At Wholesome Psychology, we understand the important role parents and caregivers play in supporting children through life’s challenges. Whether your child is facing anxiety, behavioral issues, trauma, or simply needs extra support, starting therapy can feel daunting—for both children and their families. As trusted child therapists in Edmonton and St. Albert, we are dedicated to making the process approachable, comfortable, and effective. Here, you’ll find practical, compassionate advice on preparing children for a successful therapy experience, grounded in our values of empathy, respect, and partnership. For a detailed guide on this topic, visit our Preparing Children for Therapy page.

Why Is Preparation Important for Children Starting Therapy?

Many parents wonder how best to help their child before their first counseling session. Children thrive when they feel secure and informed. Thoughtful preparation can ease worries, clarify expectations, and empower your child to actively participate in their own healing journey. In Edmonton and St. Albert, our community values resilience, openness, and connection; these are the guiding principles we bring to every session at Wholesome Psychology. Learn more about our unique approach to child therapy.

How to Introduce Therapy to Your Child

The way you introduce therapy can shape your child’s entire experience. Every child’s developmental stage, temperament, and questions are unique, so tailor the conversation to their needs and understanding:

• Choose the Right Moment: Find a calm, private time to talk, free from distractions. Allow your child space to ask questions and express their feelings.
• Use Simple, Clear Language: Explain that therapy is a special time where kids can talk with someone trained to help them with feelings and challenges, just like going to a doctor for a physical ailment.
• Avoid Surprises: Let your child know in advance that an appointment is coming up, and explain where you’ll be going and what to expect. For more tips, see our What to Expect from Therapy page.
• Reassure and Normalize: Emphasize that many children (and adults) see therapists, and it’s a helpful and normal way to get support.

If you’re unsure how to start the conversation, our team of registered child psychologists and therapists in Edmonton and St. Albert can provide personalized guidance. Learn more about our services.

What to Expect in the First Therapy Session

The first session is an important opportunity for both your child and their therapist to build trust and rapport. Typically, a child counseling intake in our Edmonton or St. Albert office will include:

• An invitation for your child to share their interests, hobbies, and concerns.
• Simple games, drawing, or play activities to encourage comfort and expression. Discover more about play therapy.
• An explanation (in age-appropriate terms) of confidentiality and the therapist’s role.
• Time for parents or caregivers to ask questions and discuss goals with the therapist, either with or without the child present.

Our therapists take a gentle, strengths-based approach, collaborating with each family to create a safe, welcoming environment. We encourage parents to read our About page to learn more about our philosophy and values.

Preparing for Counseling: Practical Tips for Families

• Validate Emotions: Acknowledge any nervousness, curiosity, or even reluctance your child might feel. Let them know it’s natural to have mixed feelings about something new.
• Keep Routines Familiar: On the day of the first session, try to stick to your child’s regular routines as much as possible. This helps provide a sense of safety and continuity.
• Bring Comfort Items: Encourage your child to bring a favorite toy, book, or comfort object if it helps them feel more secure.
• Share Essential Information: Inform your therapist about your child’s needs, routines, and preferences. The more we know, the better we can help your child feel understood and supported.

For additional support, explore our page on parenting support.

Fostering a Supportive Home Environment

Therapy is most effective when children feel supported at home. Continued encouragement and positive reinforcement after each session matter:

• Follow Up: Ask your child how they felt about their session, but respect if they wish to keep things private. Let them share at their own pace.
• Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge even small steps forward—trying something new, naming an emotion, or using a coping skill learned in therapy. Our mental wellness page offers more resources.
• Stay Involved: Attend check-ins with your child’s therapist as needed, and maintain open lines of communication with your healthcare team.

Choosing the Right Child Therapist in Edmonton & St. Albert

Finding the right therapist requires considering experience, approach, and fit. At Wholesome Psychology, our clinicians are committed to creating individualized support plans for every child. Learn more about our experienced child therapists in Edmonton and St. Albert or explore our child therapy services. Read about what makes a good child & youth therapist.

Common Questions Parents Ask About Child Therapy

• Will I be involved in sessions? Parents often participate, especially in early sessions, to help build comfort and context. Over time, involvement is tailored to each child’s age and needs.
• How long does therapy take? The length and frequency of counseling are highly individual and depend on the child’s goals, pace, and life circumstances. Open discussion with your therapist is encouraged.
• What issues can therapy help with? Child therapy can address anxiety, depression, behavior challenges, family changes, grief, trauma, and more. Read more about child & youth anxiety or childhood issues.
• Is everything my child shares kept private? Therapists explain confidentiality in simple language, so children (and parents) know what is and is not shared outside sessions.

Supporting Your Child Beyond the Therapy Room

At Wholesome Psychology, our commitment extends beyond the therapy hour. We’re here to support Edmonton and St. Albert families as you foster long-term resilience and well-being. If you have concerns about your child’s mental health, or if you need additional resources or support, please reach out. We also invite you to explore our resources on parent counseling and mental health tools for families in Edmonton and St. Albert.

Book a Child Therapy Appointment in Edmonton or St. Albert

If your child is ready to begin counseling, Wholesome Psychology welcomes you. Our contact page offers a simple way to connect with our intake team and schedule your first session. We’re here to answer any questions and make your experience as smooth as possible.

For more information, visit our Child Therapy service page or explore our list of expert child therapists. You can also view specific child & youth counseling resources.