Starting your child’s therapy journey can feel like a big step—and that’s okay. As a parent, you may feel a mix of hope, uncertainty, and even nervousness about what’s ahead. It’s normal to wonder how your child will respond, what therapy will look like, and how it can actually help.
The first therapy session is all about building rapport, creating a safe and supportive environment, and laying the foundation for healing. Whether your child is struggling with anxiety, behavior challenges, grief, or life transitions, therapy is a powerful tool to help them develop healthy coping skills and process their experiences.
Here’s what to expect from that first appointment—and how you can best support your child as they begin.
It Starts With Comfort and Connection
The first session is not about jumping straight into problems. Instead, it focuses on building trust and helping your child feel comfortable in a new setting. Therapists know that children open up best when they feel emotionally safe and not pressured.
You might hear your child talk about playing a game, drawing pictures, or using toys in their session. These aren’t distractions—they’re intentional tools for communication. Depending on the child’s age and what they respond to, therapists may use art therapy, sand trays, role-playing, or other forms of creative expression to gently explore emotions and experiences.
The goal of the first session isn’t to get all the answers. It’s to begin a therapeutic process built on connection, curiosity, and trust.
You May Be Involved—Especially Early On
Depending on the child’s age and developmental stage, parents or caregivers are often included in the first session. The therapist may begin by speaking with you and your child together, then meeting with each of you separately for part of the session.
This time allows the therapist to gather important background about your child’s life, including:
- Family history and family dynamics
- Behavioral concerns or recent changes
- Academic and social experiences
- Stressors, transitions, or trauma
Your insights matter—and the therapist will also want to hear from your child in their own way and at their own pace.
Every Child Is Different
What happens in a first therapy session varies greatly based on age, personality, and emotional readiness. Some kids are shy and reserved. Others jump right into talking or playing. All responses are valid.
Therapists are trained to meet children where they are developmentally and emotionally. So the pace and structure of the therapeutic process will always adjust to fit your child’s unique needs. Depending on the child, the first few sessions might focus primarily on establishing trust and routine before addressing deeper concerns.
Remember: therapy is a relationship, not a quick fix. And like any relationship, it takes time to build.
Types of Therapy for Children
There are many types of therapy designed to support children and adolescents, and the approach your therapist uses will depend on your child’s specific challenges and personality.
Some common approaches include:
- Child-centered play therapy – allows children to express themselves through play, which is their natural language.
- Art therapy – gives kids tools to communicate feelings that may be too big or complex for words.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – helps older children and teens recognize unhelpful thought patterns and build coping strategies.
- Family therapy – explores family dynamics and supports improved communication and connection within the home.
Your therapist will explain what approach they recommend and how you’ll be involved moving forward.
How You Can Support Your Child
One of the most powerful things you can do as a parent is normalize therapy. Let your child know that therapy is a safe space where they can talk about anything without fear of judgment or punishment. You might say:
- “Therapy is a place where you can share your thoughts and feelings.”
- “Your therapist is here to help, just like your doctor helps your body.”
- “It’s okay if you don’t want to talk right away. Just being there is a great start.”
Avoid pressing your child for details after each session. Instead, let them share if and when they’re ready. Trust the therapeutic process and the professional guiding it.
The first therapy session is just the beginning. Over time, therapy can help your child feel more confident, build healthy coping skills, and gain tools to navigate life’s challenges. Whether your child is facing anxiety, grief, behavioral struggles, or simply needs a little extra support, therapy offers a safe path toward healing.
At GROW Counseling, we specialize in working with children and families in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Peachtree City, and surrounding areas. Our team of experienced therapists creates a warm, welcoming space where children can express themselves, grow emotionally, and feel understood.
Ready to start your child’s therapy journey? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can support your family.
