Photo of Sarah Held, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Held
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Unionville, CT 06085
I specialize in supporting individuals facing trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I firmly believe that meaningful change occurs when you feel genuinely supported and valued. In our collaborative work together, we will explore your unique needs in a safe, judgment-free environment and identify the specific tools that will help you navigate life’s challenges.
I specialize in supporting individuals facing trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I firmly believe that meaningful change occurs when you feel genuinely supported and valued. In our collaborative work together, we will explore your unique needs in a safe, judgment-free environment and identify the specific tools that will help you navigate life’s challenges.
(860) 979-5602 View (860) 979-5602
Photo of Connie Dufresne, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connie Dufresne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Unionville, CT 06085
Accepting new clients. I have over 18 years of therapeutic experience working with individuals and families. The cornerstone of my treatment style focuses on a strength based approach to support you as you examine the factors that have contribute to life stressors. I work to support you & your loved ones to develop healthy coping skills to implement. If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, family conflict, trauma, school based issues or social conflict together we can develop new strategies to cope with these stressors. Together we examine negative patterns in your life to begin your journey of healing.
Accepting new clients. I have over 18 years of therapeutic experience working with individuals and families. The cornerstone of my treatment style focuses on a strength based approach to support you as you examine the factors that have contribute to life stressors. I work to support you & your loved ones to develop healthy coping skills to implement. If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, family conflict, trauma, school based issues or social conflict together we can develop new strategies to cope with these stressors. Together we examine negative patterns in your life to begin your journey of healing.
(860) 910-4669 View (860) 910-4669
Photo of Stephanie Carter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Unionville, CT 06085
Welcome! Sometimes change and uncertainty feel like the only constant in life and we get overwhelmed. At other times we feel stuck, possibly not taking action we know is in our best interest due to emotions connected to issues and past events. I am here to provide you with a safe, caring and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. When we better understand why we feel the way we do, we can transform the beliefs and release the stuck emotions that limit us. My goal is to empower you to be more able to weather life's storms, respond to challenges, and make the positive changes you want.
Welcome! Sometimes change and uncertainty feel like the only constant in life and we get overwhelmed. At other times we feel stuck, possibly not taking action we know is in our best interest due to emotions connected to issues and past events. I am here to provide you with a safe, caring and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. When we better understand why we feel the way we do, we can transform the beliefs and release the stuck emotions that limit us. My goal is to empower you to be more able to weather life's storms, respond to challenges, and make the positive changes you want.
(959) 207-8215 View (959) 207-8215

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Charbonnier - Jennifer Charbonnier, PhD, LMFT, LLC, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Charbonnier, PhD, LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06107
Difficult times are an opportunity for change; change is hard and a real investment...in you. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with couples trying to strengthen, salvage, or make a decision about a relationship. I offer family therapy with a specialty in child/adolescent emotional and behavioral issues and parent coaching designed with you to realistically meet your family's needs. I also work with individuals seeking change, coping with transition, and seeking to come to terms with present/past trauma, on going struggles, and the hope for change. With hope, readiness to work, and the right therapist, it will happen!
Difficult times are an opportunity for change; change is hard and a real investment...in you. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with couples trying to strengthen, salvage, or make a decision about a relationship. I offer family therapy with a specialty in child/adolescent emotional and behavioral issues and parent coaching designed with you to realistically meet your family's needs. I also work with individuals seeking change, coping with transition, and seeking to come to terms with present/past trauma, on going struggles, and the hope for change. With hope, readiness to work, and the right therapist, it will happen!
(860) 931-7210 View (860) 931-7210
Photo of Stacia Heller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacia Heller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
If you're feeling overwhelmed by trauma, stress, or life transitions, or seeking support in recovery from substance use, I'm here to help. I’ve been a licensed clinical social worker for over 25 years, working in diverse settings to help individuals like you navigate these challenges. Whether you’re a parent looking for support for your teen or an adult in need of support, I tailor my practice to meet your specific needs. With experience in hospitals, intensive outpatient programs, and many years as a school social worker, I understand what you’re going through and am here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by trauma, stress, or life transitions, or seeking support in recovery from substance use, I'm here to help. I’ve been a licensed clinical social worker for over 25 years, working in diverse settings to help individuals like you navigate these challenges. Whether you’re a parent looking for support for your teen or an adult in need of support, I tailor my practice to meet your specific needs. With experience in hospitals, intensive outpatient programs, and many years as a school social worker, I understand what you’re going through and am here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.
(860) 259-2174 View (860) 259-2174
Photo of Barbara A Pinti, MA, CAGS, LMFT, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara A Pinti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, CAGS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06119
My holistic practice specializes in all areas of human problems; depression, loss and grief, anxiety, spirituality, relationship issues, parenting, childhood and other trauma, PTSD, addiction, substance abuse, domestic abuse, divorce pain, eating disorders, ADHD, adolescent issues, sexual abuse, sexuality, and energy healing.
DO YOU HATE CHANGE? DO YOU DREAD MAKING THE CHANGES YOU KNOW YOU NEED TO MAKE? I CAN HELP YOU! With over 44 years experience, training in traditional psychotherapy, and certifications in several alternative modalities,I can help you make those changes with a technique to fit your needs and comfort. Do you want to resolve grief, become more successful, stop smoking, adjust to marriage or divorce or do you need help with depression, anxiety, or parenting? Call me and I will give you a free half hour phone session to ensure that we are a good fit.
My holistic practice specializes in all areas of human problems; depression, loss and grief, anxiety, spirituality, relationship issues, parenting, childhood and other trauma, PTSD, addiction, substance abuse, domestic abuse, divorce pain, eating disorders, ADHD, adolescent issues, sexual abuse, sexuality, and energy healing.
DO YOU HATE CHANGE? DO YOU DREAD MAKING THE CHANGES YOU KNOW YOU NEED TO MAKE? I CAN HELP YOU! With over 44 years experience, training in traditional psychotherapy, and certifications in several alternative modalities,I can help you make those changes with a technique to fit your needs and comfort. Do you want to resolve grief, become more successful, stop smoking, adjust to marriage or divorce or do you need help with depression, anxiety, or parenting? Call me and I will give you a free half hour phone session to ensure that we are a good fit.
(860) 595-2398 View (860) 595-2398
Photo of Maegan Glover, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maegan Glover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Britain, CT 06052  (Online Only)
Whether you’re someone feeling at a complete loss of what to do to navigate significant changes or a teen with big questions about gender and relationships that not a lot of people seem to understand, I am committed to meeting you right where you are to foster a positive, trusting relationship in our work together.
I’m Maegan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in navigating life transitions, emotion regulation challenges, and helping folks cultivate their sense of self worth. In addition to these specialties, I am also passionate about helping teens and young adults thrive and cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, learning to feel empowered, communication struggles, self-harm, relationship issues, improving self-love and more. I incorporate a variety of evidence-based practices into my therapeutic approach including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Whether you’re someone feeling at a complete loss of what to do to navigate significant changes or a teen with big questions about gender and relationships that not a lot of people seem to understand, I am committed to meeting you right where you are to foster a positive, trusting relationship in our work together.
I’m Maegan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in navigating life transitions, emotion regulation challenges, and helping folks cultivate their sense of self worth. In addition to these specialties, I am also passionate about helping teens and young adults thrive and cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, learning to feel empowered, communication struggles, self-harm, relationship issues, improving self-love and more. I incorporate a variety of evidence-based practices into my therapeutic approach including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(860) 579-1318 View (860) 579-1318
Photo of Karen Reardon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Reardon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bristol, CT 06010
My background as a Marriage and Family Therapist has shaped the work I do to help individuals, couples, and families with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication, family conflict, child and adolescent development, parenting, substance abuse, addictions, co-dependency, grief and loss, trauma, anger, divorce, blended families, and infidelity.
Finding the right therapist is the first step in getting to the place you want to be. Whether for personal growth, a relationship or family issue, healing from loss or past trauma, the relationship developed with your therapist is an important part of this process. My approach to working with people is to provide a comfortable space to collaborate towards reaching your goals. Together we will lay the groundwork necessary to develop solutions to meet your needs.
My background as a Marriage and Family Therapist has shaped the work I do to help individuals, couples, and families with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication, family conflict, child and adolescent development, parenting, substance abuse, addictions, co-dependency, grief and loss, trauma, anger, divorce, blended families, and infidelity.
Finding the right therapist is the first step in getting to the place you want to be. Whether for personal growth, a relationship or family issue, healing from loss or past trauma, the relationship developed with your therapist is an important part of this process. My approach to working with people is to provide a comfortable space to collaborate towards reaching your goals. Together we will lay the groundwork necessary to develop solutions to meet your needs.
(860) 322-5857 View (860) 322-5857
Photo of Linda Scacco, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Scacco
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107  (Online Only)
I also work with parents to develop strategies around child/adolescent conflict.
Life presents us with many challenges and sometimes we fail to see opportunities in these challenges. We also often have difficulty accessing our own internal resources and reaching out to external supports. All of us wish for purpose, hope and joy in our lives. I believe that psychotherapy can address these goals. Therapy will empower you to look to your strengths, to reach into your own resiliency, to find resources in your life that can nourish and support you. To do this, we will work together to create change that is lasting and meaningful.
I also work with parents to develop strategies around child/adolescent conflict.
Life presents us with many challenges and sometimes we fail to see opportunities in these challenges. We also often have difficulty accessing our own internal resources and reaching out to external supports. All of us wish for purpose, hope and joy in our lives. I believe that psychotherapy can address these goals. Therapy will empower you to look to your strengths, to reach into your own resiliency, to find resources in your life that can nourish and support you. To do this, we will work together to create change that is lasting and meaningful.
(860) 753-3404 View (860) 753-3404
Photo of Karen Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06107  (Online Only)
Hi, My name is Karen Lopez, I have an extensive background in Trauma work & years of experience working with children, families, couples & individuals, seniors at every stage of life. Treating depression, complex trauma, anxiety, adolescent issues, parenting skills, anger management, divorce, ADHD, psychosis, Autism & developmental disabilities.
Hi, My name is Karen Lopez, I have an extensive background in Trauma work & years of experience working with children, families, couples & individuals, seniors at every stage of life. Treating depression, complex trauma, anxiety, adolescent issues, parenting skills, anger management, divorce, ADHD, psychosis, Autism & developmental disabilities.
(860) 492-6433 View (860) 492-6433
Photo of Deanna Johnson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deanna Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, CT 06010  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals, couples and families dealing with depression, anxiety, life stage transitions, addiction, relationship issues, family conflict, child and adolescent development issues, and perinatal mood disorders.
*Accepting New Clients* If you're feeling anxious and overwhelmed, or like the small stuff seems bigger than it should, you're not alone. Reaching out for help is the first step towards healing and obtaining inner peace. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space in which to address the issues that are weighing you down so that you may lead a healthier, happier and more fulfilling life.
I have experience working with individuals, couples and families dealing with depression, anxiety, life stage transitions, addiction, relationship issues, family conflict, child and adolescent development issues, and perinatal mood disorders.
*Accepting New Clients* If you're feeling anxious and overwhelmed, or like the small stuff seems bigger than it should, you're not alone. Reaching out for help is the first step towards healing and obtaining inner peace. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space in which to address the issues that are weighing you down so that you may lead a healthier, happier and more fulfilling life.
(203) 437-7244 View (203) 437-7244
Photo of Julie K Jones - Well Life Therapy, LLC, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Well Life Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New Britain, CT 06050
Whether you are an overwhelmed mom, struggling teen, in a relationship crisis, a confused and worried college student or just someone trying to manage stress, anxiety and/or depression, we realize that coming to therapy can feel daunting and uncomfortable.
Are you or a loved one feeling afraid, anxious and/or overwhelmed? Are you trying to get through a challenging time or perhaps you have felt this way for a long time and just don't know why? Are you in a difficult relationship or having a family crisis? The counselors at Well Life Therapy, LLC are here to listen, guide and empower you to move through what you are struggling with. We will help you create strategies for healthy coping, problem solve with you, assist with communication skills and uncover ineffective and negative thinking patterns and ideas.
Whether you are an overwhelmed mom, struggling teen, in a relationship crisis, a confused and worried college student or just someone trying to manage stress, anxiety and/or depression, we realize that coming to therapy can feel daunting and uncomfortable.
Are you or a loved one feeling afraid, anxious and/or overwhelmed? Are you trying to get through a challenging time or perhaps you have felt this way for a long time and just don't know why? Are you in a difficult relationship or having a family crisis? The counselors at Well Life Therapy, LLC are here to listen, guide and empower you to move through what you are struggling with. We will help you create strategies for healthy coping, problem solve with you, assist with communication skills and uncover ineffective and negative thinking patterns and ideas.
(860) 615-4014 View (860) 615-4014
Photo of Erica Martinez - Renewed Minds Counseling Center, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renewed Minds Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
New Britain, CT 06053
**Now accepting new clients***Do you want to make changes but you're not sure where to start? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression or feeling overwhelmed? Do you desire to feel more connected in your relationships or are unsure how to deal with your child/teen? Therapy can be beneficial for individuals who are looking to improve their lives. We can provide strategies and skills to help you get on the path to progress. We provide a non-judgmental safe place for our clients to explore difficulties and enhance self-confidence in making strides towards reaching their goals.
**Now accepting new clients***Do you want to make changes but you're not sure where to start? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression or feeling overwhelmed? Do you desire to feel more connected in your relationships or are unsure how to deal with your child/teen? Therapy can be beneficial for individuals who are looking to improve their lives. We can provide strategies and skills to help you get on the path to progress. We provide a non-judgmental safe place for our clients to explore difficulties and enhance self-confidence in making strides towards reaching their goals.
(860) 785-2749 View (860) 785-2749
Jane R Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
New Britain, CT 06050
Special interests include relationship and identity issues; adolescent and women's issues; anxiety and PTSD; blended families; and lesbian/gay/bisexual/ transgender concerns.
Twenty-five years into it, I still love being a counselor and psychotherapist. It is an honor and a privilege to be involved in the personal struggle and transformation of each client, couple, and family I see. I regard therapy more as an art than a science, though I certainly utilize current research in my practice. Most often my clients present problems in living rather than "mental illness" per se and they appreciate my attention to their strengths, resources, and spiritual concerns.
Special interests include relationship and identity issues; adolescent and women's issues; anxiety and PTSD; blended families; and lesbian/gay/bisexual/ transgender concerns.
Twenty-five years into it, I still love being a counselor and psychotherapist. It is an honor and a privilege to be involved in the personal struggle and transformation of each client, couple, and family I see. I regard therapy more as an art than a science, though I certainly utilize current research in my practice. Most often my clients present problems in living rather than "mental illness" per se and they appreciate my attention to their strengths, resources, and spiritual concerns.
(860) 591-9907 View (860) 591-9907
Photo of Angela Ferrigno, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Ferrigno
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107
Does reliving your trauma keep you from moving forward with your life? Are your relationships with your family and partner suffering due to mental illness? Do you feel disconnected from your teen and wish there was a way to help them navigate a difficult time in their lives? You want to feel at peace, in control of your emotions, and able to tackle whatever life throws at you, but you aren’t sure how to get there. Dealing with mental health, relationship, or family issues can feel overwhelming. Therapy can help you develop the tools you need to create the life you crave.
Does reliving your trauma keep you from moving forward with your life? Are your relationships with your family and partner suffering due to mental illness? Do you feel disconnected from your teen and wish there was a way to help them navigate a difficult time in their lives? You want to feel at peace, in control of your emotions, and able to tackle whatever life throws at you, but you aren’t sure how to get there. Dealing with mental health, relationship, or family issues can feel overwhelming. Therapy can help you develop the tools you need to create the life you crave.
(203) 442-6515 View (203) 442-6515
Photo of Jennifer Gonzalez Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Gonzalez Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06010
I have experience with working with children as young as 3, families, adolescents and adults. I have worked extensively with families involved in the DCF system. I've worked with individuals with special needs and adolescent and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders and PTSD, across the State of Connecticut , and within a group home setting, and I hold a certification in TF-CBT. I enjoy being creative and assisting my clients in building coping skills, and I feel very lucky to work with each client that I meet. I also enjoy facilitating groups and am a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor.
I have experience with working with children as young as 3, families, adolescents and adults. I have worked extensively with families involved in the DCF system. I've worked with individuals with special needs and adolescent and adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders and PTSD, across the State of Connecticut , and within a group home setting, and I hold a certification in TF-CBT. I enjoy being creative and assisting my clients in building coping skills, and I feel very lucky to work with each client that I meet. I also enjoy facilitating groups and am a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor.
(860) 850-2330 View (860) 850-2330
Photo of Amani Shirley - SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services , LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
New Britain, CT 06050
Do you struggle with substance use disorder and want help with relapse prevention? Have mental health problems kept you from achieving your goals? Do you and your teen struggle to connect and communicate effectively? You want to live a happy life and develop healthy relationships, but you can’t make it happen. Therapy with an LMSW skilled at providing mental health care and coordinating services from community resources can empower you and your family to live the lives you want.
Do you struggle with substance use disorder and want help with relapse prevention? Have mental health problems kept you from achieving your goals? Do you and your teen struggle to connect and communicate effectively? You want to live a happy life and develop healthy relationships, but you can’t make it happen. Therapy with an LMSW skilled at providing mental health care and coordinating services from community resources can empower you and your family to live the lives you want.
(203) 651-5449 View (203) 651-5449
Photo of Debra Franklin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002  (Online Only)
After 33 years of experience with adults, children, families, and couples, and many transformational groups, I developed Heart Path Therapy® (HPT), integrating the most life changing tools. They include ancient spiritual wisdom, guided imagery, inner childwork, energy psychology (similar to EFT & EMDR), use of sound, and ancestral connection work (Family Constellations). The goal is to transform emotional and relational struggles by bringing compassion to the source and in turn empower a greater sense of meaning and purpose in life. Join an adolescent or adult HPT® GROUP, inspiring online heart opening communities.
After 33 years of experience with adults, children, families, and couples, and many transformational groups, I developed Heart Path Therapy® (HPT), integrating the most life changing tools. They include ancient spiritual wisdom, guided imagery, inner childwork, energy psychology (similar to EFT & EMDR), use of sound, and ancestral connection work (Family Constellations). The goal is to transform emotional and relational struggles by bringing compassion to the source and in turn empower a greater sense of meaning and purpose in life. Join an adolescent or adult HPT® GROUP, inspiring online heart opening communities.
(860) 308-1071 View (860) 308-1071
Photo of Novia Mclaren - My Story Counseling, LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
My Story Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111
Practice currently has new providers and is now accepting new clients. My goal as a therapist is to provide a, welcoming and non-judgmental space for us to join together to effectively address and resolve your specific concerns. In order to help you reach your true potential we must consider the whole person; mind, body, and spirit. I specialize in working with the adolescent population and adults with anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, family therapy and couples counseling. I utilize various models such as CBT, DBT, Solution focused therapy and narrative therapy.
Practice currently has new providers and is now accepting new clients. My goal as a therapist is to provide a, welcoming and non-judgmental space for us to join together to effectively address and resolve your specific concerns. In order to help you reach your true potential we must consider the whole person; mind, body, and spirit. I specialize in working with the adolescent population and adults with anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, family therapy and couples counseling. I utilize various models such as CBT, DBT, Solution focused therapy and narrative therapy.
(860) 631-5039 View (860) 631-5039
Photo of Maria Perez, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06106  (Online Only)
My professional background includes individual, adult, adolescent, and women's issues.
Do you feel stuck in your life and don't know what to do? You’re not alone. Sometimes we may feel lost and unfulfilled, but you don’t have to go through this alone! I am here to accompany you on this journey. Everything you need is already within you, and together we will develop the necessary tools to assist you in harnessing your inner strength to live your most fulfilling and authentic self. As an experienced clinician, our therapeutic work will be a collaborative one. Together we will identify and enhance your strengths while exploring the root causes of your identified challenges and triggers. This is the first step!
My professional background includes individual, adult, adolescent, and women's issues.
Do you feel stuck in your life and don't know what to do? You’re not alone. Sometimes we may feel lost and unfulfilled, but you don’t have to go through this alone! I am here to accompany you on this journey. Everything you need is already within you, and together we will develop the necessary tools to assist you in harnessing your inner strength to live your most fulfilling and authentic self. As an experienced clinician, our therapeutic work will be a collaborative one. Together we will identify and enhance your strengths while exploring the root causes of your identified challenges and triggers. This is the first step!
(860) 413-1227 View (860) 413-1227

See more therapy options for Unionville

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.