Photo of International Psychological & Consulting Svs Inc, Psychologist in Alexandria, VA
International Psychological & Consulting Svs Inc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Currently, adult, teen and parent sessions are conducted online, while child sessions are in-person.
Dennis J Hunt, PhD., Licensed Clinical Psychologist, CEO of the International Psychological and Consulting Services (IPCS), Inc. At our practice, we use a Positive Psychology approach, working with individuals to develop the understanding and skills they need to achieve a higher level of daily functioning and quality of life. For more information, instructions for making appointments, and clinicians available, please go to www.ipcspositivechange.com . E-mail is the best way to get in touch with us! Due to being a small operation, we are often unable to answer calls.
Currently, adult, teen and parent sessions are conducted online, while child sessions are in-person.
Dennis J Hunt, PhD., Licensed Clinical Psychologist, CEO of the International Psychological and Consulting Services (IPCS), Inc. At our practice, we use a Positive Psychology approach, working with individuals to develop the understanding and skills they need to achieve a higher level of daily functioning and quality of life. For more information, instructions for making appointments, and clinicians available, please go to www.ipcspositivechange.com . E-mail is the best way to get in touch with us! Due to being a small operation, we are often unable to answer calls.
(703) 997-7945 View (703) 997-7945
Photo of Finding Clarity, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Finding Clarity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304
Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): Family and marital conflicts, Problems in school, Depression, family separation, Adoption issues, Feelings of anxiety or nervousness, child and adolescent behavioral issues and Addiction issues. Weekend sessions are available.
Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): Family and marital conflicts, Problems in school, Depression, family separation, Adoption issues, Feelings of anxiety or nervousness, child and adolescent behavioral issues and Addiction issues. Weekend sessions are available.
(571) 487-8254 View (571) 487-8254
Photo of Dr. Barbara Hernandez, Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in Alexandria, VA
Dr. Barbara Hernandez, Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, MS, LCP, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Are you or your teenager experiencing difficulty? In therapy, you can develop coping skills to address depression, anxiety, psychosis, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, and problematic sexual behaviors. You can reduce family conflict and live a healthier and more fulfilling life. Therapy will use evidence-based approaches for sustainable improvement. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping you! You are not alone.
Are you or your teenager experiencing difficulty? In therapy, you can develop coping skills to address depression, anxiety, psychosis, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, and problematic sexual behaviors. You can reduce family conflict and live a healthier and more fulfilling life. Therapy will use evidence-based approaches for sustainable improvement. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping you! You are not alone.
(571) 487-8850 View (571) 487-8850
Photo of Rosa Gomes, Pre-Licensed Professional in Alexandria, VA
Rosa Gomes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, CAGS, QMHP-C
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Is Your Teen Feeling Overwhelmed And Stuck? Absolutely, young individuals frequently encounter challenges in acquiring essential life skills, which can lead to a sense of being trapped.
My ideal client navigates the multifaceted challenges of anxiety and stress, often originating from academic, personal, and professional spheres. Frequently entangled in a cycle of worry and negative self-talk, their ability to focus, make decisions, and fully savor life is obstructed. The core of their needs centers around crafting coping strategies, honing emotional regulation, and developing a toolkit to manage anxiety across various scenarios. Their objectives anchor in stabilizing mental tranquility, nurturing a positive self-image, and unlocking pathways to richly experience life’s abundances.
Is Your Teen Feeling Overwhelmed And Stuck? Absolutely, young individuals frequently encounter challenges in acquiring essential life skills, which can lead to a sense of being trapped.
My ideal client navigates the multifaceted challenges of anxiety and stress, often originating from academic, personal, and professional spheres. Frequently entangled in a cycle of worry and negative self-talk, their ability to focus, make decisions, and fully savor life is obstructed. The core of their needs centers around crafting coping strategies, honing emotional regulation, and developing a toolkit to manage anxiety across various scenarios. Their objectives anchor in stabilizing mental tranquility, nurturing a positive self-image, and unlocking pathways to richly experience life’s abundances.
(571) 982-8511 View (571) 982-8511
Photo of Christina Keenan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Christina Keenan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma and other adverse experiences can play a significant role in how we feel about ourselves and interact with the world around us. Sometimes it may feel like we are perpetually stuck in emotional reliving. I create a safe and affirming space for older adolescent and adult clients to both process and develop skills to help them move away from just "surviving." I aim to meet clients where they are at and to help them foster sustainable positive changes. I strive to embody cultural humility and a passion for social justice in my work. My goal is to partner with clients to help them develop insight and build more meaningful lives.
Trauma and other adverse experiences can play a significant role in how we feel about ourselves and interact with the world around us. Sometimes it may feel like we are perpetually stuck in emotional reliving. I create a safe and affirming space for older adolescent and adult clients to both process and develop skills to help them move away from just "surviving." I aim to meet clients where they are at and to help them foster sustainable positive changes. I strive to embody cultural humility and a passion for social justice in my work. My goal is to partner with clients to help them develop insight and build more meaningful lives.
(571) 450-8828 View (571) 450-8828
Photo of Elizabeth Hussey, LPC, Clinical Supervisor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Elizabeth Hussey, LPC, Clinical Supervisor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302  (Online Only)
The decision to start therapy is a huge, brave step in seeking to improve your life and make positive changes. As a compassionate and supportive therapist, I work to support your goals by learning your unique story and exploring your concerns and presenting issues in order to guide you to meaningful, beneficial outcomes. I primarily work with adolescent and young adult women and focus on helping individuals with a wide range of goals, such as improving family dynamics, building healthy romantic and peer relationships, learning positive coping strategies, improving self-esteem, and increasing self-confidence and resilience.
The decision to start therapy is a huge, brave step in seeking to improve your life and make positive changes. As a compassionate and supportive therapist, I work to support your goals by learning your unique story and exploring your concerns and presenting issues in order to guide you to meaningful, beneficial outcomes. I primarily work with adolescent and young adult women and focus on helping individuals with a wide range of goals, such as improving family dynamics, building healthy romantic and peer relationships, learning positive coping strategies, improving self-esteem, and increasing self-confidence and resilience.
(571) 451-2961 View (571) 451-2961
Photo of Sandra Emo, Resident in Counseling in Alexandria, VA
Sandra Emo
Resident in Counseling, MEd, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
I have experience working with individuals, couples and children ages 10 and older to address diverse issues with the goal towards improving overall wellness. Whether you're an individual looking to take care of your mental health, a couple working towards communications, or a parent seeking resources for their child or adolescent, I would love to help you meet your needs. As a bilingual speaker, I am also able to facilitate therapy for Spanish speaking clients. My experience spans trauma, parenting, coping skills, communication, depression, anxiety, life transitions, multicultural issues, and maternal mental health to name a few.
I have experience working with individuals, couples and children ages 10 and older to address diverse issues with the goal towards improving overall wellness. Whether you're an individual looking to take care of your mental health, a couple working towards communications, or a parent seeking resources for their child or adolescent, I would love to help you meet your needs. As a bilingual speaker, I am also able to facilitate therapy for Spanish speaking clients. My experience spans trauma, parenting, coping skills, communication, depression, anxiety, life transitions, multicultural issues, and maternal mental health to name a few.
(540) 845-6940 x1 View (540) 845-6940 x1
Photo of The Wise Family, Counseling & Assessment , Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
The Wise Family, Counseling & Assessment
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
The Wise Family specializes in helping worried kids, stressed-out teens, over-scheduled adults and the families who love them. Is your child having trouble making friends, paying attention in school, or managing big feelings? Does your teen seem moody, distant, and unhappy? Are you finding that your family is having constant battles or struggling to get along on a day to day basis? Worrying about children and teens makes family life that much harder. And when a member of your family is suffering, everyone suffers.
The Wise Family specializes in helping worried kids, stressed-out teens, over-scheduled adults and the families who love them. Is your child having trouble making friends, paying attention in school, or managing big feelings? Does your teen seem moody, distant, and unhappy? Are you finding that your family is having constant battles or struggling to get along on a day to day basis? Worrying about children and teens makes family life that much harder. And when a member of your family is suffering, everyone suffers.
(571) 458-1550 View (571) 458-1550
Photo of Meghan Burns, Pre-Licensed Professional in Alexandria, VA
Meghan Burns
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22301
Accepting new clients. Are you a college student navigating challenges of academics and social life? Are you looking to understand who you are as a young adult? Do you have a teen or adolescent who could benefit from tools to manage the stressors of teen years? I’m here to help young adults, teens, and adolescents grow through and manage life’s challenges. I aim to help increase self-awareness, discover what healthy communication is, and create awareness of the mind-body connection for overall wellness. My approach creates space and fosters growth for clients to improve themselves for the better.
Accepting new clients. Are you a college student navigating challenges of academics and social life? Are you looking to understand who you are as a young adult? Do you have a teen or adolescent who could benefit from tools to manage the stressors of teen years? I’m here to help young adults, teens, and adolescents grow through and manage life’s challenges. I aim to help increase self-awareness, discover what healthy communication is, and create awareness of the mind-body connection for overall wellness. My approach creates space and fosters growth for clients to improve themselves for the better.
(703) 828-0531 View (703) 828-0531
Photo of Tykesia Hathorne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Tykesia Hathorne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304
I have worked with clients who present with mental health issues, geriatric, substance abuse, trauma, family integration and adolescent school difficulties.
Everyone has an untold story. Where does your narrative begin? I work with you on personal growth as we address the issues you are struggling with. I see the counseling relationship as a process, in which, the main focus consists of establishing a relationship between client and the counselor, developing a sense of trust and understanding, and helping you develop constructive coping strategies for healthier living to live life to the fullest potential. We would close old chapters together and begin new one(s).
I have worked with clients who present with mental health issues, geriatric, substance abuse, trauma, family integration and adolescent school difficulties.
Everyone has an untold story. Where does your narrative begin? I work with you on personal growth as we address the issues you are struggling with. I see the counseling relationship as a process, in which, the main focus consists of establishing a relationship between client and the counselor, developing a sense of trust and understanding, and helping you develop constructive coping strategies for healthier living to live life to the fullest potential. We would close old chapters together and begin new one(s).
(571) 496-9129 x44 View (571) 496-9129 x44
Photo of Natasha R Black, Pre-Licensed Professional in Alexandria, VA
Natasha R Black
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RIC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist specializing in at-risk child and adolescent mental health care. I am committed to assisting patients in achieving long-term self-management of their mental health. I firmly believe the first step in youth mental health treatment is recognizing that therapy is not a punishment but an opportunity to unlock one's potential. I strive to create a safe and supportive space that fosters growth and development, allows individual development of coping skills, identifies sources of support, increases mindfulness, and promotes accountability of mental health goals.
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist specializing in at-risk child and adolescent mental health care. I am committed to assisting patients in achieving long-term self-management of their mental health. I firmly believe the first step in youth mental health treatment is recognizing that therapy is not a punishment but an opportunity to unlock one's potential. I strive to create a safe and supportive space that fosters growth and development, allows individual development of coping skills, identifies sources of support, increases mindfulness, and promotes accountability of mental health goals.
(703) 546-9239 View (703) 546-9239
Photo of Alexandra M. Knezo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Alexandra M. Knezo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I am in a group practice called Alexandria Adolescent and Adult Therapy, Inc.
Live the life you choose! Let me assist you in recognizing your own courage and transform frustration into strength! I utilize an integrative approach based on a strengths model of treatment. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psycho-dynamic, interpersonal, solutions-focused, family systems, and empowerment. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that best meets your needs. We will work together to address challenges you are facing and identify solutions to cope. In addition, I will coordinate with other providers such as psychiatrists and physicians who are on your wellness team.
I am in a group practice called Alexandria Adolescent and Adult Therapy, Inc.
Live the life you choose! Let me assist you in recognizing your own courage and transform frustration into strength! I utilize an integrative approach based on a strengths model of treatment. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psycho-dynamic, interpersonal, solutions-focused, family systems, and empowerment. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that best meets your needs. We will work together to address challenges you are facing and identify solutions to cope. In addition, I will coordinate with other providers such as psychiatrists and physicians who are on your wellness team.
(703) 935-5821 View (703) 935-5821
Photo of Isabelle Craddock, Resident in Counseling in Alexandria, VA
Isabelle Craddock
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22302  (Online Only)
The decision to start therapy is not an easy one. It is a brave step toward working on making positive life changes. As a compassionate and supportive therapist, I work to support your goals by learning your story and exploring your concerns. I am to present issues in order to guide you to meaningful, beneficial outcomes that you can maintain. I primarily work with adolescent and young adults and focus on helping with a wide range of goals, such as improving self-esteem/image, building healthy relationships, learning positive coping strategies, increasing self-confidence, and resilience.
The decision to start therapy is not an easy one. It is a brave step toward working on making positive life changes. As a compassionate and supportive therapist, I work to support your goals by learning your story and exploring your concerns. I am to present issues in order to guide you to meaningful, beneficial outcomes that you can maintain. I primarily work with adolescent and young adults and focus on helping with a wide range of goals, such as improving self-esteem/image, building healthy relationships, learning positive coping strategies, increasing self-confidence, and resilience.
(571) 568-5814 View (571) 568-5814
Photo of Jessica Ellin Schladt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Jessica Ellin Schladt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302  (Online Only)
My mission through counseling is to foster hope to aid in inspiring change. I believe in the innate resilience of people to rise above their struggles. Sometimes we all need a little help to get there. I utilize a strengths-based approach to therapy, focused on resilience, empowerment, and building on a person’s current skill set. I am focused on meeting the client where they are to help them achieve where they want to be. Through compassion, challenging, and humor, I support my teen and adult clients in developing a growth mindset to reach their goals.
My mission through counseling is to foster hope to aid in inspiring change. I believe in the innate resilience of people to rise above their struggles. Sometimes we all need a little help to get there. I utilize a strengths-based approach to therapy, focused on resilience, empowerment, and building on a person’s current skill set. I am focused on meeting the client where they are to help them achieve where they want to be. Through compassion, challenging, and humor, I support my teen and adult clients in developing a growth mindset to reach their goals.
(571) 450-9488 View (571) 450-9488
Photo of Alyssa Coan—Trauma-informed, whole person care, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Alyssa Coan—Trauma-informed, whole person care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Are you, or your teenager struggling with anxiety? Do you have difficulty moving forward in life toward your goals? Are traumatic events from your past interfering with your well-being in the present? Often, our brains get stuck in ways that hold us back. In therapy, you can learn to defuse the experiences, thoughts, and feelings that cause you difficulty. You can develop practical tools that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer, more confident, more balanced, more motivated, and more in control. You can improve your relationships. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
Are you, or your teenager struggling with anxiety? Do you have difficulty moving forward in life toward your goals? Are traumatic events from your past interfering with your well-being in the present? Often, our brains get stuck in ways that hold us back. In therapy, you can learn to defuse the experiences, thoughts, and feelings that cause you difficulty. You can develop practical tools that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer, more confident, more balanced, more motivated, and more in control. You can improve your relationships. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
(703) 686-8961 View (703) 686-8961
Photo of Susan Fletcher, LPC, MA—Addiction/Emotional Health, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Susan Fletcher, LPC, MA—Addiction/Emotional Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Do you or your teenager need support recovering from addiction? Are depression, anxiety, or poor self-image keeping you stuck in life? Have you been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (BPD), schizophrenia, or other mental health challenges? Have you experienced traumatic events in childhood or in your adult life? In therapy, we will draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other treatment modalities to support you in developing effective coping skills. We can work on resolving trauma and defusing other factors that may be powering your difficulties. Contact me today. I am looking forward to hearing your story.
Do you or your teenager need support recovering from addiction? Are depression, anxiety, or poor self-image keeping you stuck in life? Have you been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (BPD), schizophrenia, or other mental health challenges? Have you experienced traumatic events in childhood or in your adult life? In therapy, we will draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other treatment modalities to support you in developing effective coping skills. We can work on resolving trauma and defusing other factors that may be powering your difficulties. Contact me today. I am looking forward to hearing your story.
(301) 835-1758 View (301) 835-1758
Photo of Alexandra Mai, LMSW — Anxiety, Addiction, Biplolar in Alexandria, VA
Alexandra Mai, LMSW — Anxiety, Addiction, Biplolar
LMSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Do you or your teen struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Are you frequently nervous, or do you have trouble sleeping? In therapy, you can build coping skills that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer and more in control. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Our goal will be resilience and sustained healing. You can gain clarity on what matters to you most. You can open up to your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Contact me today to learn more about therapy. I am looking forward to helping!
Do you or your teen struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Are you frequently nervous, or do you have trouble sleeping? In therapy, you can build coping skills that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer and more in control. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Our goal will be resilience and sustained healing. You can gain clarity on what matters to you most. You can open up to your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Contact me today to learn more about therapy. I am looking forward to helping!
(301) 781-7972 View (301) 781-7972
Photo of Christian Claiborne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Christian Claiborne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22305
My name is Claiborne Christian, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. my style of therapy a style that I called Grace-based therapy has a little bit of cognitive-behavioral a lot of stuff that I've learned in Sunday school, and it blends motivational interviewing and Rational emotive therapy as well. The type of clients I have worked with has varied from teens in the midst of adolescent angst to First Responders who are dealing with the trauma of the most recent issue. I like to say let's talk and let's see if we are a fit.
My name is Claiborne Christian, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. my style of therapy a style that I called Grace-based therapy has a little bit of cognitive-behavioral a lot of stuff that I've learned in Sunday school, and it blends motivational interviewing and Rational emotive therapy as well. The type of clients I have worked with has varied from teens in the midst of adolescent angst to First Responders who are dealing with the trauma of the most recent issue. I like to say let's talk and let's see if we are a fit.
(571) 777-0307 View (571) 777-0307
Photo of Eagles Wings Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Eagles Wings Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22301
Compassionate, Bilingual Therapist uniquely trained to treat the sensitive needs of the whole person, integrating Spirituality with Psychology in helping you overcome personal obstacles to living your best life! Specializing in inner healing, resolving simple and complex marital issues, career changes, midlife and adolescent struggles, treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual abuse and domestic violence. I also offer Clinical Assessments for Immigration Situations dealing with Asylum, Hardship Waivers, U Visa and VAWA cases. Christian Counseling available upon request.
Compassionate, Bilingual Therapist uniquely trained to treat the sensitive needs of the whole person, integrating Spirituality with Psychology in helping you overcome personal obstacles to living your best life! Specializing in inner healing, resolving simple and complex marital issues, career changes, midlife and adolescent struggles, treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual abuse and domestic violence. I also offer Clinical Assessments for Immigration Situations dealing with Asylum, Hardship Waivers, U Visa and VAWA cases. Christian Counseling available upon request.
(706) 550-9567 View (706) 550-9567
Photo of The Center for Connection, Healing and Change (RM), Pre-Licensed Professional in Alexandria, VA
The Center for Connection, Healing and Change (RM)
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT-R, LPC-R, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, Parent-Child Interaction therapy, trauma therapy, EMDR, and group therapy.
Accepting new clients -The Center for Connection, Healing & Change focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships- within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying connections for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, be responsive to loved ones, set boundaries, deal with loss, heal trauma, move through stressful experiences, find our purpose, and access resilience in moments of need.
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, Parent-Child Interaction therapy, trauma therapy, EMDR, and group therapy.
Accepting new clients -The Center for Connection, Healing & Change focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships- within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying connections for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, be responsive to loved ones, set boundaries, deal with loss, heal trauma, move through stressful experiences, find our purpose, and access resilience in moments of need.
(804) 336-3063 View (804) 336-3063
Teen Therapists

What does therapy for teenagers look like?

When a therapist works with a teenager, the pair will talk about what the teen is struggling with and explore solutions, which may involve interpersonal skills, coping strategies, medication, or lifestyle changes related to sleep, diet, and exercise. Different therapists employ different modalities, but most involve a combination of conversation and skill building.

How long does therapy for teenagers generally take to work?

There’s variability in teenagers’ experiences and challenges; some may begin to improve from therapy within a few weeks while others may take several months or longer. Teens can discuss their progress with their therapist periodically to assess how they’re improving and any changes to the treatment plan that could potentially accelerate that progress.

How do you encourage a teenager to go to therapy?

It’s helpful to express your concern and love while framing therapy as an opportunity to explore a tool that could help improve their life; just like they practice baseball or dance, now they can practice their emotional skills. Give your teen control over the process where you can—maybe by weighing in on choice of therapist and signaling that therapy involves confidentiality, so a parent need not know all that is discussed in sessions.

How do you prepare teens for therapy?

You can prepare your teenager for therapy by describing what the process will look like and setting expectations for timeline, if requested. You can explain that the first session may begin with an assessment phase, that they can describe their experiences but that the therapist will ask questions too, and that it may take time to feel comfortable opening up. Ask how they’re feeling about the process and answer any questions calmly and supportively.