adult about things that make them anxious can be an uncomfortable experience for kids.  Letting them know ahead of time what to expect is a good idea. Here are some suggestions of what to say to them:

• You know how sometimes we have trouble doing (describe problem). I think it would be helpful if we went to see someone who can help us with that.  Sometimes I don't know the best way to help you.   That person is there to help me AND you. 
• The therapist will ask us questions in the beginning to understand what is going on. Then they will talk to us about things we would like to improve and together we come up with ideas that will help us (feel better, improve our study skills, etc.)
• It is okay if you feel uncomfortable talking about some things.  You do not have to talk about anything that makes you feel uncomfortable until you are ready to do so.
• You know how sometimes you feel frustrated with (mom, dad, siblings, etc.). You can talk to the therapist about things that upset you that you feel like you can't say to anyone. It is your time to talk about the things that matter to you. 
• Lastly, relate it to someone's experience with therapy who has had positive results. Describe how lots of kids see therapists for different reasons.  Once they start to feel better together we can decide if we still need to continue. 

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Dr. S