We’re glad you’ve come this far in your child’s psychological therapy journey. As sessions progress, it’s normal to have questions, feel shifts in motivation, or wonder about what’s next. This FAQ is designed to address common questions and offer practical strategies to help you navigate this journey alongside your child and continue their progress toward their goals.
The Therapy Process
Is it normal for therapy to feel more challenging over time?
Yes. As therapy progresses, your child may begin to explore deeper emotions and experiences, which can be uncomfortable. This discomfort often indicates that meaningful work is occurring. Your patience and encouragement during these times are invaluable.
It is also important to be aware that sometimes behaviours or the ‘problem’ can get worse before it gets better. Although this can feel worrying for parents, in many cases this is a normal and expected part of the therapeutic process.
I feel like my child should be “better” by now— are they progressing too slowly?
Therapy is not a race and progress is often gradual. Everyone’s journey is unique, and lasting and meaningful change takes time. Studies indicate that improvement often occurs on average within 10 to 12 sessions for mild to moderate concerns. However, for those experiencing more complex or chronic conditions or when there are other complicating factors involved, therapy may extend beyond 20 to 40 sessions to allow for deeper change and consolidation of skills. Therapy may span six months to a year, sometimes longer depending on need, though sessions may become more spaced out, e.g. from weekly to fortnightly or monthly, as progress is made.
How can I tell if my child is making progress?
Progress in therapy isn’t always linear. Signs of improvement can include:
- Increased self-awareness
- Better emotion regulation
- Positive changes in behaviour
- Improved communication
- Fewer tantrums/meltdowns
- Increased number of days attending school
- Improved parent-child connection
Regular communication with your child’s therapist can provide insights into their progress.
How long should my child keep going?
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer. Factors such as the severity of presenting concerns, number of goals and application of therapeutic work outside of sessions can affect the number of sessions required. Please know that we are always working to help your child achieve their goals in the shortest amount of time. Therapy isn’t meant to be forever. Speak to your therapist to guide you on what’s right for your child.
How Parents Support the Therapy Journey
How can I support my child’s therapy at home?
Your support can play a crucial role in the therapy process and enhance the effectiveness of therapy. Consider the following:
- Maintain Open Communication: Encourage your child to share their feelings and experiences.
- Reinforce Therapeutic Strategies: Practice coping techniques and exercises recommended by the therapist.
- Create a Supportive Environment: Foster a home atmosphere that is safe, predictable, and nurturing.
Should I be involved in therapy sessions?
Depending on your child’s age and the therapy approach, your participation may be encouraged. Involvement can range from attending sessions to implementing strategies at home. Discuss with the therapist the appropriate level of involvement for your situation.
Making the Most of Therapy
Is it okay to continue therapy even if my child seems better?
Yes. Feeling better does not necessarily mean recovery, so we encourage you to support your child to keep attending when they first ‘feel good’. They can do important work with their therapist when attending when they feel good. Research shows that more sessions lead to better outcomes, and consistent attendance supports meaningful progress. Continuing therapy can help solidify progress, integrate positive habits into daily life, and equip your child with tools to handle future challenges. We will always advise you if we feel therapeutic gains are no longer being made.
What if I’m unsure if the therapist is the right fit?
The therapeutic relationship is key, with research showing that the right fit is an important factor in treatment outcomes. If the relationship with your child’s therapist doesn’t feel quite right or you have concerns, please speak up and let’s address it, we promise we won’t be offended. Your therapist will welcome honest feedback and can help you find a better fit if needed. Feeling safe and supported is essential to your child’s success.
My child is struggling between sessions, what can I do?
That’s common and can be addressed in therapy. It might help to:
- Keep a journal of the situations or triggers
- Apply techniques or tools discussed in sessions
- Talk openly in your next session about your concerns or what’s not working. Therapy is a collaborative process and your therapist may adjust the approach or offer strategies to support your child outside the room.
How can I maintain my child’s progress when therapy is coming to an end?
Clients have better outcomes and a reduced risk of relapse when they complete treatment rather than stopping after some improvements. Properly concluding therapy by booking a final session provides an opportunity to reflect on progress, generalise learned skills, and establish a relapse prevention plan to maintain gains and develop tools to take on future challenges.
Practical Tips
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about your child’s condition and the therapeutic process.
- Be Patient: Recognise that progress takes time and may involve setbacks.
- Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and praise your child’s efforts and achievements, no matter how small.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek guidance or support for yourself. Your well-being is essential in supporting your child.
Your dedication and involvement are key components of your child’s therapeutic journey. By staying engaged, communicating openly, and fostering a supportive environment, you contribute significantly to their progress and well-being. If you have any questions, hesitations, or new goals, please bring them up—we’re here to support you every step of the way.