Therapists for Teens in Bowie, MD

Photo of Kendra L. Myles, MA, Psychological Associate
Kendra L. Myles
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20715  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges in a safe, supportive environment. My ideal client is someone seeking to overcome depression, mood disorders, PTSD, grief, ADHD, anxiety, or anger management. They aim to feel understood and empowered as they work towards improved emotional health and well-being. Whether you’re a child, adolescent, or adult, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore your emotions, build coping skills, and achieve your personal goals. Together, we’ll work towards creating a life filled with growth and resilience.
I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges in a safe, supportive environment. My ideal client is someone seeking to overcome depression, mood disorders, PTSD, grief, ADHD, anxiety, or anger management. They aim to feel understood and empowered as they work towards improved emotional health and well-being. Whether you’re a child, adolescent, or adult, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore your emotions, build coping skills, and achieve your personal goals. Together, we’ll work towards creating a life filled with growth and resilience.
(667) 222-5884 View (667) 222-5884
Photo of Helena Trimmer - WSDI Partners, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
WSDI Partners, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20716  (Online Only)
Are you dealing with a difficult time? Have you experienced trauma? Do you have a hard time with your teen? Are you struggling with a relationship? Dealing with stress? Have you recently lost someone? Are you going through a major life transition (marriage, birth, loss of a job, divorce)? We are here to help, heal and restore hope! Our practice's focus is to bring comprehensive and culturally competent services to clients so they can thrive and realize their full potential. It is our overall goal to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families.
Are you dealing with a difficult time? Have you experienced trauma? Do you have a hard time with your teen? Are you struggling with a relationship? Dealing with stress? Have you recently lost someone? Are you going through a major life transition (marriage, birth, loss of a job, divorce)? We are here to help, heal and restore hope! Our practice's focus is to bring comprehensive and culturally competent services to clients so they can thrive and realize their full potential. It is our overall goal to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families.
(301) 591-6642 View (301) 591-6642
Photo of Emma J Norfleet, PsyD, LICSW , LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma J Norfleet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LICSW , LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20715  (Online Only)
I have provided therapeutic services to an array of clients over the past 30 years of working. These clients include individuals, families, couples, and groups. Overall, I have assisted individuals struggling with managing depression, trauma, anxiety, bereavement, ODD, ADHD, and thought disorders to name a few. I'm equally committed to keeping families together given the positive correlation between teen delinquency and broken families or single parents.
I have provided therapeutic services to an array of clients over the past 30 years of working. These clients include individuals, families, couples, and groups. Overall, I have assisted individuals struggling with managing depression, trauma, anxiety, bereavement, ODD, ADHD, and thought disorders to name a few. I'm equally committed to keeping families together given the positive correlation between teen delinquency and broken families or single parents.
(240) 696-7120 View (240) 696-7120
Pearl Elizabeth Pfuhl
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NBCDCH
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20715
My broad range of experience includes individual hypnosis and training in self-hypnosis techniques(Diplomate-Erickson Hypnosis); neuro-linguistic programing; stress and adjustment disorders; adolescent disruptive behavior; managing ADHD; mandated Family and Teen Court requirements.
Everyone has the capacity to interpret, influence, and create life events. We can choose what to do with the abilities and limitations we possess. Our thinking may affect the way we feel and behave. Would you like assistance in developing self-awareness and skills to manage life transitions? I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment; offering support and guidance as you gain insight to find answers to the conflicts in life. An effective therapeutic relationship is based on trust and rapport. I am dedicated to providing confidential, ethical, qualified assistance to help you promote personal growth and achieve therapeutic goals.
My broad range of experience includes individual hypnosis and training in self-hypnosis techniques(Diplomate-Erickson Hypnosis); neuro-linguistic programing; stress and adjustment disorders; adolescent disruptive behavior; managing ADHD; mandated Family and Teen Court requirements.
Everyone has the capacity to interpret, influence, and create life events. We can choose what to do with the abilities and limitations we possess. Our thinking may affect the way we feel and behave. Would you like assistance in developing self-awareness and skills to manage life transitions? I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment; offering support and guidance as you gain insight to find answers to the conflicts in life. An effective therapeutic relationship is based on trust and rapport. I am dedicated to providing confidential, ethical, qualified assistance to help you promote personal growth and achieve therapeutic goals.
(240) 392-1701 View (240) 392-1701
Photo of Shannon Moore, MA, LGPC, Counselor
Shannon Moore
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20720
I work within adolescent therapy; domestic violence and sexual abuse/assault therapy.
My name is Shannon Moore, LGPC. My passion is helping people navigate life and to heal mind, body, spirit and soul. I am a very unconventional therapist. I focus on what the client’s needs are and adjust accordingly. While helping young people to heal is my passion, I also work with adults. I utilize African-centered therapy (NTU Psychotherapy) in my practice.
I work within adolescent therapy; domestic violence and sexual abuse/assault therapy.
My name is Shannon Moore, LGPC. My passion is helping people navigate life and to heal mind, body, spirit and soul. I am a very unconventional therapist. I focus on what the client’s needs are and adjust accordingly. While helping young people to heal is my passion, I also work with adults. I utilize African-centered therapy (NTU Psychotherapy) in my practice.
(301) 265-2223 View (301) 265-2223
Photo of Carolyn Simms - Carolyn Simms, LCPC  Approved Clinical Supervisor, MA, LCPC, PMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn Simms, LCPC Approved Clinical Supervisor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20720
Teen Moms, I welcome you.
Call now! You select your appointment time. We're online, and ready to help. Some Early AM and Late appts have been added. There may be an opening available today. Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Parenting, Relationships, Grief, Anger, LIFE, etc? I am here to help you get through it. Let's explore and initiate positive CHANGE that you want to feel or express. Get started TODAY! Schedule your intake (Step1) and your therapy session (Step 2) online today at www.YourSafeSpace.org Call 301-202-1287 or 301-459-0708 for assistance. I will help you find your HAPPY!
Teen Moms, I welcome you.
Call now! You select your appointment time. We're online, and ready to help. Some Early AM and Late appts have been added. There may be an opening available today. Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Parenting, Relationships, Grief, Anger, LIFE, etc? I am here to help you get through it. Let's explore and initiate positive CHANGE that you want to feel or express. Get started TODAY! Schedule your intake (Step1) and your therapy session (Step 2) online today at www.YourSafeSpace.org Call 301-202-1287 or 301-459-0708 for assistance. I will help you find your HAPPY!
(301) 273-7372 View (301) 273-7372
Kimberly M Brooks, Ph.D. & Associates, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20715
My practice includes psychologists, licensed social workers and licensed professional counselors who can provide family therapy, adolescent therapy and therapy for preteens .
Hello and thank you for considering my practice. I am a clinical psychologist with specialized training and experience in the assessment and treatment of children birth-5 years of age. In addition, I provide treatment of women who are experiencing postpartum anxiety and/or depression. Although I have a specialty in this area I am also trained to provide treatment for adults with a variety of difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life transition issues, etc.
My practice includes psychologists, licensed social workers and licensed professional counselors who can provide family therapy, adolescent therapy and therapy for preteens .
Hello and thank you for considering my practice. I am a clinical psychologist with specialized training and experience in the assessment and treatment of children birth-5 years of age. In addition, I provide treatment of women who are experiencing postpartum anxiety and/or depression. Although I have a specialty in this area I am also trained to provide treatment for adults with a variety of difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life transition issues, etc.
(301) 979-7830 View (301) 979-7830
Photo of Laura Lambert - Columbia Associates - Bowie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Columbia Associates - Bowie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20715
Columbia Associates is an outpatient mental health care provider dedicated to serving Maryland and the local area of Bowie. At our Bowie clinic we provide a broad array of services including psychotherapy, group therapy, child & adolescent therapy, child & adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, medication management, and TMS therapy. TMS therapy, also known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is an effective, non-invasive, low-risk treatment that has shown success in treating major depressive disorder and other forms of treatment resistant depression.
Columbia Associates is an outpatient mental health care provider dedicated to serving Maryland and the local area of Bowie. At our Bowie clinic we provide a broad array of services including psychotherapy, group therapy, child & adolescent therapy, child & adolescent psychiatry, adult psychiatry, medication management, and TMS therapy. TMS therapy, also known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is an effective, non-invasive, low-risk treatment that has shown success in treating major depressive disorder and other forms of treatment resistant depression.
(301) 857-5410 View (301) 857-5410
Photo of Zaria Cyrus, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zaria Cyrus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20715  (Online Only)
With a background in child, adolescent, and adult care, I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health concerns that may affect this age group.
Do you need to feel safe? Do you prefer a therapist who understands and recognizes the developmental stages of children, adolescents, and adults? Whether supporting children through challenging transitions, assisting adolescents in navigating identity and self-esteem issues, or helping adults cope with life's complexities, my goal is to empower my clients to overcome obstacles and thrive. As a therapist, I am deeply committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by my clients, and I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where healing and growth can occur.
With a background in child, adolescent, and adult care, I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health concerns that may affect this age group.
Do you need to feel safe? Do you prefer a therapist who understands and recognizes the developmental stages of children, adolescents, and adults? Whether supporting children through challenging transitions, assisting adolescents in navigating identity and self-esteem issues, or helping adults cope with life's complexities, my goal is to empower my clients to overcome obstacles and thrive. As a therapist, I am deeply committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by my clients, and I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where healing and growth can occur.
(240) 571-2926 View (240) 571-2926
Photo of Joshua O'Connor, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20720
Couples, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC Affirming Care; ENM, Polyamory and Kink-Aware Therapy, Sex & Intimacy; Eating Disorders; Teen Identity Formation; Communication Issues; Family of Origin Issues; Anxiety; Depression; Life Transitions & Adjustment; Substance Use Disorder
Couples, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC Affirming Care; ENM, Polyamory and Kink-Aware Therapy, Sex & Intimacy; Eating Disorders; Teen Identity Formation; Communication Issues; Family of Origin Issues; Anxiety; Depression; Life Transitions & Adjustment; Substance Use Disorder
(301) 709-7005 View (301) 709-7005
Photo of Louis Woolard, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Louis Woolard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20715
Louis E. Woolard, Jr. , Ph.D., LCSW-C is a licensed clinical social worker who earned his degree at Marywood University. His special interests include child, adolescent, adult, and family psychotherapy, and program development. He has extensive experience in providing mental health services to children and their families. Louis Woolard previously was Director of the Child and Youth Services Administration for the Commission on Mental Health Services for the District of Columbia, Director of a community mental health center, and Director of Residential Programs and Community Services for the New York State Office of Mental Health.
Louis E. Woolard, Jr. , Ph.D., LCSW-C is a licensed clinical social worker who earned his degree at Marywood University. His special interests include child, adolescent, adult, and family psychotherapy, and program development. He has extensive experience in providing mental health services to children and their families. Louis Woolard previously was Director of the Child and Youth Services Administration for the Commission on Mental Health Services for the District of Columbia, Director of a community mental health center, and Director of Residential Programs and Community Services for the New York State Office of Mental Health.
(410) 632-6707 View (410) 632-6707
Photo of Charlene MacPherson - Nerd Adventure Therapy 20, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nerd Adventure Therapy 20
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20715
Do you relate to the world through your Nerdy interests? Do you love to watch anime, play video games, or play tabletop role-playing games? Do you feel that being a Nerd/Geek is part of who you are and how you cope with the world? If this sounds like you, whether you are a teen or just young at heart, my practice is for you! I incorporate Geek and Nerd culture into both my individual therapy and my group therapy! I believe that nerdy interests can help us make sense of the world just like music or art. I treat both individual clients as well as run Therapeauticallly Applied- Role Playing Game Social Skills groups!
Do you relate to the world through your Nerdy interests? Do you love to watch anime, play video games, or play tabletop role-playing games? Do you feel that being a Nerd/Geek is part of who you are and how you cope with the world? If this sounds like you, whether you are a teen or just young at heart, my practice is for you! I incorporate Geek and Nerd culture into both my individual therapy and my group therapy! I believe that nerdy interests can help us make sense of the world just like music or art. I treat both individual clients as well as run Therapeauticallly Applied- Role Playing Game Social Skills groups!
(410) 443-0177 View (410) 443-0177
Photo of Beth S Warner, PhD, Psychologist
Beth S Warner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20715
Are you or your child or teen struggling in school or having trouble getting along with friends and family? Are you or your child dealing with a tough issue, and having trouble moving forward? Are you feeling stuck in helping them or yourself return to your normal selves, or be the best you can be? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you're welcome to talk to me. At any age, including adulthood, it is possible to learn new skills, gain understanding and experience positive change.
Are you or your child or teen struggling in school or having trouble getting along with friends and family? Are you or your child dealing with a tough issue, and having trouble moving forward? Are you feeling stuck in helping them or yourself return to your normal selves, or be the best you can be? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you're welcome to talk to me. At any age, including adulthood, it is possible to learn new skills, gain understanding and experience positive change.
(301) 850-2393 View (301) 850-2393
Photo of Sharon G. Richardson, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon G. Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20721  (Online Only)
Please click the My Website link to schedule an appointment. Do you ever wonder: How can I achieve true Balance and Growth? Why am I so dissatisfied with my job? Are my own issues interfering with my marriage or my ability to parent my difficult teen? What is holding me back from moving forward with my life? Or-do you feel like your marriage is failing? Do you have difficulty communicating with your spouse? Have your own children become out of control? Is it time to look at a career change?
Please click the My Website link to schedule an appointment. Do you ever wonder: How can I achieve true Balance and Growth? Why am I so dissatisfied with my job? Are my own issues interfering with my marriage or my ability to parent my difficult teen? What is holding me back from moving forward with my life? Or-do you feel like your marriage is failing? Do you have difficulty communicating with your spouse? Have your own children become out of control? Is it time to look at a career change?
(240) 813-4466 View (240) 813-4466
Photo of Renee Neely, PsyD
Renee Neely
PsyD
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20716
I am also the co-founder/President of a Teen Girls Mentoring Program (www.
Decades ago, many problems stopped kids from being successful in schools, making friends, and fulfilling their potential. Parents, you now have many resources to tap when you feel that something is not quite right with the way your child thinks, feels, or acts. Decisions about what to do when something seems wrong are critical - not only to the well-being of your child but also to their healthy development and successful transition to adulthood. So, if you have a child with a mental, emotional, or behavior problem, or think you might, please feel free to contact me.
I am also the co-founder/President of a Teen Girls Mentoring Program (www.
Decades ago, many problems stopped kids from being successful in schools, making friends, and fulfilling their potential. Parents, you now have many resources to tap when you feel that something is not quite right with the way your child thinks, feels, or acts. Decisions about what to do when something seems wrong are critical - not only to the well-being of your child but also to their healthy development and successful transition to adulthood. So, if you have a child with a mental, emotional, or behavior problem, or think you might, please feel free to contact me.
(202) 681-0966 View (202) 681-0966
Photo of Jasmine Seymour - Next Place Therapy Services, LLC-Play Therapy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Next Place Therapy Services, LLC-Play Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20717
She offers a compassionate, non-judgmental space for you and child or teen.
We accept BCBS. Jasmine is a child and teen therapist at Next Place Therapy Services, LLC. She works with children and teens between the ages of 5-16 who are facing emotional or behavioral challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficulties at home or school. Jasmine understands that these young clients may struggle to express their emotions verbally and need a supportive environment where they can feel understood and safe. She offers both individual and family therapy, actively involving family and caregivers in sessions to best support the client. Jasmine currently has openings for in-person on Saturdays only.
She offers a compassionate, non-judgmental space for you and child or teen.
We accept BCBS. Jasmine is a child and teen therapist at Next Place Therapy Services, LLC. She works with children and teens between the ages of 5-16 who are facing emotional or behavioral challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficulties at home or school. Jasmine understands that these young clients may struggle to express their emotions verbally and need a supportive environment where they can feel understood and safe. She offers both individual and family therapy, actively involving family and caregivers in sessions to best support the client. Jasmine currently has openings for in-person on Saturdays only.
(301) 507-1791 View (301) 507-1791
Photo of Stacie Dixon, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stacie Dixon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20716  (Online Only)
I will partner with you and your child/ adolescent to form an alliance and build a tailored plan that will ensure their growth and success.
Do you or your child struggle with learning anxiety or ADHD that is affecting your day to day life, school and relationships? Are you seeking expert guidance to help your child with ADHD thrive? Does your child seem scattered and unable to stay on task? Has your child been diagnosed with ADHD? Does your child need an increase in attention, better coping skills, or better management of ADHD? I am here to work with you to transform your child's educational journey and overall well-being. Do not let ADHD hold your child back. We can help to empower them to reach their potential. Call for a free consultation today.
I will partner with you and your child/ adolescent to form an alliance and build a tailored plan that will ensure their growth and success.
Do you or your child struggle with learning anxiety or ADHD that is affecting your day to day life, school and relationships? Are you seeking expert guidance to help your child with ADHD thrive? Does your child seem scattered and unable to stay on task? Has your child been diagnosed with ADHD? Does your child need an increase in attention, better coping skills, or better management of ADHD? I am here to work with you to transform your child's educational journey and overall well-being. Do not let ADHD hold your child back. We can help to empower them to reach their potential. Call for a free consultation today.
(443) 998-2410 View (443) 998-2410
Photo of Shanita Newman, LCPC
Shanita Newman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20715
Raise your hand if you have ever had big feelings that you have not been exactly sure how to deal with or process. Now raise your hand again if you want to help to manage or process those feelings. Using a person-centered approach and other approaches such as expressive arts I support Black Women and Black Teen Girls with Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Self-Esteem/ Self-Image, and Trauma.
Raise your hand if you have ever had big feelings that you have not been exactly sure how to deal with or process. Now raise your hand again if you want to help to manage or process those feelings. Using a person-centered approach and other approaches such as expressive arts I support Black Women and Black Teen Girls with Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Self-Esteem/ Self-Image, and Trauma.
(240) 628-6990 View (240) 628-6990
Photo of Sabra Starnes - Next Place Therapy Services, LLC-Play Therapy, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, RPT-S, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Next Place Therapy Services, LLC-Play Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, RPT-S, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20718
Building a strong relationship with my client's parents and caregivers is important, so we look forward to working with you and your child or teen.
Accept Carefirst. We use play therapy interventions for children and teens aged 3 to 12 years old and their families. Our 6 therapists have openings after school and Saturdays. We offer a safe space where your child can freely express themselves and learn valuable coping skills to navigate life's challenges. With immediate in-person openings and are self-pay $175-$200 a session, and can use your out-of-network benefits to submit for reimbursement for therapy. You will receive the superbill to submit.Call Sabra Starnes for a brief consult to discuss our therapy services today at 301-531-4227. Check our website at sabrastarnes.com.
Building a strong relationship with my client's parents and caregivers is important, so we look forward to working with you and your child or teen.
Accept Carefirst. We use play therapy interventions for children and teens aged 3 to 12 years old and their families. Our 6 therapists have openings after school and Saturdays. We offer a safe space where your child can freely express themselves and learn valuable coping skills to navigate life's challenges. With immediate in-person openings and are self-pay $175-$200 a session, and can use your out-of-network benefits to submit for reimbursement for therapy. You will receive the superbill to submit.Call Sabra Starnes for a brief consult to discuss our therapy services today at 301-531-4227. Check our website at sabrastarnes.com.
(301) 945-7544 View (301) 945-7544
Photo of Marika Martin, PhD, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marika Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20716  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years' experience helping couples with communication and conflict problems. I use a variety of techniques to restore emotional connection and teach skills that promote a solid, happy relationship. Therapy starts with a thorough assessment to pinpoint strengths and stress points of each person and the relationship. I help premarital couples prepare for marriage using a 4-session, private program called Happily Ever After, which includes testing and a workbook. I offer a brief divorce prevention course to help couples decide if their relationship can be saved. I also use EMDR to work with clients healing from trauma.
I have over 20 years' experience helping couples with communication and conflict problems. I use a variety of techniques to restore emotional connection and teach skills that promote a solid, happy relationship. Therapy starts with a thorough assessment to pinpoint strengths and stress points of each person and the relationship. I help premarital couples prepare for marriage using a 4-session, private program called Happily Ever After, which includes testing and a workbook. I offer a brief divorce prevention course to help couples decide if their relationship can be saved. I also use EMDR to work with clients healing from trauma.
(202) 858-3969 View (202) 858-3969
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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.