My 11yo has been seeing someone for separation anxiety and the therapist recommended both parents attend some sessions. Makes sense, right? We told her we'd try. Except my ex straight up said no, something about "it's not beneficial and wastes time." I think maybe she doesn't want to be in the same room as me. Kid definitely needs this but I can't force her. What are my options here?
Could you contact the therapist's office and ask if they can send her a formal recommendation letter? Sometimes having it in writing makes it feel more official and less like you're just pushing an idea.
Your son's therapist is right about this. Family sessions aren't about blaming anyone - they're about giving your kid tools to handle the anxiety with both his parents involved. Maybe frame it to your ex as being FOR your son, not about her. Sometimes that changes the conversation.
This is tough because you can't force her to come, but you could ask the therapist if they'd be willing to explain the benefits directly to her. Sometimes parents respond better hearing it from the professional instead of the other parent.
Have you tried documenting how the separation anxiety shows up? Like specific situations or times? That might help when you talk to her about why the therapist specifically recommended both of you.
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I went through something similar. What helped was me going to sessions alone first, learning strategies, then bringing those to my kid. It's not ideal but it's better than nothing while you work on getting your ex on board.