Therapists for Teens in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Carissa Kuhn, MA, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carissa Kuhn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Do you notice that your teen is not themselves? Do they seem overwhelmed? Are they angry or withdrawn? As a parent of a struggling teen, you find yourself worrying about them and you want to make things better. But everything you have tried doesn’t seem to be working. It can be hard to reach out to a counselor because you want to find someone you trust who is knowledgeable but you also want that counselor to be able to get your teen to open up and talk about what is bothering them.
Do you notice that your teen is not themselves? Do they seem overwhelmed? Are they angry or withdrawn? As a parent of a struggling teen, you find yourself worrying about them and you want to make things better. But everything you have tried doesn’t seem to be working. It can be hard to reach out to a counselor because you want to find someone you trust who is knowledgeable but you also want that counselor to be able to get your teen to open up and talk about what is bothering them.
(704) 707-3512 View (704) 707-3512
Photo of Amy Gregor, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Gregor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Throughout my experience I have seen the benefits of strong parent support in therapy and encourage parents of teen clients to take an active role in their teens therapy when and where appropriate.
After 10 years of experience I have found a passion working with adolescents and young adults. I spent much of my time working in acute settings with self-harm and suicidal thoughts as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and a variety of other diagnoses. I enjoy helping my clients gain a better understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how they are connected. We work together to gain skills to better manage, cope, and communicate difficult emotions in a health way. In addition, I enjoy helping teens strengthen their ability to communicate to parents and their supports. I currently see ages 13-25
Throughout my experience I have seen the benefits of strong parent support in therapy and encourage parents of teen clients to take an active role in their teens therapy when and where appropriate.
After 10 years of experience I have found a passion working with adolescents and young adults. I spent much of my time working in acute settings with self-harm and suicidal thoughts as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and a variety of other diagnoses. I enjoy helping my clients gain a better understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how they are connected. We work together to gain skills to better manage, cope, and communicate difficult emotions in a health way. In addition, I enjoy helping teens strengthen their ability to communicate to parents and their supports. I currently see ages 13-25
(704) 529-9019 View (704) 529-9019
Photo of Dan O'Sullivan, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Dan O'Sullivan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
It’s not easy being a kid. You’re learning and growing—and the world isn’t always patient if you need to do so a little differently, or when “big feelings” get in the way. Not that being a teen or adult is easier. You might struggle under the weight of seemingly impossible expectations and stresses. Or you find yourself experiencing hurt in your relationships. Maybe you wish your child could handle their emotions better and really start to blossom. Or maybe, as a teen or adult, you want to find peace with yourself and healthy connection with others.
It’s not easy being a kid. You’re learning and growing—and the world isn’t always patient if you need to do so a little differently, or when “big feelings” get in the way. Not that being a teen or adult is easier. You might struggle under the weight of seemingly impossible expectations and stresses. Or you find yourself experiencing hurt in your relationships. Maybe you wish your child could handle their emotions better and really start to blossom. Or maybe, as a teen or adult, you want to find peace with yourself and healthy connection with others.
(704) 538-4272 View (704) 538-4272
Photo of Kate Van Wagenberg, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Van Wagenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
Treatment specialization includes: Couples Counseling, Premarital Counseling, Problems with Adjustment, Depression/Sadness, Anxiety/Worrying, Behavioral Issues, Adolescent and Child Counseling, Parenting Difficulties, Stress Management, Trauma, and Conflict Resolution.
Every now and then, we are faced with challenges that are difficult to handle on our own. Sometimes these can be very overwhelming and feelings of loneliness, confusion or depression enter into our lives. If this is you, and talking with your spouse, friend or family member isn't getting you where you'd like to be, it might be time to give therapy a try. I conduct therapy in a manner that enables you to understand present patterns, identify and remove constraints, and achieve better functioning and enhanced growth.
Treatment specialization includes: Couples Counseling, Premarital Counseling, Problems with Adjustment, Depression/Sadness, Anxiety/Worrying, Behavioral Issues, Adolescent and Child Counseling, Parenting Difficulties, Stress Management, Trauma, and Conflict Resolution.
Every now and then, we are faced with challenges that are difficult to handle on our own. Sometimes these can be very overwhelming and feelings of loneliness, confusion or depression enter into our lives. If this is you, and talking with your spouse, friend or family member isn't getting you where you'd like to be, it might be time to give therapy a try. I conduct therapy in a manner that enables you to understand present patterns, identify and remove constraints, and achieve better functioning and enhanced growth.
(704) 908-3078 x2 View (704) 908-3078 x2
Photo of Molly McDonnell - Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Charlotte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Charlotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(704) 459-3783 View (704) 459-3783
Photo of Candice Coulter, LCMHC, NCC
Candice Coulter
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
I’ve had the pleasure of serving the child, adolescent and adult population in a variety of settings! I approach therapy from a person-centered, cultural and trauma-informed perspective. It is my belief that each client’s life experience shapes their perspective on the challenges they face and their approach to facing those challenges in a healthy manner.
I’ve had the pleasure of serving the child, adolescent and adult population in a variety of settings! I approach therapy from a person-centered, cultural and trauma-informed perspective. It is my belief that each client’s life experience shapes their perspective on the challenges they face and their approach to facing those challenges in a healthy manner.
(980) 946-6915 View (980) 946-6915
Photo of Jenny Barringer Burke, MSW, LCSWA
Jenny Barringer Burke
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I have a wealth of experience working with those going through grief and loss, life difficulties including depression and anxiety, and specific issues such as divorce, parenthood, relationship struggles, ADHD, and teen issues such as bullying, low self-esteem/perfectionism, and friendship difficulties.
Are you going through a life change or transition and feel lost? Or maybe you just don't feel like yourself right now? Reaching out for help can be difficult and in my experience, no human being can navigate these seasons of life alone. I am passionate about working with preteens, teenagers, young adults, and adults who are going through significant life changes and/or feeling that they would like to cultivate a more evolved version of themselves.
I have a wealth of experience working with those going through grief and loss, life difficulties including depression and anxiety, and specific issues such as divorce, parenthood, relationship struggles, ADHD, and teen issues such as bullying, low self-esteem/perfectionism, and friendship difficulties.
Are you going through a life change or transition and feel lost? Or maybe you just don't feel like yourself right now? Reaching out for help can be difficult and in my experience, no human being can navigate these seasons of life alone. I am passionate about working with preteens, teenagers, young adults, and adults who are going through significant life changes and/or feeling that they would like to cultivate a more evolved version of themselves.
(980) 372-5995 View (980) 372-5995
Photo of Jonathan Feather - Wise Minds Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Wise Minds Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28287
Walking the Middle Path - Resolving conflict and problem solving common parent-teen dilemmas by balancing acceptance and change-based approaches.
The Wise Minds team at Southeast Psych is dedicated to working with individuals and families in group and individual therapy to help our clients overcome their struggles with interpersonal relationships, negative thoughts and feelings about themselves, and teach the skills necessary to cope with the stress and hardship that can come with life. We provide groups for adolescents, teens, and adults and offer ongoing workshops and talks for the public, schools, clients, and other professionals. Our team is made up of licensed doctoral level psychologists with decades worth of combined experience.
Walking the Middle Path - Resolving conflict and problem solving common parent-teen dilemmas by balancing acceptance and change-based approaches.
The Wise Minds team at Southeast Psych is dedicated to working with individuals and families in group and individual therapy to help our clients overcome their struggles with interpersonal relationships, negative thoughts and feelings about themselves, and teach the skills necessary to cope with the stress and hardship that can come with life. We provide groups for adolescents, teens, and adults and offer ongoing workshops and talks for the public, schools, clients, and other professionals. Our team is made up of licensed doctoral level psychologists with decades worth of combined experience.
(704) 666-4093 View (704) 666-4093
Photo of Dr. Steve R Benson, DEd Min, MAC, MDiv, LCMHC-S, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Steve R Benson
Licensed Professional Counselor, DEd Min, MAC, MDiv, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269
I walk with people struggling in marriages, loss, grief, depression, boundary issues, adolescent, behavioral issues, adjustment and transition, addictions, and anxiety.
Everyone has a story. . . of joy and sorrow, love and sadness, wounds and healing. Everyone's story is sacred and waiting to be discovered. But often we struggle to read our story because of depression, anxiety, past pains, or relational difficulties. My vision is to enable people to experience God's powerful grace in order to live in true freedom, transformation and discovery. I provide a pathway for people struggling on the journey to find hope for their broken hearts, healing for their wounds, and a hiding place to wrestle with the grace of God.
I walk with people struggling in marriages, loss, grief, depression, boundary issues, adolescent, behavioral issues, adjustment and transition, addictions, and anxiety.
Everyone has a story. . . of joy and sorrow, love and sadness, wounds and healing. Everyone's story is sacred and waiting to be discovered. But often we struggle to read our story because of depression, anxiety, past pains, or relational difficulties. My vision is to enable people to experience God's powerful grace in order to live in true freedom, transformation and discovery. I provide a pathway for people struggling on the journey to find hope for their broken hearts, healing for their wounds, and a hiding place to wrestle with the grace of God.
(704) 550-4792 View (704) 550-4792
Photo of Robin Stitt - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Charlotte, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Charlotte
Counselor
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(704) 703-3404 View (704) 703-3404
Photo of Doerun Stokes - Abundant Joy Counseling, PLLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Abundant Joy Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Taking NEW clients: Are you searching for healing for your marriage/relationship? Are you an individual dealing with the overwhelming stressors of life or want to reconnect to your emotions? Maybe a teen or young adult working through identity development? These specific areas, among many others, is why I'm here. I care about the health of the individual and the family unit, and believe when it's thriving and growing, all members thrive and grow and heal. It takes courage to ask for help, and I believe your courage will be rewarded. Let's take that next step together!
Taking NEW clients: Are you searching for healing for your marriage/relationship? Are you an individual dealing with the overwhelming stressors of life or want to reconnect to your emotions? Maybe a teen or young adult working through identity development? These specific areas, among many others, is why I'm here. I care about the health of the individual and the family unit, and believe when it's thriving and growing, all members thrive and grow and heal. It takes courage to ask for help, and I believe your courage will be rewarded. Let's take that next step together!
(704) 228-6837 View (704) 228-6837
Photo of Chet A. Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chet A. Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
My specialties include pre-teen, adolescents, adults, families and couples counseling.
I believe that therapy is one of the most constructive tools and resources at our disposal. I believe by analyzing, evaluating and modifying our life philosophy, thinking and interaction patters we can make effective change and improve the quality of our lives. As a therapist, I strive to provide a supportive, respectful and collaborative therapeutic environment where you can fully explore your concerns, challenges, and values. As we work together I will gain an understanding to appropriately implement and modify my treatment approach to meet your needs.
My specialties include pre-teen, adolescents, adults, families and couples counseling.
I believe that therapy is one of the most constructive tools and resources at our disposal. I believe by analyzing, evaluating and modifying our life philosophy, thinking and interaction patters we can make effective change and improve the quality of our lives. As a therapist, I strive to provide a supportive, respectful and collaborative therapeutic environment where you can fully explore your concerns, challenges, and values. As we work together I will gain an understanding to appropriately implement and modify my treatment approach to meet your needs.
(704) 325-5850 View (704) 325-5850
Photo of O'Neale Atkinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
O'Neale Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that attention to mental health is a vital part of self-care and want to create a therapeutic space that supports and embraces people of all orientations and identities. I enjoy working with adults and older adolescent youth as they navigate life transitions and issues related to depression, anxiety, self-concept, and relationships.
I believe that attention to mental health is a vital part of self-care and want to create a therapeutic space that supports and embraces people of all orientations and identities. I enjoy working with adults and older adolescent youth as they navigate life transitions and issues related to depression, anxiety, self-concept, and relationships.
(704) 285-1841 View (704) 285-1841
Photo of Rachel N Durban - Autistic Adult and Teen Consulting, OTR/L, CAS, Occupational Therapist
Autistic Adult and Teen Consulting
Occupational Therapist, OTR/L, CAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
We are a company that celebrates neurodiversity. Our mission is to help you navigate the challenges of functioning as a neurodivergent person in a neurotypical world. At Autistic Adult & Teen Consulting, we offer our expertise for those who: 1. Are recently diagnosed or who are exploring a possible Autism diagnosis as an adult or teen 2. Are struggling to gain confidence in tasks needed to transition to college or adulthood 3. Are Autistic adults looking for solutions to improve day to day challenges (could be personal, work, college, or social life).
We are a company that celebrates neurodiversity. Our mission is to help you navigate the challenges of functioning as a neurodivergent person in a neurotypical world. At Autistic Adult & Teen Consulting, we offer our expertise for those who: 1. Are recently diagnosed or who are exploring a possible Autism diagnosis as an adult or teen 2. Are struggling to gain confidence in tasks needed to transition to college or adulthood 3. Are Autistic adults looking for solutions to improve day to day challenges (could be personal, work, college, or social life).
(704) 378-8965 View (704) 378-8965
Photo of Meegan Tiffany, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Meegan Tiffany
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adolescent and adult females or non-binary clients, both individually and within small groups.
It is my priority to offer a warm and welcoming space for each and every client to feel validated, challenged and empowered throughout their counseling experience. My approach to therapy is from an integrative and holistic perspective to attend to your unique needs, as every client is different. Utilizing a person-centered and solution-focused approach, I will work with you to explore your symptoms, concerns, values, self-worth, personal strengths and areas for growth to develop a foundation of skills and an individualized plan to achieve your goals in therapy.
I work with adolescent and adult females or non-binary clients, both individually and within small groups.
It is my priority to offer a warm and welcoming space for each and every client to feel validated, challenged and empowered throughout their counseling experience. My approach to therapy is from an integrative and holistic perspective to attend to your unique needs, as every client is different. Utilizing a person-centered and solution-focused approach, I will work with you to explore your symptoms, concerns, values, self-worth, personal strengths and areas for growth to develop a foundation of skills and an individualized plan to achieve your goals in therapy.
(980) 277-3359 View (980) 277-3359
Photo of Brittany Webber, MA, LCMHCA, LSC , NCC
Brittany Webber
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, LSC , NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Do you feel that you and your child or teen sometimes are speaking different languages? Have you tried everything you can think of and are still feeling stuck? If you are unsure where to turn, I can help. Parenting is difficult, to say the least, and I am here to support you and or your child as you navigate through these trying times. I will provide a safe space for you and or your child to express their feelings through the language of play and talk therapy. You will have the opportunity to work through emotions and process difficult life occurrences to create positive change.
Do you feel that you and your child or teen sometimes are speaking different languages? Have you tried everything you can think of and are still feeling stuck? If you are unsure where to turn, I can help. Parenting is difficult, to say the least, and I am here to support you and or your child as you navigate through these trying times. I will provide a safe space for you and or your child to express their feelings through the language of play and talk therapy. You will have the opportunity to work through emotions and process difficult life occurrences to create positive change.
(980) 575-1816 View (980) 575-1816
Photo of Beverly (Mecca) L Moss, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS-A, Counselor
Beverly (Mecca) L Moss
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss.
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss.
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
(704) 493-8535 View (704) 493-8535
Photo of Yasmeen Ojwang, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yasmeen Ojwang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
Yasmeen Ojwang is a licensed clinical social worker associate who specializes in working with adolescent girls and women who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma related issues as well as self-esteem issues, family conflict, and life transitions. She uses a holistic, strength-based approach that is nonjudgmental and creates a transformational healing space for clients to be completely themselves. Yasmeen believes in partnering with her clients to help them address, process, and heal from childhood trauma and other traumatic experiences they have endured.
Yasmeen Ojwang is a licensed clinical social worker associate who specializes in working with adolescent girls and women who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma related issues as well as self-esteem issues, family conflict, and life transitions. She uses a holistic, strength-based approach that is nonjudgmental and creates a transformational healing space for clients to be completely themselves. Yasmeen believes in partnering with her clients to help them address, process, and heal from childhood trauma and other traumatic experiences they have endured.
(980) 890-5502 View (980) 890-5502
Photo of Sarah Smead, EdS, NCSP, LPA, Psychological Associate
Sarah Smead
Psychological Associate, EdS, NCSP, LPA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
I have experience with supporting neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan, but have specialized in supporting pre-teen, adolescent and adult clients. I am skilled with using evidence-based practices to build social and emotional skills, self-awareness and self-advocacy skills, as well as support executive functioning, attention and processing differences that neurodivergent individuals may experience.
I have experience with supporting neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan, but have specialized in supporting pre-teen, adolescent and adult clients. I am skilled with using evidence-based practices to build social and emotional skills, self-awareness and self-advocacy skills, as well as support executive functioning, attention and processing differences that neurodivergent individuals may experience.
(704) 486-5171 View (704) 486-5171
Photo of Beth Altmix, MSEd, LCMHCS
Beth Altmix
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MSEd, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28227
I have 23 years of experience in the area of Child and Adolescent mental health.
I am currently ONLY seeking LCMHCAs in need of Clinical Supervision. I am not in private practice.
I have 23 years of experience in the area of Child and Adolescent mental health.
I am currently ONLY seeking LCMHCAs in need of Clinical Supervision. I am not in private practice.
(704) 931-5495 View (704) 931-5495
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.