My Child Needs Therapy - But What Will My Family Think?

Welcome to The Consult a Counselor Series, a special segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast. Join therapist and host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC, as she answers real-life parenting questions to help you find your calm in the chaos of parenting—and not lose your, well… you know.


TODAY'S QUESTION:
"I really think my kid needs therapy, but I don't want to put up with family members thinking or saying he's crazy if I take him. Advice?"

You know your child could benefit from therapy, but the thought of dealing with family opinions makes you hesitate. Maybe they don’t “believe” in therapy. Maybe they’ll say “He’s fine, he’ll grow out of it.” Or maybe they’ll judge you for seeking support.

In this episode, Vanessa breaks down why therapy is not a sign of weakness—it’s a life skill. She shares strategies for handling family pushback, how to reframe therapy as emotional health support, and why prioritizing your child’s well-being is always the right choice. Because at the end of the day, your child’s needs come first—not other people’s opinions.



TUNE IN TO LEARN:
How to reframe therapy as a resource, not a last resort
Ways to respond to family members who don’t understand therapy
Why setting boundaries around your parenting decisions is important
What happens if kids don’t get the emotional support they need
How normalizing mental health care benefits your child long-term


TAKEAWAY MESSAGE:
Therapy isn’t about “fixing” a child—it’s about equipping them with the tools to navigate emotions, challenges, and relationships. You wouldn’t skip the doctor for a physical illness—mental health is just as important. Trust your instincts as a parent, and do what’s best for your child, regardless of family opinions.

Listen in, and remember... you’re always free to be mindful!


120 COPING SKILLS
https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills


CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE
https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge


SUBMIT QUESTIONS for CONSULT A COUNSELOR:
https://qrco.de/consultacounselor


WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:
https://www.youtube.com/@counselorvdejesus


GET THE MUSE HEADBAND AT A DISCOUNT!
https://choosemuse.com/freetobemindful
Use this link to get 15% off your total when you purchase the amazing brain sensing headband that tells you when you're in a meditative state and guides you to improve your practice.


STAY CONNECTED:
Show Hashtag: #freetobemindfulpodcast
Website: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast
All Social Channels: @counselorvdejesus


DISCLAIMER:
Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.