The Family Member Who ‘Doesn’t Believe in Therapy’: How to Set Boundaries and Stay Grounded

You’ve decided to go to therapy. You’re investing in your mental health, learning how to cope better, and building healthier relationships. But then it happens: a family member makes a dismissive comment. Maybe they roll their eyes, say “you don’t need that,” or worse, label therapy as weakness.

If you’ve ever felt disheartened—or even second-guessed your healing—because someone close to you doesn’t believe in therapy, you’re not alone.

While mental health stigma has decreased in recent years, many family members still carry outdated beliefs. And when you’re trying to heal, grow, and do the hard inner work, it can be painful when the people around you don’t support that journey.

But here’s the truth: you can still thrive in your mental health journey, even if others don’t understand it. The key is learning how to set boundaries and stay grounded in your values.

Why Some People Don’t Get It

There are many reasons a family member might reject the idea of therapy:

· They were raised to believe emotions should be kept private.

· They think needing help means something is “wrong” with you.

· They’ve had a bad experience with mental health care.

· They see vulnerability as weakness.

· They’re afraid of what therapy might bring up—especially if it involves them.

Whatever the reason, their disbelief is not your responsibility to fix.

Set Boundaries Without Shame

Boundaries are not about being cold or cutting people off. They’re about creating space where your mental health can be protected and respected.

Here are some boundary-setting tips that might help:

1. Clarify your values. You don’t need anyone’s permission to prioritize your wellbeing. Remind yourself why you chose to seek support and what therapy is doing for you.

2. Set limits on the conversation. If a family member constantly criticizes therapy, try saying, “I’ve found it helpful, and I’m not open to debating it.” You can stay calm without justifying your choices.

3. Protect your energy. If certain topics lead to conflict, it’s okay to redirect or excuse yourself. Not every discussion is worth your peace.

4. Practice compassionate detachment. You can love someone and still not absorb their opinions. Their views don’t define your reality.

Seek Support Elsewhere

If your family doesn’t provide the support you need, that doesn’t mean support isn’t out there. Surround yourself with people who do understand the importance of emotional care—friends, mentors, support groups, or others in therapy.

Support groups can be especially helpful when navigating family tension. They offer a safe space to share your experiences, learn from others, and feel less alone in your journey.

At Lilac Center, we often encourage clients to build a supportive network beyond their immediate family members, especially when healing requires distance from harmful dynamics.

You Can Still Heal, Even If They Don’t Change

Sometimes the hardest part of the therapy journey is realizing not everyone will come with you. You may outgrow certain conversations, or start seeing family patterns more clearly—and that can be painful.

But growth doesn’t require anyone else’s approval. You can still learn, change, and heal. You can become the cycle-breaker. And over time, your peace may become the quiet proof that therapy works—even if they never say so out loud.

Therapy Helps You Stay Grounded

Dealing with unsupportive family members can be emotionally draining. Therapy can help you stay rooted in your values, build healthy communication skills, and navigate guilt or grief that might come with setting boundaries.

At Lilac Center, we understand how complicated family dynamics can be. Our clinicians can support you in developing strong boundaries, managing emotional triggers, and continuing your mental health journey—even when others don’t understand it.

If you're ready to seek support that meets you where you are, contact Lilac Center today. We’re here to help you stay grounded, set boundaries, and prioritize your healing—regardless of what others may believe.