How to Talk to Your Partner or Family About Starting Therapy

Talking about therapy can feel tough, but it’s an important step for mental and emotional well-being. Here’s what you need to know to make the conversation easier:

Why It Matters: Therapy improves emotional health (up to 90%) and can strengthen family relationships. Open discussions reduce stigma and encourage others to seek help.
Common Myths: Therapy isn’t only for crises. It’s about growth, not weakness, and offers tools for everyday challenges.
How to Start the Conversation:
- Use “I” statements to express your feelings.
- Share clear reasons for therapy, like challenges or goals.
- Pick a calm, private time for the talk.
Handling Resistance: Be patient, share facts, and address concerns like cost or confidentiality.

Starting therapy is a proactive way to improve your life and relationships. Keep the conversation supportive, open, and ongoing.

What Should I Expect at my First Family Therapy Session

Common Concerns About Starting Therapy

Talking about therapy can feel daunting, especially when myths and family beliefs come into play. However, addressing these concerns can open the door to meaningful conversations and better understanding.

Common Myths About Therapy

Many people shy away from therapy because of misconceptions – like the idea that it’s only for those in severe crises or that seeking help shows weakness. The truth? Therapy can benefit anyone dealing with everyday challenges, whether it’s work stress, relationship struggles, or personal growth.

"Therapy provides tools for solving problems and enhancing quality of life…You don’t have to go into past issues. You can be very focused on the present and specific problems you are targeting"

Here are some common myths about therapy and the truths behind them:

Myth	Reality
Therapy means something is wrong with you	Seeking therapy shows you care about your mental health and personal development
Therapists just give advice	They guide you in discovering your own insights and solutions
Therapy is always relaxing	Sessions can bring up both positive and challenging emotions
It’s a waste of time and money	Studies show therapy can lead to meaningful improvements in various areas of life

Beyond these myths, family values and cultural beliefs also play a big role in shaping attitudes toward therapy.

Handling Family Views on Mental Health

Family and cultural beliefs often influence how therapy is perceived. When faced with skepticism, it’s important to approach the conversation with understanding. The Annapolis Counseling Center highlights the value of open dialogue:

"Open communication not only helps reduce the stigma but also fosters stronger relationships. When family and friends understand what you or a loved one is going through, they are better equipped to offer the right kind of support"

Dr. Jenny C. Yip suggests using a personal approach when addressing doubts:

"Rather than finger-pointing, use the ‘I’ format, such as, ‘This is why I’m feeling it’s needed.’ Appealing to the other person’s emotions will help them understand why it’s important to you"

If you’re discussing therapy with family members who are hesitant, consider these steps:

Share accurate, reliable information to counter any misconceptions.
Emphasize that therapy is tailored to individual needs – there’s no single approach for everyone.
Address concerns about confidentiality and explain the professional standards therapists follow.

Changing deeply rooted beliefs takes time, so be patient as your family processes and adjusts. Small, consistent conversations can make a big difference.

Planning Your Discussion

Once you’ve addressed common concerns, the next step is to plan your conversation. Putting thought into preparation and choosing the right time and place can make your discussion about therapy much more effective.

Know Your Reasons

Start by identifying why you’re considering therapy. Dr. Julie Kolzet explains:

"When a therapist asks, ‘What brings you to therapy?’ they are seeking to understand the specific issues or goals that prompted you to seek help."

To prepare, reflect on these areas and ask yourself the following questions:

Area to Reflect On	Questions to Consider
Current Challenges	What specific challenges are disrupting your daily life?
Recent Changes	Have any major life events triggered these feelings or struggles?
Goals	What specific outcomes or improvements are you hoping to achieve?
Impact	How are these challenges influencing your relationships or well-being?

Having a clear understanding of your reasons will help you communicate them more effectively when the time comes.

Pick the Right Moment

The timing and setting of your conversation can play a big role in how well it goes. Here are a few key factors to consider:

Choose a Private, Calm Space
Find a quiet and comfortable environment where you can talk without interruptions.
Set Aside Uninterrupted Time
Dedicate enough time to have a meaningful discussion without feeling rushed.
Be Mindful of Their Schedule
Make sure the person you’re speaking with is in a calm and receptive state of mind.

It’s also important to remember that introducing the idea of therapy can sometimes be met with resistance. For example, Dr. Gottman’s research highlights that couples often wait an average of six years before seeking help for marital issues. Addressing therapy early could prevent further challenges down the road.

Having a Supportive Conversation

When it comes to discussing therapy, approaching the conversation with care and understanding is key. With thoughtful preparation, you can create an environment where meaningful dialogue can unfold. Here’s how to navigate these conversations effectively.

Words That Show You Care

The language you use matters. Empathetic words can make the other person feel safe and understood. One effective approach is to use "I" statements, which express your feelings without assigning blame. For instance, instead of saying, "You seem really stressed lately", you could say, "I’ve noticed that things have been challenging, and I care about your well-being."

Here are some examples of supportive phrases and their impact:

Situation	Supportive Phrase	Impact
Expressing Concern	"I’ve been thinking about us, and I want to support you better."	Shows personal care without placing blame.
Addressing Resistance	"I understand this might feel uncomfortable to discuss."	Acknowledges and validates their feelings.
Offering Support	"We can explore this together at your own pace."	Highlights partnership and eases pressure.

"Genuine validation of your partner’s interest in self-improvement and their efforts to prioritize their mental health can boost your relationship and give them the confidence they need to take on the work required in therapy".

Using these phrases can help set a compassionate tone for the conversation.

How to Begin the Talk

Starting the discussion can feel daunting, but timing and approach make a big difference.

For partners:

Pick a calm, relaxed moment when you’re both at ease.
Share your personal feelings about seeking support, making it clear this is about growth, not blame.
Frame therapy as a way to strengthen your relationship and build a better future together.

For children:

"We need to normalize therapy as a safe place to talk about emotions and feel better".

Avoid presenting therapy as a solution to a "problem." This can make children feel defensive. Instead, highlight that therapy provides a space to explore emotions and develop tools for well-being.

Answering Doubts and Questions

It’s natural for concerns to arise about therapy – whether it’s about cost, time, fear of judgment, or uncertainty about the process.

"Therapy is a powerful tool for personal growth, offering a space to process challenges, develop new skills, and create meaningful change".

Address these doubts by focusing on the positive outcomes: "Therapy equips you with tools to navigate life’s challenges more effectively, so you don’t have to face them alone. It’s not about weakness – it’s about growth". By emphasizing the benefits, you can help alleviate fears and encourage openness.

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Online Therapy Options

Online therapy sessions have made it simpler than ever to access mental health support, offering a practical way for families to begin healthier conversations. These virtual solutions close the gap between the need for care and the ability to access it, creating a more convenient path to therapy.

Benefits of Online Sessions

Virtual therapy has reshaped how people approach mental health care, making it more accessible and flexible. In fact, a study revealed that over 80% of participants felt online therapy was just as effective – or even better – than in-person sessions.

Here are some standout benefits:

Benefit	How It Helps	Impact on Family Life
Remote Access	Attend sessions from home or any private location	Saves time and eliminates the need for travel
Flexible Scheduling	Offers same-day and evening appointments	Makes it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules
Family Inclusion	Supports care for multiple family members	Promotes whole-family involvement in therapy
Extended Hours	Evening and Sunday sessions available	Reduces disruptions to daily routines

"Online therapy has increased access to care for many people while at the same time making therapy more convenient. Being able to readily access a licensed mental health professional in a convenient way has also decreased the stigma of reaching out for support."

Jill Daino, LCSW-R, BC-TMH, Talkspace therapist

Getting Started with Televero Health

Televero Health

Televero Health makes starting online therapy a smooth and straightforward process, removing many of the logistical barriers that can delay care. Their services are designed for individuals aged 5 to 95, offering an option that works for a wide range of family needs.

Here’s how to get started:

Fill out the Start My Care form.
Allow verification of your insurance benefits.
Schedule an initial consultation.
Get matched with a licensed provider.
Begin secure video sessions.

What Televero Health Offers:

A HIPAA-compliant virtual platform.
Bilingual providers (English and Spanish).
Same-day appointments.
Access via computer or smartphone.
Acceptance of insurance and Medicaid.

"The demand for behavioral health services continues to rise, and flexibility in scheduling is critical", says Ray Wolf, CEO of Televero Health. "By expanding our availability, we are removing barriers to care and ensuring more people can receive high-quality mental health support when they need it most."

Televero Health also uses a physician-led MD CARE™ model to deliver personalized treatment, making it easier for families to engage in therapy together.

Keeping the Conversation Going

Starting therapy is an important first step, but keeping the conversation alive is what makes lasting change possible. Ongoing communication is essential to ensure progress and to address any concerns that arise along the way.

Regular Check-ins

Having regular check-ins can make mental health discussions feel natural and routine. A consistent structure helps everyone stay on the same page while addressing progress and challenges early.

Here’s a simple way to organize check-ins:

Check-in Type	Frequency	Purpose	Approach
Quick Updates	Daily	Share basic feelings and needs	Casual chats during daily routines like meals or car rides
Progress Reviews	Weekly	Discuss therapy experiences and goals	Set aside focused time in a relaxed, distraction-free setting
Goal Assessment	Monthly	Evaluate progress and adjust objectives	Structured discussions with written notes for clarity

"Long-term burnout can be avoided by consistently rewarding yourself for small victories and celebrating them. Make time to reward yourself on a daily or weekly basis for the things you accomplish instead of stressing over a goal that is weeks or months away." – Bisma Anwar, LPC, LMHC

When checking in, remember to:

Listen actively: Show genuine interest and avoid interruptions.
Validate feelings: Acknowledge emotions without judgment.
Share reflections: Offer thoughtful feedback to encourage open dialogue.
Address concerns quickly: Don’t let issues linger – tackle them head-on.

Recognizing Progress

Once regular check-ins are part of your routine, it’s important to track and celebrate progress in meaningful ways. Acknowledging growth not only boosts motivation but also strengthens trust and connection.

Ideas for Tracking Progress:

Milestone Journal: Keep a record of achievements and observations. It’s a great resource to revisit during tough times.
Gratitude Practice: Share daily positive moments to maintain momentum and build stronger family bonds.
Visual Tools: Use a "ta-da!" list or create a vision board to highlight progress and spark conversations.

"Try your best to hang in there with them, always giving them the right to withdraw from therapy. But I would really take this as grist for therapy, as almost a call for help." – William Doherty, PhD, professor of family social science at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities

During challenging times, these strategies can help:

Look back at past milestones to inspire renewed effort.
Adjust expectations to align with current realities.
Reinforce the importance of sticking with therapy.
Celebrate every small step forward – it all adds up.

Circle City ABA offers a great example of how incorporating celebrations into daily life can make progress feel natural and rewarding.

Conclusion: Moving Forward with Therapy

Starting therapy is a meaningful step toward improving mental health and strengthening family relationships. Collaboration within the family and honest communication can make this process smoother. Research shows that consistently practicing therapeutic skills can bring lasting benefits to mental well-being.

Here are some key practices that can help ensure steady progress in therapy:

Respect personal boundaries while offering support
Acknowledge efforts and celebrate small achievements
Trust the process and allow it to unfold at its own pace
Communicate openly and without judgment

"Consistency is the thread that weaves through the fabric of effective therapy, connecting each session and guiding the journey toward mental wellness." – Ehrin Weiss, Ph.D.

The numbers speak for themselves: therapy can lead to an 80% reduction in depression symptoms and a 73% reduction in anxiety symptoms. These statistics highlight the importance of staying committed to the therapeutic journey.

To make therapy more accessible, Televero Health offers flexible scheduling options that encourage consistent participation. Keep in mind, progress isn’t always straightforward – it’s a path of growth and self-discovery. With open communication and shared support, families can work together to build healthier relationships and a brighter future.

FAQs

How can I talk to my family about therapy if they seem skeptical?

When talking to family members who might be unsure about therapy, it’s important to approach the conversation with empathy and understanding. Their skepticism could stem from personal beliefs, misconceptions, or even past experiences. You might start by saying something like, "I understand therapy might seem unfamiliar or unnecessary, but it’s been a really positive experience for me."

Be open about your own journey and the reasons you chose therapy. For instance, you could share, "Since I started therapy, I’ve found healthier ways to handle stress, and it’s helped me feel more balanced day-to-day." Personal examples like this can make therapy feel more approachable and relatable.

Rather than trying to persuade them, focus on fostering a calm and supportive discussion. Give them the space to ask questions or share their concerns, and remember that patience is key as they take time to process what you’ve shared.

How can I overcome my fears or doubts about starting therapy?

Feeling unsure or anxious about starting therapy? That’s perfectly normal. Many people experience similar feelings, whether it’s worry about being judged, uncertainty about how therapy works, or concerns tied to the stigma around mental health. Acknowledging these emotions is a great first step – it reminds you that you’re not alone in feeling this way.

Try to think of therapy as an act of self-care and resilience, rather than a weakness. Therapy is meant to be a supportive, judgment-free space where you can work collaboratively with a professional to navigate your challenges. Learning more about what therapy involves and how it can help might make the process feel less intimidating and more approachable.

You don’t have to dive in all at once – start small. Write down the reasons you’re considering therapy or have an honest conversation with a trusted friend about your feelings. These small actions can help you feel more prepared and confident as you take that first step toward prioritizing your mental well-being.

Is online therapy as effective and engaging as in-person therapy?

Online therapy has proven to be just as effective as in-person sessions for many people, particularly when addressing mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. Studies indicate that both approaches can deliver comparable positive results, making online therapy a dependable choice for those looking for support.

One of the standout advantages of online therapy is its convenience. Being able to connect with a therapist from the comfort of your own home eliminates hurdles like commuting and rigid scheduling, which can make it easier to stick with sessions regularly. That said, some individuals might feel that in-person therapy fosters a stronger sense of connection with their therapist. In the end, the right option comes down to what works best for each person and their unique circumstances.