It can be difficult for parents to talk to their child about counseling. I often hear parents say they worry that their kid will think something is wrong with them if they go to counseling. It helps children if you explain to them what a counselor does and how they help.
normalize therapy - reassure your child that therapy is common. If you have been to therapy yourself, talk to your child about the benefits you got from going.
start the conversation during a calm time - it isn't best to bring up going to counseling during an argument or meltdown. Wait until things have calmed down to have the discussion.
talk to them about who a counselor is - counselors are different from a parent or teacher and a counselor doesn't get offended or have their feelings hurt.
include your child in the process - talk to your child about what to expect during a session and keep it simple. This can include playing board games, reading books, playing with sand or water, art, music, talking, etc. Have your child discuss things they would like to do in counseling and what they would like to get out of the sessions.
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