In the U.K., parents can decide that their teen should attend counselling, but it is far better for the child to be involved in the decision.Sometimes, what seems like agreement arises from ulterior motives.
Of course, there are ways that talented therapists can cut through the resistance and tap into a child’s curiosity to bring them onside. But a young person may still resent the fact that they were forced by their parent into a course of action that they did not choose to take. Even if a child does agree to attend therapy, it is not up to mum or dad to decide what they need to talk about. A colleague mentioned a worried mum who phoned her to ask her to see her 13-year-old daughter.
Exactly! Also, it would not help if the person does not put in practice the advise or recommendations. It's not truthful about the issues. Some insurance do not cover the cost and $1000s of dollars are spent by parents trying to help, but none or little improvement. 😒
As a therapist, you are most successful when you can meet people where they are at the bottom of their hearts.