YOUR CHILD WAS HURTING, BUT YOU’RE HURTING TOO

When your child has experienced something traumatic, it’s natural for your focus to turn toward them. You may find yourself worrying about how they are doing, wondering if you are doing enough, or replaying what happened in your mind. You may experience anger, fear, sadness, guilt, or helplessness, and you may wonder if there was something you could have done differently. Please remember that these feelings are a natural response to something that has been incredibly difficult and painful. You are a parent trying to make sense of what happened while also trying to be a source of safety and support for your child.

Sometimes, in our effort to care for our children, we put our own emotions aside. We may lose sleep, feel overwhelmed, become more protective, or feel pressure to make everything feel “normal” again. These responses often come from a place of deep love and a desire to protect our children, but carrying these emotions alone can become exhausting. You deserve support, too. Therapy can provide a safe space to slow down and process your own fears, uncertainty, anger, sadness, and grief while learning how to continue supporting your child.

At Harper Therapy, we are here to support you as you support your child. Together, we can make space for your emotions, help you navigate the impact of what happened, and explore healthy ways to care for yourself while being there for your child. Supporting yourself does not take away from supporting your child. You don't have to navigate this alone.