Therapists for Teens in Atlanta, GA

Photo of Cassady Buck, MA
Cassady Buck
MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30319
I get it. It can be hard to take that next step in life when you don’t know where to turn next. Feeling stuck and helpless doesn't have to be permanent in your life. It is my goal to work with clients and journey with them through their challenges, trials, and personal growth. Areas in which I provide services include: individual, relationship, marriage, and family counseling while addressing the following areas: Career coaching, anxiety, depression, child & adolescent, relationship issues, coping skills, self esteem, self improvement, vocational, trauma, and life transitions.
I get it. It can be hard to take that next step in life when you don’t know where to turn next. Feeling stuck and helpless doesn't have to be permanent in your life. It is my goal to work with clients and journey with them through their challenges, trials, and personal growth. Areas in which I provide services include: individual, relationship, marriage, and family counseling while addressing the following areas: Career coaching, anxiety, depression, child & adolescent, relationship issues, coping skills, self esteem, self improvement, vocational, trauma, and life transitions.
(404) 348-0983 View (404) 348-0983
Photo of Extriara Gates - Extriara Gates - Success Brand Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Extriara Gates - Success Brand Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
Are you ready to take the first step towards transforming your struggles into strengths and creating a path to a more fulfilling life? If so, now might be the time to connect with a therapist. With my dedication and passion to build hope, resilience, and strength and your courage to take the next step, together, we can work towards your success in healing. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in child, adolescent, and family mental health. With over 13 years of experience, I've dedicated my career to making a difference in the lives of those I encounter.
Are you ready to take the first step towards transforming your struggles into strengths and creating a path to a more fulfilling life? If so, now might be the time to connect with a therapist. With my dedication and passion to build hope, resilience, and strength and your courage to take the next step, together, we can work towards your success in healing. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in child, adolescent, and family mental health. With over 13 years of experience, I've dedicated my career to making a difference in the lives of those I encounter.
(629) 260-3185 View (629) 260-3185
Photo of Jenny Goldstein, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Goldstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303  (Online Only)
Over the course of my career, I have worked with various populations of teen and adult clients in the mental health field. I can honestly say that I love what I do and have always found a personalized 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 values.
Over the course of my career, I have worked with various populations of teen and adult clients in the mental health field. I can honestly say that I love what I do and have always found a personalized 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 values.
(470) 712-4714 View (470) 712-4714
Photo of Avery Mitchell - Premier Comprehensive Services, LPC, CAMS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Premier Comprehensive Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAMS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30310
" Our populations extend from pre- teen to elderly adults.
Premier Comprehensive Services has Licensed Professionals with experience in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse treatment, and quality of life improvement skills. As the owner, I am a graduate of Spelman College and have obtained a Masters in Clinical Psychology at The Georgia School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. Our practice assists families, couples, adults, and adolescents. We are trained to treat and service a diverse range of individuals and disorders (anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, grief, women's issues, etc.).
" Our populations extend from pre- teen to elderly adults.
Premier Comprehensive Services has Licensed Professionals with experience in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse treatment, and quality of life improvement skills. As the owner, I am a graduate of Spelman College and have obtained a Masters in Clinical Psychology at The Georgia School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. Our practice assists families, couples, adults, and adolescents. We are trained to treat and service a diverse range of individuals and disorders (anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, grief, women's issues, etc.).
(404) 689-9731 View (404) 689-9731
Photo of Lateela Burns - Thriveworks Atlanta Counseling, Counselor
Thriveworks Atlanta Counseling
Counselor
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30350
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.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Eversley D Pemberton - Psych Diagnostics Psychological Services, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Psych Diagnostics Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30312
Psych Diagnostics Psychological Services offers computerized Continuous Performance Test (CPT) for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder that helps to accurately diagnose ADHD and measure medication efficacy and other forms of treatment interventions for children, adolescent and adults with ADHD; both the Hyperactive/ Impulsive and Inattentive subtypes.
Dr. Pemberton specializes in computerized diagnostic testing procedures and also provides psychotherapy for children with mental health disorders such as Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Conduct Disorder. He also administers psychological evaluations and provides psychotherapy services for adults with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders and Substance Use Disorders. Dr. Pemberton works in close collaboration with other clinical psychologists who provide services in other areas of psychological specializations. Dr. Pemberton has taught for several semesters at the University of the Virgin Islands Liberal Arts and Social Science Division.
Psych Diagnostics Psychological Services offers computerized Continuous Performance Test (CPT) for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder that helps to accurately diagnose ADHD and measure medication efficacy and other forms of treatment interventions for children, adolescent and adults with ADHD; both the Hyperactive/ Impulsive and Inattentive subtypes.
Dr. Pemberton specializes in computerized diagnostic testing procedures and also provides psychotherapy for children with mental health disorders such as Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Conduct Disorder. He also administers psychological evaluations and provides psychotherapy services for adults with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders and Substance Use Disorders. Dr. Pemberton works in close collaboration with other clinical psychologists who provide services in other areas of psychological specializations. Dr. Pemberton has taught for several semesters at the University of the Virgin Islands Liberal Arts and Social Science Division.
(470) 309-0323 View (470) 309-0323
Photo of Amy T Scully, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy T Scully
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30309
I believe that behind every problem lies the powerful desire for something better. In addition to working with couples and families, my expertise is in therapy with adolescents (13+) and adults, both gay and straight. I use research-based therapies that offer practical methods and skills that build emotional flexibility, self-awareness and resilience. Many of my clients are working to become free of self-defeating patterns resulting from emotional neglect in early or adolescent development. My typical client is intelligent and responsible as well as anxious and stressed, lonely, depressed or angry.
I believe that behind every problem lies the powerful desire for something better. In addition to working with couples and families, my expertise is in therapy with adolescents (13+) and adults, both gay and straight. I use research-based therapies that offer practical methods and skills that build emotional flexibility, self-awareness and resilience. Many of my clients are working to become free of self-defeating patterns resulting from emotional neglect in early or adolescent development. My typical client is intelligent and responsible as well as anxious and stressed, lonely, depressed or angry.
(404) 975-4713 View (404) 975-4713
Photo of Charlie Bright, MAEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlie Bright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
I've been working with adolescents and their parents for nearly 40 years. I have enjoyed helping families navigate the adolescent experience dealing with issues of parenting practices, adolescent self esteem and social development and issues of sexuality and sexual identity.
I've been working with adolescents and their parents for nearly 40 years. I have enjoyed helping families navigate the adolescent experience dealing with issues of parenting practices, adolescent self esteem and social development and issues of sexuality and sexual identity.
(404) 341-7229 View (404) 341-7229
Photo of Laura Laliberte-Bodner, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Laliberte-Bodner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
I see people who have experienced physical/sexual abuse, and/or neglect in their early childhood or adolescent years.
Does life seem difficult or challenging? Lets focus on how you can begin to feel better about yourself or your situation. People walk into the office for many different reasons and there are various effective approaches to the issues you struggle with in life. The type of approach we would use depends on your personality and comfort level. We will be discussing which coping skills fit your situation and needs the best. Therapy has been proven to create positive, life-changing effects. It can help you change the direction your life is going in. Choosing to engage in psychotherapy is admirable.
I see people who have experienced physical/sexual abuse, and/or neglect in their early childhood or adolescent years.
Does life seem difficult or challenging? Lets focus on how you can begin to feel better about yourself or your situation. People walk into the office for many different reasons and there are various effective approaches to the issues you struggle with in life. The type of approach we would use depends on your personality and comfort level. We will be discussing which coping skills fit your situation and needs the best. Therapy has been proven to create positive, life-changing effects. It can help you change the direction your life is going in. Choosing to engage in psychotherapy is admirable.
(404) 448-2395 View (404) 448-2395
Photo of Matthew Quick, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Quick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30341
I've been in practice for over 16 years and have worked extensively with adolescent boys and men.
It's not easy for men to ask for help. First, we have to admit that what we're doing isn't working and we can't fix it. So, I know it was difficult to begin the process of looking for the right therapist. "Who do I trust?" Will he understand the challenges I'm facing? With my relationship, my anxiety, my stress, my sexuality? With so many risks that come along with asking for help, no wonder men are substantially underserved in mental health - we aren't reaching out.
I've been in practice for over 16 years and have worked extensively with adolescent boys and men.
It's not easy for men to ask for help. First, we have to admit that what we're doing isn't working and we can't fix it. So, I know it was difficult to begin the process of looking for the right therapist. "Who do I trust?" Will he understand the challenges I'm facing? With my relationship, my anxiety, my stress, my sexuality? With so many risks that come along with asking for help, no wonder men are substantially underserved in mental health - we aren't reaching out.
(404) 390-4877 View (404) 390-4877
Photo of Curtis Fox, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Curtis Fox
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
For many years, I worked with individuals, couples, and families focusing on issues such as sexuality, work-family balance, religiosity issues, adolescent development, clergy stress, as well as issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, and other mental health challenges.
I am a Marital and Family Therapist and I have been working with individuals, couples, and families for over 25 years. I believe in the worth and value of all humans and support their desire to have joy, fulfillment, creativity, and to have control of their destiny. I recognize that some experiences negatively impact our ability to access our internal and external resources to cope with what life throws at us, and so, we find ourselves needing the support of one who is trained and skilled to assist us on that journey toward growth, healing, and change.
For many years, I worked with individuals, couples, and families focusing on issues such as sexuality, work-family balance, religiosity issues, adolescent development, clergy stress, as well as issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, and other mental health challenges.
I am a Marital and Family Therapist and I have been working with individuals, couples, and families for over 25 years. I believe in the worth and value of all humans and support their desire to have joy, fulfillment, creativity, and to have control of their destiny. I recognize that some experiences negatively impact our ability to access our internal and external resources to cope with what life throws at us, and so, we find ourselves needing the support of one who is trained and skilled to assist us on that journey toward growth, healing, and change.
(909) 726-5659 View (909) 726-5659
Photo of Stephen MacGregor, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephen MacGregor
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331  (Online Only)
National team member: World Challenge: Teen Challenge.
Experienced (NCC Nationally Certified), "best practices, "client centered", problem solving, "supportive therapist" for 20 years in Florida and Georgia. population serve: adult, adolscent, children -ADD/ADHD, veterns. specialist: mood disorver, (depression, anxiety, and Bipolar Disorders, Schizoaffective D/O). relationship: marriage-divorce,substance abuse: alcohol and substance (THC, Meth, Opioid). spiritual Faith focused. Ordained Minister. On call Chaplain-Floyd Atrium Medical Center.
National team member: World Challenge: Teen Challenge.
Experienced (NCC Nationally Certified), "best practices, "client centered", problem solving, "supportive therapist" for 20 years in Florida and Georgia. population serve: adult, adolscent, children -ADD/ADHD, veterns. specialist: mood disorver, (depression, anxiety, and Bipolar Disorders, Schizoaffective D/O). relationship: marriage-divorce,substance abuse: alcohol and substance (THC, Meth, Opioid). spiritual Faith focused. Ordained Minister. On call Chaplain-Floyd Atrium Medical Center.
(404) 689-9031 View (404) 689-9031
Photo of Soledad Hammond - Dr. Soledad Hammond, Psy.D., PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Soledad Hammond, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
Some of the teen issues I treat include self-injuring, depression, anxiety, anger, suicidal thoughts or actions, drugs, alcohol, bullying and low self-esteem.
I’m easy to connect with. My clients feel comfortable opening up to me and sharing what they’re going through. Parents say their children developed better coping/social skills and learned how to feel better about themselves with my help. I am warm, empathic, comforting and use strategies that have been proven highly effective. I am experienced in helping people of any age with relationship difficulties. I work with many young professionals, adults, families and couples. I help people who struggle with negative thinking patterns. I focus on cutting-edge, evidence-based psychotherapy techniques that allow for accelerated healing.
Some of the teen issues I treat include self-injuring, depression, anxiety, anger, suicidal thoughts or actions, drugs, alcohol, bullying and low self-esteem.
I’m easy to connect with. My clients feel comfortable opening up to me and sharing what they’re going through. Parents say their children developed better coping/social skills and learned how to feel better about themselves with my help. I am warm, empathic, comforting and use strategies that have been proven highly effective. I am experienced in helping people of any age with relationship difficulties. I work with many young professionals, adults, families and couples. I help people who struggle with negative thinking patterns. I focus on cutting-edge, evidence-based psychotherapy techniques that allow for accelerated healing.
(404) 994-3618 View (404) 994-3618
Photo of Wakisha Harvey, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Wakisha Harvey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30316  (Online Only)
I am Wakisha Harvey, MBA, LPC, CPCS. I approach therapy from a client-centered approach with an important emphasis on the client's experience in the therapeutic space. I have been in practice for 15 years. My clinical focus is on the adolescent, adult, and couples' populations. I also focus on Christian Counseling and Professional Career Counseling. My therapeutic approach is mainly psychodynamic and psychoanalytic as the basis of my approach. I believe that the client-centered approach is very important to the therapeutic process experience to build rapport and a comfortable environment for clients.
I am Wakisha Harvey, MBA, LPC, CPCS. I approach therapy from a client-centered approach with an important emphasis on the client's experience in the therapeutic space. I have been in practice for 15 years. My clinical focus is on the adolescent, adult, and couples' populations. I also focus on Christian Counseling and Professional Career Counseling. My therapeutic approach is mainly psychodynamic and psychoanalytic as the basis of my approach. I believe that the client-centered approach is very important to the therapeutic process experience to build rapport and a comfortable environment for clients.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Christina R Hunter - Licensed Prof. Counselor, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina R Hunter - Licensed Prof. Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
Hi there! Are you starting college, finding a new job, became a new parent, or have a newly diagnosed, chronic illness? You do not have to walk this new chapter alone. I have curated a safe space just for us to process these new emotions. As your counselor, my plan is to meet you where you are, with encouragement and non-judgment. Whether you are a teen/young adult, parent, or embarking on a new stage in your later years, my goal is to empower you to find balance and to rediscover purpose in your life.
Hi there! Are you starting college, finding a new job, became a new parent, or have a newly diagnosed, chronic illness? You do not have to walk this new chapter alone. I have curated a safe space just for us to process these new emotions. As your counselor, my plan is to meet you where you are, with encouragement and non-judgment. Whether you are a teen/young adult, parent, or embarking on a new stage in your later years, my goal is to empower you to find balance and to rediscover purpose in your life.
(478) 223-4509 View (478) 223-4509
Photo of Judi-Lee Webb, PhD, CEDS-C, Psychologist
Judi-Lee Webb
Psychologist, PhD, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
I conduct individual, couples, and family therapy with adolescents and adults and specialize in treating, mood disorders, anxiety, eating disorders, body image issues and obesity issues, relationship issues, family issues, adolescent issues, GLBTQ issues and diversity issues.
I believe in establishing a collaborative approach with my clients to help support the therapeutic process. Using cognitive-behavioral techniques, I help my clients learn to identify and challenge their unhealthy thoughts and behaviors so they can develop fuller, more meaningful lives. I work with clients in managing their emotions, improve their ability to communicate with others, and build healthy and resilient self-concept. Utilizing a direct, interactive approach, with a touch of humor, I teach my clients coping skills so they can pull from their "toolbox" of skills in between sessions and eventually throughout their lives.
I conduct individual, couples, and family therapy with adolescents and adults and specialize in treating, mood disorders, anxiety, eating disorders, body image issues and obesity issues, relationship issues, family issues, adolescent issues, GLBTQ issues and diversity issues.
I believe in establishing a collaborative approach with my clients to help support the therapeutic process. Using cognitive-behavioral techniques, I help my clients learn to identify and challenge their unhealthy thoughts and behaviors so they can develop fuller, more meaningful lives. I work with clients in managing their emotions, improve their ability to communicate with others, and build healthy and resilient self-concept. Utilizing a direct, interactive approach, with a touch of humor, I teach my clients coping skills so they can pull from their "toolbox" of skills in between sessions and eventually throughout their lives.
(770) 450-5912 View (770) 450-5912
Photo of James Fetner, LAPC, Counselor
James Fetner
Counselor, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30328
If you're seeking personalized and quality care from a skilled clinician for your child or teen, you've reached the right place.
Life can be incredibly challenging for children and teens experiencing mental health, emotional, behavioral concerns, trauma, or attention difficulties such as those associated with ADHD. These children often struggle with daily tasks that their peers may find effortless, which can severely impact their development and functioning. Academic performance may decline, social relationships can become strained, and self-esteem may plummet, leading to a cycle of negative feelings and behaviors. Understanding and addressing these concerns is crucial for a child’s overall well-being and long-term success in life.
If you're seeking personalized and quality care from a skilled clinician for your child or teen, you've reached the right place.
Life can be incredibly challenging for children and teens experiencing mental health, emotional, behavioral concerns, trauma, or attention difficulties such as those associated with ADHD. These children often struggle with daily tasks that their peers may find effortless, which can severely impact their development and functioning. Academic performance may decline, social relationships can become strained, and self-esteem may plummet, leading to a cycle of negative feelings and behaviors. Understanding and addressing these concerns is crucial for a child’s overall well-being and long-term success in life.
(470) 686-7450 View (470) 686-7450
Photo of George W Rinker, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
George W Rinker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30329
I am known for helping in the areas of depression, family dynamics, relationship issues, teen growth, career direction, individual identity and life coaching.
As a professional counselor I value the uniqness of each person and in the strength and creativity of the human spirit. Within the counseling relationship is a safe place to define areas for growth, vent feelings, explore the many possibilities, find encouragement and move toward peacefulness. My approach to counseling is gentle and encouraging, although I can be direct when it is helpful. I will support without judging and am respectful of individual and/or cultural differences. My approach draws on a number of theoretical orientations that best suit the group or individual needs.
I am known for helping in the areas of depression, family dynamics, relationship issues, teen growth, career direction, individual identity and life coaching.
As a professional counselor I value the uniqness of each person and in the strength and creativity of the human spirit. Within the counseling relationship is a safe place to define areas for growth, vent feelings, explore the many possibilities, find encouragement and move toward peacefulness. My approach to counseling is gentle and encouraging, although I can be direct when it is helpful. I will support without judging and am respectful of individual and/or cultural differences. My approach draws on a number of theoretical orientations that best suit the group or individual needs.
(404) 566-9095 View (404) 566-9095
Photo of Willie Walter Whited, LCSW, MA, ABD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Willie Walter Whited
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, ABD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30311  (Online Only)
I am an LCSW with over 26 years of service to Child / Adolescent, and adult individuals with mental health and psychoactive substance use challenges. I have been recognized for my Clinical skills in Fulton and Dekalb counties as well as the Grady Health Care systems. I use the Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory(SASSI) to support Individuals with interest or requested to have Substance Abuse Evaluations. As a Licensed, AASI Clinician; I am able to administer Sexual Interest Assessments to Adolescents and Adults.
I am an LCSW with over 26 years of service to Child / Adolescent, and adult individuals with mental health and psychoactive substance use challenges. I have been recognized for my Clinical skills in Fulton and Dekalb counties as well as the Grady Health Care systems. I use the Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory(SASSI) to support Individuals with interest or requested to have Substance Abuse Evaluations. As a Licensed, AASI Clinician; I am able to administer Sexual Interest Assessments to Adolescents and Adults.
(770) 629-8721 View (770) 629-8721
Photo of Eulene Paulk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eulene Paulk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
Our first session will consist of an interview with the parent followed by an introduction with the child/ adolescent.
I am a therapist who enjoys helping children and adolescents navigate anxiety, anger, grief and loss, separation/divorce of parents and other adjustment related life challenges. I received my Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Georgia State University and my Master of Social Work Degree from The University of Georgia. With 19+ years of experience working with children and adolescents, I view therapy as my calling.
Our first session will consist of an interview with the parent followed by an introduction with the child/ adolescent.
I am a therapist who enjoys helping children and adolescents navigate anxiety, anger, grief and loss, separation/divorce of parents and other adjustment related life challenges. I received my Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Georgia State University and my Master of Social Work Degree from The University of Georgia. With 19+ years of experience working with children and adolescents, I view therapy as my calling.
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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.