Therapists for Teens in Prince William County, VA

Photo of Got Your Six Counseling Services, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Got Your Six Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CSAC, MAC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dumfries, VA 22026
Veteran-owned and operated, we seek to help Veterans, First Responders, their Families, and children impacted by traumatic events. We provide specialized individual and group therapy, and provide therapy for a wide range of children, adolescent, and adult clients. We welcome those who are struggling with life issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, coping, gender identity, mood disorders, relationship issues, sexuality, and addictions. We believe that the situations we experience impact us, but do not define us. Our clinicians are trained to help you reach your full potential and overcome difficult situations.
Veteran-owned and operated, we seek to help Veterans, First Responders, their Families, and children impacted by traumatic events. We provide specialized individual and group therapy, and provide therapy for a wide range of children, adolescent, and adult clients. We welcome those who are struggling with life issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, coping, gender identity, mood disorders, relationship issues, sexuality, and addictions. We believe that the situations we experience impact us, but do not define us. Our clinicians are trained to help you reach your full potential and overcome difficult situations.
(571) 636-1800 View (571) 636-1800
Photo of Heidi Graybill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Heidi Graybill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Haymarket, VA 20169
I'm passionate about walking alongside those facing unique personal battles. Without help, it may seem crippling to endure these challenges. I've worked with students, adults, military, first responders, LGBTQ+, families and individuals confronted by anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, trauma, PTSD, abuse and more. I have been honored to work with diverse populations, including first responders and military. Additionally, throughout the COVID pandemic adolescent distress has escalated; consequently, I am devoted to offer safe clinical support that encourages self-discovery while recognizing personal value.
I'm passionate about walking alongside those facing unique personal battles. Without help, it may seem crippling to endure these challenges. I've worked with students, adults, military, first responders, LGBTQ+, families and individuals confronted by anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviors, trauma, PTSD, abuse and more. I have been honored to work with diverse populations, including first responders and military. Additionally, throughout the COVID pandemic adolescent distress has escalated; consequently, I am devoted to offer safe clinical support that encourages self-discovery while recognizing personal value.
(571) 470-5470 View (571) 470-5470
Photo of The Center for Connection, Healing and Change (RM), Pre-Licensed Professional in Prince William County, 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
Woodbridge, VA 22192
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
Photo of Antoinette Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Antoinette Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
A combination of therapeutic approaches is utilized to meet the personal needs and goals of individuals, couples, and families. I have over 20 years of providing substance abuse and mental health counseling services to adolescent and adult clients. Understanding that each client has an unique set of circumstances, my experience can help with a wide variety of complex problems, ranging from marriage or family issues, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or any other variety of life issues. Your privacy and confidentiality is a priority and I am committed to helping you reach personal goals and overcoming obstacles in your life.
A combination of therapeutic approaches is utilized to meet the personal needs and goals of individuals, couples, and families. I have over 20 years of providing substance abuse and mental health counseling services to adolescent and adult clients. Understanding that each client has an unique set of circumstances, my experience can help with a wide variety of complex problems, ranging from marriage or family issues, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or any other variety of life issues. Your privacy and confidentiality is a priority and I am committed to helping you reach personal goals and overcoming obstacles in your life.
(571) 330-9515 View (571) 330-9515
Photo of Heather Eddy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Prince William County, VA
Heather Eddy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Heather Eddy is a Resident in Clinical Social Work in Virginia who has been practicing since 2003. She has a Master's of Clinical Social Work from New York University. Heather offers a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive therapy and motivational interviewing, and tailors treatment to the client's unique needs and personality. She has experience in conflict resolution and working with teens. When not at work, Heather enjoys acoustic music, learning Spanish language, historical movies and documentaries, and spending time with her teen daughter.
Heather Eddy is a Resident in Clinical Social Work in Virginia who has been practicing since 2003. She has a Master's of Clinical Social Work from New York University. Heather offers a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive therapy and motivational interviewing, and tailors treatment to the client's unique needs and personality. She has experience in conflict resolution and working with teens. When not at work, Heather enjoys acoustic music, learning Spanish language, historical movies and documentaries, and spending time with her teen daughter.
(571) 982-8139 View (571) 982-8139
Photo of Patrick Curley - Clinic Director in Prince William County, VA
Patrick Curley - Clinic Director
LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Does your teenager have feelings of anxiety, sadness, depression, feeling hopeless, having trouble with motivation, getting out of bed? Or, does your child have difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, won't sit still or listen? As parents, do you feel your at your wits end, tried everything, need help? Whatever mental, emotional and behavioral issues your child is going thru, We are here to help. We can assist those with anxiety, depression, add and everything in between. At Ellie Mental Health, we provide services in a safe, authentic, fun environment that helps our clients overcome their obstacles.
Does your teenager have feelings of anxiety, sadness, depression, feeling hopeless, having trouble with motivation, getting out of bed? Or, does your child have difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, won't sit still or listen? As parents, do you feel your at your wits end, tried everything, need help? Whatever mental, emotional and behavioral issues your child is going thru, We are here to help. We can assist those with anxiety, depression, add and everything in between. At Ellie Mental Health, we provide services in a safe, authentic, fun environment that helps our clients overcome their obstacles.
(703) 215-3609 View (703) 215-3609
Photo of Ricky Coston, Pre-Licensed Professional in Prince William County, VA
Ricky Coston
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Manassas Park, VA 20111  (Online Only)
I have provided counseling for individuals with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Relationships Issues, Adolescent/Teen Related Issues, Social Skills, and Anger Management.
Ricky Coston Jr. is a member of the National Board for Certified Counselors, the American School Counselor Association, and the Virginia School Counselor Association. He has several years of experience working with adolescents and families mostly in the school setting. In 2012, Ricky earned his B.A. in Psychology and B.A. in Philosophy from The College of William and Mary. In 2014 Ricky earned his M.Ed in School Counseling from The College of William and Mary. Ricky relies heavily on Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I have provided counseling for individuals with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Relationships Issues, Adolescent/Teen Related Issues, Social Skills, and Anger Management.
Ricky Coston Jr. is a member of the National Board for Certified Counselors, the American School Counselor Association, and the Virginia School Counselor Association. He has several years of experience working with adolescents and families mostly in the school setting. In 2012, Ricky earned his B.A. in Psychology and B.A. in Philosophy from The College of William and Mary. In 2014 Ricky earned his M.Ed in School Counseling from The College of William and Mary. Ricky relies heavily on Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(571) 568-7395 View (571) 568-7395
Photo of Dr. Vester Appiah, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Dr. Vester Appiah
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20109  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the courageous step towards positive change. I'm Dr. Vester Appiah, and I'm here to provide you with specialized support on your journey to well-being. With over a decade of experience, my passion lies in offering compassionate counseling to individuals of all age groups. Whether you're a teenager navigating the complexities of youth, a young adult grappling with life's transitions, or an experienced individual seeking personal growth and healing, I'm here to walk with you every step of the way.
Congratulations on taking the courageous step towards positive change. I'm Dr. Vester Appiah, and I'm here to provide you with specialized support on your journey to well-being. With over a decade of experience, my passion lies in offering compassionate counseling to individuals of all age groups. Whether you're a teenager navigating the complexities of youth, a young adult grappling with life's transitions, or an experienced individual seeking personal growth and healing, I'm here to walk with you every step of the way.
(540) 274-9948 View (540) 274-9948
Anthony R DiFrancesco
Psychologist, PhD, PC
Verified Verified
Occoquan, VA 22125
As a Clinical Psychologist I enjoy working with the entire life span. It gives me a unique perspective and understanding of what challenges occur at different stages of life whether it's a child/adolescent/young adult making changes for the future or an older adult working through childhood experiences or traumas. For healing to occur it is critical to understand how past patterns of coping and beliefs are an active part of our current lives. Practical reflection and problem solving is an integral part of my treatment. I have been in private practice in Prince William County since 1988.
As a Clinical Psychologist I enjoy working with the entire life span. It gives me a unique perspective and understanding of what challenges occur at different stages of life whether it's a child/adolescent/young adult making changes for the future or an older adult working through childhood experiences or traumas. For healing to occur it is critical to understand how past patterns of coping and beliefs are an active part of our current lives. Practical reflection and problem solving is an integral part of my treatment. I have been in private practice in Prince William County since 1988.
(703) 491-9701 View (703) 491-9701
Photo of Woodbridge Therapy Group, Psychologist in Prince William County, VA
Woodbridge Therapy Group
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Social Skills Groups, Psychological Testing and Evaluation, Mindfulness Psychoeducation, Stress Management, Bilingual Therapy offered in Individual, Family, Couples, and Group format, Depression Groups, Adolescent Groups.
Established over 10 years ago, we originally opened as Prince William Family Counseling and provided the community with trustworthy therapy services in a safe, welcoming environment. In 2015 the agency was purchased and took on new ownership and we became Woodbridge Therapy Group. With the recent change in ownership, we have expanded our number of providers, added more services, and renewed our investment in the community.
Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Social Skills Groups, Psychological Testing and Evaluation, Mindfulness Psychoeducation, Stress Management, Bilingual Therapy offered in Individual, Family, Couples, and Group format, Depression Groups, Adolescent Groups.
Established over 10 years ago, we originally opened as Prince William Family Counseling and provided the community with trustworthy therapy services in a safe, welcoming environment. In 2015 the agency was purchased and took on new ownership and we became Woodbridge Therapy Group. With the recent change in ownership, we have expanded our number of providers, added more services, and renewed our investment in the community.
(571) 946-4129 View (571) 946-4129
Photo of Ariel Meaney, Pre-Licensed Professional in Prince William County, VA
Ariel Meaney
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-I, MS, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dumfries, VA 22026
Hello. I am a Resident in Counseling who works with individuals, children/adolescents, and couples. I am a Marine Corps Veteran, so my true passion is to help my fellow veterans and military families within their therapeutic process. Whether this be through the individual aspect, through the couples’ aspect, or the child/adolescent needs of coping with the struggles of the military lifestyle. I strive to help the military family in any way possible. From having the hands-on experience of being active duty as well as currently being a military spouse, I plan to help your family through your time of distress and turmoil.
Hello. I am a Resident in Counseling who works with individuals, children/adolescents, and couples. I am a Marine Corps Veteran, so my true passion is to help my fellow veterans and military families within their therapeutic process. Whether this be through the individual aspect, through the couples’ aspect, or the child/adolescent needs of coping with the struggles of the military lifestyle. I strive to help the military family in any way possible. From having the hands-on experience of being active duty as well as currently being a military spouse, I plan to help your family through your time of distress and turmoil.
(571) 601-4163 View (571) 601-4163
Photo of Ruth Ritchie Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Prince William County, VA
Ruth Ritchie Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals, children/adolescences, families, and couples to process issues with communication, depression, sexual issues,transition, stress, anxiety, school difficulties, relationship issues, family discord, child/adolescent behaviors, and military issues to name a few.
We all need support at times in our lives. Are your kids struggling? Is your sex life lacking? Is your relationship missing connection? Are you carrying around pain and trauma? Addiction? Anxious? Overwhelmed? Do you just want to be heard? As a therapist, I will work with you to help identify, address and fortify healthy skills to make positive transformations in your life. I have over 25 years' experience in the helping professions and look forward to the opportunity to meet with you. Its important to take care of ourselves- Call today to take that step towards change.
I work with individuals, children/adolescences, families, and couples to process issues with communication, depression, sexual issues,transition, stress, anxiety, school difficulties, relationship issues, family discord, child/adolescent behaviors, and military issues to name a few.
We all need support at times in our lives. Are your kids struggling? Is your sex life lacking? Is your relationship missing connection? Are you carrying around pain and trauma? Addiction? Anxious? Overwhelmed? Do you just want to be heard? As a therapist, I will work with you to help identify, address and fortify healthy skills to make positive transformations in your life. I have over 25 years' experience in the helping professions and look forward to the opportunity to meet with you. Its important to take care of ourselves- Call today to take that step towards change.
(703) 291-8924 View (703) 291-8924
Photo of Mmere Dane Counseling (Cortnee Williams), Resident in Counseling in Prince William County, VA
Mmere Dane Counseling (Cortnee Williams)
Resident in Counseling, MS, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Montclair, VA 22025  (Online Only)
I specialize in childhood, adolescent, and young adult mental health, as well as Sports/Performance counseling. I have helped individuals with barriers associated with self-confidence, identity, relationships, depression, anxiety, life transitions (including educational and career changes), family dynamics, lack of motivation, and misplaced meaning and purpose.
I specialize in childhood, adolescent, and young adult mental health, as well as Sports/Performance counseling. I have helped individuals with barriers associated with self-confidence, identity, relationships, depression, anxiety, life transitions (including educational and career changes), family dynamics, lack of motivation, and misplaced meaning and purpose.
(571) 946-6493 View (571) 946-6493
Photo of Battlefield Counseling Centers & Dr. Faith James, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Battlefield Counseling Centers & Dr. Faith James
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20109
I provide therapy to children, adolescents, parents and couples. My areas of expertise include Parenting, Co-Parenting, Depression, Anxiety, and Adolescent stress. I also conduct psychological evaluations as well. I am committed to the overall well being of families and work with families in transition, such as divorce, grief and loss, and becoming new parents.
I provide therapy to children, adolescents, parents and couples. My areas of expertise include Parenting, Co-Parenting, Depression, Anxiety, and Adolescent stress. I also conduct psychological evaluations as well. I am committed to the overall well being of families and work with families in transition, such as divorce, grief and loss, and becoming new parents.
(703) 940-9043 View (703) 940-9043
Photo of The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Prince William County, VA
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital/precommitment therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, play therapy, trauma therapy, and EMDR.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital/precommitment therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, play therapy, trauma therapy, and EMDR.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
(703) 879-3275 View (703) 879-3275
Photo of Chase Butala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Prince William County, VA
Chase Butala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LCPC VA, MD WVA
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
Chase received his Bachelor's Degree in Sociology in 2006 at the Shippensburg University, and his Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from West Virginia University in 2009. He has 15 plus years of experience in the mental health field. In 2009 he was, and remains, certified as a Rehabilitation Counselor by Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification. He worked at Timber Ridge School (Winchester, VA) for 5 years providing case management, group interventions, crisis intervention, and assisting in treatment development for adolescent males.
Chase received his Bachelor's Degree in Sociology in 2006 at the Shippensburg University, and his Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from West Virginia University in 2009. He has 15 plus years of experience in the mental health field. In 2009 he was, and remains, certified as a Rehabilitation Counselor by Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification. He worked at Timber Ridge School (Winchester, VA) for 5 years providing case management, group interventions, crisis intervention, and assisting in treatment development for adolescent males.
(540) 592-4723 View (540) 592-4723
Photo of Robin Jahanian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Prince William County, VA
Robin Jahanian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
Worked in a therapeutic wilderness program for adolescent males.
Therapy can be a great opportunity for hope, healing, and change to take place in your life. Whether it's a stressful set of life circumstances or an area in your life that you're struggling with, I look forward to working together with you to help you find what you are looking for. My diverse professional background has given me the privelege of working with a wide range of clients, such as those experiencing life changes/transitions, anxiety, stress, depression, and addiction. I seem to work mainly with male adolescents, adults and their families. Evaluation and referral services for mental health or addiction.
Worked in a therapeutic wilderness program for adolescent males.
Therapy can be a great opportunity for hope, healing, and change to take place in your life. Whether it's a stressful set of life circumstances or an area in your life that you're struggling with, I look forward to working together with you to help you find what you are looking for. My diverse professional background has given me the privelege of working with a wide range of clients, such as those experiencing life changes/transitions, anxiety, stress, depression, and addiction. I seem to work mainly with male adolescents, adults and their families. Evaluation and referral services for mental health or addiction.
(703) 468-0675 View (703) 468-0675
Photo of Rebecca Cottle-Makhene, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Rebecca Cottle-Makhene
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155
My goal is to meet clients where they are and take them where they want to be. My varied experiences allows me to utilize differing psychotherapy techniques based on what the client needs. I have a focus on trauma related issues and victim advocacy. I believe that by empowering clients with resilience and helping them to find their strength they can use those tools no matter what adversities they may face. My clinical expertise encompasses a range of problems, including mood and anxiety disorders, child and parental adjustment to divorce, child and adolescent behavior management problems, social skills, and parenting.
My goal is to meet clients where they are and take them where they want to be. My varied experiences allows me to utilize differing psychotherapy techniques based on what the client needs. I have a focus on trauma related issues and victim advocacy. I believe that by empowering clients with resilience and helping them to find their strength they can use those tools no matter what adversities they may face. My clinical expertise encompasses a range of problems, including mood and anxiety disorders, child and parental adjustment to divorce, child and adolescent behavior management problems, social skills, and parenting.
(703) 997-4916 View (703) 997-4916
Photo of Kerrian McKay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Prince William County, VA
Kerrian McKay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20112
I coach women and adolescent girls 16+ who struggle with people pleasing, fixer syndrome, and perfectionism to build emotional wellness skills to tackle unhealthy relationships that trigger anxiety and depression. I teach research based skills to help you overcome cycles of toxic relationships, family drama, codependency, rescue syndrome, self-doubt, and burn out. I understand the stress of feeling consumed by life and overbearing relationships. I can relate to life feeling too much, relationships feeling burdensome and overwhelmingly exhausting, wanting to leave everything, everyone behind and disappear. I'm here to support you.
I coach women and adolescent girls 16+ who struggle with people pleasing, fixer syndrome, and perfectionism to build emotional wellness skills to tackle unhealthy relationships that trigger anxiety and depression. I teach research based skills to help you overcome cycles of toxic relationships, family drama, codependency, rescue syndrome, self-doubt, and burn out. I understand the stress of feeling consumed by life and overbearing relationships. I can relate to life feeling too much, relationships feeling burdensome and overwhelmingly exhausting, wanting to leave everything, everyone behind and disappear. I'm here to support you.
(571) 701-1594 View (571) 701-1594
Photo of Eagles Wings Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Prince William County, VA
Eagles Wings Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191
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

See more therapy options for Prince William County

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.