Therapists for Teens in Birmingham, AL

Photo of Haley McInnis, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haley McInnis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209  (Online Only)
I decided to start a career in mental health because a therapist saved my life when I was a teenager. I have dedicated my life to helping others in the same way, and I truly believe it is my calling. I have been a therapist/counselor for 6 years, and I have been working in the mental health field for 9 years. I will do everything within my ability to help improve your overall mood and quality of life in general. I am now an EMDR-trained clinician. EMDR can be used to treat a variety of mental health concerns. I also offer traditional talk therapy.
I decided to start a career in mental health because a therapist saved my life when I was a teenager. I have dedicated my life to helping others in the same way, and I truly believe it is my calling. I have been a therapist/counselor for 6 years, and I have been working in the mental health field for 9 years. I will do everything within my ability to help improve your overall mood and quality of life in general. I am now an EMDR-trained clinician. EMDR can be used to treat a variety of mental health concerns. I also offer traditional talk therapy.
(256) 637-3542 View (256) 637-3542
Photo of Richard Fallin, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Fallin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
Many people believe therapy is a quick fix, or more accurately that a therapist can “fix” us or our problems. In reality, therapy is a process that can take time, but most importantly, hard work. Have you struggled with anxiety, depression, or maintaining social connections? Do you need to repair or restore your marriage? Take first steps in preparing for marriage? Learn how to connect as a family? Find a new normal after divorce? Heal from a loss? Navigate the waters of being a teenager and managing your parents and teacher's expectations? As a therapist with over 18 years of experience, I am excited to help you begin.
Many people believe therapy is a quick fix, or more accurately that a therapist can “fix” us or our problems. In reality, therapy is a process that can take time, but most importantly, hard work. Have you struggled with anxiety, depression, or maintaining social connections? Do you need to repair or restore your marriage? Take first steps in preparing for marriage? Learn how to connect as a family? Find a new normal after divorce? Heal from a loss? Navigate the waters of being a teenager and managing your parents and teacher's expectations? As a therapist with over 18 years of experience, I am excited to help you begin.
(205) 751-6905 View (205) 751-6905
Photo of Dorelle Wilson, MEd, ALC, NCC, Counselor
Dorelle Wilson
Counselor, MEd, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35215
Dear Teen/ Young Adult, It can be hard always being the “strong” friend. You’re always there for others and uplifting them with a BIG smile on your face while deep inside you are feeling weak, down, and lost. It’s time to start taking care of yourself. We can be so into others and their life while neglecting our very own. It’s okay to tell others “NO” while telling yourself “YES”. When will you stop and put yourself first? I’m here to aid you in putting yourself as first in all areas of your life. Let’s work together so you can be who you desire to be and learn what it takes to put you FIRST!
Dear Teen/ Young Adult, It can be hard always being the “strong” friend. You’re always there for others and uplifting them with a BIG smile on your face while deep inside you are feeling weak, down, and lost. It’s time to start taking care of yourself. We can be so into others and their life while neglecting our very own. It’s okay to tell others “NO” while telling yourself “YES”. When will you stop and put yourself first? I’m here to aid you in putting yourself as first in all areas of your life. Let’s work together so you can be who you desire to be and learn what it takes to put you FIRST!
(205) 851-2839 View (205) 851-2839
Photo of Sarah Hart, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Hart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
Specialties include experience working with Adolescents, Young Adults, Anxiety, Relationship Obstacles, Stress Management, Anger Management and Trauma Informed Care.
NOW Accepting Child and Adolescent Clients! Providing a safe space to explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment. I'll actively listen to you, ask questions, and work with you to identify the root causes of your concerns. Together, we'll develop strategies to overcome them and empower you with tools for a happier, healthier life. I believe in customized treatment plans for each individual, utilizing an integrative approach with various therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Specialties include experience working with Adolescents, Young Adults, Anxiety, Relationship Obstacles, Stress Management, Anger Management and Trauma Informed Care.
NOW Accepting Child and Adolescent Clients! Providing a safe space to explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment. I'll actively listen to you, ask questions, and work with you to identify the root causes of your concerns. Together, we'll develop strategies to overcome them and empower you with tools for a happier, healthier life. I believe in customized treatment plans for each individual, utilizing an integrative approach with various therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(205) 850-3485 View (205) 850-3485
Photo of Angie Martin, MEd, LPC, NCC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angie Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
I work with children and adolescents but also adults who have been impacted by trauma.
Trauma comes in many ways and brings with it many difficult symptoms. Fear, worry, sadness, and a feeling that you can't cope are just a few. Others don't always understand you or know how to help. This is especially true for parents who want to help their children navigate traumatic experiences but feel helpless to know where to start. There is nothing more frightening than having a child or teen who is struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or suicidal thoughts. Teenagers often feel unheard and parents can feel helpless.
I work with children and adolescents but also adults who have been impacted by trauma.
Trauma comes in many ways and brings with it many difficult symptoms. Fear, worry, sadness, and a feeling that you can't cope are just a few. Others don't always understand you or know how to help. This is especially true for parents who want to help their children navigate traumatic experiences but feel helpless to know where to start. There is nothing more frightening than having a child or teen who is struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or suicidal thoughts. Teenagers often feel unheard and parents can feel helpless.
(205) 927-5498 View (205) 927-5498
Photo of Rebecca Welsh, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Welsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
I am an Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor I have worked with women and adolescent survivors of abusive relationships(physical(sexual), emotional, mental).
It has been said: "God uses our deepest pain as a launchpad for our highest calling". However, a lot of the times we become immobilized aka "stuck" by the pains we have endured. My goal in counseling is to remind believers and non-believers that there is hope past the pain, shame, and doubt they are experiencing; through modalities of individual, couples, family and pre-marital counseling. Do not let shame and doubt rule over you any longer but instead gain insight and authenticity as you understand your Creator, your process and yourself more fully.
I am an Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor I have worked with women and adolescent survivors of abusive relationships(physical(sexual), emotional, mental).
It has been said: "God uses our deepest pain as a launchpad for our highest calling". However, a lot of the times we become immobilized aka "stuck" by the pains we have endured. My goal in counseling is to remind believers and non-believers that there is hope past the pain, shame, and doubt they are experiencing; through modalities of individual, couples, family and pre-marital counseling. Do not let shame and doubt rule over you any longer but instead gain insight and authenticity as you understand your Creator, your process and yourself more fully.
(205) 858-9520 View (205) 858-9520
Photo of Charles Mixson Harris - Birmingham Family Counseling and Mediation Center, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Birmingham Family Counseling and Mediation Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35205
Currently Accepting New Clients. Perhaps you are a parent, struggling to find help for your child or teen who is dealing with behavioral or emotional concerns? Maybe you are an individual who is struggling with sadness, hopelessness, stress or anxiety. At Birmingham Family Counseling, we strive to provide inclusive, individualized care to support those who may be dealing with difficulty in life. We are here to support you through this time.
Currently Accepting New Clients. Perhaps you are a parent, struggling to find help for your child or teen who is dealing with behavioral or emotional concerns? Maybe you are an individual who is struggling with sadness, hopelessness, stress or anxiety. At Birmingham Family Counseling, we strive to provide inclusive, individualized care to support those who may be dealing with difficulty in life. We are here to support you through this time.
(205) 635-7880 View (205) 635-7880
Photo of Ashley Gilbert, MEd, MFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Gilbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
As a marriage and family therapist I have worked extensively with adult and adolescent individuals, and families.
Telling your story takes tremendous courage. In my work I am constantly humbled and honored to receive those stories. As a therapist I work from the premise that people are deeply complex and multilayered beings. Our past, our present, and expectations of our future dictate how we navigate life's inevitable challenges. Because our lives are a constant state of transition, we have the opportunity to learn from the past and navigate our present through awareness and understanding of ourselves, and others. I feel it a great honor to support people in their transitions, and foster their awareness and growth.
As a marriage and family therapist I have worked extensively with adult and adolescent individuals, and families.
Telling your story takes tremendous courage. In my work I am constantly humbled and honored to receive those stories. As a therapist I work from the premise that people are deeply complex and multilayered beings. Our past, our present, and expectations of our future dictate how we navigate life's inevitable challenges. Because our lives are a constant state of transition, we have the opportunity to learn from the past and navigate our present through awareness and understanding of ourselves, and others. I feel it a great honor to support people in their transitions, and foster their awareness and growth.
(205) 419-0039 View (205) 419-0039
Photo of Sara Cook Warner, MA, LPC, BSP, APTT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Cook Warner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BSP, APTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
I want my clients to find their voice; whether that is a teen who has never experienced autonomy and has been told what to do their whole life, or an adult who feels used, invalidated, and broken.
There is so much beauty in being honest and vulnerable. As a therapist, it is a privilege to be able to create a safe space for my clients—a space that gives them an opportunity to build strength, awareness, and resilience. Seeking therapy does not indicate failure or brokenness and I would be honored to walk alongside you as you navigate your life journey. I specialize in trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety of all ages. I am certified Brainspot therapist and have trainings in EMDR and TF-CBT. I am also an Associate Partner Trauma Therapist through IITAP which enables me to help betrayed partners navigating betrayal trauma.
I want my clients to find their voice; whether that is a teen who has never experienced autonomy and has been told what to do their whole life, or an adult who feels used, invalidated, and broken.
There is so much beauty in being honest and vulnerable. As a therapist, it is a privilege to be able to create a safe space for my clients—a space that gives them an opportunity to build strength, awareness, and resilience. Seeking therapy does not indicate failure or brokenness and I would be honored to walk alongside you as you navigate your life journey. I specialize in trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety of all ages. I am certified Brainspot therapist and have trainings in EMDR and TF-CBT. I am also an Associate Partner Trauma Therapist through IITAP which enables me to help betrayed partners navigating betrayal trauma.
(205) 662-2888 View (205) 662-2888
Photo of Erin N Stevens - Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services, PhD, Psychologist
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209  (Online Only)
We have specific training in Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), a parent-based treatment program for treating child and adolescent anxiety disorders.
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services is a specialty clinic that strives to provide high-quality, evidence-based treatment for those who are suffering from anxiety and OCD, and who otherwise may not have access to specialized therapy services. We work with children, adolescents, and adults, offering both individual and parent-based therapy.
We have specific training in Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), a parent-based treatment program for treating child and adolescent anxiety disorders.
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services is a specialty clinic that strives to provide high-quality, evidence-based treatment for those who are suffering from anxiety and OCD, and who otherwise may not have access to specialized therapy services. We work with children, adolescents, and adults, offering both individual and parent-based therapy.
(334) 231-5911 View (334) 231-5911
Photo of Chelsea Taylor, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Chelsea Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Chelsea Taylor, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama. I work with all ages up to 99+. I have extensive experience with assisting individuals with life changes, grief/ loss, and relationship issues. I specialize in child/ adolescent behaviors and disorders such as ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, stress, and adjustment utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My goal is to help clients thrive despite life’s challenges.
My name is Dr. Chelsea Taylor, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama. I work with all ages up to 99+. I have extensive experience with assisting individuals with life changes, grief/ loss, and relationship issues. I specialize in child/ adolescent behaviors and disorders such as ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, stress, and adjustment utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My goal is to help clients thrive despite life’s challenges.
(334) 489-5989 View (334) 489-5989
Photo of Cassandra Holdcroft, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassandra Holdcroft
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35243
Cassandra holds a bachelors of science degree in psychology with a minor in classic civilizations from Austin Peay State University, as well as master’s of arts and education specialist degrees in counseling from Seton Hall University. Often described as approachable, reliable and warm, Cassandra became a therapist because of her family’s experience with therapy when she was a teenager. She approaches every therapeutic relationship as a road trip prior to GPS. She has the maps to get guests where they want to go, remembering that it is the guest’s choice how long they want to take.
Cassandra holds a bachelors of science degree in psychology with a minor in classic civilizations from Austin Peay State University, as well as master’s of arts and education specialist degrees in counseling from Seton Hall University. Often described as approachable, reliable and warm, Cassandra became a therapist because of her family’s experience with therapy when she was a teenager. She approaches every therapeutic relationship as a road trip prior to GPS. She has the maps to get guests where they want to go, remembering that it is the guest’s choice how long they want to take.
(205) 964-7988 View (205) 964-7988
Photo of Heather Leigh Larson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Leigh Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35201
As a product of two successful Marriage and Family Therapists, my knowledge of counseling began at an exceptionally young age! After 27 years of marriage to my best friend, we continue raising our 4 children (adult & teen), celebrating our shared interests of the outdoors, and spending time with family!.
Insight, motivation, purpose. These three words describe how I can help. Are you looking to gain insight into your struggles? Motivation to grow and get better as a person? Looking for someone to come along side you in your journey to find purpose in life? We can work together as your story unfolds, taking your past and present experiences to make a plan for a healthy, fulfilling, more purposeful future. We can work together to identify and practice techniques and skills that will benefit you and help you to thrive in your relationships and in life.
As a product of two successful Marriage and Family Therapists, my knowledge of counseling began at an exceptionally young age! After 27 years of marriage to my best friend, we continue raising our 4 children (adult & teen), celebrating our shared interests of the outdoors, and spending time with family!.
Insight, motivation, purpose. These three words describe how I can help. Are you looking to gain insight into your struggles? Motivation to grow and get better as a person? Looking for someone to come along side you in your journey to find purpose in life? We can work together as your story unfolds, taking your past and present experiences to make a plan for a healthy, fulfilling, more purposeful future. We can work together to identify and practice techniques and skills that will benefit you and help you to thrive in your relationships and in life.
(205) 767-7461 View (205) 767-7461
Photo of Peter P. Boyle - Peter P. Boyle at Boyle & Associates, LLC , MA, LPC, NCC, CCFC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peter P. Boyle at Boyle & Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCFC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35245
I am ready to help you restore hope, peace and harmony in your family, in your life, and in the life of your child or teen.
Does your child or teen lack motivation to achieve, have unresolved emotional issues, deal with bullying and are unable to speak up, have difficulty expressing their feelings in an appropriate way, exhibit high-risk behaviors including sexual promiscuity, drug use or other self-harm, or simply need guidance through parental separation, divorce, loss or any demanding life situation? I have helped many children and teens overcome the obstacles to achieving success in behavior modification, emotional stability, academics and social relationships. I specialize in treating at-risk children and teens that suffer from behavioral/emotional issues that prevent healthy development.
I am ready to help you restore hope, peace and harmony in your family, in your life, and in the life of your child or teen.
Does your child or teen lack motivation to achieve, have unresolved emotional issues, deal with bullying and are unable to speak up, have difficulty expressing their feelings in an appropriate way, exhibit high-risk behaviors including sexual promiscuity, drug use or other self-harm, or simply need guidance through parental separation, divorce, loss or any demanding life situation? I have helped many children and teens overcome the obstacles to achieving success in behavior modification, emotional stability, academics and social relationships. I specialize in treating at-risk children and teens that suffer from behavioral/emotional issues that prevent healthy development.
(205) 289-3510 View (205) 289-3510
Photo of Nikki O'Dell, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nikki O'Dell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35210
I also have a particular passion for working with adolescent girls as they learn to find balance in their lives.
I began my career as a therapist 20 years ago working with women, adolescents, children and families. I'm passionate about seeing my clients thrive in their lives and relationships. I'm inspired by the resiliency of people and love watching them grow in their ability to better handle their circumstances. I work hard to create a warm, comfortable environment for you to explore your experiences, change your current situation and build the life you want. I am focused on giving each client practical tools they can use in their every day life.
I also have a particular passion for working with adolescent girls as they learn to find balance in their lives.
I began my career as a therapist 20 years ago working with women, adolescents, children and families. I'm passionate about seeing my clients thrive in their lives and relationships. I'm inspired by the resiliency of people and love watching them grow in their ability to better handle their circumstances. I work hard to create a warm, comfortable environment for you to explore your experiences, change your current situation and build the life you want. I am focused on giving each client practical tools they can use in their every day life.
(618) 205-6660 View (618) 205-6660
Photo of Dr. Takesha Shannon - TMS Counseling, LLC, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
TMS Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35203
Has your teenager suddenly become someone you don't recognize? Does your child seem sad, withdrawn, & angry? Are you finding it difficult to juggle home, work, & friends? Are you suffering from a recent loss? Does it seem you are just going through the motions? I may be able to help.
Looking for peace, a way to calm life's storms? Trying hard to keep your head above water? Try counseling it may be the answer you are looking for. My style is open, flexible, & laid back. I believe in providing ethically sound therapy within the confines of a strong therapeutic relationship. I provide individualized treatment & I try to meet each client where they are. If you are considering therapy you have made a valuable step in the right direction. Choosing therapy is hard but often rewarding.
Has your teenager suddenly become someone you don't recognize? Does your child seem sad, withdrawn, & angry? Are you finding it difficult to juggle home, work, & friends? Are you suffering from a recent loss? Does it seem you are just going through the motions? I may be able to help.
Looking for peace, a way to calm life's storms? Trying hard to keep your head above water? Try counseling it may be the answer you are looking for. My style is open, flexible, & laid back. I believe in providing ethically sound therapy within the confines of a strong therapeutic relationship. I provide individualized treatment & I try to meet each client where they are. If you are considering therapy you have made a valuable step in the right direction. Choosing therapy is hard but often rewarding.
(205) 216-5180 View (205) 216-5180
Chebon A Porter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35244
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the treatment of adolescent and adult males who present with myriad issues; including problems related to stress management, anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, grief/bereavement, trauma, and phase of life. I have over 15 years of experience as a cognitive-behavioral psychologist and am nationally certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the treatment of adolescent and adult males who present with myriad issues; including problems related to stress management, anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, grief/bereavement, trauma, and phase of life. I have over 15 years of experience as a cognitive-behavioral psychologist and am nationally certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy.
(205) 289-1961 View (205) 289-1961
Photo of Marilyn Michelle Knight - Integrative Health Services, LLC Michelle Knight, MSW, LICSW, PIP, CREP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Integrative Health Services, LLC Michelle Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP, CREP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
I counsel on many sensitive and intimate topics. Are you struggling with marital issues, have an at-risk teen, grief, gambling, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or a chronic illness? Is a relationship or career choice no longer serving you in a positive way? My office is a nurturing place that welcomes openness and individuality. I'm an outside the box thinker, a supporter of the LGBTQ plus community, someone who has a personal investment in your success, and can be the confidential sounding board that is difficult to find.
I counsel on many sensitive and intimate topics. Are you struggling with marital issues, have an at-risk teen, grief, gambling, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or a chronic illness? Is a relationship or career choice no longer serving you in a positive way? My office is a nurturing place that welcomes openness and individuality. I'm an outside the box thinker, a supporter of the LGBTQ plus community, someone who has a personal investment in your success, and can be the confidential sounding board that is difficult to find.
(205) 523-8502 View (205) 523-8502
Photo of Meredith Ann Showacre, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meredith Ann Showacre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35205  (Online Only)
Whether you are seeking counseling services for yourself or your teenager I would love to help you through this, sometimes overwhelming, process.
We all possess the tools needed for personal healing. Therapy can help you to develop the awareness needed to utilize these tools and put them into practice in daily life. Seeking therapy is brave and I consider the therapeutic relationship a truly meaningful privilege. We will walk through the process of personal discovery learning how to identify old patterns and self soothe through healthy coping. My work is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral interventions but I believe healing also happens in the telling of your personal narrative. My goal for this relationship is to help you foster the skills to become your own therapist.
Whether you are seeking counseling services for yourself or your teenager I would love to help you through this, sometimes overwhelming, process.
We all possess the tools needed for personal healing. Therapy can help you to develop the awareness needed to utilize these tools and put them into practice in daily life. Seeking therapy is brave and I consider the therapeutic relationship a truly meaningful privilege. We will walk through the process of personal discovery learning how to identify old patterns and self soothe through healthy coping. My work is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral interventions but I believe healing also happens in the telling of your personal narrative. My goal for this relationship is to help you foster the skills to become your own therapist.
(205) 293-2352 View (205) 293-2352
Photo of George King Jr, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
George King Jr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35243  (Online Only)
I have a passion to see individuals heal and progress forward in their defined path of fulfillment. I am honored to walk alongside persons of all ages in overcoming real life challenges. I have specialized certification with alcohol and drug counseling and accept adolescent and adult clients from age 14 and above. I also enjoy assisting couples and families navigate relationships.
I have a passion to see individuals heal and progress forward in their defined path of fulfillment. I am honored to walk alongside persons of all ages in overcoming real life challenges. I have specialized certification with alcohol and drug counseling and accept adolescent and adult clients from age 14 and above. I also enjoy assisting couples and families navigate relationships.
(205) 952-6605 View (205) 952-6605
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.