Introducing Therapy to Your Child
- Emily Millar
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
A guest blog by Emily Millar, a Registered Psychotherapist who supports kids, teens, and caregivers.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, both for kids and parents. Whether your child is struggling with big emotions, navigating friendships, or just moving through a tough season, opening up a gentle conversation about what therapy is can make all the difference.
When children understand that therapy is a safe place to share, learn, and grow, it can help them feel more comfortable - even curious or excited - about the experience.
Below, you’ll find a simple script you can read aloud or use as inspiration when introducing therapy to your child. Of course, you are invited to make it your own and adapt it in a way that fits your child’s age, personality, and comfort level.
A Gentle Script for Introducing Therapy to Your Child:
Life can be so wonderful, especially as a kid. We have so many happy times—doing fun things, playing outside at recess, games with friends, movie nights with our family, and so much more.
And the truth is, being a kid can be hard sometimes too… Tricky or tough moments happen to everyone.
When something feels extra tricky, there are special grown-up helpers with kind hearts—and they’re called therapists or counsellors.
When you visit someone like that, you might talk, play, draw, or create. In their space, there are usually toys, board games, books, puppets, craft supplies, and sometimes even a sand tray!
It’s a safe place with a caring person where you might laugh, cry, or even feel proud of something new you’ve learned.
Therapy is a place to be YOU. A place to learn how to handle big feelings, take calming breaths, and try new tools that can help.
Click below for a free download of the above script for introducing therapy to your child!
You’re not alone in this journey. If you have questions or need help finding the right words for your child, treating Clinicians can absolutely support you in finding the wording that feels good to you.
Featured Books
Suitable for families at home, in schools, or in session, this beautifully illustrated resource helps prepare kids for therapy and lets them know what to expect- allowing them to feel supported, empowered, and confident.Â
Interested in more supportive reads for navigating big feelings and tricky situations? Check out this LibraryÂ
This One is for YOU, Parents
Are you an adult pondering therapy? Check out this read: 5 Signs it’s a Good Time to Start Therapy published on Psychology Today.Â
Having a hard time finding the right fit? The Psychology Today website is a great place to start. Think of it like a website of dating profiles, in the sense that therapists share details about their specialties, credentials, approach, and personality, so you can get a feel for who might be the best match for you (or your child).
Above all, trust yourself. You know your child best, and showing up with honesty, care, and openness is already enough. Thanks for being here with care!
Meet Emily! A wonderful Registered Psychotherapist who supports kids, teens, and caregivers through the ups, downs, and in-betweens of growing up. Emily Millar blends evidence-based approaches like CBT with mindfulness, creativity, and play - because healing isn’t about sitting still and talking, it’s about connection and real-life tools that help young people thrive.
*Please note that Emily has her own practice and is not a staff member at WonderTree*
Learn more about Emily and her services HERE!
Emily Millar, Registered PsychotherapistÂ
Website: emily-millar.com Â
Instagram: @emmillartherapy
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IMPORTANT: Information shared by WonderTree is not intended to replace or be constituted as clinical or medical care. It’s intended for educational purposes only. Each child is unique, and the information provided may not be applicable to your specific situation. If you need support, please establish care with a licensed provider so that they can provide tailored recommendations for you or your child. This blog is non-monetized.