How to Talk to Your Young Adult Child About Therapy (Without Pushing Them Away)
When your child becomes a young adult, your role as a parent shifts—but the worry doesn’t always go away. Maybe they’re out of the house now. Maybe they’re still living at home. Either way, you might notice signs that they’re struggling—more withdrawn, more overwhelmed, or not quite themselves.
You want to help. But you also don’t want to push too hard. So how do you talk about therapy in a way that feels supportive, not suffocating?
That’s where this guide comes in.
How to Bring Up Therapy (Without It Feeling Like an Intervention)
Mental health conversations can be tricky with young adults. They’re building independence, sorting out their identity, and may feel sensitive about being told what to do. The key is to approach the conversation with respect, curiosity, and care.
1. Ask with openness, not judgment
Instead of saying, "I think you need help," try:
"How are you really feeling lately?"
"You’ve had a lot on your plate—how are you managing everything?"
"I’ve been thinking about you and wanted to check in."
When your child feels like you’re on their team, not analyzing them, they’re more likely to talk.
2. Normalize therapy
Therapy isn’t just for crisis—it’s support for life’s challenges. You can say:
"Lots of people go to therapy to get support, not because something is wrong."
"It’s just a space to talk and figure things out."
The more you treat therapy like a regular part of health care, the less intimidating it becomes.
3. Share your intent
Make it clear you’re not trying to fix them. You’re simply offering support:
"I care about you, and I wanted to bring this up in case it ever feels like too much."
"This doesn’t mean anything is wrong—it just means you have options."
Keep the tone light, honest, and pressure-free.
What If They Say They're Fine?
Young adults often say they’re fine even when they’re not. They may:
Downplay stress to protect you
Not want to appear weak
Genuinely not know how to name what’s going on
You don’t need to push. Instead:
Keep showing up
Share resources gently
Say things like, *"Just know I’m always here if you want to talk more about this."
Sometimes just knowing the door is open is enough.
Should I Suggest Therapy?
If your instincts tell you something is off, it’s okay to suggest therapy. It doesn’t have to be a dramatic conversation.
Mention that therapy can be short-term
Offer to help with finding someone
Emphasize that they’re not alone
Think of it as planting a seed. You don’t have to push them to water it.
What Therapy Can Help With
Therapy can be helpful for so many of the things young adults face:
Anxiety or stress about the future
Feeling stuck or unmotivated
Relationship struggles
Perfectionism or people-pleasing
Life transitions or loss of direction
Even if they don’t know exactly what’s wrong, therapy can help them figure it out.
A Note for Parents of College Students
College can be an exciting but overwhelming time. If your student is away at school, you might notice changes—less communication, more stress, or just a general sense that they’re not okay.
Some things to keep in mind:
College students are under huge pressure
They may not tell you everything to avoid worrying you
Virtual therapy makes getting support easier than ever
If your college-aged child is struggling, it’s okay to gently suggest support—and offer to help them explore what that could look like.
What to Say Instead of "You Should Get Help"
Try these phrases instead:
"Have you ever thought about talking to someone?"
"If it ever feels like too much, there’s no shame in getting support."
"I can help you find someone if that would make it easier."
No ultimatums. No lectures. Just care.
Support from Sagebrush Counseling
At Sagebrush Counseling, I work with young adults across Texas and the parents who care about them. Whether your child is exploring therapy or you’re looking for support yourself, I offer virtual sessions that meet you where you are.
This season of parenting can be full of love, frustration, and uncertainty—and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Ready to talk or learn more?
📧 Email: contact@sagebrushcounseling.com
📱 Call or text: (512) 790-0019
All sessions are virtual and open to Texas residents.
