Therapists for Teens in Cherry Valley, IL
![Photo of Lexi Coticchio, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7291170a-6e4e-4004-8256-622b4bbadd98/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a trained and certified Equine Assisted Psychotherapy providing services at Healing Hearts Stable in Cherry Valley IL. Let me partner with you in your journey to healing, utilizing the horse as a powerful therapeutic tool. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, or Horse Therapy, is an evidence based modality that can assist client's in a unique way that in-office sessions just can't.
I am a trained and certified Equine Assisted Psychotherapy providing services at Healing Hearts Stable in Cherry Valley IL. Let me partner with you in your journey to healing, utilizing the horse as a powerful therapeutic tool. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, or Horse Therapy, is an evidence based modality that can assist client's in a unique way that in-office sessions just can't.
![Photo of Jennifer Mary Wilson-Bimrose, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccfb6fe6-c3d6-4159-94be-a880fd40c38f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients of all ages. I feel that it is very important for prospective clients to get the correct diagnosis the first time in order to develop a well suited treatment plan. If psychological testing is warranted, I am an effective and efficient evaluator that will focus on the appropriate treatment to get you on your way faster. My goal is to empower each person I come in contact with and to help them realize their potential.
I work with clients of all ages. I feel that it is very important for prospective clients to get the correct diagnosis the first time in order to develop a well suited treatment plan. If psychological testing is warranted, I am an effective and efficient evaluator that will focus on the appropriate treatment to get you on your way faster. My goal is to empower each person I come in contact with and to help them realize their potential.
![Photo of Amy Gustafson, Amy Gus, MSW, LSW, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/766f328e-06d5-498d-841e-01955f3eefcc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Gustafson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Amy Gus, MSW, LSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Cherry Valley, IL 61016
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed social worker and therapist, Amy works with clients in a safe and collaborative environment to work through struggles related to relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, childhood difficulties, and life transitions. She believes it is the connection to our emotions and our relationships that help us reach our personal goals and live fully. Amy works with all walks of life, including individuals, couples, and families using evidence-based therapies and research tailored to each client’s goals and needs.
As a licensed social worker and therapist, Amy works with clients in a safe and collaborative environment to work through struggles related to relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, childhood difficulties, and life transitions. She believes it is the connection to our emotions and our relationships that help us reach our personal goals and live fully. Amy works with all walks of life, including individuals, couples, and families using evidence-based therapies and research tailored to each client’s goals and needs.
![Photo of Sean Sullivan, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9afaf18c-5431-47f8-a963-df1c5c8bf175/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sean Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cherry Valley, IL 61016
When it seems like nobody cares; I want you to know that I do! I want to help you not only work through your anxiety, depression, or whatever problems you might be faced with but also empower you to make a change for a better & happier life. As I listen to your concerns we will work together to develop a plan to help you reach your goals.
When it seems like nobody cares; I want you to know that I do! I want to help you not only work through your anxiety, depression, or whatever problems you might be faced with but also empower you to make a change for a better & happier life. As I listen to your concerns we will work together to develop a plan to help you reach your goals.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Julianna Jones, LCPC, NCC, MSEd, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51c138dc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes life is just really hard. Sometimes we may not even know why. Let's work together to figure it out! Maybe your teen needs a sounding board. Perhaps you are facing a huge transition. Whether it's a past trauma such as experiencing abuse or daily struggles with anxiety or depression, you can reach your personal goals!
Sometimes life is just really hard. Sometimes we may not even know why. Let's work together to figure it out! Maybe your teen needs a sounding board. Perhaps you are facing a huge transition. Whether it's a past trauma such as experiencing abuse or daily struggles with anxiety or depression, you can reach your personal goals!
![Photo of Beth Drennen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3df607b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Drennen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108
I draw from DBT training in treating my adult and adolescent clients struggling with depression, mood regulation, and relational difficulties.
Are you exhausted by the challenges you face - be that domestic violence, navigating the foster care system, a child with special needs such as Autism or ADHD, or with your own special needs? Maybe you struggle with a mood disorder, depression, or self injury. Or perhaps you are seeking a therapist who shares an understanding of your struggle from a Christian perspective. Allow me to support you in your journey. I encourage involvement of family members and others in your support system in treatment when possible and appropriate. And there is no situation I consider too challenging.
I draw from DBT training in treating my adult and adolescent clients struggling with depression, mood regulation, and relational difficulties.
Are you exhausted by the challenges you face - be that domestic violence, navigating the foster care system, a child with special needs such as Autism or ADHD, or with your own special needs? Maybe you struggle with a mood disorder, depression, or self injury. Or perhaps you are seeking a therapist who shares an understanding of your struggle from a Christian perspective. Allow me to support you in your journey. I encourage involvement of family members and others in your support system in treatment when possible and appropriate. And there is no situation I consider too challenging.
![Photo of Dr. Lisa A. Breisch - Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy, MA, LCPC, PsyD, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f3a111a-f4da-4b20-a41d-7ebb12623695/4/320x400.jpeg)
Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Loves Park, IL 61111
Lisa Breisch specializes in the following: Depression/Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Child/Adolescent Behavioral Problems, ADHD, Brief Psychological Testing, Couples & Family Therapy, Eating Disorders & Weight Problems, Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Addictions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic Pain, Stress Management, Hypnotherapy, Spirituality Concerns, and Holistic Healthcare.
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
Lisa Breisch specializes in the following: Depression/Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Child/Adolescent Behavioral Problems, ADHD, Brief Psychological Testing, Couples & Family Therapy, Eating Disorders & Weight Problems, Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Transgender Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Addictions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic Pain, Stress Management, Hypnotherapy, Spirituality Concerns, and Holistic Healthcare.
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
![Photo of Victoria Braun, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/636387ab-5c96-46bc-91cb-0b266d9a5dfd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Braun
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61105 (Online Only)
Families have a uniquely complex dynamic. As a parent, connecting with kids can be a struggle and attempting to guide them can feel impossible. As a teen and young adult, sometimes you can't wait to be out on your own; for others the thought of the adult world is terrifying. No matter which of these situation you fall under, my job is to help you feel comfortable talking about the tough "stuff." I have worked with clients of all ages in navigating through life's challenges.
Families have a uniquely complex dynamic. As a parent, connecting with kids can be a struggle and attempting to guide them can feel impossible. As a teen and young adult, sometimes you can't wait to be out on your own; for others the thought of the adult world is terrifying. No matter which of these situation you fall under, my job is to help you feel comfortable talking about the tough "stuff." I have worked with clients of all ages in navigating through life's challenges.
![Photo of Lauren Campbell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31882bd7-f36b-41cd-9e47-c499bf1a7cf9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61101
Coming to therapy can be an intimidating process. I do my best to make my clients feel comfortable whether we are meeting online or in person. The last thing people want is an uptight, professional that makes them feel like they need to censor themselves. I am conversational, warm, and look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with adolescent and adult clientele. I pride myself on being non-judgmental and create a safe space where clients can be vulnerable to share anything they may need to - expletives and all.
Coming to therapy can be an intimidating process. I do my best to make my clients feel comfortable whether we are meeting online or in person. The last thing people want is an uptight, professional that makes them feel like they need to censor themselves. I am conversational, warm, and look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with adolescent and adult clientele. I pride myself on being non-judgmental and create a safe space where clients can be vulnerable to share anything they may need to - expletives and all.
![Photo of Jennifer Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f2999b9-10a8-4153-8f75-7b2c2704a914/2/320x400.jpeg)
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
![Photo of Tzia Hibler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df2bcb1d-2245-41ea-a666-dae371ff0982/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked with my community to provide clinical services to community violence victims, teen parents, youth and families, LGBTQA+, and individuals with learning disabilities.
Hi, my name is, Tzia Hibler and I am glad you have taken the first step to seek support in your life. Challenges, barriers, and setbacks happen in life for many reasons. Every battle does not have to be faced alone. I am here to support you in what you want to face. I am an LCSW ( Licensed Clinical Social Worker) licensed in Illinois. I have my Master’s in Social work with a concentration in schools, from the University of Illinois - Urbana, Champaign. I have experience in public schools, and community-based practices as a therapist and social worker working with a vast array of demographics.
I have worked with my community to provide clinical services to community violence victims, teen parents, youth and families, LGBTQA+, and individuals with learning disabilities.
Hi, my name is, Tzia Hibler and I am glad you have taken the first step to seek support in your life. Challenges, barriers, and setbacks happen in life for many reasons. Every battle does not have to be faced alone. I am here to support you in what you want to face. I am an LCSW ( Licensed Clinical Social Worker) licensed in Illinois. I have my Master’s in Social work with a concentration in schools, from the University of Illinois - Urbana, Champaign. I have experience in public schools, and community-based practices as a therapist and social worker working with a vast array of demographics.
![Photo of Leila B Nelson, MA, LCPC, CCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1b171c7-b905-4265-bb5f-36632bdf679d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with children, adolescent, and adult clients.
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth and good at what I do. I specialize in helping people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles.
I enjoy working with children, adolescent, and adult clients.
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth and good at what I do. I specialize in helping people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles.
![Photo of Debra Prichard-Hurt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d3f438a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients who have depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and/or attempts, self-harming behaviors, relationship issues, divorce, marriage therapy, grief issues, domestic victims, substance use, anger management and adolescent/family issues.
Does life seem more complicated than it needs to be? Are the daily pressures of life, work, finances, children or relationships getting the best of you? Do you find yourself feeling sad, overwhelmed or anxious? Do you feel alone, abandoned, or invisible? Do you find yourself turning to alcohol or drugs to relax and forget your problems? Or does life feel so hopeless you’re thinking about checking out? If the answer is Yes, Call Debra today for a Free 15 minute consultation and appointment. Let me help you discover the hope and peace you’ve lost and bring more meaning back to your life.
I work with clients who have depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and/or attempts, self-harming behaviors, relationship issues, divorce, marriage therapy, grief issues, domestic victims, substance use, anger management and adolescent/family issues.
Does life seem more complicated than it needs to be? Are the daily pressures of life, work, finances, children or relationships getting the best of you? Do you find yourself feeling sad, overwhelmed or anxious? Do you feel alone, abandoned, or invisible? Do you find yourself turning to alcohol or drugs to relax and forget your problems? Or does life feel so hopeless you’re thinking about checking out? If the answer is Yes, Call Debra today for a Free 15 minute consultation and appointment. Let me help you discover the hope and peace you’ve lost and bring more meaning back to your life.
![Photo of Todd Burd, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47d76d05-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Todd uses therapeutic techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which help his clients connect the emotional dots and live life with fewer regrets. Most of our feelings and actions are based upon our thinking patterns and experience filters. Identifying distortions in these thoughts and replacing them with healthier alternatives has been the cornerstone of his clients' success. He specializes in discovering client insight enabling men, women, and adolescent boys navigate through life's many situations and relationships.
Todd uses therapeutic techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which help his clients connect the emotional dots and live life with fewer regrets. Most of our feelings and actions are based upon our thinking patterns and experience filters. Identifying distortions in these thoughts and replacing them with healthier alternatives has been the cornerstone of his clients' success. He specializes in discovering client insight enabling men, women, and adolescent boys navigate through life's many situations and relationships.
![Photo of Jamie Renee Wagner - HOPE Child and Family Counseling/Teen & Adult Tx, MA, LCPC, RPT-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dc03911-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
HOPE Child and Family Counseling/Teen & Adult Tx
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
The adolescent therapies offered at HOPE address relationship issues, oppositional/defiant behaviors, self-esteem concerns, self-abusive behaviors, eating disorders, adjustment, abuse/neglect, PTSD, negative attitudes, addictions and more; all of which may be creating dysfunction in your teen's life and affecting your teen's overall development.
The counselors at HOPE - Child and Family Counseling/Adolescent and Adult Therapy specialize in therapy to promote emotional healing across the lifespan. We provide an atmosphere of acceptance and hope. Our skills are grounded in interpersonal connections and current interventions in neurobiology, attachment, cognitive-behavioral, trauma, family systems, child/play therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and more. We apply principles that treat the whole person while knowing that the body, mind, and social world can interplay with how we feel, think, and navigate through life. Locations: Roscoe, IL, Gurnee, IL, and Janesville, WI.
The adolescent therapies offered at HOPE address relationship issues, oppositional/defiant behaviors, self-esteem concerns, self-abusive behaviors, eating disorders, adjustment, abuse/neglect, PTSD, negative attitudes, addictions and more; all of which may be creating dysfunction in your teen's life and affecting your teen's overall development.
The counselors at HOPE - Child and Family Counseling/Adolescent and Adult Therapy specialize in therapy to promote emotional healing across the lifespan. We provide an atmosphere of acceptance and hope. Our skills are grounded in interpersonal connections and current interventions in neurobiology, attachment, cognitive-behavioral, trauma, family systems, child/play therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and more. We apply principles that treat the whole person while knowing that the body, mind, and social world can interplay with how we feel, think, and navigate through life. Locations: Roscoe, IL, Gurnee, IL, and Janesville, WI.
![Photo of J Scott Nelson - Transformations Counseling PLLC, EdD, NCC, LCPC, CRADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e728e602-4298-464f-8317-5fde991ccd99/1/320x400.jpeg)
Transformations Counseling PLLC
Counselor, EdD, NCC, LCPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61114
parenting a difficult teen, or couples recovering from sexual addiction), addictions (chemical and behavioral, e.
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
parenting a difficult teen, or couples recovering from sexual addiction), addictions (chemical and behavioral, e.
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
![Photo of Patti Bahnick, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/282eb79d-c502-4023-8a92-3f6ef7023546/1/320x400.jpeg)
Teen life is difficult these days and my compassionate style can help the struggling teen navigate these difficult waters.
Sometimes life seems overwhelming. Sometimes relationships are difficult. Sometimes an outside voice to help navigate difficult times and relationships can give a different perspective and give support. I am a clinically licensed therapist and have been working with individuals and couples for the past 15 years in helping them navigate through difficult times and situations to a place of fulfillment. Whether working to strengthen your relationship strategies, or helping you to understand your special worth to the world around you, I can help guide you and get you on your way to a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
Teen life is difficult these days and my compassionate style can help the struggling teen navigate these difficult waters.
Sometimes life seems overwhelming. Sometimes relationships are difficult. Sometimes an outside voice to help navigate difficult times and relationships can give a different perspective and give support. I am a clinically licensed therapist and have been working with individuals and couples for the past 15 years in helping them navigate through difficult times and situations to a place of fulfillment. Whether working to strengthen your relationship strategies, or helping you to understand your special worth to the world around you, I can help guide you and get you on your way to a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Laura Mullikin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a61f2978-3aec-4fc7-a78b-c42108824927/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Mullikin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
I have passion for working alongside individuals and couples, in all walks of life. From navigating feelings of anxiety or depression, or additional mental health issues, my goal is to help clients develop new coping mechanisms to change their lives for the better. I am also passionate about encouraging clients to live self-compassionate lives, whether through life transitions and troubles, or those struggling with body image/diet culture concerns.
I have passion for working alongside individuals and couples, in all walks of life. From navigating feelings of anxiety or depression, or additional mental health issues, my goal is to help clients develop new coping mechanisms to change their lives for the better. I am also passionate about encouraging clients to live self-compassionate lives, whether through life transitions and troubles, or those struggling with body image/diet culture concerns.
![Photo of Josh Vos, MA, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/756dd74d-414c-46e5-822e-e91b8bbeb26e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients! I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and children. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, motivation, or other issues, I am passionate about helping you make positive life changes. I utilize empathy and strive to build a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and mutual respect. I look forward to walking beside you through your unique individual journey and helping you overcome life’s challenges.
Accepting new clients! I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and children. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, motivation, or other issues, I am passionate about helping you make positive life changes. I utilize empathy and strive to build a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and mutual respect. I look forward to walking beside you through your unique individual journey and helping you overcome life’s challenges.
![Photo of Ruth Anderson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fc2d00e-8daa-4795-be93-1f192d625ded/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have immediate openings! ! I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I specialize in Health Psychology with an emphasis on helping individuals who have experienced major medical events and acute/chronic medical difficulties or changes. I understand how scary such changes and adjustments can be, and am here to help you process and move forward with your life. I also am experienced in treating chronic pain, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, functional disorders, mood swings and bipolar disorders, relationship challenges, grief, and struggles specific to those with neurodevelopment differences such as autism.
I have immediate openings! ! I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I specialize in Health Psychology with an emphasis on helping individuals who have experienced major medical events and acute/chronic medical difficulties or changes. I understand how scary such changes and adjustments can be, and am here to help you process and move forward with your life. I also am experienced in treating chronic pain, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, functional disorders, mood swings and bipolar disorders, relationship challenges, grief, and struggles specific to those with neurodevelopment differences such as autism.
See more therapy options for Cherry Valley
Nearby Teen Therapists Searches for Cherry Valley
See More Teen TherapistsTeen 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.