How to Convince a Parent to Go to Therapy

Convincing a parent to go to therapy can be challenging. Despite your best efforts, you may come up short to explain why your parent should consider this option. Yet, the longer your parent forgoes treatment, the more likely it becomes that harm can occur.

If you’re struggling to persuade a parent to go to therapy, you’re not alone. Here are tips to help you convince your parent that now’s the right time to receive therapy.

 

1. Put Your Parent’s Best Interests Front and Center

Do not demand your parent go to therapy. Instead, approach your parent with love and empathy. Explain why you believe therapy is in your parent’s best interests at this time. Teach your parent about this option and how it can help him or her.

In addition, be ready to respond to your parent’s concerns and questions. This can help break down any communication barriers regarding therapy between you and your parent. It also allows you to show your parent that you want what’s best for him or her.

 

2. Validate Your Parent’s Concerns

Resist the urge to jump to conclusions about your parent’s decision to forgo therapy. Listen to what your parent has to say about their decision. From here, you can get insights into your parent’s decision-making process. You can validate your parent’s concerns and try to alleviate them as well.

For example, a parent may choose to ignore therapy due to financial concerns. Or, a parent may be fearful about the potential side effects of treatment. In such instances, work with your parent to address their concerns. That way, you and your parent can try to find common ground regarding their health and wellbeing. And you may be better equipped than ever before to convince your parent to move forward with treatment.

 

3. Share Your Personal Experience

If you or someone you know has been to therapy, share the experience with your parent. This gives your parent a firsthand look at what it’s like to go. Your parent can ask questions and concerns and get additional insights to help him or her make an informed decision regarding treatment.

Also, it can be helpful to meet with a therapist. This allows you and your parent to share any concerns or questions with a professional.

 

Be Persistent As You Try to Help Your Parent Go to Therapy

Therapy can be beneficial, but your parent must agree to go. If he or she does not, continue to promote this option moving forward. Because, even though your parent may not consent to the option right now, their situation can change. If it does, you can help your parent sign up for treatment and get the best results out of it.

Lastly, if you want home care services for your parent, Anodyne can help. We provide access to one of the largest home care workforces in Massachusetts. Our team can put you in touch with fully trained home caregivers. To find out more, please contact us today.