What to Do If Your Teen Refuses to Go to Counseling

Some teens are happy to go to therapy. They enjoy talking to an objective adult who can assist with some of their problems. But not all teens are on board with therapy, and convincing a reluctant teen to go to counseling can feel like an uphill battle.

Should You Force Your Teen to Get Treatment?

A teen who feels forced to get treatment isn’t likely to be motivated to change. So even if they get dragged to their appointments, they aren’t likely to talk about their issues—at least not in a productive manner.

That’s not to say you shouldn’t make it mandatory that your teen attend at least a few appointments.

Sometimes, a skilled therapist can help a teen feel more comfortable after a few sessions. And sometimes, a teen who tells you they hate therapy or that they don’t need help might be talking openly to a therapist.

How to Bring Up the Subject With Your Teen

If you think your teen might need counseling, the way you bring up the subject is very important. The first conversation you have will likely set the tone for your teen’s attitude about therapy.

It’s common for teens to be embarrassed by their problems and it can be hard for them to admit they need help. So it’s important to avoid sending a message that could cause feelings of shame.

Share why you think counseling is important and how it could be helpful. Ask for input from your teen and be willing to listen to your teen’s opinions.

Talk to Your Teen’s Doctor

Even if your teen isn’t willing to listen to your recommendations about how counseling can be helpful, they may be willing to listen to their doctor. Your child’s doctor may be able to explain how counseling works and how treatment could address the symptoms.

Options for When Your Teen Refuses Counseling

If your teen refuses to go to counseling, don’t despair. You still have several options about how to get help.

• Seek counseling on your own without your teen. Often, parent-training can be one of the most effective ways to help teens. A therapist may be able to teach you how to coach your child. If your teen knows you’re going to counseling to talk about them, they might also be interested in going to share “their side” of the story.
• Speak with your teen’s school guidance counselor. Discuss whether there are any services available within the school system to help your child. A teen who won’t meet with a counselor outside of school may be willing to speak with a guidance counselor.
• Create a contract with your teen. If it’s a mild issue that you’re concerned about, create a contract with your teen. Tell your teen that they have to go to a certain number of sessions before they can make a decision about whether to continue treatment.
• Consider online counseling. Sometimes, teens who won’t speak to someone face-to-face will consider talking to a therapist online. Online treatment isn’t appropriate for every condition so it’s important to talk to a therapist or your teen’s physician about the potential pros and cons before you begin treatment.

Excerpted from “What to Do If Your Teen Refuses to Go to Counseling” in VeryWellMind. Read the full article online.

Source: VeryWellMind| What to Do If Your Teen Refuses to Go to Counseling, https://www.verywellmind.com/what-to-do-if-your-teen-refuses-to-go-to-counseling-2610463 |  Ⓒ 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc.

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