Taking your child to therapy can stir a mix of hope, worry, and a thousand questions. You want to support them well, understand the process, and make the most of each visit. Below are clear, compassionate questions you can use at appointments, so you leave informed and confident.
Before and during the first session
- What is your approach or therapy style? Ask how they explain their work with children (play-based, behavioral, family systems, CBT, etc.).
- How long will therapy likely take? Request a realistic timeline or milestones to watch for.
- What should we expect from today’s session? That helps reduce surprises for you and your child.
- How do you build trust with children? This clarifies how the therapist helps a child feel safe and engaged.
Understanding your child’s needs and goals
- What are the main goals you see for my child right now? Ask for measurable, short-term and long-term goals.
- How will you involve our family and me in the plan? Good therapy often includes parent coaching or family sessions.
- What strengths does my child have that we can build on? This shifts focus from problems to resources.
Practical process and communication
- How often will sessions be, and how long are they? Confirm frequency, session length, and typical duration.
- How do you communicate progress? Ask whether you’ll get regular updates by phone, email, or brief check-ins.
- What should I (or other caregivers) do between sessions? Request specific activities, language, or routines to reinforce progress at home.
- Who else will be involved in my child’s care? Clarify coordination with teachers, pediatricians, or other specialists.
Assessment, diagnosis, and confidentiality
- Will you perform assessments or use standardized tools? Ask what tests or checklists might be used and why.
- Do you expect to give a diagnosis? If yes, what does it mean for treatment and for school supports?
- What confidentiality rules apply? Understand what is private, when therapists must share information (safety concerns), and how school communication is handled.
Measuring progress and adjusting the plan
- How will we know therapy is working? Ask for signs, milestones, and examples you can observe at home or at school.
- When do you review or change the treatment plan? Good therapists reassess regularly and adapt as needed.
- What if my child resists or seems worse at first? Many children show temporary setbacks; ask how the therapist handles that.
School support and practical accommodations
- Can you provide documentation for school plans? Many therapists can write recommendations or collaborate with schools.
- What strategies should teachers use in class? Concrete, simple suggestions are most useful for educators.
Costs, logistics, and access
- Do you accept insurance, and what is covered? If not, ask about sliding scale options, session bundles, or community resources.
- What happens if we miss a session? Understand cancellation policies and make-up options.
- Are there teletherapy options? Remote sessions may be helpful during illness, travel, or if access is limited.
What to say to your child
- How should I explain therapy to my child? Ask for age-appropriate language and ways to reduce anxiety.
- How much should I involve my child in decisions? Therapists can advise on balancing support with the child’s autonomy.
You don’t have to ask all these questions at once. You can choose 3 to 5 questions that matter most to you before each appointment. Bring a small notebook or use your phone to jot down answers and any follow-up tasks. Therapy is a partnership, and clear questions help you, the therapist, and your child align toward helpful, measurable progress.
