Your Role as a Therapy Parent

Your Role as a Parent When Your Child Starts Therapy

Hi, I’m Tara. I’m a full time Mum to my beautiful daughter, proud bonus Mum to my bonus daughter and bonus son. I’ve been with my son since he was just one year old, and together we’ve walked the journey of navigating an ADHD diagnosis and attending therapy appointments side by side. I also get to wear the “Admin Angel” hat here at Perth Hills Allied Health, welcoming families every day. But the role I’m most passionate about is being a parent who’s walked in your shoes.

When my son first started therapy, I arrived at the clinic with my heart pounding and my mind racing with a thousand questions. Was I saying the right things? Was my child behaving as expected? Would the therapist think I was a good parent? If you’re feeling this way as you walk through the doors at Perth Hills Allied Health, please know you’re not alone and you’re exactly where you need to be.

1. Communication Isn’t Just Verbal

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned, and am still learning, is that communication is so much more than words. There were times my son would tune out in therapy, not answer questions, or even avoid looking at anyone. I remember feeling frustrated and helpless, worrying that maybe he wasn’t doing therapy right or that we weren’t making progress.
But over time, I’ve realised that every little action, whether it’s a glance, a smile, or even just being in the room or hiding under a table, can be powerful communication. Even on days when it felt like nothing was working, he was taking it all in, just in his own way.

2. It’s Okay If Your Child Isn’t Listening to the Therapist

I want to be real with you. I did all the wrong things parents do when they’re worried or overwhelmed. There were moments when I’d get angry or embarrassed when my child didn’t listen or join in the way I thought they should. I remember the guilt that followed, thinking we were wasting time or not doing enough.
The truth is kids, especially neurodivergent kids, process the world differently. Sometimes, what looks like not listening is actually their way of coping or absorbing things on their own timeline. There have been so many times where, weeks after a session, my son would suddenly use a skill or say something that showed me just how much he’d been learning all along.

3. You Are Not the Therapist and That’s Okay

As parents, we put so much pressure on ourselves to get it right. But you don’t need to be the expert. Your job is to be your child’s biggest supporter, to create a safe and loving space, and to show up exactly as you are. It’s okay to ask questions, to say I’m not sure, or even to admit when you’re overwhelmed. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve left sessions in tears or second guessed myself. Please know we see you.

4. Affirming Neurodiversity Your Child Isn’t Broken, and Neither Are You

Therapy at Perth Hills Allied Health isn’t about fixing your child. It’s about supporting their growth, honouring who they are, and helping them build skills for their world, not forcing them into a neurotypical mould. I am still learning every day to understand my children’s brains and celebrate their strengths, quirks, and unique ways of experiencing the world, even when it challenges what I thought parenting would look like.

5. Take the Pressure Off

You don’t have to have all the answers. You don’t have to make every session perfect. Some days will be messy. Sometimes your child will refuse to go in, or have a meltdown, or you’ll leave wondering if you’re doing enough. Be gentle with yourself. Your presence and love matter most.

6. Stay Curious, Stay Connected

Ask questions. Share what’s happening at home. Celebrate little wins even if they seem small. Stay connected with your therapist, but also with your child. This journey is about partnership, support, and finding what works for your family, not ticking boxes.

7. Remember You’re Seen and Supported Here

At Perth Hills Allied Health, we understand the emotional load parents carry. We see the effort, the late night Googling, the articles, the pondering over Facebook posts, the self doubt, and the love you pour in. We’re here to walk alongside you with no judgment, just support.

If you’re starting this journey, I want you to know that you’re not alone. There’s no perfect way to be a therapy parent. I can admit I’m still learning every day. Your role is to show up, love your child, and trust that every step, no matter how small, is enough.

With love,
Tara

Admin Angel at Perth Hills Allied Health and Fellow Parent