My Child Needs Therapy - But What Will My Family Think?

Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.

TODAY'S QUESTION:

"I really think my kid needs therapy, but I don't want to put up with family members thinking or saying he's crazy if I take him. Advice?"

You know your child could benefit from therapy, but the thought of dealing with family opinions makes you hesitate. Maybe they don’t “believe” in therapy. Maybe they’ll say “He’s fine, he’ll grow out of it.” Or maybe they’ll judge you for seeking support.

In this episode, Vanessa breaks down why therapy is not a sign of weakness—it’s a life skill. She shares strategies for handling family pushback, how to reframe therapy as emotional health support, and why prioritizing your child’s well-being is always the right choice. Because at the end of the day, your child’s needs come first—not other people’s opinions.

TUNE IN TO LEARN:

• How to reframe therapy as a resource, not a last resort
• Ways to respond to family members who don’t understand therapy
• Why setting boundaries around your parenting decisions is important
• What happens if kids don’t get the emotional support they need
• How normalizing mental health care benefits your child long-term

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:

Therapy isn’t about “fixing” a child—it’s about equipping them with the tools to navigate emotions, challenges, and relationships. You wouldn’t skip the doctor for a physical illness—mental health is just as important. Trust your instincts as a parent, and do what’s best for your child, regardless of family opinions.

Listen in, and remember... you’re always free to be mindful!

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120 COPING SKILLS
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DISCLAIMER:
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.