Therapists for Teens in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Mark Bingel - Thriveworks Counseling Psychiatry Philadelphia, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling Psychiatry Philadelphia
Counselor
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104
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.
(267) 732-1068 View (267) 732-1068
Photo of Courtney Douds, LCSW, MSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Douds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
If you’re stuck in self-destructive cycles of behaviors or thoughts, unable to move on from difficult experiences in your past, or paralyzed by anxiety, I can help. Whether you’re looking to work through trauma, set boundaries with your family, change dynamics with a romantic partner, or reconnect with what gives you pleasure, I can guide you in taking that first step. As a teen coping with my parents’ messy divorce, I turned to self-harm while also journeying through my own sexual self-discovery. Therapy and safe relationships helped me feel better by speaking about my pain rather than keeping it inside or taking it out on myself.
If you’re stuck in self-destructive cycles of behaviors or thoughts, unable to move on from difficult experiences in your past, or paralyzed by anxiety, I can help. Whether you’re looking to work through trauma, set boundaries with your family, change dynamics with a romantic partner, or reconnect with what gives you pleasure, I can guide you in taking that first step. As a teen coping with my parents’ messy divorce, I turned to self-harm while also journeying through my own sexual self-discovery. Therapy and safe relationships helped me feel better by speaking about my pain rather than keeping it inside or taking it out on myself.
(484) 915-1050 View (484) 915-1050
Photo of Michael Clemente, BCBA, LPC, NCC, LBS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Clemente
Licensed Professional Counselor, BCBA, LPC, NCC, LBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19128
My name is Michael and I am the owner of the Behavior & Counseling Center, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and Licensed Behavior Specialist. I have extensive experience working within the field of ABA/behavior modification as well as within the field of clinical counseling. I work within the framework of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) while incorporating a person-centered approach for my psychotherapy clients, and intertwine Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and (CBT) for my children and adolescent clients.
My name is Michael and I am the owner of the Behavior & Counseling Center, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and Licensed Behavior Specialist. I have extensive experience working within the field of ABA/behavior modification as well as within the field of clinical counseling. I work within the framework of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) while incorporating a person-centered approach for my psychotherapy clients, and intertwine Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and (CBT) for my children and adolescent clients.
(215) 544-2706 View (215) 544-2706
Photo of Michael Entrekin, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michael Entrekin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
My clinical focus areas include: (1) Anxiety disorders (generalized from COVID or acute from military service), (2) Grief and loss (relationships or loved ones), (3) Children and adolescent struggles, (4) Attention Deficit disorders, (5) Men's issues, (6) Attachment theory, (7) Holistic health or Christian counseling upon request.
We cannot predict or prevent the challenges that life hands us while we walk its course, but if we learn how to navigate them successfully, we won’t need to. I’m here to help. With over a decade of experience supporting children and families, I am here to help you become your healthiest self. Using evidence-based counseling theories (such as attachment theory, CBT, and Existential therapy) and techniques (like mindfulness, behavioral activation, and thought stopping), I aim to equip you with skills for success in various life domains.
My clinical focus areas include: (1) Anxiety disorders (generalized from COVID or acute from military service), (2) Grief and loss (relationships or loved ones), (3) Children and adolescent struggles, (4) Attention Deficit disorders, (5) Men's issues, (6) Attachment theory, (7) Holistic health or Christian counseling upon request.
We cannot predict or prevent the challenges that life hands us while we walk its course, but if we learn how to navigate them successfully, we won’t need to. I’m here to help. With over a decade of experience supporting children and families, I am here to help you become your healthiest self. Using evidence-based counseling theories (such as attachment theory, CBT, and Existential therapy) and techniques (like mindfulness, behavioral activation, and thought stopping), I aim to equip you with skills for success in various life domains.
(856) 925-9203 View (856) 925-9203
Photo of William Coffey - People First Therapy Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
People First Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Each of our therapists have their own specialties including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, addiction, trauma and EMDR, self-esteem, sexual issues, couples issues, child and adolescent issues, grief, life transitions, and many more! All of our therapists are licensed and pre-licensed clinicians.
Accepting New Clients! People First Therapy Group is a nonprofit mental health provider. Our mission is to provide quality therapy in a safe and equitable environment to all who seek services, regardless of ability to pay. We believe that all people, regardless of their socioeconomic status or other identities, deserve high quality mental health care. We have multiple therapists in the group with various specialties. We are located in Philadelphia for in person therapy and service all of PA and NJ with virtual sessions.
Each of our therapists have their own specialties including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, addiction, trauma and EMDR, self-esteem, sexual issues, couples issues, child and adolescent issues, grief, life transitions, and many more! All of our therapists are licensed and pre-licensed clinicians.
Accepting New Clients! People First Therapy Group is a nonprofit mental health provider. Our mission is to provide quality therapy in a safe and equitable environment to all who seek services, regardless of ability to pay. We believe that all people, regardless of their socioeconomic status or other identities, deserve high quality mental health care. We have multiple therapists in the group with various specialties. We are located in Philadelphia for in person therapy and service all of PA and NJ with virtual sessions.
(484) 577-2606 View (484) 577-2606
Photo of Noël K Bruno, PsyD, Psychologist
Noël K Bruno
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years experience in the field treating child, adolescent, and adult clients in residential, outpatient, and private practice settings. Additionally, I am well versed at providing mental health evaluations and expert witness testimony for clients who are involved in a litigation process. My style is direct yet nurturing. I work in a flexible manner, inviting clients to come alone or bring whomever will support them into their sessions. My ideal client is the one who completes the first difficult step of calling for an appointment.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years experience in the field treating child, adolescent, and adult clients in residential, outpatient, and private practice settings. Additionally, I am well versed at providing mental health evaluations and expert witness testimony for clients who are involved in a litigation process. My style is direct yet nurturing. I work in a flexible manner, inviting clients to come alone or bring whomever will support them into their sessions. My ideal client is the one who completes the first difficult step of calling for an appointment.
(267) 388-4840 View (267) 388-4840
Photo of Crystal Somerville, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Somerville
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
Crystal Somerville is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience in various mental health settings, including in-home therapy services, crisis, mobile therapy, and outpatient services, as well as residential boot camp for gang members/juvenile offenders from inner city Philadelphia, Delaware, and Maryland. Crystal works with families, couples, adults, and adolescent clients seeking help in managing issues related to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anger, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, adjustment, panic disorders, behavioral issues, and self-injurious behaviors.
Crystal Somerville is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience in various mental health settings, including in-home therapy services, crisis, mobile therapy, and outpatient services, as well as residential boot camp for gang members/juvenile offenders from inner city Philadelphia, Delaware, and Maryland. Crystal works with families, couples, adults, and adolescent clients seeking help in managing issues related to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anger, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, adjustment, panic disorders, behavioral issues, and self-injurious behaviors.
(267) 762-2470 View (267) 762-2470
Photo of Christine M Prebble, LPC, BSL, NCC, CATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine M Prebble
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BSL, NCC, CATP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Behavior Specialist (BSL), and Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) in Pennsylvania with 19 years of professional work experience.
Hey there, I’m Chris and I look forward to meeting you! Are you feeling overwhelmed and it seems like everyone in your life has advice to give but you don't think they truly understand what you are saying or the extent of what you are experiencing? Do you feel unheard and misunderstood? In working with me, I want to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental environment; one, in which, you feel like somebody finally "gets it." I believe in working with you as a teammate (yes, I do love sports); we are in this together. I cannot do the work for you, but I can be in there with you providing encouragement, tips and strategies, and insight.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Behavior Specialist (BSL), and Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) in Pennsylvania with 19 years of professional work experience.
Hey there, I’m Chris and I look forward to meeting you! Are you feeling overwhelmed and it seems like everyone in your life has advice to give but you don't think they truly understand what you are saying or the extent of what you are experiencing? Do you feel unheard and misunderstood? In working with me, I want to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental environment; one, in which, you feel like somebody finally "gets it." I believe in working with you as a teammate (yes, I do love sports); we are in this together. I cannot do the work for you, but I can be in there with you providing encouragement, tips and strategies, and insight.
(484) 443-1384 View (484) 443-1384
Photo of Jennifer Paget - Capable Family Coaching, MS, Psychologist
Capable Family Coaching
Psychologist, MS
Not Verified Not Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Every day is filled with parenting battles that leave you exhausted and guilt-ridden, having lost your temper too many times. You ache for a more peaceful home and a loving relationship with your child or teen, but you don’t know how to get there. General advice and tips sound good on paper but they are not working with your child, and you don’t know why. Your energy and resilience are taking a serious hit. Worst of all, you are afraid that your child will be emotionally harmed by all the turmoil that goes on from day to day.
Every day is filled with parenting battles that leave you exhausted and guilt-ridden, having lost your temper too many times. You ache for a more peaceful home and a loving relationship with your child or teen, but you don’t know how to get there. General advice and tips sound good on paper but they are not working with your child, and you don’t know why. Your energy and resilience are taking a serious hit. Worst of all, you are afraid that your child will be emotionally harmed by all the turmoil that goes on from day to day.
(267) 376-7438 View (267) 376-7438
Photo of Kaiyan Griffith, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaiyan Griffith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
My ideal clients are from all walks of life. From helping a someone explore their gender identity, guiding polyamorous partners through conflict/understanding, to helping parents with their teenager who struggles with depression. Everyone client I meet is unique, and I'm honored to be apart of their healing journey.
My ideal clients are from all walks of life. From helping a someone explore their gender identity, guiding polyamorous partners through conflict/understanding, to helping parents with their teenager who struggles with depression. Everyone client I meet is unique, and I'm honored to be apart of their healing journey.
(267) 662-1553 x102 View (267) 662-1553 x102
Photo of Kimberly Dwyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Dwyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19148  (Online Only)
Do you feel disconnected from life, work, or relationships? I work with teens, young adults, and parents to build on their strengths and break unhelpful patterns. My goals as a therapist is help clients build skills to reach their goals and feel successful in all areas of their lives. I also enjoy working with parents to develop tools and strategies to manage challenging behaviors with their child or teen. Using attachment theories to explore patterns, I work to strengthen relationships amongst families.
Do you feel disconnected from life, work, or relationships? I work with teens, young adults, and parents to build on their strengths and break unhelpful patterns. My goals as a therapist is help clients build skills to reach their goals and feel successful in all areas of their lives. I also enjoy working with parents to develop tools and strategies to manage challenging behaviors with their child or teen. Using attachment theories to explore patterns, I work to strengthen relationships amongst families.
(267) 493-1766 View (267) 493-1766
Photo of Ashley Nicole Tomlinson, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Nicole Tomlinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
I am a patient and empathic therapist who is passionate about connecting with others and supporting them on their paths toward growth. I strongly believe that each person holds within them the strength to overcome life's challenges and may benefit from reflection, guidance and skills gained working with a therapist to get there.I am an integrative therapist who draws from relational psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based techniques as fits the needs of individual clients.​I work with adult clients, and also have the experience and therapeutic expertise to work with child and adolescent clients.
I am a patient and empathic therapist who is passionate about connecting with others and supporting them on their paths toward growth. I strongly believe that each person holds within them the strength to overcome life's challenges and may benefit from reflection, guidance and skills gained working with a therapist to get there.I am an integrative therapist who draws from relational psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based techniques as fits the needs of individual clients.​I work with adult clients, and also have the experience and therapeutic expertise to work with child and adolescent clients.
(215) 709-9475 View (215) 709-9475
Photo of Alaina O'Neill, BS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alaina O'Neill
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing services for teen and young adult populations who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression and trauma that may arise during difficult life transitions.
Hello! I am Alaina. I am a counseling student pursuing a Masters at Thomas Jefferson University. I have a passion for working with individuals to pull on their strengths and support them through the many different transitions that emerge during early adolescence and young adulthood. During our work together, I strive to cultivate a safe environment for us to work through any thoughts, feelings or emotions.
I specialize in providing services for teen and young adult populations who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression and trauma that may arise during difficult life transitions.
Hello! I am Alaina. I am a counseling student pursuing a Masters at Thomas Jefferson University. I have a passion for working with individuals to pull on their strengths and support them through the many different transitions that emerge during early adolescence and young adulthood. During our work together, I strive to cultivate a safe environment for us to work through any thoughts, feelings or emotions.
(267) 848-9808 View (267) 848-9808
Photo of Philip Grimes - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Philadelphia, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Philadelphia
Counselor
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
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.
(267) 209-6515 View (267) 209-6515
Photo of Maura Briscoe, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maura Briscoe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128
If you are a teen (or love a teen) that feels lost and alone driven by perfectionism and people pleasing know that there is hope! Let's work together so you can find your authentic voice!.
Navigating the teenage years can be a challenging and confusing experience, filled with changing bodies, evolving friendships, and shifting environments. It's no wonder these years are often considered some of the most difficult. I work with teens as they navigate anxiety, depression, self-image and body image. My ultimate goal is to create a space where individuals discover their unique inner voice as they face life’s inevitable challenges.
If you are a teen (or love a teen) that feels lost and alone driven by perfectionism and people pleasing know that there is hope! Let's work together so you can find your authentic voice!.
Navigating the teenage years can be a challenging and confusing experience, filled with changing bodies, evolving friendships, and shifting environments. It's no wonder these years are often considered some of the most difficult. I work with teens as they navigate anxiety, depression, self-image and body image. My ultimate goal is to create a space where individuals discover their unique inner voice as they face life’s inevitable challenges.
(267) 843-8409 View (267) 843-8409
Photo of Althea Barbara Stinson, MSW
Althea Barbara Stinson
MSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19141
Althea works in the field of Mental Health providing care in the areas of: anger management, conflict resolution, ADHD, ODD, Anxiety and Depression, Relationship Issues, Child and Adolescent issues.
Althea works in the field of Mental Health providing care in the areas of: anger management, conflict resolution, ADHD, ODD, Anxiety and Depression, Relationship Issues, Child and Adolescent issues.
(215) 559-9958 View (215) 559-9958
Photo of Katrina Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katrina Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I began my experience working on a child/adolescent psychiatric unit and with children in a residential placement program.
Hi, I’m Katrina! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help people who are overwhelmed, stressed, struggling with relationships, or dealing with a life transition or change (experiencing loss, changing jobs, starting college, etc.). I have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults, but happily work with clients of all ages. My counseling style is empathic and encouraging. I believe that in most situations, everyone does the best that they can with what they have – moments that don’t go well tell us where help is needed or what skills we can build to help next time.
I began my experience working on a child/adolescent psychiatric unit and with children in a residential placement program.
Hi, I’m Katrina! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help people who are overwhelmed, stressed, struggling with relationships, or dealing with a life transition or change (experiencing loss, changing jobs, starting college, etc.). I have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults, but happily work with clients of all ages. My counseling style is empathic and encouraging. I believe that in most situations, everyone does the best that they can with what they have – moments that don’t go well tell us where help is needed or what skills we can build to help next time.
(484) 292-4703 View (484) 292-4703
Photo of Victoria DiPinto - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Philadelphia, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Philadelphia
Counselor
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
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.
(484) 312-5789 View (484) 312-5789
Photo of Ebony Graves, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ebony Graves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
I look forward to working with you! Visit my website for information on teen services.
Congrats on taking the big step to do something different! Are you someone who struggles with feeling anxious? Does most of your day consist of completing compulsions due to obsessions? Do you often find that you are barely making it through the day? Are you wanting to take your life back from intrusive thoughts, feeling down, and putting on a face for others? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I would love to work with you! I find great joy in helping others achieve their highest fulfillment and look forward to helping you live a happier life. I enjoy motivating and supporting my clients through their journey.
I look forward to working with you! Visit my website for information on teen services.
Congrats on taking the big step to do something different! Are you someone who struggles with feeling anxious? Does most of your day consist of completing compulsions due to obsessions? Do you often find that you are barely making it through the day? Are you wanting to take your life back from intrusive thoughts, feeling down, and putting on a face for others? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I would love to work with you! I find great joy in helping others achieve their highest fulfillment and look forward to helping you live a happier life. I enjoy motivating and supporting my clients through their journey.
(215) 709-3690 View (215) 709-3690
Photo of Lauren Levy, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Levy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Are you facing overwhelming emotions or struggling to navigate healthy and stable relationships, especially during your teenage and young adult years, or as a member of the queer and trans community? As a parent, are you tired of feeling like you're walking on eggshells with your child, teen or young adult? Are you unsure if they will ever be ok again or feeling uncertain about how to support them? At Daisy + Co. Therapy, we've got you covered. We specialize in helping kids, teenagers, young adults, and their parents reconnect with themselves, each other, and gain the coping skills they need to reach their full potential, together.
Are you facing overwhelming emotions or struggling to navigate healthy and stable relationships, especially during your teenage and young adult years, or as a member of the queer and trans community? As a parent, are you tired of feeling like you're walking on eggshells with your child, teen or young adult? Are you unsure if they will ever be ok again or feeling uncertain about how to support them? At Daisy + Co. Therapy, we've got you covered. We specialize in helping kids, teenagers, young adults, and their parents reconnect with themselves, each other, and gain the coping skills they need to reach their full potential, together.
(484) 559-6774 View (484) 559-6774
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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.