Parents may believe therapy is clearly needed while the teen insists there is no problem. Resistance often provides information about how the young person understands the situation.
A teen may believe therapy means something is wrong with them, the therapist will side with parents, private information will be repeated, they are being punished, or adults have already decided what the problem is. Pressure, threats, or repeated lectures may confirm the belief that therapy is about control.
Parents can express concern without shame. Trust may take time, and some teens need several sessions to understand confidentiality and decide whether speaking honestly feels safe. Sometimes helping parents change their response is the most useful first step.
Contact Irina to discuss whether therapy may be appropriate.