Is your Young Person ready for therapy?
Are you thinking about referring your child/young person to therapy?
Before you schedule an initial consultation, please reflect on the following questionnaire.
Next to every statement, please choose from either 'Y' for yes, you agree, or 'N' no, you disagree. If you are unsure, please select 'N'.
You can record your answers on a notepad, and then check your scores at the end of the questionnaire.
Your child has clearly stated that they desire positive changes e.g. to feel better or cope better with difficult circumstances (Y/N)
Your child is currently taking their own proactive steps to resolve any distress that they are experiencing, with your ongoing support (Y/N)
Your child has some ability to describe their feelings and emotions such as "happy/sad/confused/angry/fearful" (Y/N)
You and your child both have a shared understanding about what counselling involves (Y/N)
Your child is able to behave in ways that meet their basic needs such as fairly balanced sleeping and eating meals (Y/N)
Your child is currently not residing in a household where there is domestic abuse (Y/N)
Your child wishes to attend counselling of their own free will, and does not feel pressured, forced or coerced, even in a well-meaning way (Y/N)
Scores: If your scores were mostly 'Y' then your child may be ready for therapy and are welcome to schedule an initial consultation. If you scored 'N' next to one or more of the statements, then it is possible that now may not be the right time for you to refer your child to one-to-one counselling, however there's still plenty you can do to support their mental health and personal growth; options may include alternative therapies, family therapy, therapeutic groups, activity clubs, psychiatric assessments, or speak to your GP, NHS Child Health Services, or Local Crisis Team.
If you are making a referral for your child, and they have given you a comfortable "yes" to get started, then please schedule a consultation today.