Parent Participation in Therapy Necessary: Why Treating the Child Isn't Enough

Parents: do you feel like you have no control over your child’s behavior? You have more influence than you think.

When a child acts out in anger, neglects schoolwork or displays signs of anxiety or depression, it’s easy for parents to think that they have no control in the matter. Taking your child to a therapist can help, but family therapy or relationship therapy is usually necessary for the best results. Parents play a key role in helping their children manage mental health issues.

Why Putting Children in Therapy Isn’t Enough

Many studies indicate that the evidence-based methods used in child therapy are effective for treating mental health problems. But children live in the context of a family unit. A behavioral issue could be a reaction to something that’s going on at home. If the trigger isn’t addressed, the problem could continue regardless of the coping mechanisms the child learns.

Sometimes, parents unknowingly promote the power struggles that they hope to alleviate through child therapy. They might not give their children enough positive attention, leaving young ones to seek it in negative ways.

Children may adopt certain behaviors to get a rise out of their parents. They might act out unhealthy patterns that they learned in early childhood.

What Parents Gain from Attending Therapy with Children

Marital problems can also negatively impact children’s mental health. Let’s take yelling, for example. Research shows that children who grow up in homes with consistent yelling are more likely to develop emotional issues, such as anxiety. Children can learn to manage their feelings in therapy, but their hard work may be reversed when they go home to loud voices and harsh language. In cases such as these, parents need to learn how their actions affect their kids.

Many adults might feel like they need to defend their parenting when their child exhibits psychological or behavioral issues. But their feelings can create a charged environment that is not conducive to open communication. Family therapy can create a neutral atmosphere where parents and children work together to develop better understanding and take on healthy roles to influence change.

Benefits of Going to Family Therapy

Going through family counseling with their parents can help children get the ongoing support that they need. When trauma is a factor, parents can get a better understanding of the trauma by joining their children in therapy.

Below are some ways that family therapy helps parents and children: • Parents learn tips for helping their kids through tough emotions at home. • Two-way communication is enhanced. • Children feel heard, seen and nurtured.

When adults understand why their children think or behave a certain way, they will feel more prepared to help them cope. Children can explore new concepts when they know that they can rely on their family for unconditional support.

Looking for a therapist who can work with your child and your family? Please feel free to reach out!

Why Treating Just Your Child May Not Be Enough