Practical guidance
How to explain therapy to a child
A simple, honest explanation usually helps more than a long or overly reassuring one.
Explain the purpose without blaming
You might say: “We have noticed that things have felt difficult lately. Kevin is someone children can talk to and play with when feelings or situations are hard to understand.” Avoid presenting therapy as a punishment or as proof that something is wrong with the child.
Describe what will happen
Tell the child where the meeting will take place, who will attend and that there may be talking, drawing or play. Do not promise that they will never feel nervous; acknowledge that meeting someone new can feel strange.
Give the child some agency
They can ask questions and say how the meeting felt. Adults still take responsibility for arranging necessary care, but the child should not feel tricked or transported to an unexplained appointment.
Respect confidentiality
Explain that the therapist will not report every detail to parents, while adults will act if someone is unsafe. This creates a realistic basis for trust.