Therapists in 94609
James R. Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609 (Online Only)
Seeking help when things don't feel quite right takes courage. Sometimes we don't know exactly what's blocking us, other times that thing is too big for us to ignore. I’m grateful that you decided to listen to yourself and have chosen this path to boost your support. I'm rooting for you. My hope is that together we can uncover significant ways for you to continue rising into your best self, define your wholeness, and audaciously live your truth. The essence of my approach is warm and genuinely focused on facilitating, identifying, and assisting clients address goals that are meaningful to them.
Seeking help when things don't feel quite right takes courage. Sometimes we don't know exactly what's blocking us, other times that thing is too big for us to ignore. I’m grateful that you decided to listen to yourself and have chosen this path to boost your support. I'm rooting for you. My hope is that together we can uncover significant ways for you to continue rising into your best self, define your wholeness, and audaciously live your truth. The essence of my approach is warm and genuinely focused on facilitating, identifying, and assisting clients address goals that are meaningful to them.
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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.