Photo of Kelly Gillespie - Mountain Hope Counseling and Wellness, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mountain Hope Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80224
Some areas our therapists specialize in (we are always adding more to this team!): Anxiety, depression, divorce recovery, narcissistic abuse recovery, couples/relationship counseling, eating disorders, LGBTQIA+, trauma, Christian Counseling, religious trauma, domestic abuse, self-harm, substance abuse, reunification therapy, and teen/ young adult issues.
Mountain Hope Counseling and Wellness is a growing team of diverse therapists that are dedicated to helping you heal, grow, and reach your mental health care goals. We have therapists that specialize in everything from anxiety and depression to anger management and divorce recovery. Along with our fabulous counseling team, we will soon be offering our wellness division that will offer trauma informed yoga, trauma informed massage, DBT groups, and acupuncture, as well as, other wellness areas.
Some areas our therapists specialize in (we are always adding more to this team!): Anxiety, depression, divorce recovery, narcissistic abuse recovery, couples/relationship counseling, eating disorders, LGBTQIA+, trauma, Christian Counseling, religious trauma, domestic abuse, self-harm, substance abuse, reunification therapy, and teen/ young adult issues.
Mountain Hope Counseling and Wellness is a growing team of diverse therapists that are dedicated to helping you heal, grow, and reach your mental health care goals. We have therapists that specialize in everything from anxiety and depression to anger management and divorce recovery. Along with our fabulous counseling team, we will soon be offering our wellness division that will offer trauma informed yoga, trauma informed massage, DBT groups, and acupuncture, as well as, other wellness areas.
(720) 513-2479 View (720) 513-2479
Photo of Elena Schmeising, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Elena Schmeising
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
Hey there, I'm Elena, a queer, sex-positive therapist specializing in working with LGBTQIA+ and non-monogamous clients. At Arcana Counseling, I welcome adolescent and adult individuals and relationship configurations of all kinds. Whether you're facing mental health or relationship issues, moving through a difficult life transition, seeking coping or communication skills, or continuing on your journey of self-discovery, you don't have to do it alone. Wherever you are on your path, I will meet you there and support you every step of the way as we work collaboratively toward your goals.
Hey there, I'm Elena, a queer, sex-positive therapist specializing in working with LGBTQIA+ and non-monogamous clients. At Arcana Counseling, I welcome adolescent and adult individuals and relationship configurations of all kinds. Whether you're facing mental health or relationship issues, moving through a difficult life transition, seeking coping or communication skills, or continuing on your journey of self-discovery, you don't have to do it alone. Wherever you are on your path, I will meet you there and support you every step of the way as we work collaboratively toward your goals.
(720) 458-9318 View (720) 458-9318
Photo of Cayli Collins, MA, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cayli Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
I specialize in couples therapy, adult, and adolescent individual therapy.
The world has become a stressful place and while it has always been stressful, we have less community and connection. These times have really put a strain on us as individuals, our relationships, our families, our jobs/school and created overwork, stress, and trauma. Honestly, doing healthy relationship and navigating stress and trauma are not skills we have been equipped with. Therapy has become the space to learn those skills, navigate stress, do self care, live presently in life, and process the trauma that's historical and present in our day to day.
I specialize in couples therapy, adult, and adolescent individual therapy.
The world has become a stressful place and while it has always been stressful, we have less community and connection. These times have really put a strain on us as individuals, our relationships, our families, our jobs/school and created overwork, stress, and trauma. Honestly, doing healthy relationship and navigating stress and trauma are not skills we have been equipped with. Therapy has become the space to learn those skills, navigate stress, do self care, live presently in life, and process the trauma that's historical and present in our day to day.
(303) 351-5844 View (303) 351-5844
Photo of Dawn Crosswhite, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Crosswhite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205
I have been in practice for over 30 years. I specialize in working with adolescent females, and LGBTQIA-identified clients and their families who are often times involved in the juvenile justice system and child welfare. I also work with female and LGBTQIA military personnel and veterans. Working with these systems has afforded me the opportunity to build my skills so that I am very proficient in many areas, such as trauma and PTSD, adoption, permanency, military personnel, and addiction concerns. I work from a strength-based, solution-focused perspective and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and experiential treatment models.
I have been in practice for over 30 years. I specialize in working with adolescent females, and LGBTQIA-identified clients and their families who are often times involved in the juvenile justice system and child welfare. I also work with female and LGBTQIA military personnel and veterans. Working with these systems has afforded me the opportunity to build my skills so that I am very proficient in many areas, such as trauma and PTSD, adoption, permanency, military personnel, and addiction concerns. I work from a strength-based, solution-focused perspective and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and experiential treatment models.
(720) 897-3017 View (720) 897-3017
Photo of Jenny Goldstein, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Goldstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238  (Online Only)
Over the course of my career, I have worked with various populations of child, teen, and adult clients in the mental health field. I can honestly say that I love what I do and have always found a unique way to connect with each client. I believe it is important to view each person who I meet with an intersectional and unbiased lens and to construct a treatment plan and therapy style for each client that is in line with not just their specific mental health needs, but their personality, sense of humor, and personal values.
Over the course of my career, I have worked with various populations of child, teen, and adult clients in the mental health field. I can honestly say that I love what I do and have always found a unique way to connect with each client. I believe it is important to view each person who I meet with an intersectional and unbiased lens and to construct a treatment plan and therapy style for each client that is in line with not just their specific mental health needs, but their personality, sense of humor, and personal values.
(720) 640-6989 View (720) 640-6989
Photo of Susan Weinstein - Susan Weinstein & City Park Counseling Center,PLLC, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Weinstein & City Park Counseling Center,PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
I have a passion for working with adults in big or small life transitions and emerging adults staring their adult lives! I have a trauma focused practice. I work with those who seek treatment for life experiences such as: anxiety, depression, sexual, physical, or emotional abuse, social isolation, teen friendships/bullying/dating, teen parenting, teen pregnancy counseling and support, low energy, stress, panic attacks, a traumatic event or other stressors, self sufficiency development, divorce, low self esteem, ADD/ADHD, mood dysregulation, oppositional or angry behaviors, and relational and attachment issues. EMDR Certified and CIT
I have a passion for working with adults in big or small life transitions and emerging adults staring their adult lives! I have a trauma focused practice. I work with those who seek treatment for life experiences such as: anxiety, depression, sexual, physical, or emotional abuse, social isolation, teen friendships/bullying/dating, teen parenting, teen pregnancy counseling and support, low energy, stress, panic attacks, a traumatic event or other stressors, self sufficiency development, divorce, low self esteem, ADD/ADHD, mood dysregulation, oppositional or angry behaviors, and relational and attachment issues. EMDR Certified and CIT
(720) 583-8711 View (720) 583-8711
Photo of Joshua Sanders, PhD, LFMT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joshua Sanders
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LFMT, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
I enjoy working with clients of all ages, but feel like I tend to connect well with female clients presented with depression or anxiety. As an MFT, I also love working with families. My past work experiences include inpatient substance abuse treatment, outpatient geriatric IOP, inpatient adolescent facilities, private practice, and community-based mental health rehabilitation services.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages, but feel like I tend to connect well with female clients presented with depression or anxiety. As an MFT, I also love working with families. My past work experiences include inpatient substance abuse treatment, outpatient geriatric IOP, inpatient adolescent facilities, private practice, and community-based mental health rehabilitation services.
(720) 802-9828 View (720) 802-9828
Photo of Katie Kershenbaum, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Kershenbaum
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218
With teen clients, I use play and art therapy techniques when appropriate.
I believe that we all have important stories to tell. Sharing those impactful stories while working through the emotions and self beliefs tied to them can bring clarity, ease, and a sense of understanding. In my practice, I vow to hold a space of warmth, empathy, and unconditional acceptance for my clients to allow their stories and vulnerabilities to be heard and nurtured. I enjoy working with individuals who want to build awareness of patterns that they feel stuck in; and together, we will explore avenues of change.
With teen clients, I use play and art therapy techniques when appropriate.
I believe that we all have important stories to tell. Sharing those impactful stories while working through the emotions and self beliefs tied to them can bring clarity, ease, and a sense of understanding. In my practice, I vow to hold a space of warmth, empathy, and unconditional acceptance for my clients to allow their stories and vulnerabilities to be heard and nurtured. I enjoy working with individuals who want to build awareness of patterns that they feel stuck in; and together, we will explore avenues of change.
(720) 740-6745 View (720) 740-6745
Photo of Anna Rebecca Quinn (Kujawa), LPC, RPT, IRT, Counselor
Anna Rebecca Quinn (Kujawa)
Counselor, LPC, RPT, IRT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic specialties are too many to list here, but a short list is: couples counseling, Relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, parenting, spirituality, career transitions, transgender transitioning, trauma, LGBTQ, life transitions, teen suicide prevention, and health and wellness,.
My name is Anna Rebecca Quinn, (formerly Kujawa), and I am a holistic psychotherapist. I am a therapist who sees you as a whole person comprised of a body, mind, and spirit, and I include all parts of you in your healing journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor of 25 years, a Registered Play Therapist, and a certified Imago Relationship Therapist. My client base these days is comprised mostly of individuals, couples, teens, and elders. I don't currently have a play therapy office to do play therapy for kids, but as a kids therapist of many years, I can be of great service to parents or caregivers who need parenting support.
My therapeutic specialties are too many to list here, but a short list is: couples counseling, Relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, parenting, spirituality, career transitions, transgender transitioning, trauma, LGBTQ, life transitions, teen suicide prevention, and health and wellness,.
My name is Anna Rebecca Quinn, (formerly Kujawa), and I am a holistic psychotherapist. I am a therapist who sees you as a whole person comprised of a body, mind, and spirit, and I include all parts of you in your healing journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor of 25 years, a Registered Play Therapist, and a certified Imago Relationship Therapist. My client base these days is comprised mostly of individuals, couples, teens, and elders. I don't currently have a play therapy office to do play therapy for kids, but as a kids therapist of many years, I can be of great service to parents or caregivers who need parenting support.
(303) 720-7974 View (303) 720-7974
Photo of Jordan Gonzales, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan Gonzales
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80231  (Online Only)
If you are a teen or adult who has experienced trauma, grief, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, depression or anxiety, I offer a safe supportive space. I provide an environment for clients to express and understand themselves using a client-centered approach, along with expressive arts, CBT and solution-focused therapy to help clients reach their goals. My approach is non-judgemental, creative, and empowering. I'm passionate about providing therapeutic support for members of the LBGTQIA+ community. Together we can help you set boundaries, highlight on your strengths and build your supports.
If you are a teen or adult who has experienced trauma, grief, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, depression or anxiety, I offer a safe supportive space. I provide an environment for clients to express and understand themselves using a client-centered approach, along with expressive arts, CBT and solution-focused therapy to help clients reach their goals. My approach is non-judgemental, creative, and empowering. I'm passionate about providing therapeutic support for members of the LBGTQIA+ community. Together we can help you set boundaries, highlight on your strengths and build your supports.
(720) 580-5262 View (720) 580-5262
Photo of Nora Fitzgerald Moore, PsyD, Psychologist
Nora Fitzgerald Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238  (Online Only)
My experiences include but are not limited to working with depression and anxiety, relationship difficulties, issues confronted in early adulthood, substance use/addiction, sexual abuse and trauma, grief, adolescent development, issues around transitioning to college, as well as issues relating to sexual orientation and gender identity.
Sometimes you know exactly what the problem might be, and other times it feels more confusing and elusive. Psychotherapy is a wonderful way to facilitate and enact positive change into your life. My predominant goal is to make you feel safe and supported, so that you can explore and connect your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a productive manner. I believe that past experiences and relationships have a profound impact on our present emotional health and work to explore those experiences using a variety of effective treatment approaches tailored to the individual or couple.
My experiences include but are not limited to working with depression and anxiety, relationship difficulties, issues confronted in early adulthood, substance use/addiction, sexual abuse and trauma, grief, adolescent development, issues around transitioning to college, as well as issues relating to sexual orientation and gender identity.
Sometimes you know exactly what the problem might be, and other times it feels more confusing and elusive. Psychotherapy is a wonderful way to facilitate and enact positive change into your life. My predominant goal is to make you feel safe and supported, so that you can explore and connect your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a productive manner. I believe that past experiences and relationships have a profound impact on our present emotional health and work to explore those experiences using a variety of effective treatment approaches tailored to the individual or couple.
(720) 740-3201 View (720) 740-3201
Photo of Lizzie Joan Stevenson - Denver Adolescent Therapy Group, MS, LMFT
Denver Adolescent Therapy Group
MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203  (Online Only)
Being a teen or raising a teen can be an exciting time but also bring about stress and confusion in the family.
Denver Adolescent Therapy Group provides psychotherapy to teens and their families. DATG has full time licensed therapists who have extensive experience working with adolescents and their families to address a wide variety of concerns and challenges. We are confident that we can find the perfect fit for your teen and your family.
Being a teen or raising a teen can be an exciting time but also bring about stress and confusion in the family.
Denver Adolescent Therapy Group provides psychotherapy to teens and their families. DATG has full time licensed therapists who have extensive experience working with adolescents and their families to address a wide variety of concerns and challenges. We are confident that we can find the perfect fit for your teen and your family.
(720) 903-2830 View (720) 903-2830
Photo of Lindsay E Gerber, PsyD, Psychologist
Lindsay E Gerber
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
Create your own life worth living! Whether you’re an adult seeking to better understand how to get “unstuck” and find fulfillment, a teen struggling with your mood and the stress of school, or a parent looking for help with your child’s emotions and behavior, I am here for you. I find meaning in providing a warm, validating, and gently challenging space to foster your inner growth. I value the importance of a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship that feels safe and non-judgmental.
Create your own life worth living! Whether you’re an adult seeking to better understand how to get “unstuck” and find fulfillment, a teen struggling with your mood and the stress of school, or a parent looking for help with your child’s emotions and behavior, I am here for you. I find meaning in providing a warm, validating, and gently challenging space to foster your inner growth. I value the importance of a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship that feels safe and non-judgmental.
(303) 500-3927 View (303) 500-3927
Photo of Lizzie Joan Stevenson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lizzie Joan Stevenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203  (Online Only)
We have specialists in various fields including adolescent therapy, couple therapy, addiction issues, art therapy, trauma, etc.
Our approach to therapy is humanistic, nonjudgemental, and down to earth. Client-centered and solution-focused therapies are used to help people determine and tackle their goals. We approach each individual as an already whole person with the capacity to change no matter what challenges they are experiencing.
We have specialists in various fields including adolescent therapy, couple therapy, addiction issues, art therapy, trauma, etc.
Our approach to therapy is humanistic, nonjudgemental, and down to earth. Client-centered and solution-focused therapies are used to help people determine and tackle their goals. We approach each individual as an already whole person with the capacity to change no matter what challenges they are experiencing.
(720) 513-2377 View (720) 513-2377
Photo of Jeremy Fuerte, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeremy Fuerte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
If you are motivated to make the changes to live the life you deserve and envision, or are a parent who is looking for a therapist to help set your pre-teen or teenager up for a successful future, and believe we'd be a good match - I look forward to meeting ya'll.
Welcome! If you are here, life's challenges may have you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or alone, but you have taken the initial steps in working towards a more balanced and fulfilling life – so be sure to pat yourself on the back. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking a compassionate, strengths-based, trauma-informed, and chill therapist to help navigate life’s rough patches and to take help take control of your own healing and narrative. Life can be difficult and these can be intense and scary times to deal with, but you don't have to navigate life's peaks and valleys alone.
If you are motivated to make the changes to live the life you deserve and envision, or are a parent who is looking for a therapist to help set your pre-teen or teenager up for a successful future, and believe we'd be a good match - I look forward to meeting ya'll.
Welcome! If you are here, life's challenges may have you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or alone, but you have taken the initial steps in working towards a more balanced and fulfilling life – so be sure to pat yourself on the back. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking a compassionate, strengths-based, trauma-informed, and chill therapist to help navigate life’s rough patches and to take help take control of your own healing and narrative. Life can be difficult and these can be intense and scary times to deal with, but you don't have to navigate life's peaks and valleys alone.
(720) 902-7859 View (720) 902-7859
Photo of Liz Leahey, LPCC
Liz Leahey
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218
I can support you if you’re wanting to live a more authentic, connected life, where you are living out of your personal code of ethics. It is my goal as a therapist to help bring you back to a felt sense of connection with your body. I specialize in working with teen and adult clients who are going through transitional phases, experiencing relationship issues, or are in need of processing some heavy life events. Therapy doesn’t exist in a vacuum. For those of us with marginalized identities, whether that be neurodivergence, chronic illness, or you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community, I want you to feel seen and heard.
I can support you if you’re wanting to live a more authentic, connected life, where you are living out of your personal code of ethics. It is my goal as a therapist to help bring you back to a felt sense of connection with your body. I specialize in working with teen and adult clients who are going through transitional phases, experiencing relationship issues, or are in need of processing some heavy life events. Therapy doesn’t exist in a vacuum. For those of us with marginalized identities, whether that be neurodivergence, chronic illness, or you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community, I want you to feel seen and heard.
(720) 637-3770 View (720) 637-3770
Photo of Troubled Teen Industry Trauma Recovery Elena Woughter, MA, LPCC
Troubled Teen Industry Trauma Recovery Elena Woughter
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204
My therapeutic approach is one led by compassion, deep listening, and a belief in the inherent goodness of people. At Kairos Wellness Collective, I work with adolescents, adults, and families navigating OCD, Anxiety disorders, and ADHD. As a Nature-Based therapist, I work with those longing to incorporate nature into their therapeutic process and those who seek to reconnect to nature after trauma or adverse experiences. I also work with survivors of the Troubled Teen Industry and abusive wilderness programs. I bring a warmth and openness to counseling sessions. I love to laugh with my clients and celebrate their victories!
My therapeutic approach is one led by compassion, deep listening, and a belief in the inherent goodness of people. At Kairos Wellness Collective, I work with adolescents, adults, and families navigating OCD, Anxiety disorders, and ADHD. As a Nature-Based therapist, I work with those longing to incorporate nature into their therapeutic process and those who seek to reconnect to nature after trauma or adverse experiences. I also work with survivors of the Troubled Teen Industry and abusive wilderness programs. I bring a warmth and openness to counseling sessions. I love to laugh with my clients and celebrate their victories!
(720) 605-9362 View (720) 605-9362
Photo of Mountain Thrive Counseling - Cortnney Faulkner, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mountain Thrive Counseling - Cortnney Faulkner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic illness, substance use, LGBTQ+ issues, adolescent needs and eating disorders.
With a deep commitment to integrating mind-body connections in therapy, I strive to create a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental space for clients to navigate challenges, develop coping skills, and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. I guide clients in the exploration of their thoughts, emotions, and physical experiences to foster a sense of balance. I use an integrative style, utilizing different evidence-based techniques. With your guidance, I can help you create goals that you or your child hope to achieve, and create a plan to reach these goals.
I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic illness, substance use, LGBTQ+ issues, adolescent needs and eating disorders.
With a deep commitment to integrating mind-body connections in therapy, I strive to create a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental space for clients to navigate challenges, develop coping skills, and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. I guide clients in the exploration of their thoughts, emotions, and physical experiences to foster a sense of balance. I use an integrative style, utilizing different evidence-based techniques. With your guidance, I can help you create goals that you or your child hope to achieve, and create a plan to reach these goals.
(720) 943-7911 View (720) 943-7911
Photo of Lyndsay Mclaren - Lyndsay Mclaren Therapy- lyndsaymclarentherapy.com, MA, LPCC, NCC
Lyndsay Mclaren Therapy- lyndsaymclarentherapy.com
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
Are you an adult, young adult, or teen struggling with low self-worth, anxiety, indecisiveness, or just feeling disconnected from the things that you used to find meaningful? Furthermore, are you longing for support from others but aren’t really sure what you need or how to even ask for it? If any of these things resonate with you, I’d like to help. Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you are faced with challenges and pressure in multiple areas of life. Whether these challenges are with work, school, home, family, relationships, or how to cope more effectively; we will create a space for hope, insight, and relief.
Are you an adult, young adult, or teen struggling with low self-worth, anxiety, indecisiveness, or just feeling disconnected from the things that you used to find meaningful? Furthermore, are you longing for support from others but aren’t really sure what you need or how to even ask for it? If any of these things resonate with you, I’d like to help. Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when you are faced with challenges and pressure in multiple areas of life. Whether these challenges are with work, school, home, family, relationships, or how to cope more effectively; we will create a space for hope, insight, and relief.
(424) 373-7411 View (424) 373-7411
Photo of Christa Kay Clarke, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, Counselor
Christa Kay Clarke
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80237
Therapy can be overwhelming to a child and annoying to an adolescent.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor who specializes in working with children and adolescents with the use of play, art and talk therapy. The mission of PlayTherapy4Kids is to provide a safe and serene environment for children and adolescents to share their inner most thoughts and feelings and provide the tools of communication, self esteem, and self awareness in order to establish therapeutic goals.
Therapy can be overwhelming to a child and annoying to an adolescent.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor who specializes in working with children and adolescents with the use of play, art and talk therapy. The mission of PlayTherapy4Kids is to provide a safe and serene environment for children and adolescents to share their inner most thoughts and feelings and provide the tools of communication, self esteem, and self awareness in order to establish therapeutic goals.
(720) 513-3909 View (720) 513-3909
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.