Jessica Alba’s Reveals Approach To Individualized Therapy For Her Daughters

In a candid conversation, Hollywood actress Jessica Alba opened up about her parenting journey, highlighting the significance of individual therapy for her daughters and the importance of fostering effective communication skills. The Honest Company co-founder’s insight into her family’s dynamics provides a window into the transformative power of personalized therapy and the deep bonds shared within a conservative household.

Speaking to PEOPLE at the Honest Renovations screening alongside Lizzy Mathis in New York City, she shared her perspective on her daughters’ growth. “They’re at the age where their therapy is more individual, but it’s given them, I think, a language where they can communicate with me their needs differently,” the 42-year-old told PEOPLE of daughters Haven Garner, 12, and Honor Marie, 15, both at pivotal stages of adolescence.

Jessica emphasized the value of equipping her children with the tools to understand themselves better and express their needs effectively. “It’s so nice to be able to give them the tools to be able to understand themselves better and to be able to really articulate their needs,” she added. 

As her daughters transitioned from their earlier years, Jessica noted the growth in their autonomy and agency: “But when they were like … 9, 10, 11, it was different. They didn’t have the same kind of agency that they have now.”

The transformative impact of therapy on Jessica’s daughters was evident as she shared anecdotes of their evolving interactions. The  Dark Angel star detailed how her daughters now seek privacy during therapy sessions, indicating their desire for independent conversations. “So now they’re like, ‘Mom, I want to be able to talk to my therapist and you not always listen in,'” she revealed, showcasing their maturing needs and the trust they’ve developed in their therapeutic journeys.

While acknowledging the diverse personalities of her children, Jessica emphasized their unique stages of growth and individual requirements. “I would say they’re all wildly different,” she noted, underlining the personalized attention each child deserves.

Amid the tender moments shared among her children, Jessica revealed that even in her role as a mother, challenges arise. Playfully, she explained, “The one thing that is consistent [is] my 5-year-old gets jealous when I cuddle my 12-year-old or my 15-year-old. My 12-year-old gets jealous when I cuddle the 15-year-old and the 5-year-old. And my 15-year-old gets jealous when I cuddle the 12-year-old.”

The warmth of the actress’ household also extends to traditions that hold deep significance. Reflecting on her own upbringing, she shared how birthdays were cherished occasions, marked by the presence of a close-knit family. “I had a big Mexican family, and so we have at least 50 people at every birthday,” she reminisced. The tradition of meaningful cards has endured, with Alba’s children taking pride in crafting heartfelt messages for one another and their parents.