As a parent, you’ve spent so much of your life making decisions and appointments for your child. There is a lot that kids aren’t even allowed to do, so it makes sense that you were responsible for things like dentist and doctor and even counseling appointments.
But what happens when your child isn’t exactly a child anymore? What if your child is now over 18 and legally an adult? Can you set up a counseling appointment for your adult child?
Yes - sort of.
Some counselors will allow you to reserve a time for an appointment, but because anybody over 18 is considered an adult, your child will need to consent to participate in counseling.
Usually there will be some paperwork for your child to fill out prior to the appointment, and it will be up to the two of you to determine how much you fill out and how much your child fills out. Given that counseling is an empowering process in which people take responsibility for and control over their lives, it makes sense for that process to begin with your child filling out that paperwork since your child will be the one consenting to participate and then actually participating in counseling.
Your child may ask for your help though. Depression and anxiety can really zap motivation and drive, making it hard to do something as straightforward as filling out a form. In that case - or if somebody has a disability that merits accommodations - then it’s certainly appropriate for you to help them. Try to stay in your lane as much as possible here. Provide encouragement and information as needed so that your child can get through the door for that first appointment (if the child wants or at least is open to participating in counseling).
These ideas apply most directly to outpatient offices and clinics. If your child is a college student, there are likely counseling services available on campus for little to no cost. Again, encouragement is key. You cannot force your child to go, but if you can grease the wheels a bit, you may increase the chances that your child will go and meaningfully participate in counseling.
Would you let your parents make an appointment for you? Why or why not? Comment below!
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