Find a calm, private moment when neither of you is rushed, busy, or stressed—like during a car ride or when you're relaxing at home. Taking the time to talk shows that what they have to say is important to you.

Example: You might say, “Hey, can we talk for a bit? I know things have been hard lately. Maybe after dinner when things are quieter?” OR You might say, “Hey, do you have time to chat with me later? I want to check in with you after school when things are more relaxed.”  

Choosing a time and place where your young person feels safe and comfortable makes it easier for them to open up. 

Tell them why you think therapy could help, focusing on how it can improve their life.

Example: “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately, and I’m worried. Talking to a therapist could really help you feel better.” OR “I’ve noticed you seem really down lately, and that makes me worried. I think talking to someone who knows how to help might make you feel better.”

Being clear and honest shows you care about them and builds trust.

Give them space to express their thoughts and concerns without judgment. Ask questions to understand their perspective.

Example: After suggesting therapy, ask, “How do you feel about that?” If they seem hesitant or resistant, just listen. Avoid interrupting or jumping to solutions. OR If they say, “I don’t need therapy,” respond with, “I hear you. Can you tell me more about why you feel that way?”

This keeps the conversation open and lets them feel heard. Sometimes, a simple, “I hear you,” can make them feel understood.

Let them know that many people, including people in their community, go to therapy to feel better.

Example: “In our family, people have gone to therapy when things got tough, and it really helped them.” Or you can say, “Lots of people I know from our neighborhood go to therapy. It’s just like going to the doctor when you’re not feeling well.” OR You could share a personal story or say something like, “A lot of people I know see a therapist, and it really helps them.

This helps them see therapy as a normal way to take care of themselves.

Reassure them that they will have control over the process, including choosing their therapist. Let them know it's their decision.

Example: “You get to help choose the therapist, and if you don’t feel comfortable with someone, we can try someone else.” OR “You can decide which therapist you want to work with, and you don’t have to talk about anything you’re not ready to.”

This can empower them to feel more in control and less like therapy is being forced upon them.

Help them understand what therapy might look like. Explain how programs like Youth Connect work and the kind of support they offer, so they know what to expect and don’t feel in the dark.

Example: “There are people who specialize in helping teens work through their feelings. Programs like Youth Connect can support you in different ways too.” OR  “There are therapists who specialize in working with young people like you. They’ll help you figure out what you’re feeling and why. And there are programs like Youth Connect that offer extra support.”

Sharing details can help them feel more comfortable with the idea of therapy.

Tell them you’re there for them no matter what, but that the decision is up to them.

Example: “I’m here for you no matter what you decide. We can talk more if you want, whenever you’re ready.” OR “I’m here to help however I can, whether it’s finding a therapist or driving you to appointments, but I want you to feel comfortable with the decision.”

Offering support without pushing gives them space to think and shows that you respect their process.

They may not be ready to jump into therapy right away, and that’s okay. Give them time to think about it and process the idea without pressuring them for an immediate answer.

Example: “You don’t have to decide anything right now. Take some time to think about it, and we can talk more when you’re ready.” OR  “I get it if you’re not ready right now. Let’s give it some time and talk later.” 

Giving them space lets them know their feelings matter and that they don’t have to rush.