Therapists for Teens in Harmony, NC

Photo of Johannah Robinette, MA/EdS, LCMHC, NCC
Johannah Robinette
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA/EdS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Harmony, NC 28634
As a native of Iredell County, it is my privilege to counsel individuals who live here and in surrounding areas. Past experience includes working with adults of all ages, couples, children and teens. I particularly enjoyed working with teens in an alternative school setting. I have also counseled individuals struggling with OCD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, parenting issues, low self-esteem, and developmental disabilities. I especially empathize with the DD population due to personally experiencing many of the struggles faced by having a daughter who was born with Spina bifida.
As a native of Iredell County, it is my privilege to counsel individuals who live here and in surrounding areas. Past experience includes working with adults of all ages, couples, children and teens. I particularly enjoyed working with teens in an alternative school setting. I have also counseled individuals struggling with OCD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, parenting issues, low self-esteem, and developmental disabilities. I especially empathize with the DD population due to personally experiencing many of the struggles faced by having a daughter who was born with Spina bifida.
(980) 238-3879 View (980) 238-3879
Photo of Angela Mauldin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Mauldin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harmony, NC 28634
My experience has been working with adults of all ages, children and teens.
Do you often find it difficult to make decisions or resolve issues that weigh you down? Do you feel stuck in a cycle of anxiety, struggling to cope with grief, or perhaps stressed out by relationships? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Life Coach committed to helping people learn how to find the pathways that lead to healthier relationships and build effective strategies to overcome struggles.
My experience has been working with adults of all ages, children and teens.
Do you often find it difficult to make decisions or resolve issues that weigh you down? Do you feel stuck in a cycle of anxiety, struggling to cope with grief, or perhaps stressed out by relationships? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Life Coach committed to helping people learn how to find the pathways that lead to healthier relationships and build effective strategies to overcome struggles.
(704) 481-6631 View (704) 481-6631
Photo of Robbie McCraw, MS,  LCMHC, Counselor
Robbie McCraw
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Harmony, NC 28634  (Online Only)
Robbie McCraw is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. Robbie helps individuals manage anxiety, depression, psychosis, and manic disorder, as well as avoid burnout. You and Robbie can work together to identify why you are struggling and discover what will work to help you get back to living your life. Robbie will use various approaches to find what works best for you and address topics that you feel are of the highest value to your immediate needs.
Robbie McCraw is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2021. Robbie helps individuals manage anxiety, depression, psychosis, and manic disorder, as well as avoid burnout. You and Robbie can work together to identify why you are struggling and discover what will work to help you get back to living your life. Robbie will use various approaches to find what works best for you and address topics that you feel are of the highest value to your immediate needs.
(980) 338-2083 View (980) 338-2083
Photo of Clifford Wilson, LCMHC
Clifford Wilson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Harmony, NC 28634
Clifford Wilson, LMHC Clifford Wilson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 1998. He has a Master's Degree in Counseling Education. Clifford's personal philosophy is eclectic in nature. He incorporates different theoretical approaches in helping the client depending on age and problems of the client. One of the theories he uses is Solution-Focus Therapy, a cognitive approach which address how we think. Clifford believes we can focus too much time and energy on the problem itself versus on finding solution(s). Another theory he might use is Person-Centered Therapy.
Clifford Wilson, LMHC Clifford Wilson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 1998. He has a Master's Degree in Counseling Education. Clifford's personal philosophy is eclectic in nature. He incorporates different theoretical approaches in helping the client depending on age and problems of the client. One of the theories he uses is Solution-Focus Therapy, a cognitive approach which address how we think. Clifford believes we can focus too much time and energy on the problem itself versus on finding solution(s). Another theory he might use is Person-Centered Therapy.
(980) 393-2128 View (980) 393-2128
Photo of Christian Noel Davidson, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Christian Noel Davidson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Harmony, NC 28634
Noel enjoys providing parent education and is passionate about serving children, adolescents and adults.
C. Noel Davidson treats patients starting at 10 years old. Noel graduated with her Bachelors of Arts in English from Gardner-Webb University and her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Lenoir-Rhyne University. She is both a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Professional and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist through the state of North Carolina. Her previous counseling experiences include outpatient Substance Abuse and Mental Health counseling, Career and Personal Development counseling in a university setting, and working with evidence based children’s programs through Smart Start Services.
Noel enjoys providing parent education and is passionate about serving children, adolescents and adults.
C. Noel Davidson treats patients starting at 10 years old. Noel graduated with her Bachelors of Arts in English from Gardner-Webb University and her Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Lenoir-Rhyne University. She is both a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Professional and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist through the state of North Carolina. Her previous counseling experiences include outpatient Substance Abuse and Mental Health counseling, Career and Personal Development counseling in a university setting, and working with evidence based children’s programs through Smart Start Services.
(704) 703-3022 View (704) 703-3022
Photo of Chaqueenia Livingston, MA, LCMHCA
Chaqueenia Livingston
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Harmony, NC 28634
Chaqueenia treats patients starting 10 years old. Chaqueenia graduated from Lenoir Rhyne University with a Master's Degree in Mental Health counseling. She is licensed in the state of North Carolina as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults. Chaqueenia believes that effective therapy is about a number of things: experience, expertise, a clear diagnosis, concise goals, and the knowledge and the tools that may effectively help clients navigate difficult life issues.
Chaqueenia treats patients starting 10 years old. Chaqueenia graduated from Lenoir Rhyne University with a Master's Degree in Mental Health counseling. She is licensed in the state of North Carolina as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. She enjoys working with children, adolescents, and adults. Chaqueenia believes that effective therapy is about a number of things: experience, expertise, a clear diagnosis, concise goals, and the knowledge and the tools that may effectively help clients navigate difficult life issues.
(704) 389-2346 View (704) 389-2346
Photo of Elizabeth Vaughan, MA, LCMHC
Elizabeth Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Harmony, NC 28634
Elizabeth Vaughan holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from Messiah College. Once her three children were grown, she furthered her education by obtaining a Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who enjoys working with children, young adults and women and has previous work experience as a high school Spanish Teacher and a Homeschooling mom as well as 20 years of combined experience as a Children's Ministry Leader and Youth Pastor.
Elizabeth Vaughan holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from Messiah College. Once her three children were grown, she furthered her education by obtaining a Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who enjoys working with children, young adults and women and has previous work experience as a high school Spanish Teacher and a Homeschooling mom as well as 20 years of combined experience as a Children's Ministry Leader and Youth Pastor.
(704) 859-0662 View (704) 859-0662
Photo of Cortney Gordon, MSW,  LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cortney Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Harmony, NC 28634
Cortney Gordon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor’s and Advanced Standing Master’s Degree in Social Work from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. As a licensed therapist associate and a seasoned medical social worker, Cortney brings a unique perspective to her practice, drawing on her expertise in working with patients and families navigating complex medical systems.
Cortney Gordon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor’s and Advanced Standing Master’s Degree in Social Work from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. As a licensed therapist associate and a seasoned medical social worker, Cortney brings a unique perspective to her practice, drawing on her expertise in working with patients and families navigating complex medical systems.
(980) 364-8309 View (980) 364-8309
Photo of Barbara Miller, LCMCHS
Barbara Miller
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMCHS
Verified Verified
Harmony, NC 28634
Barbara has experience working with children (as young as 5), adolescents, and adults in an upfront, caring and straight forward manner.
Barbara Miller is a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor. She earned her Master's at Nova University in Florida. She has 30 years' experience in individual, family and group therapy in office and school settings, over telehealth and, when warranted, in the home. She enjoys working with children, adolescents and their families, as well as adults. Barbara is proud to offer multiple therapy techniques including CBT, DBT, Reality, Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing and Psychoeducation to help each client reach their unique life goals.
Barbara has experience working with children (as young as 5), adolescents, and adults in an upfront, caring and straight forward manner.
Barbara Miller is a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor. She earned her Master's at Nova University in Florida. She has 30 years' experience in individual, family and group therapy in office and school settings, over telehealth and, when warranted, in the home. She enjoys working with children, adolescents and their families, as well as adults. Barbara is proud to offer multiple therapy techniques including CBT, DBT, Reality, Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing and Psychoeducation to help each client reach their unique life goals.
(704) 389-3032 View (704) 389-3032

More Therapists Nearby

Kevin Denny
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS
Verified Verified
Olin, NC 28660
Although my primary focus is in child and adolescent therapies, I have extensive experience in working with adults.
I am a child and family therapist who specializes in the treatment of adolescents and their families dealing with substance abuse as well as other behaviorial or emotional problems. I have worked in Iredell, Yadkin and Surry counties for 10 years and have a comprehensive knowledge of resources available for consumers in the area.
Although my primary focus is in child and adolescent therapies, I have extensive experience in working with adults.
I am a child and family therapist who specializes in the treatment of adolescents and their families dealing with substance abuse as well as other behaviorial or emotional problems. I have worked in Iredell, Yadkin and Surry counties for 10 years and have a comprehensive knowledge of resources available for consumers in the area.
(704) 763-0851 View (704) 763-0851
Photo of Amanda Haynes Walker Lcsw, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Haynes Walker Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Hamptonville, NC 27020  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression related issues, sexual issues, or issues arising from special sexual populations, alternative identities, and teen related issues.
Do you find yourself saying: I'm dealing with a lot of internal struggles. Most therapists don't seem to understand it. I need therapy that is responsive to my specific situation. Family and friends don't seem to understand. Life is just not going as smoothly as I need it to, because my situation is not "mainstream". Do you need guidance to help you get through depression, anger, doubt, or anxiety? Do you deal with self-esteem, relationship, sexual issues, feeling isolated, and feeling separated from larger society? Is this feeling or situation normal? If you can relate to these questions, I can help.
I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression related issues, sexual issues, or issues arising from special sexual populations, alternative identities, and teen related issues.
Do you find yourself saying: I'm dealing with a lot of internal struggles. Most therapists don't seem to understand it. I need therapy that is responsive to my specific situation. Family and friends don't seem to understand. Life is just not going as smoothly as I need it to, because my situation is not "mainstream". Do you need guidance to help you get through depression, anger, doubt, or anxiety? Do you deal with self-esteem, relationship, sexual issues, feeling isolated, and feeling separated from larger society? Is this feeling or situation normal? If you can relate to these questions, I can help.
(704) 997-3084 View (704) 997-3084
Photo of Nichole C Lentz - New Arrows Counseling, PLLC , LCMHC, Counselor
New Arrows Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Statesville, NC 28625
At New Arrows Counseling, PLLC we work with children, teens, and adults that are struggling with any of the challenges that life throws our way. Our therapist, Nichole Lentz, specializes in dealing with anxiety, depression, and parenting skills as well postpartum and perinatal issues. We also provide Life Coach services for those individuals who are needing help and support in reaching their goals in personal growth, relationships, work, diet/exercise, or organizational skills.
At New Arrows Counseling, PLLC we work with children, teens, and adults that are struggling with any of the challenges that life throws our way. Our therapist, Nichole Lentz, specializes in dealing with anxiety, depression, and parenting skills as well postpartum and perinatal issues. We also provide Life Coach services for those individuals who are needing help and support in reaching their goals in personal growth, relationships, work, diet/exercise, or organizational skills.
(704) 981-9778 View (704) 981-9778

Online Therapists

Photo of Ron Pallick, LCAS, LCSW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Ron Pallick
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
I have particularly enjoyed conducting adolescent and adult intensive out patient substance abuse and personal growth groups.
Hearing from the heart and seeking help with paralyzing personal challenges can be a daunting experience. Finding someone to connect with in the process of personal healing is half the battle to a solution. Keeping the person at the center of the therapeutic process is a goal for me. I have employed this approach for over 16 years of practice in Western NC. While this majestic mountain setting is a place of unique beauty it is not free of personal challenges that may need a calm and skilled approach to navigating life' s challenges.
I have particularly enjoyed conducting adolescent and adult intensive out patient substance abuse and personal growth groups.
Hearing from the heart and seeking help with paralyzing personal challenges can be a daunting experience. Finding someone to connect with in the process of personal healing is half the battle to a solution. Keeping the person at the center of the therapeutic process is a goal for me. I have employed this approach for over 16 years of practice in Western NC. While this majestic mountain setting is a place of unique beauty it is not free of personal challenges that may need a calm and skilled approach to navigating life' s challenges.
(828) 548-1726 View (828) 548-1726
Photo of Perri C. May, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Perri C. May
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
I specialize in therapy for depression, anxiety, couples and family counseling, parenting support, work and career issues, grief counseling, premarital therapy, child and adolescent counseling.
I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I believe that all people have a desire to improve their life. Through my counseling services, clients are provided tools to empower and understand themselves, as well as, improve their relationship with others. When clients are provided empathetic listening, and effective interpersonal skills to deal with anger, stress and communicate more effectively, success is a given and a healthier person arises. Allow me to take this powerful journey with you!
I specialize in therapy for depression, anxiety, couples and family counseling, parenting support, work and career issues, grief counseling, premarital therapy, child and adolescent counseling.
I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I believe that all people have a desire to improve their life. Through my counseling services, clients are provided tools to empower and understand themselves, as well as, improve their relationship with others. When clients are provided empathetic listening, and effective interpersonal skills to deal with anger, stress and communicate more effectively, success is a given and a healthier person arises. Allow me to take this powerful journey with you!
(704) 893-8396 View (704) 893-8396
Photo of Doerun Stokes - Abundant Joy Counseling, PLLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Abundant Joy Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I primarily see couples, teens, individuals, and families, and work from humanistic and family systems approaches; as well as faith-based upon request.
Taking NEW clients: Are you searching for healing for your marriage/relationship? Are you an individual dealing with the overwhelming stressors of life or want to reconnect to your emotions? Maybe a teen or young adult working through identity development? These specific areas, among many others, is why I'm here. I care about the health of the individual and the family unit, and believe when it's thriving and growing, all members thrive and grow and heal. It takes courage to ask for help, and I believe your courage will be rewarded. Let's take that next step together!
I primarily see couples, teens, individuals, and families, and work from humanistic and family systems approaches; as well as faith-based upon request.
Taking NEW clients: Are you searching for healing for your marriage/relationship? Are you an individual dealing with the overwhelming stressors of life or want to reconnect to your emotions? Maybe a teen or young adult working through identity development? These specific areas, among many others, is why I'm here. I care about the health of the individual and the family unit, and believe when it's thriving and growing, all members thrive and grow and heal. It takes courage to ask for help, and I believe your courage will be rewarded. Let's take that next step together!
(704) 228-6837 View (704) 228-6837
Photo of Kate Griffin, NCC, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Kate Griffin
Counselor, NCC, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Reach out via phone or email to schedule your first session OR to schedule your child/ teen!.
I am a licensed clinical mental health therapist committed to helping clients of all ages live a life they want to live! I centralize multiculturalism and advocacy through a trauma-focused lens in my work with clients. I have experience working with children and families navigating social, emotional, academic, and behavioral concerns and changes. My counseling expertise is in helping clients develop identity, strengthen coping skills and make behavioral changes. I utilize play therapy with children and work from a strengths-based, person-centered theoretical orientation.
Reach out via phone or email to schedule your first session OR to schedule your child/ teen!.
I am a licensed clinical mental health therapist committed to helping clients of all ages live a life they want to live! I centralize multiculturalism and advocacy through a trauma-focused lens in my work with clients. I have experience working with children and families navigating social, emotional, academic, and behavioral concerns and changes. My counseling expertise is in helping clients develop identity, strengthen coping skills and make behavioral changes. I utilize play therapy with children and work from a strengths-based, person-centered theoretical orientation.
(704) 286-1863 View (704) 286-1863
Photo of O'Neale Atkinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
O'Neale Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with fif teen years of experience in social work ranging from case management, advocacy, crisis intervention, individual and group therapy, and non-profit leadership.
I believe that attention to mental health is a vital part of self-care and want to create a therapeutic space that supports and embraces people of all orientations and identities. I enjoy working with adults and older adolescent youth as they navigate life transitions and issues related to depression, anxiety, self-concept, and relationships.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with fif teen years of experience in social work ranging from case management, advocacy, crisis intervention, individual and group therapy, and non-profit leadership.
I believe that attention to mental health is a vital part of self-care and want to create a therapeutic space that supports and embraces people of all orientations and identities. I enjoy working with adults and older adolescent youth as they navigate life transitions and issues related to depression, anxiety, self-concept, and relationships.
(704) 285-1841 View (704) 285-1841
Photo of Jacquena L McIver, LCSWA, MSW, REIKI, OWNER, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacquena L McIver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW, REIKI, OWNER
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27405
Like the mythical Phoenix which arises anew from its ashes, we each have the capacity to survive, and emerge stronger from difficulties, life circumstances, personal and professional setbacks and tragedy. I'm the owner of TQHT Therapy & Reiki, PLLC a Therapist, Reiki Master Teacher and Life Coach, with experience and training. I have worked effectively with adolescents, college students, adults, families, teen mothers and survivors of domestic abuse; addressing issues inclusive of depression and anxiety, trauma, parent-child conflict, emotional/behavioral disruptions, life and career transitions, gender, sexuality, and spirituality.
Like the mythical Phoenix which arises anew from its ashes, we each have the capacity to survive, and emerge stronger from difficulties, life circumstances, personal and professional setbacks and tragedy. I'm the owner of TQHT Therapy & Reiki, PLLC a Therapist, Reiki Master Teacher and Life Coach, with experience and training. I have worked effectively with adolescents, college students, adults, families, teen mothers and survivors of domestic abuse; addressing issues inclusive of depression and anxiety, trauma, parent-child conflict, emotional/behavioral disruptions, life and career transitions, gender, sexuality, and spirituality.
(336) 361-1976 View (336) 361-1976
Photo of Danielle Henderson - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Winston-Salem, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Winston-Salem
Counselor
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
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.
(336) 537-1362 View (336) 537-1362
Photo of Stephanie Pierrenoel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Pierrenoel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
She loves to be creative and will use art or play therapy approaches with your child or teen, when appropriate.
Stephanie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida with 10 years of experience working with adults, children, and families. Stephanie works with adults to treat anxiety, depression, and trauma to include domestic violence and recent or childhood abuse. She also partners with clients to address childhood disorders including oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder and accompanying parental support, ADHD in children, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma. She is comfortable with populations with experiences in the child welfare or foster care system
She loves to be creative and will use art or play therapy approaches with your child or teen, when appropriate.
Stephanie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida with 10 years of experience working with adults, children, and families. Stephanie works with adults to treat anxiety, depression, and trauma to include domestic violence and recent or childhood abuse. She also partners with clients to address childhood disorders including oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder and accompanying parental support, ADHD in children, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma. She is comfortable with populations with experiences in the child welfare or foster care system
(704) 761-6787 View (704) 761-6787

See more therapy options for Harmony

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.