Therapists for Teens in 60643

Photo of Ben Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
While I enjoy working with a diverse range of adolescent and adult clients, most of my social advocacy has focused on Older Adults and PLWHIV.
One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is the time and space for healing and growth. In therapy, my goal is to help you find and nurture your authentic nature, and to honor the wisdom gained from your lived experiences. Our work will consider the various intersecting aspects of your identity and the social, professional, and other cultural contexts in which you exist. I believe that as you experience yourself holistically, on your own and with guidance, you can naturally open yourself to more opportunities for healing, connection, growth, and other meaningful change.
While I enjoy working with a diverse range of adolescent and adult clients, most of my social advocacy has focused on Older Adults and PLWHIV.
One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is the time and space for healing and growth. In therapy, my goal is to help you find and nurture your authentic nature, and to honor the wisdom gained from your lived experiences. Our work will consider the various intersecting aspects of your identity and the social, professional, and other cultural contexts in which you exist. I believe that as you experience yourself holistically, on your own and with guidance, you can naturally open yourself to more opportunities for healing, connection, growth, and other meaningful change.
(331) 253-4657 View (331) 253-4657
Photo of Reanna Stevens, MHS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reanna Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adolescent, teens, and adults, especially women and college students.
Life throws all sorts of curveballs at us. There are times when we feel like things are getting to be “too much”. Does this make you stressed, or not feel like yourself? Are you finding waiting list after waiting list? I’m here to tell you that you are not alone in this! Situations can arise leaving us with many unanswered questions. Let me help you gain some understanding of yourself! I currently offer telehealth appointments only to provide therapy in the comfort of your own home.
I specialize in working with adolescent, teens, and adults, especially women and college students.
Life throws all sorts of curveballs at us. There are times when we feel like things are getting to be “too much”. Does this make you stressed, or not feel like yourself? Are you finding waiting list after waiting list? I’m here to tell you that you are not alone in this! Situations can arise leaving us with many unanswered questions. Let me help you gain some understanding of yourself! I currently offer telehealth appointments only to provide therapy in the comfort of your own home.
(708) 340-0902 View (708) 340-0902
Photo of Crystal Balfour, PsyD, Psychologist
Crystal Balfour
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
I look forward to creating the safe space that you need for yourself/your teen to work toward the change you aspire to see.
Life can become complicated to handle when we experience loss, abrupt changes, trauma or conflict with family and friends. If you’ve experienced events that have led to an increase in worry/fear, caused your esteem to plummet, or you find it difficult to manage feelings of sadness or irritability, then therapy can be a great step towards transformative healing. Perhaps you’re looking for a culturally-responsive therapist for yourself or your teen who understands the connection between the changes in one’s mood and the challenge of navigating various (and sometimes oppressive) social and family contexts.
I look forward to creating the safe space that you need for yourself/your teen to work toward the change you aspire to see.
Life can become complicated to handle when we experience loss, abrupt changes, trauma or conflict with family and friends. If you’ve experienced events that have led to an increase in worry/fear, caused your esteem to plummet, or you find it difficult to manage feelings of sadness or irritability, then therapy can be a great step towards transformative healing. Perhaps you’re looking for a culturally-responsive therapist for yourself or your teen who understands the connection between the changes in one’s mood and the challenge of navigating various (and sometimes oppressive) social and family contexts.
(708) 834-6083 View (708) 834-6083
Photo of Audrey Gaines - Peace Through Hope Therapy, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Peace Through Hope Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
If you are ready to take the next step in your mental health well-being, I will be right there with you. I will help you if you have anxiety, stress, anger, or depression. If you are a parent struggling with children, adolescent, or teen issues, I can help! Hi! I earned my Master's Degree in Psychology. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and teenagers. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, grief and Christian counseling. I am certified in domestic violence. I offer a comfortable, person-centered environment and will meet you where you are at.
If you are ready to take the next step in your mental health well-being, I will be right there with you. I will help you if you have anxiety, stress, anger, or depression. If you are a parent struggling with children, adolescent, or teen issues, I can help! Hi! I earned my Master's Degree in Psychology. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and teenagers. I specialize in depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, grief and Christian counseling. I am certified in domestic violence. I offer a comfortable, person-centered environment and will meet you where you are at.
(708) 847-5663 View (708) 847-5663
Photo of Beatrice Marysia Pacyga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beatrice Marysia Pacyga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist specializing in anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and adolescent/young adult life transitions I can help you reconnect with your true self and lead a life full of value and meaning.
If you’re here, chances are you are looking for a change. Maybe you are unhappy in your relationship, or struggling with body image or food, or perhaps you are stuck in what seems like a never ending cycle of depression, anxiety and hopelessness. It might feel like you can’t catch a break, and that life is coming at you too fast. It's okay if you've gotten knocked down- let's get you back on your feet.
As a therapist specializing in anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and adolescent/young adult life transitions I can help you reconnect with your true self and lead a life full of value and meaning.
If you’re here, chances are you are looking for a change. Maybe you are unhappy in your relationship, or struggling with body image or food, or perhaps you are stuck in what seems like a never ending cycle of depression, anxiety and hopelessness. It might feel like you can’t catch a break, and that life is coming at you too fast. It's okay if you've gotten knocked down- let's get you back on your feet.
(773) 915-0395 View (773) 915-0395
Photo of Fred W Gross, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fred W Gross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
I am experienced with men's issues, couples and families in crisis, complicated recovery from traumatic events, technology and child and adolescent transitional issues.
I am well-trained, and an experienced, research-informed, solution-focused, multi-model therapist. I draw upon various truths, selecting what may be most helpful according to the needs of each client. I want clients to feel comfortable and informed. I will use metaphor and analogies as appropriate to bring insight and change. Specialties: therapy with trauma victims, adolescents, children, and families; couples with relationship issues; conditions such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, complicated grief/loss, PTSD, stress, and life/job transition issues.
I am experienced with men's issues, couples and families in crisis, complicated recovery from traumatic events, technology and child and adolescent transitional issues.
I am well-trained, and an experienced, research-informed, solution-focused, multi-model therapist. I draw upon various truths, selecting what may be most helpful according to the needs of each client. I want clients to feel comfortable and informed. I will use metaphor and analogies as appropriate to bring insight and change. Specialties: therapy with trauma victims, adolescents, children, and families; couples with relationship issues; conditions such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, complicated grief/loss, PTSD, stress, and life/job transition issues.
(773) 906-4430 View (773) 906-4430
Photo of Anne Elyse Morrill-Ploum, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Anne Elyse Morrill-Ploum
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
Hi, I am a child, adolescent and young adult therapist. I see clients from 3-25 years. I have a strong passion for working with adoptive families and all the challenges that this brings, and I also treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, kids and teens with huge behaviors, ADHD and executive skills deficits, learning disabilities, attachment, trauma, domestic abuse, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, developmental issues. I also do a lot of parenting work, and I teach Robyn Gobbel's parenting course. I work with a parent in the room for children under 12, as parents become my co-therapist, carrying on the work at home.
Hi, I am a child, adolescent and young adult therapist. I see clients from 3-25 years. I have a strong passion for working with adoptive families and all the challenges that this brings, and I also treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, kids and teens with huge behaviors, ADHD and executive skills deficits, learning disabilities, attachment, trauma, domestic abuse, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, developmental issues. I also do a lot of parenting work, and I teach Robyn Gobbel's parenting course. I work with a parent in the room for children under 12, as parents become my co-therapist, carrying on the work at home.
(773) 923-1874 View (773) 923-1874
Photo of Linda Brown-Jackson, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Linda Brown-Jackson
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
In my small private practice I have done extensive research on diverse cultures, academic/school counseling and have presented at workshops and conferences to diversified audiences on Identity Formation, Schizophrenia, Multi-Cultural Oppression, Teen Issues, and Successful Parenting Techniques.
My ideal client is the person that knows they need help. They do not have to know what kind of help, but open to talk therapy and exploring possible forms of relief. I have worked with children and adults with issues such as; anger, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Behavior Modification, depression and anxiety. It is most comforting to help someone find relief from discomfort. I provide individual, group and family therapy. The counseling scope includes parent coaching, anger management, trauma, and school guidance.
In my small private practice I have done extensive research on diverse cultures, academic/school counseling and have presented at workshops and conferences to diversified audiences on Identity Formation, Schizophrenia, Multi-Cultural Oppression, Teen Issues, and Successful Parenting Techniques.
My ideal client is the person that knows they need help. They do not have to know what kind of help, but open to talk therapy and exploring possible forms of relief. I have worked with children and adults with issues such as; anger, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Behavior Modification, depression and anxiety. It is most comforting to help someone find relief from discomfort. I provide individual, group and family therapy. The counseling scope includes parent coaching, anger management, trauma, and school guidance.
(773) 669-5935 View (773) 669-5935
Photo of Ngozi Abandy Harris, LCPC, NCC
Ngozi Abandy Harris
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643  (Online Only)
A change manager, I am passionate about finding ways to support individuals in owning their power. I believe in the healing power of building collaborative, trusting relationships. I received a M.A. in Clinical Professional Psychology with a certificate in Child and Adolescent Therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. As a counselor who specializes in helping individuals and families overcome trauma and life stressors, I support owning the narrative. I have helped individuals and families navigate trauma, grief, anxiety and depression, as well as life transitions, identity concerns, relationships and self-esteem.
A change manager, I am passionate about finding ways to support individuals in owning their power. I believe in the healing power of building collaborative, trusting relationships. I received a M.A. in Clinical Professional Psychology with a certificate in Child and Adolescent Therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. As a counselor who specializes in helping individuals and families overcome trauma and life stressors, I support owning the narrative. I have helped individuals and families navigate trauma, grief, anxiety and depression, as well as life transitions, identity concerns, relationships and self-esteem.
(708) 914-8175 View (708) 914-8175
Photo of Rebecca Maple - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Evergreen Park, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Evergreen Park
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Latreece Dickerson - Partnerships in Behavioral Health, Ltd., PsyD, LCSW, Psychologist
Partnerships in Behavioral Health, Ltd.
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
We partner with clients to work toward life balance. We offer solution-focused therapy, tailored to meet client goals and communication strengths. Our practice offers experience, compassion and support.
We partner with clients to work toward life balance. We offer solution-focused therapy, tailored to meet client goals and communication strengths. Our practice offers experience, compassion and support.
(312) 667-2854 View (312) 667-2854
Photo of Annie Novotny, MAATC, LCPC, ATR-BC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annie Novotny
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LCPC, ATR-BC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
(708) 572-3801 View (708) 572-3801
Photo of Carolyn Stypka, LCSW, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Stypka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
Greetings and thank you so much for considering me as your mental health practitioner! It can be hard to be brave in our world, and that includes seeking help from others. I like to look at counseling sessions as a gift of time for yourself. Our time together would be about you and your needs, and figuring out ways to heal or get there. I look forward to creating a trust-filled, healthy relationship to assist you on yourself. At times, therapy sessions may just be a backboard for you to comfortably release stress or inner thoughts. My approach in therapy strives to be strength-based, empowering, grounding and calming.
Greetings and thank you so much for considering me as your mental health practitioner! It can be hard to be brave in our world, and that includes seeking help from others. I like to look at counseling sessions as a gift of time for yourself. Our time together would be about you and your needs, and figuring out ways to heal or get there. I look forward to creating a trust-filled, healthy relationship to assist you on yourself. At times, therapy sessions may just be a backboard for you to comfortably release stress or inner thoughts. My approach in therapy strives to be strength-based, empowering, grounding and calming.
(872) 814-6301 View (872) 814-6301
Photo of Dariel L Embry-Rodgers - LYFE {Love Yourself First Everyday} LLC Coaching, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LYFE {Love Yourself First Everyday} LLC Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
My primary goal as a Counselor/ LYFE Coach is to create a safe environment that allows my clients to address issues that may be preventing them from living their life to its fullest potential. I meet my clients where they are and build positive rapport and great connections that helps move them closer to their better version of themselves lyfe goals. I focus on issues my clients are dealing with at hand, then we together find out what is needed to accomplish goals. The WHY my clients are seeking counseling/ LYFE coaching is the WHAT tools I use to assist them in living out their life to its fullest potential.
My primary goal as a Counselor/ LYFE Coach is to create a safe environment that allows my clients to address issues that may be preventing them from living their life to its fullest potential. I meet my clients where they are and build positive rapport and great connections that helps move them closer to their better version of themselves lyfe goals. I focus on issues my clients are dealing with at hand, then we together find out what is needed to accomplish goals. The WHY my clients are seeking counseling/ LYFE coaching is the WHAT tools I use to assist them in living out their life to its fullest potential.
(773) 902-0274 View (773) 902-0274
Photo of Kathryn M Conway, PhD, Psychologist
Kathryn M Conway
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. We all experience stressful or challenging moments in life or face obstacles which may seem insurmountable. During these times, we can benefit from professional support to make important changes in our behaviors and thoughts to help tackle these obstacles. I collaborate well with my clients to provide the skills they need to make their own lives better. By practicing using newly learned skills, clients are empowered and continue to be successful regardless of the new challenges they may face later.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. We all experience stressful or challenging moments in life or face obstacles which may seem insurmountable. During these times, we can benefit from professional support to make important changes in our behaviors and thoughts to help tackle these obstacles. I collaborate well with my clients to provide the skills they need to make their own lives better. By practicing using newly learned skills, clients are empowered and continue to be successful regardless of the new challenges they may face later.
(773) 886-1628 View (773) 886-1628
Photo of Dr. Kala Taylor-The Psychology Center-Certified Life Coach, BS, MS, MBA, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Kala Taylor-The Psychology Center-Certified Life Coach
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MS, MBA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Dr. Kala Taylor ,(She), I currently work private practice with (The Psychology Center) in Chicago. Previously I worked psychotherapy in the State Government Correctional setting under the exempt licensure title Clinical Psychologist/Sr Psych. Inmates under my care have described my therapeutic approach as "nonjudgmental" and "compassionate." My personal experiences have led me to cultivate a deep empathy for all beings. and I’m committed to being (not just inclusive but) welcoming towards “others.” My experience working in mental health has led me to focus on working to help individuals with personal challenges.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kala Taylor ,(She), I currently work private practice with (The Psychology Center) in Chicago. Previously I worked psychotherapy in the State Government Correctional setting under the exempt licensure title Clinical Psychologist/Sr Psych. Inmates under my care have described my therapeutic approach as "nonjudgmental" and "compassionate." My personal experiences have led me to cultivate a deep empathy for all beings. and I’m committed to being (not just inclusive but) welcoming towards “others.” My experience working in mental health has led me to focus on working to help individuals with personal challenges.
(312) 262-4580 View (312) 262-4580
Photo of Samantha L Allen - Foundations Counseling, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Foundations Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing anxiety, stress, unexplained sadness, isolation, intrusive thoughts, relationship or marriage problems? Are you struggling with low self-esteem, low self-worth? Are you having challenges with navigating life transitions? Finding a therapist could seem difficult, but seeking help is the first step to overcoming life’s challenges. As a licensed clinical social worker, I have over 10 years of experience providing culturally sensitive and trauma informed counseling to individuals, couples, and families.
Are you experiencing anxiety, stress, unexplained sadness, isolation, intrusive thoughts, relationship or marriage problems? Are you struggling with low self-esteem, low self-worth? Are you having challenges with navigating life transitions? Finding a therapist could seem difficult, but seeking help is the first step to overcoming life’s challenges. As a licensed clinical social worker, I have over 10 years of experience providing culturally sensitive and trauma informed counseling to individuals, couples, and families.
(773) 839-4035 View (773) 839-4035
Photo of Eric Lindquist, LCPC, CADC
Eric Lindquist
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
Even without a crisis, one can still be troubled: "I know what to do to make my life better. But it's hard for me to move on things. . . I always felt that I loved everyone I live with. But now I'm not so sure. . . I am trying to stay in my job until I get Social Security. But I don't know if I can bear eight more years of misery." Thoughts like the above are common. Sometimes, we can confine them to a few moments. Beyond that, they can drain us. Unfortunately, there are risks in confiding these thoughts to those we care about. The risks in disclosing them to a therapist are less. Afterall, they will not benefit from your choices.
Even without a crisis, one can still be troubled: "I know what to do to make my life better. But it's hard for me to move on things. . . I always felt that I loved everyone I live with. But now I'm not so sure. . . I am trying to stay in my job until I get Social Security. But I don't know if I can bear eight more years of misery." Thoughts like the above are common. Sometimes, we can confine them to a few moments. Beyond that, they can drain us. Unfortunately, there are risks in confiding these thoughts to those we care about. The risks in disclosing them to a therapist are less. Afterall, they will not benefit from your choices.
(773) 345-9337 View (773) 345-9337
Photo of John Andrich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Andrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643  (Online Only)
I'm glad you're here. While it may not be easy to seek help, it's my hope that you will be able to understand your situation better and move towards resolving your difficulties. Please don't wait another day. I want to hear your story. You are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being.
I'm glad you're here. While it may not be easy to seek help, it's my hope that you will be able to understand your situation better and move towards resolving your difficulties. Please don't wait another day. I want to hear your story. You are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being.
(708) 512-7784 View (708) 512-7784
Photo of Elizabeth Moreno, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
I am a bi-lingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Social Worker serving young people and adults who want to start their process of learning how to care for their emotional well-being and healing. I have experience with people working through depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, grief, sex & intimacy, trauma, anxiety, adjustment disorders, divorce, domestic violence, immigration, life transitions, peer relationships, relationship issues, self esteem, and stress.
I am a bi-lingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Social Worker serving young people and adults who want to start their process of learning how to care for their emotional well-being and healing. I have experience with people working through depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, grief, sex & intimacy, trauma, anxiety, adjustment disorders, divorce, domestic violence, immigration, life transitions, peer relationships, relationship issues, self esteem, and stress.
(773) 985-7002 View (773) 985-7002
1
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.