Therapists for Teens in Rochelle, IL

Photo of Christine Novak - Changes Counseling, LLC, MA, LCPC
Changes Counseling, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rochelle, IL 61068
With teens, we build rapport and find solutions together.
Hi, I'm Christine Novak, MA, LCPC, of Changes Counseling, LLC. We offer counseling to individuals, couples, youth and families in Rochelle and Peru, Illinois. Changes Counseling has been serving rural Northern Illinois since 2010 with professional, confidential mental health services. With a team of experienced, licensed counselors we know how to help you and your family improve your situation. Our first priority is for you to feel comfortable, listened to, and respected. We have helped hundreds of people through life's challenges. Call us today for an appointment. We look forward to helping your reach your goals.
With teens, we build rapport and find solutions together.
Hi, I'm Christine Novak, MA, LCPC, of Changes Counseling, LLC. We offer counseling to individuals, couples, youth and families in Rochelle and Peru, Illinois. Changes Counseling has been serving rural Northern Illinois since 2010 with professional, confidential mental health services. With a team of experienced, licensed counselors we know how to help you and your family improve your situation. Our first priority is for you to feel comfortable, listened to, and respected. We have helped hundreds of people through life's challenges. Call us today for an appointment. We look forward to helping your reach your goals.
(815) 620-4944 View (815) 620-4944
Photo of Jessica Lupont, MSW, LCSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Lupont
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochelle, IL 61068
I believe that building a trusting, therapeutic relationship with my clients is extremely important. I value meeting my clients where they are in their journey of life. By processing past experiences, we can work together to change negative patterns and build upon positive patterns.
I believe that building a trusting, therapeutic relationship with my clients is extremely important. I value meeting my clients where they are in their journey of life. By processing past experiences, we can work together to change negative patterns and build upon positive patterns.
(815) 567-8376 View (815) 567-8376
Photo of Passion For Living Counseling Services Llc, LCSW, CADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Passion For Living Counseling Services Llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Rochelle, IL 61068
Passion for Living Counseling Services was founded in 2018 by Lorre Hunter, LCSW, whose dream was to save the world one person at a time. Now with the help of five other social workers, we work side by side our clients to help them achieve the goals they desire in therapy. We believe in a person-centered approach and meet the client where they are in life. You are the expert of your life and we would love to be part of your journey.
Passion for Living Counseling Services was founded in 2018 by Lorre Hunter, LCSW, whose dream was to save the world one person at a time. Now with the help of five other social workers, we work side by side our clients to help them achieve the goals they desire in therapy. We believe in a person-centered approach and meet the client where they are in life. You are the expert of your life and we would love to be part of your journey.
(815) 242-4735 View (815) 242-4735
Photo of Shannon Pociecha, MA, LCPC
Shannon Pociecha
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rochelle, IL 61068
I specialize in working with children/ adolescents with ASD, ADHD, DMDD, behavioral challenges, or emotional regulation difficulties.
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
I specialize in working with children/ adolescents with ASD, ADHD, DMDD, behavioral challenges, or emotional regulation difficulties.
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
(815) 406-6057 View (815) 406-6057
Photo of Kate M Michels, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate M Michels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochelle, IL 61068
Being seen and heard is an important part of the human experience, and the therapeutic space is valuable for discovering who you are and how you interact with the world. Counseling can help with common life challenges such as anxiety, depression, overwhelm, trauma, adjustments, loss/grief, family, and relationship issues. I like to foster the therapeutic relationship using empathy and compassion from a professional vantage point. Everyone has unique needs and experiences that need to be explored and validated, while gaining skills and knowledge to elicit the personal changes you are aiming for.
Being seen and heard is an important part of the human experience, and the therapeutic space is valuable for discovering who you are and how you interact with the world. Counseling can help with common life challenges such as anxiety, depression, overwhelm, trauma, adjustments, loss/grief, family, and relationship issues. I like to foster the therapeutic relationship using empathy and compassion from a professional vantage point. Everyone has unique needs and experiences that need to be explored and validated, while gaining skills and knowledge to elicit the personal changes you are aiming for.
(779) 548-6390 View (779) 548-6390
Photo of Stephanie Klewin, MA, LCPC, NCC
Stephanie Klewin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rochelle, IL 61068
Life is a journey. We have successes, trying times, and natural challenges to overcome. I feel passionate about being a positive agent of change in the lives of my clients. I recognize that an ideal client is one that desires change, and this inspires me to view my career as a gift and privilege. I specialize in treating grief (life losses and non-life losses), chronic illness, and women's issues. I also treat anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship concerns, divorce/separation, men's issues, self-esteem, and more. If you are thinking of change, you are capable and worthy of creating it.
Life is a journey. We have successes, trying times, and natural challenges to overcome. I feel passionate about being a positive agent of change in the lives of my clients. I recognize that an ideal client is one that desires change, and this inspires me to view my career as a gift and privilege. I specialize in treating grief (life losses and non-life losses), chronic illness, and women's issues. I also treat anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship concerns, divorce/separation, men's issues, self-esteem, and more. If you are thinking of change, you are capable and worthy of creating it.
(815) 362-1288 View (815) 362-1288
Photo of Caroline Dress, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline Dress
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rochelle, IL 61068
I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. My approach to treatment begins with forming mutual trust. With this foundation of support, I hope to empower clients to explore their past, build self-efficacy, and grow towards change. I consider myself an ally for clients as they seek to identify and understand the nature of their behavioral and relational patterns, and I work hand-in-hand with clients on this journey.
I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. My approach to treatment begins with forming mutual trust. With this foundation of support, I hope to empower clients to explore their past, build self-efficacy, and grow towards change. I consider myself an ally for clients as they seek to identify and understand the nature of their behavioral and relational patterns, and I work hand-in-hand with clients on this journey.
(815) 406-6823 View (815) 406-6823

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Angela Johnson, LPC, Counselor
Angela Johnson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashton, IL 61006
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
(630) 749-9247 View (630) 749-9247

Online Therapists

Photo of Meghan Grzetich, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan Grzetich
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
When your child or teen needs support it's important to find the right fit for them. They need to be comfortable with a therapist and you as a caregiver should feel confident with that provider as well. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults on a variety of issues they may be struggling with. Depression, family or marital stress, behavioral issues, lack of motivation or school refusal, healthy relationships, excessive anxiety and self-esteem are common struggles people may tackle through therapy. Additionally, I work with the LGBTQ community including teens with gender identity issues.
When your child or teen needs support it's important to find the right fit for them. They need to be comfortable with a therapist and you as a caregiver should feel confident with that provider as well. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults on a variety of issues they may be struggling with. Depression, family or marital stress, behavioral issues, lack of motivation or school refusal, healthy relationships, excessive anxiety and self-esteem are common struggles people may tackle through therapy. Additionally, I work with the LGBTQ community including teens with gender identity issues.
(779) 213-2050 View (779) 213-2050
Photo of Erin Wold - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Joliet
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Joliet
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
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 Tony Rio, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tony Rio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Darien, IL 60561
Tony will help you or your teen remotely from anywhere in Illinois.
Tony Rio, LCPC, takes a non-judgmental approach to help foster a safe and welcoming therapeutic atmosphere. He is committed to helping his clients work toward reaching their full potential. Tony earned a BA from Bradley University and an MA from Chicago School of Professional Psychology. He has experience with clients from adolescence to older adulthood, and worked in community mental health and various forensic settings. In therapy, Tony uses using a variety of techniques such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Tony will help you or your teen remotely from anywhere in Illinois.
Tony Rio, LCPC, takes a non-judgmental approach to help foster a safe and welcoming therapeutic atmosphere. He is committed to helping his clients work toward reaching their full potential. Tony earned a BA from Bradley University and an MA from Chicago School of Professional Psychology. He has experience with clients from adolescence to older adulthood, and worked in community mental health and various forensic settings. In therapy, Tony uses using a variety of techniques such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(630) 349-5433 View (630) 349-5433
Photo of Gabrielle Wilson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabrielle Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60637
Whether you are a teen or adult feeling lost, stressed, or just not yourself. Or couples and families struggling with relationship dynamics, communication breakdowns, or conflict resolution. I seek to help those looking to improve their mental well being and relationships. If you are struggling with the pressures of life or feeling disconnected from yourself or loved ones whether it be in navigating adolescence, parenting, sibling or marital difficulties. We can explore your challenges together. We'll uncover underlying patterns, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and discover new ways of relating.
Whether you are a teen or adult feeling lost, stressed, or just not yourself. Or couples and families struggling with relationship dynamics, communication breakdowns, or conflict resolution. I seek to help those looking to improve their mental well being and relationships. If you are struggling with the pressures of life or feeling disconnected from yourself or loved ones whether it be in navigating adolescence, parenting, sibling or marital difficulties. We can explore your challenges together. We'll uncover underlying patterns, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and discover new ways of relating.
(872) 266-4977 x238 View (872) 266-4977 x238
Photo of Montcerrat G Sanchez, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Montcerrat G Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Cicero, IL 60804  (Online Only)
I help young adults and teenagers, especially those from the Latino community, by offering culturally sensitive support for anxiety, depression, and identity challenges.
My ideal client is a young Latino adult or teenager facing challenges like anxiety, depression, and cultural pressures. They need a culturally sensitive space to explore their identity, manage stress, and build coping skills. Their goals include gaining confidence, reducing mental health symptoms, and developing resilience. They seek understanding and empowerment, motivated by the desire to overcome barriers and contribute positively to their community. They want a therapist who supports their journey toward wellness and success.
I help young adults and teenagers, especially those from the Latino community, by offering culturally sensitive support for anxiety, depression, and identity challenges.
My ideal client is a young Latino adult or teenager facing challenges like anxiety, depression, and cultural pressures. They need a culturally sensitive space to explore their identity, manage stress, and build coping skills. Their goals include gaining confidence, reducing mental health symptoms, and developing resilience. They seek understanding and empowerment, motivated by the desire to overcome barriers and contribute positively to their community. They want a therapist who supports their journey toward wellness and success.
(708) 419-4725 View (708) 419-4725
Photo of Lisa Panozzo, MSW, LCSW, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Panozzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PEL
Verified Verified
Lockport, IL 60441
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults/couples and seniors who come in with a variety of concerns such as: cancer diagnosis, social isolation, depression, anxiety, grief, anger, infidelity, cutting, suicidal ideations, and feelings of being overwhelmed. I am extremely knowledgeable in adolescent development. I believe in establishing a strong connection with my clients in order to be successful. I use a very personable and direct communication style that allows my clients to gain self-awareness, confront denial, improve irrational thinking, and establish coping skills to encourage healthy change.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults/couples and seniors who come in with a variety of concerns such as: cancer diagnosis, social isolation, depression, anxiety, grief, anger, infidelity, cutting, suicidal ideations, and feelings of being overwhelmed. I am extremely knowledgeable in adolescent development. I believe in establishing a strong connection with my clients in order to be successful. I use a very personable and direct communication style that allows my clients to gain self-awareness, confront denial, improve irrational thinking, and establish coping skills to encourage healthy change.
(708) 377-5385 View (708) 377-5385
Photo of Logan Spicer - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chicago, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chicago
Counselor
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
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 Judy A Carlson, LCSW, CRADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy A Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I have over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups addressing the following: anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, substance use disorders, co-dependency, adolescent issues, relationship/family issues, grief and loss, adjustment issues, stress management and mood disorders.
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
I have over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups addressing the following: anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, substance use disorders, co-dependency, adolescent issues, relationship/family issues, grief and loss, adjustment issues, stress management and mood disorders.
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
(847) 813-7320 x132 View (847) 813-7320 x132
Photo of Jessica Zaucha - BZA Behavioral Health-LITH Office, LCSW, Counselor
BZA Behavioral Health-LITH Office
Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake In The Hills, IL 60156
With years of experience, BZA Behavioral Health specializes in the unique treatment needs of child, adolescent and adult clients.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
With years of experience, BZA Behavioral Health specializes in the unique treatment needs of child, adolescent and adult clients.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
(224) 813-3175 View (224) 813-3175
Photo of Arrie M Simpson - The Heart of Counseling and Wellness, PLLC, LCPC, CSAT, NCC, BSP, Counselor
The Heart of Counseling and Wellness, PLLC
Counselor, LCPC, CSAT, NCC, BSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
We have staff that specialize in working in life transitions, children and adolescent , and trauma informed yoga.
Through their work at The Heart of Counseling and Wellness, clients learn ways to break negative behavioral patterns, gain healthy coping tools, and receive psychoeducation on mental health. Our main focus is intergenerational trauma. We work with our clients to gain an understanding of what happened to them and how it affects how they show up today. Our goal is to walk with each client to get to the heart of what brings them through our door. We believe that with support and empowerment, individuals can have fulfilling and healthy lives.
We have staff that specialize in working in life transitions, children and adolescent , and trauma informed yoga.
Through their work at The Heart of Counseling and Wellness, clients learn ways to break negative behavioral patterns, gain healthy coping tools, and receive psychoeducation on mental health. Our main focus is intergenerational trauma. We work with our clients to gain an understanding of what happened to them and how it affects how they show up today. Our goal is to walk with each client to get to the heart of what brings them through our door. We believe that with support and empowerment, individuals can have fulfilling and healthy lives.
(872) 231-3449 View (872) 231-3449
Photo of Sondra Young - Safe Place Counseling, LCSW, LCPC, LPC, LSW, Counselor
Safe Place Counseling
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, LPC, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60609
Safe Place Counseling specializes in treatment with Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Grief/Loss, Identity/Self Esteem, Seniors/Older Adults, Relationship Issues, Crisis Counseling, Anger/Aggression Management, Trauma, and Teen Issues.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
Safe Place Counseling specializes in treatment with Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Grief/Loss, Identity/Self Esteem, Seniors/Older Adults, Relationship Issues, Crisis Counseling, Anger/Aggression Management, Trauma, and Teen Issues.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
(312) 374-6518 View (312) 374-6518
Photo of Kaitlyn Anderson, LCPC
Kaitlyn Anderson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomingdale, IL 60108  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with almost nine of years of experience serving clients and patients in multiple levels of care including, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient. Having had needed my own therapist as an adolescent and periodically throughout my adult life, I knew I wanted to pay my own experience forward and provide a space for all who I would see that is welcoming, safe, and empathetically understanding. It is my belief that those three characteristics provide a foundation to therapy for individuals to make profound changes to their life.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with almost nine of years of experience serving clients and patients in multiple levels of care including, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient. Having had needed my own therapist as an adolescent and periodically throughout my adult life, I knew I wanted to pay my own experience forward and provide a space for all who I would see that is welcoming, safe, and empathetically understanding. It is my belief that those three characteristics provide a foundation to therapy for individuals to make profound changes to their life.
(630) 349-4217 View (630) 349-4217

See more therapy options for Rochelle

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.