How Parents Make a Difference in Their Child's Mental Health

As a parent, you want what’s best for your child. And when your child is going through a tough time, it’s natural to want to do everything in your power to help them. One effective way to support your child is through counseling. Your involvement in your child’s counseling can make a significant difference in how effective it is. Here’s why parent involvement in counseling is crucial and how you can make the most of it.

Why is parent involvement in counseling crucial?

The role of parents in counseling is not just to provide transportation and pay the bills. Parents have a significant influence on their child’s mental health and well-being. They are often the first ones to notice changes in their child’s behavior and emotions. By being involved in counseling, parents can provide valuable information to the counselor, which can help them better understand the child’s struggles and tailor their approach to meet their specific needs.

Additionally, counseling can be an overwhelming and challenging experience for children, especially if they are reluctant to seek help. Having a supportive parent by their side can help them feel more comfortable and confident throughout the process. Furthermore, counseling is not a one-and-done solution. The skills and strategies learned in counseling must be practiced consistently, and parents play a critical role in reinforcing them outside of counseling sessions.

How can you be involved in your child’s counseling?

1. Find the right counselor.

Not all counselors are created equal, and finding the right one for your child is crucial. Look for someone who specializes in treating children and has experience working with issues similar to what your child is experiencing. You may also want to consider a counselor who uses evidence-based practices, which are proven to be effective in treating specific issues. 

2. Attend the initial session.

Attending the first counseling session with your child can be beneficial for both of you. It allows you to meet the counselor and ask any questions you may have. Additionally, your presence can help your child feel more comfortable and secure. At Strategies For Success, we offer an initial intake session to help better understand the child's needs and help choose which of our counselors may be best for their success.

3. Communicate with the counselor.

Communication between the counselor and parents is essential for the success of counseling. Talk to the counselor about your child’s needs and challenges and provide any relevant information that can help them better understand your child. Also, ask the counselor for feedback on how your child is progressing in counseling, what strategies are being used, and how you can reinforce them at home. Though we will not break confidentiality, we do have your child's best interests while at SFS and will share what will help them best at home.

4. Support your child at home.

The skills and strategies learned in counseling sessions must be practiced consistently outside of counseling. Support your child by helping them implement what they have learned and providing a safe and nurturing environment. Additionally, be patient with your child’s progress and acknowledge their efforts, even if they may not be seeing results immediately.

5. Be open-minded and non-judgmental.

Finally, it’s essential to be open-minded and non-judgmental throughout the counseling process. It can be challenging to see your child struggle, but it’s important to trust the counselor’s expertise and not undermine their recommendations. Additionally, avoid blaming your child or yourself for their struggles, as this can be counterproductive.

To sum it up, parent involvement in counseling can make a significant difference in your child’s mental health and well-being. By finding the right counselor, attending the initial session, communicating with the counselor, supporting your child at home, and being open-minded and non-judgmental, you can help your child navigate their challenges and develop the skills and strategies they need to thrive. Remember, counseling is not a quick fix, but with patience and consistency, you and your child can see lasting results.

Strategies For Success will help you as the parent to best support your child's mental health and well-being as they navigate the counseling process. To book an intake appointment, visit https://intakeq.com/booking/rivryx?categoryId=83a14485-7203-48be-8da0-2b274ce8ef9b and start the counseling process now. You can choose any of our five locations: Chandler, Gilbert, Casa Grande, Anthem, or Goodyear, Arizona! We even offer virtual sessions and will help you to choose the best solution for your child.