Therapists for Teens in Sacramento County, CA

Photo of Avery DiMario (Norsby), MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Avery DiMario (Norsby)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95864
Do you feel controlled by your mind and unable to reach your full potential due to past trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, etc? Do you have a teenager struggling to navigate the challenges of adolescents such as, self-esteem, social media, social/academic pressures, future planning, anxiety or depression? Do you and your spouse feel stuck; although desperate for reconnection, peace and a path forward? I want to help! I partner with my clients to process trauma, unpack patterns of thinking and behavior, promote self-awareness and achieve balance in their daily lives and relationships.
Do you feel controlled by your mind and unable to reach your full potential due to past trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, etc? Do you have a teenager struggling to navigate the challenges of adolescents such as, self-esteem, social media, social/academic pressures, future planning, anxiety or depression? Do you and your spouse feel stuck; although desperate for reconnection, peace and a path forward? I want to help! I partner with my clients to process trauma, unpack patterns of thinking and behavior, promote self-awareness and achieve balance in their daily lives and relationships.
(279) 400-1690 View (279) 400-1690
Photo of Kathleen Oravec, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Oravec
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I also aide with adolescent challenges.
Are you and your partner having trouble communicating without dissolving into conflict that seems to never get resolved? Are you tired of feeling anxious and walking on egeshells? Do you have difficulty expressing yourself and getting your needs met? Do you often end up in the same relationship rut without being able to find a way out of an unsatisfying cycle of blame and regret?
I also aide with adolescent challenges.
Are you and your partner having trouble communicating without dissolving into conflict that seems to never get resolved? Are you tired of feeling anxious and walking on egeshells? Do you have difficulty expressing yourself and getting your needs met? Do you often end up in the same relationship rut without being able to find a way out of an unsatisfying cycle of blame and regret?
(916) 546-1493 View (916) 546-1493
Photo of Jeffrey D. Risser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey D. Risser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Welcome. I provide adolescent, family, and individual counseling and relational psychotherapy. I treat symptoms related to insecure attachment (relationships), trauma, anxiety, depression and addiction. Additionally, I have extensive experience treating individuals with personality disorders and specialize in ADHD. I believe in the resiliency of the human mind, body, and spirit and understand the vulnerability and courage it takes to initiate personal growth. I am a compassionate and dedicated practitioner that provides a safe and caring environment. I utilize a variety of theoretical approaches to meet your specific needs.
Welcome. I provide adolescent, family, and individual counseling and relational psychotherapy. I treat symptoms related to insecure attachment (relationships), trauma, anxiety, depression and addiction. Additionally, I have extensive experience treating individuals with personality disorders and specialize in ADHD. I believe in the resiliency of the human mind, body, and spirit and understand the vulnerability and courage it takes to initiate personal growth. I am a compassionate and dedicated practitioner that provides a safe and caring environment. I utilize a variety of theoretical approaches to meet your specific needs.
(530) 285-4812 View (530) 285-4812
Photo of Dawn DiRaimondo, PsyD, Psychologist
Dawn DiRaimondo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
Feeling connected and comfortable with your therapist is an essential part of treatment and healing. Using a relational approach, I try to create an environment that helps people work on deeply personal and challenging issues. My particular areas of interest and experience include grief and loss, relationships, depression, anxiety, ADHD, adolescent and parenting issues, and identity/sexuality issues. I recently published my first book on sibling loss, "Surviving Sibling Loss: The Invisible Thread that Connects Us Through Life and Death." (Available on Amazon)
Feeling connected and comfortable with your therapist is an essential part of treatment and healing. Using a relational approach, I try to create an environment that helps people work on deeply personal and challenging issues. My particular areas of interest and experience include grief and loss, relationships, depression, anxiety, ADHD, adolescent and parenting issues, and identity/sexuality issues. I recently published my first book on sibling loss, "Surviving Sibling Loss: The Invisible Thread that Connects Us Through Life and Death." (Available on Amazon)
(916) 674-2957 View (916) 674-2957
Photo of Alisa A Pfanner, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alisa A Pfanner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Experienced in adjustment phase of life events, conflictual relationships, divorce, grief/loss, anxiety/depression, communication problems, & teen issues.
Therapy is a journey, and my role is to help guide and encourage individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges and bring calmness and joy into their lives through insight and resolution. A supportive direct communication style is used to allow clients to explore, discover and heal themselves.
Experienced in adjustment phase of life events, conflictual relationships, divorce, grief/loss, anxiety/depression, communication problems, & teen issues.
Therapy is a journey, and my role is to help guide and encourage individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges and bring calmness and joy into their lives through insight and resolution. A supportive direct communication style is used to allow clients to explore, discover and heal themselves.
(916) 534-5855 View (916) 534-5855
Photo of Maria Miller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95864  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with adult and adolescent clients and their families dealing with eating disorders, anxiety, stress management, self hatred, trauma, life transitions, depression, addictions, and identity issues.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or out of control? I offer effective and compassionate psychotherapy services to adults and couples. I specialize in treating eating disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship issues. You'll find me to be a compassionate listener, working with you to help you achieve the changes you would like to see in your life. Together we will identify and develop your strengths and interests so you can achieve your goals. I offer a safe place for you to talk about your fears and worries, body image and self-esteem struggles, relationship challenges, career and life transitions.
I have extensive experience with adult and adolescent clients and their families dealing with eating disorders, anxiety, stress management, self hatred, trauma, life transitions, depression, addictions, and identity issues.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or out of control? I offer effective and compassionate psychotherapy services to adults and couples. I specialize in treating eating disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship issues. You'll find me to be a compassionate listener, working with you to help you achieve the changes you would like to see in your life. Together we will identify and develop your strengths and interests so you can achieve your goals. I offer a safe place for you to talk about your fears and worries, body image and self-esteem struggles, relationship challenges, career and life transitions.
(925) 259-3365 View (925) 259-3365
Photo of Jennifer Miller - Jennifer Miller MFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Miller MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
Waitlist for new clients
To seek the help of a therapist involves great strength. Life's experiences often challenge us. As an Adult and Adolescent Therapist, it is my experience that facing these obstacles provides an opportunity to create change in yourself. Allow me to support you in this process. As your therapist, I will take time to get to know the individual you are and help you identify internal strengths. I will actively guide you through exploring past wounds, help you reframe thoughts for a deeper understanding, and teach you concrete skills to improve your quality of life.
To seek the help of a therapist involves great strength. Life's experiences often challenge us. As an Adult and Adolescent Therapist, it is my experience that facing these obstacles provides an opportunity to create change in yourself. Allow me to support you in this process. As your therapist, I will take time to get to know the individual you are and help you identify internal strengths. I will actively guide you through exploring past wounds, help you reframe thoughts for a deeper understanding, and teach you concrete skills to improve your quality of life.
(916) 512-1793 View (916) 512-1793
Photo of Cathy Brownstone, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Brownstone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
These are some of the areas or specialities I like to work with: Women's Issues; Anxiety; Depression; Life Transitions; Alcohol, Drug and/or Eating Disorders; Financial Problems including Compulsive Spending/Shopping; Adults Sexually Abused as Children; Gay and Lesbian Population; Trauma; Couples Issues; Personal Growth; Adolescent Issues.
Good therapy is based more on the unique relationship between clinician and client more than a specific technique or model practiced. Research studies support this statement. I work with people to help them solve their emotional conflicts, improve their communication and resolve trauma. I am a compassionate, empathic, caring professional who provides a secure and safe environment for you to explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Whether you are in crisis, or want to focus on personal growth, I can help you uncover and discover what is most important to you and improve the quality of your life.
These are some of the areas or specialities I like to work with: Women's Issues; Anxiety; Depression; Life Transitions; Alcohol, Drug and/or Eating Disorders; Financial Problems including Compulsive Spending/Shopping; Adults Sexually Abused as Children; Gay and Lesbian Population; Trauma; Couples Issues; Personal Growth; Adolescent Issues.
Good therapy is based more on the unique relationship between clinician and client more than a specific technique or model practiced. Research studies support this statement. I work with people to help them solve their emotional conflicts, improve their communication and resolve trauma. I am a compassionate, empathic, caring professional who provides a secure and safe environment for you to explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Whether you are in crisis, or want to focus on personal growth, I can help you uncover and discover what is most important to you and improve the quality of your life.
(916) 461-8523 View (916) 461-8523
Photo of Andrea Peterson, MSc, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elk Grove, CA 95758
I frequently work with adult and child/ adolescent clients with trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment, adjustment, and communication issues.
I frequently work with individuals and families with a wide variety of challenges. Some clients are simply looking to find a place that they can take a deep breath and be in a place to address things that they want to work on. While others have severe symptoms or complex issues that are frightening and overwhelming where they need help sorting out thoughts and feelings while learning how to manage and navigate the challenges. Each client is unique and so are their experiences so my goal is to tailor treatment to best benefit my clients. I also run a small non profit counseling center and train new clinicians in the field.
I frequently work with adult and child/ adolescent clients with trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment, adjustment, and communication issues.
I frequently work with individuals and families with a wide variety of challenges. Some clients are simply looking to find a place that they can take a deep breath and be in a place to address things that they want to work on. While others have severe symptoms or complex issues that are frightening and overwhelming where they need help sorting out thoughts and feelings while learning how to manage and navigate the challenges. Each client is unique and so are their experiences so my goal is to tailor treatment to best benefit my clients. I also run a small non profit counseling center and train new clinicians in the field.
(916) 436-7454 View (916) 436-7454
Photo of Heather Moss, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
Interactions with a loved one can bring out the very best and worst in us. If the dynamic with your partner or child/ teen is a repeated source of pain, I am here to help. Instead of trying to understand each other, most make accusations & get defensive. I help couples and families to uncover feelings driving their interactions and reactions and then teach communication skills to help them transform the way they relate and connect. I truly believe that a loving and supportive relationship/family is one the most amazing gifts we can give to ourselves, children, and loved ones.
Interactions with a loved one can bring out the very best and worst in us. If the dynamic with your partner or child/ teen is a repeated source of pain, I am here to help. Instead of trying to understand each other, most make accusations & get defensive. I help couples and families to uncover feelings driving their interactions and reactions and then teach communication skills to help them transform the way they relate and connect. I truly believe that a loving and supportive relationship/family is one the most amazing gifts we can give to ourselves, children, and loved ones.
(916) 764-3689 View (916) 764-3689
Photo of Kathryn Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
Do you need support and guidance in your life? Do you need to heal from or strengthen a relationship in your life? Maybe that relationship is with yourself, partner or family member. Do you have a teen that is struggling and as a family feel you are in a crisis? I have been providing crisis services to teens and families for over 20 years. Over the years, my skills and interest in helping others has also broadened to include adults, trauma and substance abuse.
Do you need support and guidance in your life? Do you need to heal from or strengthen a relationship in your life? Maybe that relationship is with yourself, partner or family member. Do you have a teen that is struggling and as a family feel you are in a crisis? I have been providing crisis services to teens and families for over 20 years. Over the years, my skills and interest in helping others has also broadened to include adults, trauma and substance abuse.
(916) 293-5652 View (916) 293-5652
Photo of Heather Fabbre, MFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Fabbre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
The coping skills they gain as a child can pave the way to being a healthy functioning teen and adult.
Today you are one step closer to helping your child and family get back on a positive path to growth and well-being. Life can take many turns and you may find that your child needs extra help dealing with daily struggles. You may notice your child having a harder time in areas that used to be easy for them. You may also notice your child regressing to old ways of coping that you thought they had out grown. Or perhaps there has been a major change or loss in the family, and you are just not sure that your child is processing it well.
The coping skills they gain as a child can pave the way to being a healthy functioning teen and adult.
Today you are one step closer to helping your child and family get back on a positive path to growth and well-being. Life can take many turns and you may find that your child needs extra help dealing with daily struggles. You may notice your child having a harder time in areas that used to be easy for them. You may also notice your child regressing to old ways of coping that you thought they had out grown. Or perhaps there has been a major change or loss in the family, and you are just not sure that your child is processing it well.
(916) 678-1940 View (916) 678-1940
Photo of Brieana Lopez, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brieana Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
I offer therapy for children, teens, adults, couples, families, individuals, and parents-child/ teen.
Hello! My theoretical orientation draws from integrative and humanistic-existential psychology, meaning I believe in providing well rounded care that emphasizes the inherent value of being human. With my education in Catholic theology, I seek to provide quality care that empowers my clients to develop the confidence to manage their mental health and gain greater fulfillment in their lives by integrating their mental health and Catholic faith. Whether this means addressing childhood trauma or current and brief stressors, my goal is to assist a client in cultivating a greater self-understanding and acceptance of who they are in God.
I offer therapy for children, teens, adults, couples, families, individuals, and parents-child/ teen.
Hello! My theoretical orientation draws from integrative and humanistic-existential psychology, meaning I believe in providing well rounded care that emphasizes the inherent value of being human. With my education in Catholic theology, I seek to provide quality care that empowers my clients to develop the confidence to manage their mental health and gain greater fulfillment in their lives by integrating their mental health and Catholic faith. Whether this means addressing childhood trauma or current and brief stressors, my goal is to assist a client in cultivating a greater self-understanding and acceptance of who they are in God.
(279) 888-9693 View (279) 888-9693
Photo of Kamal Ahmed, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kamal Ahmed
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95843  (Online Only)
Hello, I specialize in working with the following: Teen/Young Adult Issues- I help teens/young adults learn valuable skills that help them make sense of their thoughts, feelings, and values; this helps them be better equipped and empowered to make better decisions in their relationships, school, and work. Counseling with me can help teens and young adults build their confidence, bounce back from setbacks, focus on their goals, manage stress, and have healthy relationships.
Hello, I specialize in working with the following: Teen/Young Adult Issues- I help teens/young adults learn valuable skills that help them make sense of their thoughts, feelings, and values; this helps them be better equipped and empowered to make better decisions in their relationships, school, and work. Counseling with me can help teens and young adults build their confidence, bounce back from setbacks, focus on their goals, manage stress, and have healthy relationships.
(510) 674-0481 View (510) 674-0481
Photo of Carmelina Mule', PsyD, MSW, Psychologist
Carmelina Mule'
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
I am certified in Adolescent Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and work with clients who have a history of self injurious behaviors, emotional dysregulation, impulsivity and interpersonal problems.
I work with adolescents, families and adults struggling with a variety of emotional, psychological and behavioral issues. I provide both therapy and assessment in my practice. I focus on symptom management and reduction, coping skills, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, healthy living practices, and interpersonal relationships/effectiveness. I use different approaches to help clients work through individual and interpersonal difficulties and believe strongly in the concepts of self determination and self actualization. I also provide divorce mediation services.
I am certified in Adolescent Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and work with clients who have a history of self injurious behaviors, emotional dysregulation, impulsivity and interpersonal problems.
I work with adolescents, families and adults struggling with a variety of emotional, psychological and behavioral issues. I provide both therapy and assessment in my practice. I focus on symptom management and reduction, coping skills, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, healthy living practices, and interpersonal relationships/effectiveness. I use different approaches to help clients work through individual and interpersonal difficulties and believe strongly in the concepts of self determination and self actualization. I also provide divorce mediation services.
(916) 287-8926 View (916) 287-8926
Photo of Christina Villanueva, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Villanueva
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
Many times while on our journey through life we can become confused and experience difficulty finding our way. My hope is to help you process difficulties that you might be facing and help you focus on what matters most to you. I treat many issues and areas of concern such as, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, life transitions, separation, loss, self-esteem, codependency, anger, co-parenting, childhood trauma, teen issues and concerns, sexuality, and marital concerns. Availability: Monday - Wednesday early evenings and Saturday mornings and afternoons.
Many times while on our journey through life we can become confused and experience difficulty finding our way. My hope is to help you process difficulties that you might be facing and help you focus on what matters most to you. I treat many issues and areas of concern such as, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, life transitions, separation, loss, self-esteem, codependency, anger, co-parenting, childhood trauma, teen issues and concerns, sexuality, and marital concerns. Availability: Monday - Wednesday early evenings and Saturday mornings and afternoons.
(916) 621-5507 View (916) 621-5507
Photo of Regina Isabel K'burg, PsyD, Psychologist
Regina Isabel K'burg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Skilled in Adolescent and Adult Therapy, Sexually Problematic Behaviors, Couple’s, sex positive, LGBTQI, Personality Disorders, Reunification,Social Issues for Males, Psychological Assessment, minor attracted individuals, and nontraditional couples.
As a therapist, Isabel is proactive, transparent, and honest. Currently, she is working towards certification in sex therapy and has completed her certification as a sex addiction therapist. She utilizes an integrative approach tailored to individual client’s needs. Her reflective therapeutic style emphasizes the unique strengths of individuals and their ability to create change. In Isabel’s career, she has experience working in inpatient, forensic, school based, and community outpatient settings. Isabel’s work also includes the supervision and training of MA and doctorate level clinicians. She is a CAMFT certified supervisor.
Skilled in Adolescent and Adult Therapy, Sexually Problematic Behaviors, Couple’s, sex positive, LGBTQI, Personality Disorders, Reunification,Social Issues for Males, Psychological Assessment, minor attracted individuals, and nontraditional couples.
As a therapist, Isabel is proactive, transparent, and honest. Currently, she is working towards certification in sex therapy and has completed her certification as a sex addiction therapist. She utilizes an integrative approach tailored to individual client’s needs. Her reflective therapeutic style emphasizes the unique strengths of individuals and their ability to create change. In Isabel’s career, she has experience working in inpatient, forensic, school based, and community outpatient settings. Isabel’s work also includes the supervision and training of MA and doctorate level clinicians. She is a CAMFT certified supervisor.
(916) 435-6087 View (916) 435-6087
Photo of Ivy Griffin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ivy Griffin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
Whether you're a teen, young adult, working professional, or are retired, it's never too late to compassionately embrace who you are.
Do you worry that you're "too sensitive," too easily overwhelmed, or that you need to "toughen up"? You often feel like there's something wrong with you that needs to be fixed. You may be struggling to come to terms with past wounds or traumas and then get angry and irritated with yourself for not "getting over it" already. You wonder why other people are able to brush things off so easily, but you still feel depressed, anxious, and stuck. Dealing with all these feelings means you're not your best self at work, in school, or with your loved ones, which really bothers you because you care so much about not letting anyone down.
Whether you're a teen, young adult, working professional, or are retired, it's never too late to compassionately embrace who you are.
Do you worry that you're "too sensitive," too easily overwhelmed, or that you need to "toughen up"? You often feel like there's something wrong with you that needs to be fixed. You may be struggling to come to terms with past wounds or traumas and then get angry and irritated with yourself for not "getting over it" already. You wonder why other people are able to brush things off so easily, but you still feel depressed, anxious, and stuck. Dealing with all these feelings means you're not your best self at work, in school, or with your loved ones, which really bothers you because you care so much about not letting anyone down.
(916) 436-7484 View (916) 436-7484
Photo of Sue Goetz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue Goetz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Now accepting new referrals (as of 11/2024) for Teens, Adults, & EMDR. Parents: Are you worried about your teenager? Do they seem anxious, depressed, or overly stressed? I'm happy to work with your teen, and support you as a parent. Adults: Are you living a contented life? Or Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or “in your head” a lot, ruminating about your relationships? work? the future? I’d like to help. I’m an experienced, licensed psychotherapist whose been in full-time private practice with teens, adults, and families for over 15 years.
Now accepting new referrals (as of 11/2024) for Teens, Adults, & EMDR. Parents: Are you worried about your teenager? Do they seem anxious, depressed, or overly stressed? I'm happy to work with your teen, and support you as a parent. Adults: Are you living a contented life? Or Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or “in your head” a lot, ruminating about your relationships? work? the future? I’d like to help. I’m an experienced, licensed psychotherapist whose been in full-time private practice with teens, adults, and families for over 15 years.
(916) 252-5765 View (916) 252-5765
Photo of Dr. Michelle Nicole Bonner, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Michelle Nicole Bonner
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
Hi there! If you're reading this, thank you for considering me as your future therapist. I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma, family conflicts, parenting issues, child and adolescent issues & motivation, self-esteem, confidence, addiction, anger management, sexual assault and domestic violence. My work has been predominantly with adolescents and families; however, I have experience working with adults, couples, and group work.
Hi there! If you're reading this, thank you for considering me as your future therapist. I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma, family conflicts, parenting issues, child and adolescent issues & motivation, self-esteem, confidence, addiction, anger management, sexual assault and domestic violence. My work has been predominantly with adolescents and families; however, I have experience working with adults, couples, and group work.
(530) 429-7626 View (530) 429-7626
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Teen Therapists

What does therapy for teenagers look like?

When a therapist works with a teenager, the pair will talk about what the teen is struggling with and explore solutions, which may involve interpersonal skills, coping strategies, medication, or lifestyle changes related to sleep, diet, and exercise. Different therapists employ different modalities, but most involve a combination of conversation and skill building.

How long does therapy for teenagers generally take to work?

There’s variability in teenagers’ experiences and challenges; some may begin to improve from therapy within a few weeks while others may take several months or longer. Teens can discuss their progress with their therapist periodically to assess how they’re improving and any changes to the treatment plan that could potentially accelerate that progress.

How do you encourage a teenager to go to therapy?

It’s helpful to express your concern and love while framing therapy as an opportunity to explore a tool that could help improve their life; just like they practice baseball or dance, now they can practice their emotional skills. Give your teen control over the process where you can—maybe by weighing in on choice of therapist and signaling that therapy involves confidentiality, so a parent need not know all that is discussed in sessions.

How do you prepare teens for therapy?

You can prepare your teenager for therapy by describing what the process will look like and setting expectations for timeline, if requested. You can explain that the first session may begin with an assessment phase, that they can describe their experiences but that the therapist will ask questions too, and that it may take time to feel comfortable opening up. Ask how they’re feeling about the process and answer any questions calmly and supportively.