Some parents can be blind when faced with their own children’s issues. As parents, we all love our children very much, and it can be confronting to be told that something is ‘wrong’ with them. Also, we often don’t know what to expect. We may not always know what behaviours can be considered normal. So when there are issues, parents often go into denial mode.
There are some misconceptions that counselling is only for mentally ill people. But it is not true. In reality, anybody can take counselling whose thoughts, and behaviour cause trouble to themselves and others. When it comes to children, the counselling process becomes extra delicate as they may not freely share their feelings or are unable to understand the difference between right or wrong. So to send their children for counselling sessions, one needs to understand how does counselling procedure works.
So let us understand why and to whom counselling is required. Usually, counselling is given to neurotic problems such as anxiety, fear, relationship problems, adjustment problem, and emotional or behavioural issues. Psychotic (schizophrenia, OCD etc.) related problems need the help of psychiatrists.
Kids and teens need therapy when they have problems they can’t cope with alone. Or they need help when problems affect how well they do, feel, or act. If things don’t get better on their own, kids may need therapy so things can improve. Sometimes, entire families need support while trying to communicate, learn, and create boundaries. When a particular behaviour, thoughts or action disturbs a child’s daily life activities, or focus on school/any other work is being distracted, the relationship between the child and others are getting affected or disturbs sleep, hygiene etc. In this case, you need to consult a counsellor.
Before that parents need to understand a few things
Accept the reality
You might get a call from school or constantly receive complaints from neighbours which are really bothering you. So in the beginning you might deny, scold the child, or try to keep them under your control which may give temporary relief. So accept the behavioural issues first and then you can think about sending the child to counselling sessions.
Counselling is not about brainwashing
It is surprisingly true that many avoid counselling sessions because it is hypnotising. But you need to accept the fact that it is all about listening to the client’s problem and thus concentrate on your child so that the child receives the help he/she needs to resolve his/her issues and lead a healthy and productive life.
Be consistent
Once the counselling session starts are consistent with it. Try to help with all your heart and make sure the assignments, observations and analysis are done with your support. Never skip when you do not see immediate results. Have patience, within a few sessions your child may not heal. Wait and be realistic about expectations.
So while sending your child to counselling session remember these points
