Therapists for Teens in Orlando, FL

Photo of Karla Tamakloe, PhD , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Tamakloe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD , LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
Do you find yourself feeling emotionally exhausted and just want answers to your daily struggles? Do you find yourself feeling confused and often wonder where to turn? Well you have made the right choice with taking this step. Whether you are a parent trying to figure out why your adolescent is always in a bad mood, someone who struggles with feeling alone or a couple just trying to figure how to get back to loving each other, I am here to support you. Discovering your own personal strengths and happiness is part of this process.
Do you find yourself feeling emotionally exhausted and just want answers to your daily struggles? Do you find yourself feeling confused and often wonder where to turn? Well you have made the right choice with taking this step. Whether you are a parent trying to figure out why your adolescent is always in a bad mood, someone who struggles with feeling alone or a couple just trying to figure how to get back to loving each other, I am here to support you. Discovering your own personal strengths and happiness is part of this process.
(321) 312-3199 View (321) 312-3199
Photo of Dr. Katrina Stone, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Katrina Stone
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
I also provide counseling services to children, teens, and parents.
Are you a parent seeking a deeper understanding of your child or teen? Has a teacher, pediatrician, or family member suggested it might be time for an evaluation? I would love to help. I specialize in providing psychological and psychoeducational evaluations to identify a child's needs, as well as his or her unique strengths and abilities. I have expertise in identifying Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression and other social-emotional or developmental differences. I also have experience working with gifted and twice-exceptional children.
I also provide counseling services to children, teens, and parents.
Are you a parent seeking a deeper understanding of your child or teen? Has a teacher, pediatrician, or family member suggested it might be time for an evaluation? I would love to help. I specialize in providing psychological and psychoeducational evaluations to identify a child's needs, as well as his or her unique strengths and abilities. I have expertise in identifying Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression and other social-emotional or developmental differences. I also have experience working with gifted and twice-exceptional children.
(689) 999-4988 View (689) 999-4988
Photo of Brianna Edwards, MS, LMHC, RPT, Counselor
Brianna Edwards
Counselor, MS, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32809
If you are reading this, chances are you have a child or teenager in need of counseling. Maybe you feel worn out by parenting challenges you never anticipated... or perhaps your precious child was exposed to hurts that you were not there to control. If you can relate, I am so glad you are here. I specialize with children and teens, ages 3-18, who have a history of trauma or attachment wounding. You might notice your child experiencing intense anger outbursts, aggression, shut downs, anxiety, depression, & more. These are just clues to a deeper root.
If you are reading this, chances are you have a child or teenager in need of counseling. Maybe you feel worn out by parenting challenges you never anticipated... or perhaps your precious child was exposed to hurts that you were not there to control. If you can relate, I am so glad you are here. I specialize with children and teens, ages 3-18, who have a history of trauma or attachment wounding. You might notice your child experiencing intense anger outbursts, aggression, shut downs, anxiety, depression, & more. These are just clues to a deeper root.
(407) 530-3698 View (407) 530-3698
Photo of Tamekah Liverpool, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamekah Liverpool
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32827
Are you finding it hard cope with your day-to-day life or not feeling fulfilled? Don’t bring yesterday into today. Let’s work together to bring you back to a place of happiness. I specialize in pre- teen, teens, adults, couples, and families. I also facilitate groups and individual counseling sessions designed to deal with cognitive, emotional and behavioral imbalances. I use a variety of psychotherapeutic methods and techniques to help balance distress. Let’s develop new strategies and distinctions to improve your life. Life can at times feel intense and unmanageable, but with guidance and commitment you can achieve anything.
Are you finding it hard cope with your day-to-day life or not feeling fulfilled? Don’t bring yesterday into today. Let’s work together to bring you back to a place of happiness. I specialize in pre- teen, teens, adults, couples, and families. I also facilitate groups and individual counseling sessions designed to deal with cognitive, emotional and behavioral imbalances. I use a variety of psychotherapeutic methods and techniques to help balance distress. Let’s develop new strategies and distinctions to improve your life. Life can at times feel intense and unmanageable, but with guidance and commitment you can achieve anything.
(321) 459-6248 View (321) 459-6248
Photo of Guilaine Bell, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Guilaine Bell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
I specialize in working with children, adolescent, and teens who are experiencing various problems (behavioral, anxiety,bullying, anger, etc).
Different challenges can cause us to fill "stuck", "overwhelmed", and "anxious". My experiences as a psychotherapist have taught me that all challenges can be opportunities for growth and empowerment. With years of experience, my goal as your psychotherapist is to assist you in finding balance and peace within yourself to overcome the challenges you are facing or have faced. Sometimes, you just need someone to listen. My job is to go beyond listening and build on your strengths, work through your problem(s), and assist you in making those changes that empower you to create a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in working with children, adolescent, and teens who are experiencing various problems (behavioral, anxiety,bullying, anger, etc).
Different challenges can cause us to fill "stuck", "overwhelmed", and "anxious". My experiences as a psychotherapist have taught me that all challenges can be opportunities for growth and empowerment. With years of experience, my goal as your psychotherapist is to assist you in finding balance and peace within yourself to overcome the challenges you are facing or have faced. Sometimes, you just need someone to listen. My job is to go beyond listening and build on your strengths, work through your problem(s), and assist you in making those changes that empower you to create a more fulfilling life.
(407) 573-7048 View (407) 573-7048
Photo of Simone Guillet, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Simone Guillet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32828
Do you ever feel like no one understands you? Or need someone to talk to and relate to? Are you having difficulties with your day-to-day? Constantly worrying about the "What ifs"? Struggling to keep everything together? As a parent, are you having trouble connecting with your teenager? Well, it is time to take back that control. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and millennials who are ready to grow their confidence, own their voices, develop resilience, and thrive, not just survive. I collaborate with parents to understand their children and help implement skills that can effectively help the family.
Do you ever feel like no one understands you? Or need someone to talk to and relate to? Are you having difficulties with your day-to-day? Constantly worrying about the "What ifs"? Struggling to keep everything together? As a parent, are you having trouble connecting with your teenager? Well, it is time to take back that control. I enjoy working with teens, young adults, and millennials who are ready to grow their confidence, own their voices, develop resilience, and thrive, not just survive. I collaborate with parents to understand their children and help implement skills that can effectively help the family.
(407) 337-4245 View (407) 337-4245
Photo of Tiffany Robinson - The Bismillah Institute, MS, LMHC, NCC, QS
The Bismillah Institute
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32819  (Online Only)
We also offer Forensic Evaluations and have the only Free Teen Mental Health Clinic in the State with wrap around services.
Feeling low in Iman? Suffering from sleeplessness, stress, sadness? Are your relationships suffering? We are here for you. The trusted elders in our communities are full of advice. But to achieve personal growth or marital success in the Western World? It requires your ability to learn and apply interpersonal skills that weave together strong faith and research-based fundamentals in our Western Battlegrounds. Make a confidential appointment today to learn how Islamic Principals and a real, licensed professional, will help you heal. Ask about free therapy for teens, college students, and more.
We also offer Forensic Evaluations and have the only Free Teen Mental Health Clinic in the State with wrap around services.
Feeling low in Iman? Suffering from sleeplessness, stress, sadness? Are your relationships suffering? We are here for you. The trusted elders in our communities are full of advice. But to achieve personal growth or marital success in the Western World? It requires your ability to learn and apply interpersonal skills that weave together strong faith and research-based fundamentals in our Western Battlegrounds. Make a confidential appointment today to learn how Islamic Principals and a real, licensed professional, will help you heal. Ask about free therapy for teens, college students, and more.
(407) 543-0345 View (407) 543-0345
Photo of David K. Turner, LMHC, Counselor
David K. Turner
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I understand the kinds of childhood, adolescent, family, and community experiences that put people at risk.
We are facing unprecedented times in our country. There are times when we feel disconnected from our sense of reality. These are the times when we need a listening ear. I am a Christian therapist who integrates biblical principles with Evidence based therapy. I am a person who is attentive, empathetic, sensitive, and provide a safe non-judgmental space for my clients. I chose this profession because I have a passion for people, I consider counseling my vocational calling.
I understand the kinds of childhood, adolescent, family, and community experiences that put people at risk.
We are facing unprecedented times in our country. There are times when we feel disconnected from our sense of reality. These are the times when we need a listening ear. I am a Christian therapist who integrates biblical principles with Evidence based therapy. I am a person who is attentive, empathetic, sensitive, and provide a safe non-judgmental space for my clients. I chose this profession because I have a passion for people, I consider counseling my vocational calling.
(321) 463-3598 View (321) 463-3598
Photo of Matthew Morris-Wood, LMFT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Morris-Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32835  (Online Only)
On any given day, I might help a young man dealing with stress and anxiety, a teenager being bullied and misunderstood by other kids at school, a couple of 20 years having marital issues, or an exhausted parent trying to understand their child's behavior.
My passion is helping people overcome barriers to living happy and fulfilled lives - both within themselves and in relationships with others. I have 10 years of experience working with both adults and teens conducting individual, group, family and relationship therapy. My goal is to provide clients a safe and comfortable space to talk about their problems, while also guiding them toward solutions. I am experienced working with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, and life stressors. In addition, I specialize in helping people overcome challenges in relationships, whether romantic, social, or professional.
On any given day, I might help a young man dealing with stress and anxiety, a teenager being bullied and misunderstood by other kids at school, a couple of 20 years having marital issues, or an exhausted parent trying to understand their child's behavior.
My passion is helping people overcome barriers to living happy and fulfilled lives - both within themselves and in relationships with others. I have 10 years of experience working with both adults and teens conducting individual, group, family and relationship therapy. My goal is to provide clients a safe and comfortable space to talk about their problems, while also guiding them toward solutions. I am experienced working with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, and life stressors. In addition, I specialize in helping people overcome challenges in relationships, whether romantic, social, or professional.
(407) 305-3798 View (407) 305-3798
Photo of Janelle Gonzalez, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janelle Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Janelle and I am focused on helping teens and adults to experience life in a healthy way.
Are you or you teens disconnecting from things you've once enjoyed? Are you finding it difficult to connect with your teen? Do you or your teen have low self-esteem, poor body image or finding it just too hard to cope with the life transitions? Or in need of life skills to help them become a more productive adult?
My name is Janelle and I am focused on helping teens and adults to experience life in a healthy way.
Are you or you teens disconnecting from things you've once enjoyed? Are you finding it difficult to connect with your teen? Do you or your teen have low self-esteem, poor body image or finding it just too hard to cope with the life transitions? Or in need of life skills to help them become a more productive adult?
(407) 850-8119 View (407) 850-8119
Photo of Greg Nute, PhD, LCCP, LMHC, CIMHP, CNHP, Counselor
Greg Nute
Counselor, PhD, LCCP, LMHC, CIMHP, CNHP
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32822
I have extensive training and experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults.
Have life’s challenges gotten you to the point of anxiety or depression? Has there been a trauma or something that has caused a shift in your life? Are you a parent that has a child or teen that is struggling to keep their head above water? Are you searching for meaning in life or are you struggling with your faith in the midst of adversity? Are you looking for a holistic approach to therapy? If so, then I’d be honored to help! We are not created as one-sided, but are multi-faceted. Because of this, I am a board-certified holistic psychologist, certified integrative and licensed counselor, and certified natural health professional.
I have extensive training and experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults.
Have life’s challenges gotten you to the point of anxiety or depression? Has there been a trauma or something that has caused a shift in your life? Are you a parent that has a child or teen that is struggling to keep their head above water? Are you searching for meaning in life or are you struggling with your faith in the midst of adversity? Are you looking for a holistic approach to therapy? If so, then I’d be honored to help! We are not created as one-sided, but are multi-faceted. Because of this, I am a board-certified holistic psychologist, certified integrative and licensed counselor, and certified natural health professional.
(321) 384-3465 View (321) 384-3465
Photo of Kate A. Dean, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Kate A. Dean
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32810
Waitlist for new clients
As a christian and pastors wife I have a strong passion for helping children, teens, women, couples and families.
Are you struggling in your relationship with your significant other? Maybe you recently lost a loved one or your spouse declared they wanted a divorce. Are you having trouble dealing with the challenges of being a parent because your child or teenager has become unmanageable. Maybe you are navigating the challenges of being a blended family. If life circumstances have you feeling defeated, down, anxious or overwhelmed, you've found yourself at the right place. I'm a masters level clinical christian therapist who desires to walk alongside you with a non-judgmental, collaborative, and empathetic approach in a safe environment.
As a christian and pastors wife I have a strong passion for helping children, teens, women, couples and families.
Are you struggling in your relationship with your significant other? Maybe you recently lost a loved one or your spouse declared they wanted a divorce. Are you having trouble dealing with the challenges of being a parent because your child or teenager has become unmanageable. Maybe you are navigating the challenges of being a blended family. If life circumstances have you feeling defeated, down, anxious or overwhelmed, you've found yourself at the right place. I'm a masters level clinical christian therapist who desires to walk alongside you with a non-judgmental, collaborative, and empathetic approach in a safe environment.
(407) 499-8755 View (407) 499-8755
Photo of Marc Campbell, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Marc Campbell
Counselor, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803  (Online Only)
I spent time as a middle school guidance counselor, helping children and adolescents work through the many challenges (self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, identity issues, peer/family conflict, etc.
I believe the best way to help my clients is to meet them where they are, and offer tools tailored to their needs. I have expertise in helping with an array of concerns including depression, anxiety, multicultural issues, trauma, couples counseling, substance abuse, child/ teen life stressors and LGBTQ+ related issues. I primarily have a narrative theoretical orientation, while incorporating multicultural and acceptance & commitment therapy approaches. Life coaching services are available, details on my website. I hope to create a safe and affirming space for you to become the best version of you! I look forward to working together!
I spent time as a middle school guidance counselor, helping children and adolescents work through the many challenges (self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, identity issues, peer/family conflict, etc.
I believe the best way to help my clients is to meet them where they are, and offer tools tailored to their needs. I have expertise in helping with an array of concerns including depression, anxiety, multicultural issues, trauma, couples counseling, substance abuse, child/ teen life stressors and LGBTQ+ related issues. I primarily have a narrative theoretical orientation, while incorporating multicultural and acceptance & commitment therapy approaches. Life coaching services are available, details on my website. I hope to create a safe and affirming space for you to become the best version of you! I look forward to working together!
(352) 675-3959 View (352) 675-3959
Photo of Lilly Vargas, MA
Lilly Vargas
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32828
This applies to children and adolescents as well.
Are there any deep disappointments lingering within you? Do you feel alone, unlovable or misunderstood? Are you struggling with your child, spouse or any other relationship? Life issues and disappointments are heavy burdens to bear alone. Thoughts and feelings of unworthiness and/or rejection were never meant for you. And, it takes a village to grow a family. These life-matters were meant to be lived with others, disappointments were meant to be shared, and not good enough feelings were meant to be challenged. Would you consider help? Would you let me be that person for you, your child or adolescent in this season?
This applies to children and adolescents as well.
Are there any deep disappointments lingering within you? Do you feel alone, unlovable or misunderstood? Are you struggling with your child, spouse or any other relationship? Life issues and disappointments are heavy burdens to bear alone. Thoughts and feelings of unworthiness and/or rejection were never meant for you. And, it takes a village to grow a family. These life-matters were meant to be lived with others, disappointments were meant to be shared, and not good enough feelings were meant to be challenged. Would you consider help? Would you let me be that person for you, your child or adolescent in this season?
(321) 218-5650 View (321) 218-5650
Photo of Jennifer Wisser-Stokes, MSCP, LMHC, RPT-S, Counselor
Jennifer Wisser-Stokes
Counselor, MSCP, LMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32826
You or your child/ teen will receive a customized Plan of Care after our stage of assessment.
Child Specialist (ages 3+) in Play Therapy for: anxiety, OCD, behavioral issues at home and/or at school, bullying and self-esteem issues, parent/child conflict, & divorce reactions. Teen and Young Adults (ages 13-25) in Creative/Expressive Arts for: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, self-harm, & school/family/life adjustments. Parent Consultation and Parent Groups are also available.
You or your child/ teen will receive a customized Plan of Care after our stage of assessment.
Child Specialist (ages 3+) in Play Therapy for: anxiety, OCD, behavioral issues at home and/or at school, bullying and self-esteem issues, parent/child conflict, & divorce reactions. Teen and Young Adults (ages 13-25) in Creative/Expressive Arts for: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, self-harm, & school/family/life adjustments. Parent Consultation and Parent Groups are also available.
(407) 449-1432 View (407) 449-1432
Photo of Orlando Santiago - Orlando Santiago, LMHC, Counselor
Orlando Santiago
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32837
Waitlist for new clients
We will work best if you deeply want for your teen, child, and family to improve and if you find real fulfillment in knowing that your family is thriving and developing in healthy ways.
I specialize in helping children, teens, adults, and families improve their quality of life by overcoming behavioral and emotional challenges through compassionate therapy services. We will work together in removing the blocks to effective communication and in creating a more secure bond between your child and you. My areas of expertise include family conflicts, risky behavior in teens, sibling rivalry, anxiety and shyness, victims of bullying, depression, low frustration tolerance, trauma, and problems of self-image. Hablo Español :)
We will work best if you deeply want for your teen, child, and family to improve and if you find real fulfillment in knowing that your family is thriving and developing in healthy ways.
I specialize in helping children, teens, adults, and families improve their quality of life by overcoming behavioral and emotional challenges through compassionate therapy services. We will work together in removing the blocks to effective communication and in creating a more secure bond between your child and you. My areas of expertise include family conflicts, risky behavior in teens, sibling rivalry, anxiety and shyness, victims of bullying, depression, low frustration tolerance, trauma, and problems of self-image. Hablo Español :)
(321) 351-3440 View (321) 351-3440
Photo of Ruan C Humphrey, LMHC, Counselor
Ruan C Humphrey
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
Couples Counseling; Elementary Children/ Adolescent Counseling; Bipolar Depression/ Anxiety.
Enjoys working with children in a therapeutic capacity where she can make use of her 20 plus years of experience as an elementary school educator as well as guiding people through new career and lifestyle changes.
Couples Counseling; Elementary Children/ Adolescent Counseling; Bipolar Depression/ Anxiety.
Enjoys working with children in a therapeutic capacity where she can make use of her 20 plus years of experience as an elementary school educator as well as guiding people through new career and lifestyle changes.
(407) 986-2597 View (407) 986-2597
Photo of Philomena Dolce, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Philomena Dolce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker- Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida who has been in the field since 2013. My work history is colored with working with Teen Mother experiencing Crisis Pregnancy who opted to parent or place their children for adoption, assessing the Veteran population for biopsychosocial needs, and working in the educational setting as a School Therapist for Middle and High School age students. I have a love for Women, Gender & Sexuality Studies and Social Work Practice with the Elderly and have Undergrad and Graduate Certificates in both areas, respectively.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker- Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida who has been in the field since 2013. My work history is colored with working with Teen Mother experiencing Crisis Pregnancy who opted to parent or place their children for adoption, assessing the Veteran population for biopsychosocial needs, and working in the educational setting as a School Therapist for Middle and High School age students. I have a love for Women, Gender & Sexuality Studies and Social Work Practice with the Elderly and have Undergrad and Graduate Certificates in both areas, respectively.
(407) 910-1309 View (407) 910-1309
Photo of David Lawson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
David Lawson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
Men's Issues. Anxiety. Depression. Motivation Issues. Relationship Issues. Teen Issues. When you make an appointment with me, you will walk into a space that is relaxed, comfortable, and free of judgment. Session by session we will explore your needs, ambitions, and whatever has been holding you back. We will explore the good, the bad, and those patterns that consistently impact your life.
Men's Issues. Anxiety. Depression. Motivation Issues. Relationship Issues. Teen Issues. When you make an appointment with me, you will walk into a space that is relaxed, comfortable, and free of judgment. Session by session we will explore your needs, ambitions, and whatever has been holding you back. We will explore the good, the bad, and those patterns that consistently impact your life.
(407) 738-4967 View (407) 738-4967
Photo of Jessica M Gilstrap, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Jessica M Gilstrap
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
There are times when individuals and families may need professional help, like counseling, in coping with illness, loss, or stressful periods as well as dealing with family problems and adolescent issues. Counseling is advised before situations reach a crisis. My passion is working with the entire family unit toward healing and change.I have extensive counseling experience with teenagers and families dealing with abuse, neglect, defiance, and conflict. I have offered individual, practical and balanced solutions by providing a wide range of counseling specialties in the Orlando, Windermere, Dr Phillips, Ocoee and Metro-West area.
There are times when individuals and families may need professional help, like counseling, in coping with illness, loss, or stressful periods as well as dealing with family problems and adolescent issues. Counseling is advised before situations reach a crisis. My passion is working with the entire family unit toward healing and change.I have extensive counseling experience with teenagers and families dealing with abuse, neglect, defiance, and conflict. I have offered individual, practical and balanced solutions by providing a wide range of counseling specialties in the Orlando, Windermere, Dr Phillips, Ocoee and Metro-West area.
(407) 378-2823 View (407) 378-2823
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.