My 13-year-old son has been opening up about his experiences at his dad’s house. I’ve collected several talking points that highlight concerning situations, including lack of privacy, physical punishment, and emotional manipulation. He fears retaliation and has expressed a desire for therapy to discuss these issues safely. I’m at a loss for how to support him and what steps to take moving forward. Any advice would be appreciated.
It’s great that you’re taking his concerns seriously. Keeping communication open and encouraging therapy is essential. Document everything he shares with you to have a clear record if needed later.
Consider discussing the situation with your attorney again. They might suggest involving child protective services if there are serious concerns about his safety.
Make sure your son knows you believe him and that he’s not alone in this. Encourage him to express his feelings openly, and reassure him that he won’t be punished for sharing his experiences.
Therapy can be a safe space for him to explore these feelings. If he expresses a desire to talk about his experiences, ensure the therapist is aware of the family dynamics.
It might be beneficial to reach out to school counselors as well. They can provide additional support and may be able to intervene if necessary.
If he wants to discuss these issues with his father in therapy, support that. It can help facilitate a healthier dialogue and address his concerns directly.
Above all, prioritize your son’s emotional well-being. If he feels unsafe, consider discussing legal options to modify custody arrangements.