Counsellors for Teens in Barrow-in-Furness, ENG

Photo of Angharad Polley, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Angharad Polley
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Barrow-in-Furness LA14
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist offering a range of therapies to support people of any age to overcome emotional difficulties, problems with relationships and to work through issues that might be holding them back from a rich and meaningful life. I work by collaboratively developing individualised plans based on a thorough assessment identifying the root cause of the problem. These then inform evidence-based treatment plans. I have experience of supporting people across the lifespan having worked in a variety of NHS settings.
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist offering a range of therapies to support people of any age to overcome emotional difficulties, problems with relationships and to work through issues that might be holding them back from a rich and meaningful life. I work by collaboratively developing individualised plans based on a thorough assessment identifying the root cause of the problem. These then inform evidence-based treatment plans. I have experience of supporting people across the lifespan having worked in a variety of NHS settings.
01229 317114 View 01229 317114
Photo of Claire Johnson - CJ Therapy, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
CJ Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Barrow-in-Furness LA14
Clients come to CBT often with what seems like a complex web of problems which can’t be unravelled or resolved, however they can. Clients often feel they are going round in circles or that their lives are out of control. CBT is useful for a range of issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD and phobias. Clients often need to understand why they think and feel like they do, they want practical help so they can feel better about themselves or what they have been through. Being an active therapy means clients see visible improvements each week, with practice and encouragement clients are able to resume some control over their lives.
Clients come to CBT often with what seems like a complex web of problems which can’t be unravelled or resolved, however they can. Clients often feel they are going round in circles or that their lives are out of control. CBT is useful for a range of issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD and phobias. Clients often need to understand why they think and feel like they do, they want practical help so they can feel better about themselves or what they have been through. Being an active therapy means clients see visible improvements each week, with practice and encouragement clients are able to resume some control over their lives.
07380 316604 View 07380 316604
Photo of Tracy Emanuel Pearson, MBACP, Counsellor
Tracy Emanuel Pearson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Barrow-in-Furness LA14
Hi I'm Tracy, I'm a Person Centred Therapist who works with people of all ages and walks of life. If you are reading this biography, chances are you are looking for a therapist to support you with something that has challenged you personally. Questions like- 'when was the last time you felt happy?' 'how much time of the day do you worry?' 'What is the cause of your frustration' 'how can you do things differently?' Or just 'When will I be myself again?' might be racing round your head. Struggling with your mental health can be debilitating and life changing. Trying to manage depression, anxiety or low self esteem is not easy.
Hi I'm Tracy, I'm a Person Centred Therapist who works with people of all ages and walks of life. If you are reading this biography, chances are you are looking for a therapist to support you with something that has challenged you personally. Questions like- 'when was the last time you felt happy?' 'how much time of the day do you worry?' 'What is the cause of your frustration' 'how can you do things differently?' Or just 'When will I be myself again?' might be racing round your head. Struggling with your mental health can be debilitating and life changing. Trying to manage depression, anxiety or low self esteem is not easy.
01229 317112 View 01229 317112
Photo of Lianne Anderson - Bay Psychology® , Psychologist
Bay Psychology®
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Barrow-in-Furness LA13
I'm a HCPC registered Consultant Psychologist, with doctoral level professional training, and a Chartered & Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society. Your therapy will always be progressed at your own pace, with the assurance that I have 25 years' experience of working sensitively, confidentially and collaboratively with my clients. After an initial formulation, I will use any evidence-based approaches you prefer to help you learn new coping strategies, process important issues & emotions and work towards achieving your personal goals/recovery. Most sessions are remote but I offer some face-to-face therapy in Cumbria
I'm a HCPC registered Consultant Psychologist, with doctoral level professional training, and a Chartered & Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society. Your therapy will always be progressed at your own pace, with the assurance that I have 25 years' experience of working sensitively, confidentially and collaboratively with my clients. After an initial formulation, I will use any evidence-based approaches you prefer to help you learn new coping strategies, process important issues & emotions and work towards achieving your personal goals/recovery. Most sessions are remote but I offer some face-to-face therapy in Cumbria
01229 260838 View 01229 260838
Photo of Anita Lonsdale - Anita Lonsdale Therapy Services, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Anita Lonsdale Therapy Services
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Barrow-in-Furness LA13
Hello, My name is Anita and I am an Accredited BACP Counsellor based in Lindale, (Grange over Sands) Cumbria, UK. I have nearly twenty years professional experience working with adults, couples and young people through crisis, loss, trauma and unexpected life changes. Within the counselling it will help you address these issues, get to the route of why you may be feeling this way, along with developing a different approach in tackling them. In every session, I maintain a friendly and compassionate approach, whilst professionally adhering to BACP ethics and framework.
Hello, My name is Anita and I am an Accredited BACP Counsellor based in Lindale, (Grange over Sands) Cumbria, UK. I have nearly twenty years professional experience working with adults, couples and young people through crisis, loss, trauma and unexpected life changes. Within the counselling it will help you address these issues, get to the route of why you may be feeling this way, along with developing a different approach in tackling them. In every session, I maintain a friendly and compassionate approach, whilst professionally adhering to BACP ethics and framework.
07973 690066 View 07973 690066
Photo of Euan Mckinnon, MBACP, Counsellor
Euan Mckinnon
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrow-in-Furness LA13
Hello, I’m Euan. I am offering face-to-face or online support in a welcoming and engaging environment. I have always been curious about what makes us all unique. In these rapidly changing times, it feels more relevant than ever to provide a space where we can express and share our thoughts and feelings. As a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor, I am able to provide that space and support for those experiencing difficulties in their life.
Hello, I’m Euan. I am offering face-to-face or online support in a welcoming and engaging environment. I have always been curious about what makes us all unique. In these rapidly changing times, it feels more relevant than ever to provide a space where we can express and share our thoughts and feelings. As a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor, I am able to provide that space and support for those experiencing difficulties in their life.
01229 317122 View 01229 317122
Photo of Isobel Hall, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Isobel Hall
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Barrow-in-Furness LA13
Hi, I'm Isobel. My clients would describe me as warm, honest and direct. I offer non-judgmental psychotherapy for a broad range of issues, many of which center around anxieties, self esteem, self defeating behaviors, relationships, abuse and trauma. I'm an integrative therapist, which means I draw from a few different styles of therapy- please ask if you'd like to know more about this. I currently offer both short term and long term therapy online and in person. My client base consists of individuals with a really mixed range of issues. I am also a Psychosexual specialist (I can provide therapy for sexual issues).
Hi, I'm Isobel. My clients would describe me as warm, honest and direct. I offer non-judgmental psychotherapy for a broad range of issues, many of which center around anxieties, self esteem, self defeating behaviors, relationships, abuse and trauma. I'm an integrative therapist, which means I draw from a few different styles of therapy- please ask if you'd like to know more about this. I currently offer both short term and long term therapy online and in person. My client base consists of individuals with a really mixed range of issues. I am also a Psychosexual specialist (I can provide therapy for sexual issues).
01235 639486 View 01235 639486

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Glyn Harris MBABCP (ACCRED), MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Glyn Harris MBABCP (ACCRED)
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Ulverston LA12  (Online Only)
Hi there and welcome. My name is GIyn Harris and I help my clients change the negative thoughts and behaviours that stop them reaching their full potential. I am qualified in two therapies: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). I am also a Registered Mental Health Nurse. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or CBT is a widely recognised and respected psychological treatment for depression and anxiety disorders . It is also widely used in sport and business to challenge performance limiting beliefs.
Hi there and welcome. My name is GIyn Harris and I help my clients change the negative thoughts and behaviours that stop them reaching their full potential. I am qualified in two therapies: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). I am also a Registered Mental Health Nurse. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy or CBT is a widely recognised and respected psychological treatment for depression and anxiety disorders . It is also widely used in sport and business to challenge performance limiting beliefs.
01305 235768 View 01305 235768

Online Therapists

Photo of Karena Serdecka, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Karena Serdecka
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Stockton-on-Tees TS16
Whether working through significant change, life event or trying to manage/resolve longer term issues which prevent you from thriving and reaching your fullest potential in life, relationships, family or work – I can work with you in a fully supportive, non-judgemental, empathic way. I am a warm, relational and person-centred integrative psychotherapist and EMDR specialist Dip Psych & DPC (child and adolescent), also clinical hypnotherapist (Adult). Additionally -Dip CBT, EFT, Mindfulness, Art and Couples Therapies. I lecture in psychotherapy, psychology and counselling and have worked with clients 5 yrs old to 80yrs+.
Whether working through significant change, life event or trying to manage/resolve longer term issues which prevent you from thriving and reaching your fullest potential in life, relationships, family or work – I can work with you in a fully supportive, non-judgemental, empathic way. I am a warm, relational and person-centred integrative psychotherapist and EMDR specialist Dip Psych & DPC (child and adolescent), also clinical hypnotherapist (Adult). Additionally -Dip CBT, EFT, Mindfulness, Art and Couples Therapies. I lecture in psychotherapy, psychology and counselling and have worked with clients 5 yrs old to 80yrs+.
07445 540791 View 07445 540791
Photo of Dr Melita Ash - Dr Melita Ash, Percuro Psychology, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Melita Ash, Percuro Psychology
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matlock DE4
Is your child or teen finding things hard at the moment and you want to help, but struggling to know how? Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Maybe your child has OCD and needs some specialist psychological support? Do you want your child or teen to feel calmer, happier and skilled at managing their emotions, and to feel empowered as a parent, secure in your knowledge of how best to help? Dr Ash is a specialist in working with children/teens & young adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety and trauma related difficulties.
Is your child or teen finding things hard at the moment and you want to help, but struggling to know how? Are you feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Maybe your child has OCD and needs some specialist psychological support? Do you want your child or teen to feel calmer, happier and skilled at managing their emotions, and to feel empowered as a parent, secure in your knowledge of how best to help? Dr Ash is a specialist in working with children/teens & young adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety and trauma related difficulties.
07480 789538 View 07480 789538
Photo of Sarah Drabble, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Sarah Drabble
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sheffield S6
Waitlist for new clients
I also offer particular expertise in supporting both young people and their parents navigate those challenging teen years.
I offer supportive, confidential, non-judgemental proactive counselling in a warm, comfortable, safe environment. I work mainly from a Pluralistic approach meaning that I truly believe in a person’s ability to grow and develop in the way that is best for them and by integrating approaches to counselling such as psychodynamic, person-centred and CBT we can work together to get you to a better place. I have found that many problems have their roots buried in past experiences, yet my approach is always flexible, client centred and focused primarily on client growth.
I also offer particular expertise in supporting both young people and their parents navigate those challenging teen years.
I offer supportive, confidential, non-judgemental proactive counselling in a warm, comfortable, safe environment. I work mainly from a Pluralistic approach meaning that I truly believe in a person’s ability to grow and develop in the way that is best for them and by integrating approaches to counselling such as psychodynamic, person-centred and CBT we can work together to get you to a better place. I have found that many problems have their roots buried in past experiences, yet my approach is always flexible, client centred and focused primarily on client growth.
0114 697 2249 View 0114 697 2249
Photo of Linda Hardwick, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Linda Hardwick
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sheffield S11
Hello, my name is Linda and I am a CBT therapist and Sensory practitioner. I have over 13 years experience of working in the NHS. Since qualifying in 2009 I have worked with older adults, adults and with children and adolescents in a variety of different settings. These have involved working in educational environments, hospitals and in community mental health teams. The majority of my work has been within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). I have worked with children, young people and their families helping them with a wide range of issues. I provide face to face sessions on Thursday afternoons in Sheffield.
Hello, my name is Linda and I am a CBT therapist and Sensory practitioner. I have over 13 years experience of working in the NHS. Since qualifying in 2009 I have worked with older adults, adults and with children and adolescents in a variety of different settings. These have involved working in educational environments, hospitals and in community mental health teams. The majority of my work has been within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). I have worked with children, young people and their families helping them with a wide range of issues. I provide face to face sessions on Thursday afternoons in Sheffield.
0114 697 7003 View 0114 697 7003
Photo of Jenny Walsh, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Jenny Walsh
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wigan WN5  (Online Only)
Having worked in the NHS for over 15 years, I have delivered evidence based talking therapies to adults from a range of backgrounds. In more recent times, I have predominantly offered online therapy to people experiencing PTSD, depression, and a range of anxiety disorders (for example, health anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, generalised anxiety and so on). Working online fits in very well for those fitting therapy around work, education and family life, and is also very supportive of people living with long term health conditions. I am able to work with people aged 16+ and I am trained in Child and Adolescent EMDR.
Having worked in the NHS for over 15 years, I have delivered evidence based talking therapies to adults from a range of backgrounds. In more recent times, I have predominantly offered online therapy to people experiencing PTSD, depression, and a range of anxiety disorders (for example, health anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, generalised anxiety and so on). Working online fits in very well for those fitting therapy around work, education and family life, and is also very supportive of people living with long term health conditions. I am able to work with people aged 16+ and I am trained in Child and Adolescent EMDR.
023 8001 6653 View 023 8001 6653
Photo of Dr Andy Adams, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Andy Adams
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Ipstones ST10  (Online Only)
I have over 14 years clinical experience, working with clients in England, Wales, Scotland and Canada! I work in both the NHS and in private practice, in a wide range of roles from Adult mental health to children and adolescent mental health. I have worked successfully with clients struggling with numerous mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, addictions, OCD, perinatal challenges, and sleep disorders. With child and adolescent mental health, I offer therapy and can provide a comprehensive assessment for ASD, ADHD, and other neurodiverse issues.
I have over 14 years clinical experience, working with clients in England, Wales, Scotland and Canada! I work in both the NHS and in private practice, in a wide range of roles from Adult mental health to children and adolescent mental health. I have worked successfully with clients struggling with numerous mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, addictions, OCD, perinatal challenges, and sleep disorders. With child and adolescent mental health, I offer therapy and can provide a comprehensive assessment for ASD, ADHD, and other neurodiverse issues.
01538 710704 View 01538 710704
Photo of Amandeep Kumar
Amandeep Kumar
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bradford BD3
My NHS career has included working with children and families in Child and Adolescent Mental Health NHS Services (CAMHS) I have gained a range of experience, skills and knowledge in the NHS both in clinical settings and leadership roles.
My name is Amandeep Kumar. I am Registered Mental Health Nurse. I am an EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and completed specialist training in Child & Adolescent EMDR. I have over 20 years experience working within the NHS. I am completely fascinated by how the mind and body create physical symptoms in the body and this is what can make us feel stuck or have an emotional response to the symptoms. Self-healing and alternative therapies are very close to my heart. I am a Reiki Practitioner and have skills and knowledge in alternative therapies.
My NHS career has included working with children and families in Child and Adolescent Mental Health NHS Services (CAMHS) I have gained a range of experience, skills and knowledge in the NHS both in clinical settings and leadership roles.
My name is Amandeep Kumar. I am Registered Mental Health Nurse. I am an EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and completed specialist training in Child & Adolescent EMDR. I have over 20 years experience working within the NHS. I am completely fascinated by how the mind and body create physical symptoms in the body and this is what can make us feel stuck or have an emotional response to the symptoms. Self-healing and alternative therapies are very close to my heart. I am a Reiki Practitioner and have skills and knowledge in alternative therapies.
0113 519 1996 View 0113 519 1996
Photo of Jackie Evans - Arco Therapy, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Arco Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrington WA3
Jackie has worked at a local NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) for 15 years where she worked with young people to help improve their mental health (She left this role in Jan 23).
Arco Therapy is a local CBT service offering CBT to children, teenagers and adults. More and more people are struggling with anxiety, stress and sadness and often professional therapy is needed to overcome these difficulties. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help children, teenagers, and adults to overcome these problems and help them to enjoy their lives. CBT is the recommended treatment for anxiety and depression and provides the opportunity to explore unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and how they impact on how the person feels.
Jackie has worked at a local NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) for 15 years where she worked with young people to help improve their mental health (She left this role in Jan 23).
Arco Therapy is a local CBT service offering CBT to children, teenagers and adults. More and more people are struggling with anxiety, stress and sadness and often professional therapy is needed to overcome these difficulties. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help children, teenagers, and adults to overcome these problems and help them to enjoy their lives. CBT is the recommended treatment for anxiety and depression and provides the opportunity to explore unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and how they impact on how the person feels.
0151 541 3067 View 0151 541 3067
Photo of Anthony Lacey (Msc) - Anthony Lacey Psychotherapy , MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Anthony Lacey Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L28
I am down to earth and easy-going and grateful for having extensive experience of working across multiple services: NHS primary care, secondary care, inpatient facilities (secure, acute and psychiatric intensive care units) and specialists child and adolescent services.
Are you not feeling like you are getting the most out of life and feel somewhat stuck in some way? Maybe you notice that your over-reacting with certain people or when in certain places or situations? Do you avoid doing certain things due to overwhelming feelings? Are you feeling unhelpful amounts of guilt/shame, feel unsafe in someway or out of control? If so, I can help you work through these by tailoring your sessions to your individual needs so that you learn about your self, start working towards your goal(s) and then start become self-sufficient with regard to what life throws at you.
I am down to earth and easy-going and grateful for having extensive experience of working across multiple services: NHS primary care, secondary care, inpatient facilities (secure, acute and psychiatric intensive care units) and specialists child and adolescent services.
Are you not feeling like you are getting the most out of life and feel somewhat stuck in some way? Maybe you notice that your over-reacting with certain people or when in certain places or situations? Do you avoid doing certain things due to overwhelming feelings? Are you feeling unhelpful amounts of guilt/shame, feel unsafe in someway or out of control? If so, I can help you work through these by tailoring your sessions to your individual needs so that you learn about your self, start working towards your goal(s) and then start become self-sufficient with regard to what life throws at you.
0151 318 0431 View 0151 318 0431
Photo of Joanna Wudarczyk - Balance Counselling Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Balance Counselling Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS11
Hi, my name is Joanna, an experienced, person-centered counsellor and a Member of the BACP. If you are reading my profile, you, your teenager or maybe someone close to you, may be struggling with a recent or maybe long-standing emotional distress, not able to sleep, concentrate, work, etc. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, low self esteem, loss or you are purely feeling stuck, this form of non- directive talking therapy based on empathy, genuineness and non-judgment, will empower you to work at your own pace.
Hi, my name is Joanna, an experienced, person-centered counsellor and a Member of the BACP. If you are reading my profile, you, your teenager or maybe someone close to you, may be struggling with a recent or maybe long-standing emotional distress, not able to sleep, concentrate, work, etc. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, low self esteem, loss or you are purely feeling stuck, this form of non- directive talking therapy based on empathy, genuineness and non-judgment, will empower you to work at your own pace.
0113 519 0576 View 0113 519 0576
Photo of Sarah Bennett, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Sarah Bennett
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Nantwich CW5  (Online Only)
My name is Sarah , I hold Accredited Registrant membership of The National Counselling Society . I work online to support clients using Teams, or Facetime to connect via either phone or video call. I am able to support adults and teenage/ adolescent clients from the age of 11 . I am qualified and experienced to support clients in a range of issues such as: Depression Bereavement Relationships Counselling Loss Divorce Anger Negative Thinking Intrusive Thoughts Loneliness Eating Disorders Issues with Food, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Anxiety Management, Alcohol, Smoking and more
My name is Sarah , I hold Accredited Registrant membership of The National Counselling Society . I work online to support clients using Teams, or Facetime to connect via either phone or video call. I am able to support adults and teenage/ adolescent clients from the age of 11 . I am qualified and experienced to support clients in a range of issues such as: Depression Bereavement Relationships Counselling Loss Divorce Anger Negative Thinking Intrusive Thoughts Loneliness Eating Disorders Issues with Food, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Anxiety Management, Alcohol, Smoking and more
01270 444996 View 01270 444996
Photo of Anna Critsinelis, MA, Counsellor
Anna Critsinelis
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS27
Imagine feeling more connected to your teen and for them to be equipped with the tools to handle life’s challenges.
Does your teen struggle with identifying their emotions and constantly irrational and angry which affects building and maintaining relationships? They need a safe space to creatively work through identifying their feelings to unpick why they feel regularly frustrated. Would you like them to feel calm and able to cope to everyday school stressors, or bigger worries including social media, navigating friendships, starting a new school or exams. Is there constant threat of detentions or conflict with peers, teachers or authority. Do you wonder if life can be more harmonious, understanding with happier moments.
Imagine feeling more connected to your teen and for them to be equipped with the tools to handle life’s challenges.
Does your teen struggle with identifying their emotions and constantly irrational and angry which affects building and maintaining relationships? They need a safe space to creatively work through identifying their feelings to unpick why they feel regularly frustrated. Would you like them to feel calm and able to cope to everyday school stressors, or bigger worries including social media, navigating friendships, starting a new school or exams. Is there constant threat of detentions or conflict with peers, teachers or authority. Do you wonder if life can be more harmonious, understanding with happier moments.
0113 519 5196 View 0113 519 5196

See more therapy options for Barrow-in-Furness

Teen Counsellors

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.