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I want to see a therapist. How do I tell my parents?

248 Answers
Last Updated: 06/10/2022 at 3:14pm
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
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Danielle Johnson, MSED, Community mental Health Counseling, LMHC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Sometime situations and feelings can be so strong that we struggle to function. You are not alone! My practice is flexible and open-minded and tailored to your personal needs.

Top Rated Answers
Anonymous
July 30th, 2018 9:52am
I would suggest you to go talk to your parents the first chance you get. Approach the subject directly and see how their reaction is. Sometimes we don't realise that they are on the same wave length as ours and maybe sometimes they are no way near. If your case is the latter one, then make them understand that talking to a therapist in most situation is very helpful. Sometimes all you need is a third persons perspective. I wish you the best with your parents. Just go ahead and approach the subject instead of overthinking it.
listeninglion12
July 6th, 2018 4:47pm
you should be open and honest with what you want to do. maybe have a sit down conversation with them and tell them why you want to go and they can offer help too!
Samar27
November 30th, 2018 12:21am
It must have been such a struggling thought for you. You can start by opening up to them, and sharing your feelings and thoughts with them. You can also tell them how things are bad and how they are becoming worse. You can tell them what you are going through, how you are feeling, and what is the problem. Telling them that you need a therapist as nothing is helping you out could be a way. I know it might be hard and makes you feel really anxious, but it's probably a good way to avoid what could happen if you didn't ask for help, and just let it the way it is.
lbsharron777
April 8th, 2018 1:18pm
Seeing a therapist is not a scary thing. Therapists specialize in helping clients sort through emotional issues and find real solutions to every day problems. Beware some therapists though are more interested in salary than actually helping someone. Look up the therapist's name and practice online - do your research - and then make a decision based on the person's medical ratings.
Izzyhappybubbles
January 2nd, 2020 6:06am
Everyone needs someone to talk to. Whether it be a friend, parent, family member, teacher, or therapist. So everyone should understand someone's need to talk to someone. The trouble comes when that person does not understand why you need to specifically talk to a therapist. If your parents don't automatically say yes, your job is to help them understand. This is important, please do not give up because you were told no. Explain how you are feeling. Explain that a therapist is trained for the job of listening. Explain what you hope to get and learn from therapy. Explain that you need more than what peers and family can give you.
peacelovekasey
March 2nd, 2018 1:28am
I think you should just tell them. They are your parents, after all. If you don't feel comfortable, you can see a counsellor or psych at your school, if they offer that service. You can ask them not to talk to your parents about this, as they are obliged to keep their confidentiality agreement. But, if you are thinking about seriously harming yourself or someone else, they have to break it, and you should tell your parents.
Anonymous
November 2nd, 2017 2:45am
Approaching parents about our needs to see a professional is nothing to be hesitant about. Your parents care for your health and they would understand. The simplest way would be to sit down with them and have a family discussion. They will ask questions like Why do you think you need this? What made you arrive to this conclusion? You need to make sure that you answer them honestly and frankly. I had to tell my mum that I knew something was wrong with me but I didn't know what. I told her that a professional would help me figure out if it was something to be concerned about or was it more internal and they would help me work through my demons.
Raeitsokay
September 21st, 2017 10:26am
When yo need to see a therapist, Its important you tell the parent you trust more first. Before speaking to them plan out how you may tell them for example you may want to write down what were your problems and go over how you could say this to them. However I must note that this can possibly take a very long time, which is more than okay being honest and amitting you need help can take a while so take your time and conquer it slowly that way it will be easier to talk about. When your ready talk to your parent/s in a room that you feel comfortable in and safe. Make sure that you have their attention and that this was time put aside for this chat. You can start of slowly if you want, or if you feel like it would be better you can go straight to the point. Some parents may ask questions some might be passive but you will need to be honest in this conversation. You need to be because they will be more inclined to see that there is a genuine issue you have that needs to be sorted out.
brightForest97
August 10th, 2017 3:23am
I'm glad you want to get help, and while telling your parents can be tricky, always try to remember that you can tell them as much or as little as you wish. I recommend telling your parents at a time when everyone is calm, maybe over dinner or another time when you're all sitting down and calm. You could tell them as little as "I've been going through some difficult stuff, and I think it would help me if I could talk to a professional." If you feel comfortable enough, you can reveal a little bit more of what you're going through, but try not to feel pressured. Your feelings are your feelings.
CheerfulSomething
March 18th, 2017 2:42am
I've found that the best way is to be honest with your parents and tell them. All kinds of people goes to see therapists at many different points in their lives and hopefully your parents will be understanding. A good way to tell your parents is to sit down together and in a calm way you can tell them how you have been feeling lately and why you think it would be a good idea to see a therapist. Best of luck!
marvelousBlossom86
March 16th, 2017 7:41am
Explain to them that you want to see a therapist in a calm manner. Be assertive and insist that you think this is the best course of action for you.
Kyra0608
October 29th, 2014 1:00am
The best way to tell them is to come right out and say it. tell them you feel a therapist is neccesary, im sure they will understand.
Anonymous
March 4th, 2020 11:37am
You should always be open about your mental health to family members because they do love you, and if it’s a budget problem then places such as school and work can provide such assets to you to help you get the help that you need (or even the answers if it’s just simply discussions) Some parents may not be so understanding which may scare individuals to open up about it, but it never hurts to just simply be open about what is on your mind. The worst that could happen is that they would disagree and there are always online sources if it comes down to it as well!
MissLisa
August 18th, 2019 6:17pm
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
September 1st, 2019 4:47pm
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
October 2nd, 2019 4:41am
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
November 27th, 2019 10:31pm
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 it”
Arial120
December 25th, 2019 10:39pm
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 :)
Anonymous
April 14th, 2022 3:28am
Find a time that you and your parents are comfortable with and gently tell that you would like to see a therapist. You can give a small reason or a deeper reason as to why you would like to see a therapist; how much you share depends on how much you wish to share with your parents. Try to keep your tone light and calm; do not speak with a demanding tone as this will make your parents (or anyone) less willing to hear to what you have to say. If your parents are against you going to see a therapist, ask them why. Do not begin to go against the judgement right away; first hear with what they have to say then share your own feelings. This will make it so that your parents are more willing to hear to what you have to say as you are willing to hear to what they have to say.
Anonymous
December 26th, 2019 6:28pm
If you are going through something that is greatly bothering you and you want to see a therapist, telling your parents is tough. I would recommend talking with them when they are not busy and nobody else is around. At home is a good option. If one the parent is not so understanding, talking to the parent who is the most understanding first will do. Letting your parents know what you are going through will ease your thoughts and hopefully give you the support you need. No one should go through their dark times alone. If you can't find support from your parents, letting a friend, relative, or another adult figure know is great.
Womerz
March 31st, 2022 12:33am
I think this can be such a hard subject to broach, especially if you do not have an open dialogue within your house about mental health. I think you need to be very courageous and come out with it. Hopefully they will understand and support you. If not, sometimes it can take some convincing. Explain to them that mental health is just as important as physical health and how exactly it impacts your life. It is hard and takes a lot of bravery to be vulnerable, but not only will it help you towards getting the support you need, it will stregthen the dynamic between you and your parents :)
Anonymous
January 19th, 2020 12:52am
It is your choice on how you tell your parent that you want to see a therapist or a councillor etc. First of all, you should be proud of yourself for reaching this stage on your journey and realising that you can get the help and support that you need. Try by telling your parents how you have been feeling lately or what issue has been bothering you. You could mention how it feels like the best choice for you at the moment and how you need a professional to receive support, and diagnosis. Remind them how you feel and what has led you too this moment. Good luck.
SarahSoftWords
January 19th, 2020 6:12am
First decide for yourself that you want to go. Then take the first step, I know it's hard to start that conversation but it's needed and you can say as much or as little as you feel comfortable with sharing. For me I went to my mom and just said hey Mom I'm wanting to see a counselor I gave her the reason of anxiety but I didn't go into it more than that and just guided the conversation as best I could. She said she doesn't think they can help with that but I told her well I'd like to at least try it. It was that first step that has me now going.
ElliotAnxiety17
January 23rd, 2020 12:43am
I struggle with this myself. Telling a parent you need or want therapy is not only stressful for yourself, it's also stressful for parents. Your parents could be worried about you and try to ask why. They could also refuse and get mad. While I'm not very knowledgeable about what to do if they get mad, I think coming clean is the best option for both. If you have a really good relationship with them, then you can tell them if you are comfortable. If you aren't, and you believe they really care, then you could just tell them you aren't ready to tell them. Ask them if you could try and get more at peace with yourself and your confidence about this before you tell them. I hope it goes well!
Anonymous
February 29th, 2020 7:53pm
I think that the best option is telling them the truth straight. I know it can be hard, but if you are considering seeing a therapist you are probably on the edge. Seeking help is the best way you can go in this stage. BUT on the other side, I don't think too much emotions would help. If I was in this point of my life I would talk with them in a realistic way with minimum emotions. I don't want to make them feel guilty or failure. The point should be to tell and make clear, not blame anyone.
Anonymous
July 1st, 2020 7:02pm
I'm glad you are open to the idea of seeing a therapist! The first step in getting help is often acknowleding that you need help or could benefit from it. When it comes to talking to your parents about this, one thing to consider is your own comfort level. I understand that this can be a scary moment in your life, but try to make it easy on yourself! Would talking to them in person be most comfortable for you? If not, would you feel more comfortable speaking to them virtually (over the phone, zoom, etc)? What if you wrote them a letter? It is important that you talk to them about this if it'll help you access the help you need. Just know that there are MANY ways you can communicate with someone - and you are free to chose the option that makes you the most comfortable!
SparklyCierra
June 14th, 2020 2:13pm
This topic can be a tough one for many people. Parents want to be the best they can be and they may feel ashamed or guilty when they realize their child has been suffering in some area of their life. Some parents may not be well-educated in mental health, so the conversation may require more explaining to them. Also, some cultures have a more negative stigma to mental health issues than others. Either way, it's important that when you realize that you would benefit from professional help, that you receive the help you need. I've added a few tips below, so feel free to use what may apply to your situation and what might not. 1. Be prepared to answer questions Your parents will most likely want to know why you feel that you need professional help. This most likely comes from a place of concern or confusion, as your condition might not be obvious to them. If you have a hard time talking about the feelings you're going through, you might find it helpful to write it out. 2. Don't place blame Even if your parents are causing you stress, blaming them will most likely create conflict and not get you the help you need. Some parents may blame themselves or tell you, "You should be happy, you have everything you could ever want!" If you find that happening, responding something like, "Yes, I should be happy, but I'm not. And I want to get help so I can fully enjoy my life." This can help them understand that you're not trying to complain about your current situation, you're trying to fix it. 3. Don't do it alone If this is a hard conversation for you to have, don't do it alone. You might find it help to talk with a teacher, school counselor, church member, or your doctor first. They may be able to help you talk with your parents and provide them with the proper resources to get you help. These were just a few small tips, but I hope they help navigate this conversation. Everyone deserves to feel heard and understood. I wish you the best on your mental health journey!
goldenSeal9624
June 25th, 2020 11:15pm
Let your parent know you wish to talk with an adult about some things you have going on, and that you want this person to be completely objective to your situation (in other words, the adult/counselor doesn’t love you like your parent(s) do, so they will be able to guide you with basic, non-influenced decision-making in a way that family members generally cannot). Assuming you are not in danger, reassure your parent(s) that you are not in danger and that you just need some support from another person in your life. If your parent does not respond well, it makes sense to end the discussion for the night
KACOSMIC
May 14th, 2020 7:51am
Talk about the reasons that you want to see a therapist, what is happening with you, explain carefully all that you are feeling and i'm sure they will support you. :) Choose one moment that you feel like it is the right moment to talk about it and simply throw out everything you are feeling, if you are hurt, tell them , just open yourself to them, do not be afraid to ask for help, specially to your parents. They will be always there to help and understand you, whatever it is. Wishing you luck and sending you positive energies.
Anonymous
July 12th, 2020 12:11pm
You go to them and tell them you want to talk about something imprtant. It's really scary but it's the best way and it works. They might be confused/angry but at the end of the day, they're your parents. When I told my mom, she didn't say anything but it all got worked out very soon. I'm in a much better place now and you wil be too, very soon. It's scary, very scary but once you tell them, it helps a lot. trust me on this. One day, you might look back and you'll know you did theright thing