5 Myths about Therapy for Kids and Teens

As a licensed professional counselor and school counselor for 15 years, I've encountered numerous misconceptions about therapy services for children and teens. These myths can prevent families from seeking the support they need. Let's debunk five common myths:

Myth 1: Therapy is only for severe mental health issues.

• Fact: Therapy can benefit children and teens dealing with a wide range of

  concerns, from everyday stress and anxiety to more complex challenges.

• Example: Sarah, a 9-year-old girl, struggled with low self-esteem. Through therapy, she learned coping strategies and developed a more positive self-image.

Myth 2: Talking to a therapist means your child is "crazy."

• Fact: Seeking therapy is a sign of strength and self-awareness, not weakness or "craziness."

• Example: When 14-year-old Arjun's parents suggested therapy, he initially resisted, fearing judgment from peers. However, therapy helped him manage his depression and improve his relationships.

Myth 3: Therapy is just a bunch of talk without real solutions.

• Fact: Therapists use evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to provide practical tools and strategies.

• Example: Through CBT, 16-year-old Emily learned to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, leading to reduced anxiety and improved coping skills.

Myth 4: Therapy is too expensive.

• Fact: While many insurance plans cover therapy sessions as an in-network service, many insurance plans cover therapy sessions through your out of network benefits coverage. It is always a good idea to check with your insurance company to learn more about these benefits if you are planning to seek therapy services for your child (or yourself). Most insurance companies will typically reimburse you 60-80% of your session fee.

Myth 5: Therapy is only for the child, not the whole family.

• Fact: Family involvement is often crucial to a child's progress in therapy.

• Example: When 8-year-old Liam struggled with anger management, his therapist incorporated parent feedback sessions to teach effective communication and conflict resolution skills.

By debunking these common myths, we can help more children and teens access the support they need to thrive. If you have concerns about your child's mental health, don't hesitate to reach out to a qualified therapist.