Therapists for Teens in Blanco, TX

Photo of Diane Cook Darby, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Cook Darby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blanco, TX 78606  (Online Only)
Additionally, I have over 25 years of experience as a therapist working alongside adults, children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma.
I believe you are exactly where you need to be.... Right now. Rumi said it best: "The wound is the place where the light enters you." The suffering, the vulnerability, the anger and the fear are perfect opportunities to shine a light of awareness and begin healing. I offer a safe space for each awareness to unfold without judgement. My approach tends to be ecclectic and holistic, incorporating spiritual practices to raise your consciousness in order to create alignment with your heart, body, and soul so that healing may begin.
Additionally, I have over 25 years of experience as a therapist working alongside adults, children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma.
I believe you are exactly where you need to be.... Right now. Rumi said it best: "The wound is the place where the light enters you." The suffering, the vulnerability, the anger and the fear are perfect opportunities to shine a light of awareness and begin healing. I offer a safe space for each awareness to unfold without judgement. My approach tends to be ecclectic and holistic, incorporating spiritual practices to raise your consciousness in order to create alignment with your heart, body, and soul so that healing may begin.
(865) 406-6084 View (865) 406-6084
Photo of Sheila K McHenry - Smithson Valley Counseling Center Inc., PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Smithson Valley Counseling Center Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Blanco, TX 78606
I have been a licensed clinician since 1988. I started working with families in 1984. I have worked with clients as young as two and as mature as their nineties. I love working with couples, families, children, and teens; helping families with the challenges of adolescence and parenting. I work with couples recovering from infidelity and those desiring to strengthen their relationships. I work with PTSD, and Dissociative Disorders. I am trained in hypnotherapy, CBT, DBT, Integrative Holistic Therapy and EMDR. I was fortunate to complete my EMDR training (Levels I and II) with Francine Shapiro, PhD, EMDR's originator, in 1994.
I have been a licensed clinician since 1988. I started working with families in 1984. I have worked with clients as young as two and as mature as their nineties. I love working with couples, families, children, and teens; helping families with the challenges of adolescence and parenting. I work with couples recovering from infidelity and those desiring to strengthen their relationships. I work with PTSD, and Dissociative Disorders. I am trained in hypnotherapy, CBT, DBT, Integrative Holistic Therapy and EMDR. I was fortunate to complete my EMDR training (Levels I and II) with Francine Shapiro, PhD, EMDR's originator, in 1994.
(830) 549-4719 View (830) 549-4719
Photo of Sonia Torres, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonia Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Blanco, TX 78606  (Online Only)
My name is Sonia Torres and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Austin, TX. I work with adolescents and young adults and specialize in working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma and are struggling with anxiety and depression. I use an integrative approach to therapy to create the best care for my clients. Some of the therapeutic modalities I use are Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness-based practices. I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe space for you to process experiences.
My name is Sonia Torres and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Austin, TX. I work with adolescents and young adults and specialize in working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma and are struggling with anxiety and depression. I use an integrative approach to therapy to create the best care for my clients. Some of the therapeutic modalities I use are Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness-based practices. I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe space for you to process experiences.
(346) 482-2549 View (346) 482-2549
Photo of Lauren Esquivel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Esquivel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Blanco, TX 78606
I love getting to know and helping kids find their way in the world. Face it, sometimes we all need a bit more "staff" or "tribe" in our corner to navigate hard times. I believe this can be especially true for kids and teens.
I love getting to know and helping kids find their way in the world. Face it, sometimes we all need a bit more "staff" or "tribe" in our corner to navigate hard times. I believe this can be especially true for kids and teens.
(830) 521-5257 View (830) 521-5257

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lynette Kay Slebrch, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynette Kay Slebrch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring Branch, TX 78070  (Online Only)
I work best with children and adolescents. I also work with the parents occasionally to reinforce the strategies that we are learning. I want to help parents and children to feel better about their self, their relationships, and their future. I have worked in the school system for over 20 years, helping those with various disabilities and mental health issues. I am also a military wife and mother of four who has experience with adjustment problems, separation, and reuniting.
I work best with children and adolescents. I also work with the parents occasionally to reinforce the strategies that we are learning. I want to help parents and children to feel better about their self, their relationships, and their future. I have worked in the school system for over 20 years, helping those with various disabilities and mental health issues. I am also a military wife and mother of four who has experience with adjustment problems, separation, and reuniting.
(830) 251-6188 View (830) 251-6188

Online Therapists

Photo of Sara Ruth Favorite, PhD, Psychologist
Sara Ruth Favorite
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209
I have extensive training and professional experience in working with a broad array of relationship and family concerns, parenting, and adolescent treatment.
I obtained a Ph.D. from the University of Denver. I completed a Predoctoral Internship and a Postdoctoral Fellowship in clinical psychology at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio. My broad training included emergency psychiatry, inpatient and outpatient adult and adolescent treatment, neuropsychological and forensic assessment, and behavioral medicine . My fellowship training in psychological testing and adolescent development informs my clinical thinking and focuses treatment to the psychological, interpersonal, and developmental presentation of each individual.
I have extensive training and professional experience in working with a broad array of relationship and family concerns, parenting, and adolescent treatment.
I obtained a Ph.D. from the University of Denver. I completed a Predoctoral Internship and a Postdoctoral Fellowship in clinical psychology at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio. My broad training included emergency psychiatry, inpatient and outpatient adult and adolescent treatment, neuropsychological and forensic assessment, and behavioral medicine . My fellowship training in psychological testing and adolescent development informs my clinical thinking and focuses treatment to the psychological, interpersonal, and developmental presentation of each individual.
(210) 526-0425 View (210) 526-0425
Photo of Caryn R Nigliazzo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caryn R Nigliazzo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple, TX 76504
Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, or your adolescent, I am here to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve your full potential.
My educational background includes an M.A. in Psychology from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and an M.A. in Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I am focused on providing compassionate and effective therapy tailored to each individual's needs. As a provider of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), I offer evidence-based approaches to address behavioral, anxiety, mood, and trauma-related disorders. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for clients of all ages.
Whether you're seeking support for yourself, your child, or your adolescent, I am here to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve your full potential.
My educational background includes an M.A. in Psychology from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and an M.A. in Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I am focused on providing compassionate and effective therapy tailored to each individual's needs. As a provider of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), I offer evidence-based approaches to address behavioral, anxiety, mood, and trauma-related disorders. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for clients of all ages.
(254) 637-3543 x100 View (254) 637-3543 x100
Photo of Marivel Tijerina, LPC-A, MEd
Marivel Tijerina
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78254
Let’s take small steps forward together, discovering insight, coping strategies, and wellness for your child or teen.
Are emotional outbursts or anxiety a part of your child's or teen's life? If so, I’m here to help. I specialize in working with children ages 5-12 and teens who face challenges such as anxiety, school issues, ADHD, and emotional dysregulation. Guiding young people to express and explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors has always been a passion of mine.
Let’s take small steps forward together, discovering insight, coping strategies, and wellness for your child or teen.
Are emotional outbursts or anxiety a part of your child's or teen's life? If so, I’m here to help. I specialize in working with children ages 5-12 and teens who face challenges such as anxiety, school issues, ADHD, and emotional dysregulation. Guiding young people to express and explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors has always been a passion of mine.
(210) 941-2615 View (210) 941-2615
Photo of Michael Cox, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Pflugerville, TX 78660
Our team consists of three therapist with distinct areas of focus that can support your family, you as a couple and/or adult individual and the uniques needs of your adolescent.
One of the hardest things as a father is to watch my children go through difficult things and at times feel completely helpless. As they navigate life and the challenges this can bring, I find a deeper appreciation for the allies in our lives that can support them and us (mom and me) along this journey. Additionally, the more we focus on their needs it is equally a challenge to remember that there is an "US" in our marriage that exists and we have to nurture it with the same drive and care. It can be a lot, at WLP we seek to walk alongside Families, Couples and Individuals seeking support through life's challenges.
Our team consists of three therapist with distinct areas of focus that can support your family, you as a couple and/or adult individual and the uniques needs of your adolescent.
One of the hardest things as a father is to watch my children go through difficult things and at times feel completely helpless. As they navigate life and the challenges this can bring, I find a deeper appreciation for the allies in our lives that can support them and us (mom and me) along this journey. Additionally, the more we focus on their needs it is equally a challenge to remember that there is an "US" in our marriage that exists and we have to nurture it with the same drive and care. It can be a lot, at WLP we seek to walk alongside Families, Couples and Individuals seeking support through life's challenges.
(512) 831-7676 View (512) 831-7676
Photo of Kara Lucas, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kara Lucas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families in the public school system and in private practice.
Most importantly, I want you to feel safe and heard throughout our work together. Our lives are constantly changing and shifting, and that can feel overwhelming. When a child or parent is feeling dysregulated, it can be hard to know what to do next. By creating a safe space, I help clients can learn to trust their wisdom, grow their strength, and gain confidence. Our work will be based on your individual needs. Services I provide include child and adolescent therapy, parent education, and individual therapy. I am also a LPC-S, so please contact me if you are a LPC-A and are interested possibly working together for supervision!
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families in the public school system and in private practice.
Most importantly, I want you to feel safe and heard throughout our work together. Our lives are constantly changing and shifting, and that can feel overwhelming. When a child or parent is feeling dysregulated, it can be hard to know what to do next. By creating a safe space, I help clients can learn to trust their wisdom, grow their strength, and gain confidence. Our work will be based on your individual needs. Services I provide include child and adolescent therapy, parent education, and individual therapy. I am also a LPC-S, so please contact me if you are a LPC-A and are interested possibly working together for supervision!
(512) 861-8736 View (512) 861-8736
Photo of Gina Carlino - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Round Rock, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Round Rock
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665
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 Richard John Rathbun, PhD, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Richard John Rathbun
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I would describe my practice as helping people work through life issues in ways that promote relational, emotional and spiritual growth. My clinical areas of interest include spirituality, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I also specialize in working with men's issues. I apply a Christian/faith-based approach to counseling and am trained in both theology and professional counseling. I am an ordained minister and pastoral counselor. I don't impose my beliefs on clients, and respect all faith/spiritual traditions as valuable resources for healing. Areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, childhood abuse, personality disorders, faith crisis, marriage, family, adolescent, and relationship issues.
I would describe my practice as helping people work through life issues in ways that promote relational, emotional and spiritual growth. My clinical areas of interest include spirituality, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I also specialize in working with men's issues. I apply a Christian/faith-based approach to counseling and am trained in both theology and professional counseling. I am an ordained minister and pastoral counselor. I don't impose my beliefs on clients, and respect all faith/spiritual traditions as valuable resources for healing. Areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, childhood abuse, personality disorders, faith crisis, marriage, family, adolescent, and relationship issues.
(512) 430-4529 View (512) 430-4529
Photo of Nicole Skotz, MS, BCBA
Nicole Skotz
MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745
Struggling with focus, overwhelm, anxiety or social challenges? Whether you're a teen or an adult navigating ADHD or Autism, I've got you! Services are tailored to your unique needs, offering neuro-affirming support and strategies to manage challenges and thrive in your everyday life. Together, we’ll build strategies that align with your goals, empowering you to live authentically while developing skills that help you understand and manage your ADHD or Autism in ways that feels right for you. You don’t have to navigate this alone—discover a personalized approach to feeling more in control and connected.
Struggling with focus, overwhelm, anxiety or social challenges? Whether you're a teen or an adult navigating ADHD or Autism, I've got you! Services are tailored to your unique needs, offering neuro-affirming support and strategies to manage challenges and thrive in your everyday life. Together, we’ll build strategies that align with your goals, empowering you to live authentically while developing skills that help you understand and manage your ADHD or Autism in ways that feels right for you. You don’t have to navigate this alone—discover a personalized approach to feeling more in control and connected.
(737) 520-7004 View (737) 520-7004
Photo of Jamie Mershon, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Mershon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Hills, TX 78213
Are you In search of a caring professional who is equipped and experienced? Whether you're an adult, family, teen or child---the time for change is now. My 15 years of experience with working in the schools has given me an invaluable insight as to how our younger years, shape and mold us in our later years. Regardless of where you are struggling; past, present and/or future, there is hope. By getting to the root of the problem, we aren’t just treating the symptoms but instead, you will be finding freedom from issues/feelings/situations that seem to be surfacing or returning.
Are you In search of a caring professional who is equipped and experienced? Whether you're an adult, family, teen or child---the time for change is now. My 15 years of experience with working in the schools has given me an invaluable insight as to how our younger years, shape and mold us in our later years. Regardless of where you are struggling; past, present and/or future, there is hope. By getting to the root of the problem, we aren’t just treating the symptoms but instead, you will be finding freedom from issues/feelings/situations that seem to be surfacing or returning.
(210) 801-9076 View (210) 801-9076
Photo of Jean Gray - Greyson’s Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Greyson’s Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78205
Jean graduated with my MSW from Edinboro University. She has spent her professional life being a part of the helping relationship. Jean had the opportunity to work at the forensic unit, domestic violence shelter, addiction facility, and as a clinical program director for an adolescent facility. She values learning from my clients as well as sharing the knowledge.
Jean graduated with my MSW from Edinboro University. She has spent her professional life being a part of the helping relationship. Jean had the opportunity to work at the forensic unit, domestic violence shelter, addiction facility, and as a clinical program director for an adolescent facility. She values learning from my clients as well as sharing the knowledge.
(940) 290-7282 View (940) 290-7282
Photo of Dr. Kirleen Neely, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Kirleen Neely
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Helotes, TX 78023
Making the decision to get counseling for your relationship, your self, or teen is one of the hardest things to do. It's even more challenging to find someone you can relate to, and who has the expertise to really help you. At my practice, you're not just another client. I am laser focused on serving a FEW clients extraordinary well. Helping you tackle the insecurities and anxiety that block their success is my specialty. After twenty years of helping clients, I've figured out a thing or two about how to help people change their lives. I'd love to walk with you on this journey, please give me a call.
Making the decision to get counseling for your relationship, your self, or teen is one of the hardest things to do. It's even more challenging to find someone you can relate to, and who has the expertise to really help you. At my practice, you're not just another client. I am laser focused on serving a FEW clients extraordinary well. Helping you tackle the insecurities and anxiety that block their success is my specialty. After twenty years of helping clients, I've figured out a thing or two about how to help people change their lives. I'd love to walk with you on this journey, please give me a call.
(210) 881-7718 View (210) 881-7718
Photo of Kimberly Watts Hoggatt, JD, MA, LPC-S, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Watts Hoggatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MA, LPC-S, LMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
Are you a weary weirdo? Are you a high-achieving adult or teen who struggles with relationships, self-esteem, or burnout? Are you someone who is seeking answers to difficult questions? Do you appreciate a warm and friendly but direct approach when handling challenges? If so, I may be the counselor for you. I take a person-centered and existential approach to counseling - aspiring to help clients find meaning and direction in their lives and relationships. With 15 years of experience in career development and higher education, I have significant expertise in assisting adolescents and adults with college and career decision-making.
Are you a weary weirdo? Are you a high-achieving adult or teen who struggles with relationships, self-esteem, or burnout? Are you someone who is seeking answers to difficult questions? Do you appreciate a warm and friendly but direct approach when handling challenges? If so, I may be the counselor for you. I take a person-centered and existential approach to counseling - aspiring to help clients find meaning and direction in their lives and relationships. With 15 years of experience in career development and higher education, I have significant expertise in assisting adolescents and adults with college and career decision-making.
(210) 598-5013 View (210) 598-5013
Photo of Mary Ellen West, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ellen West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
Supporting children and teens in discovering their capacity and capability for greatness is my passion.
Is your child or adolescent struggling with big emotions? Are their behaviors or big reactions affecting your family’s day-to-day life and relationships? Does it seem like the steps you take to try to help often just make things worse? Do you wonder if there’s a better way to support your child’s emotional growth and manage family stress? Now more than ever, kids and teens are feeling stressed and anxious, with parents worried, frustrated and uncertain as to how to help them navigate.
Supporting children and teens in discovering their capacity and capability for greatness is my passion.
Is your child or adolescent struggling with big emotions? Are their behaviors or big reactions affecting your family’s day-to-day life and relationships? Does it seem like the steps you take to try to help often just make things worse? Do you wonder if there’s a better way to support your child’s emotional growth and manage family stress? Now more than ever, kids and teens are feeling stressed and anxious, with parents worried, frustrated and uncertain as to how to help them navigate.
(737) 688-0628 View (737) 688-0628
Photo of Lynda Keen - Lynda Keen, LPC, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynda Keen, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
We'll collaborate using your strengths and weaknesses to find your solutions to manage depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, co-dependency, dual diagnosis, women's issues, teen issues, motivation, life changes, and more.
Everyone can benefit from therapy at some point – whether for addressing momentary issues or ongoing challenges such as trauma. Life can be hard and different stages of life bring different obstacles. Whether you’re looking for a little support to get back on track or have a child who needs extra guidance, working with me can put things into perspective. In therapeutic sessions, we’ll focus on your strengths and work to find answers you’re seeking. Sessions can be held in my Dripping Springs, Texas office, or on-line from anywhere in Texas. Free 15-minute consultations are available to learn more about how I may support you.
We'll collaborate using your strengths and weaknesses to find your solutions to manage depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, co-dependency, dual diagnosis, women's issues, teen issues, motivation, life changes, and more.
Everyone can benefit from therapy at some point – whether for addressing momentary issues or ongoing challenges such as trauma. Life can be hard and different stages of life bring different obstacles. Whether you’re looking for a little support to get back on track or have a child who needs extra guidance, working with me can put things into perspective. In therapeutic sessions, we’ll focus on your strengths and work to find answers you’re seeking. Sessions can be held in my Dripping Springs, Texas office, or on-line from anywhere in Texas. Free 15-minute consultations are available to learn more about how I may support you.
(512) 470-8203 View (512) 470-8203
Photo of Nicole Atchison, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Atchison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
Are you heartbroken watching your teen struggle with anxiety or low self-esteem? Does your child seek more independence and push you away? I understand how challenging this can be for both you and your family. My specialized sessions for teenagers and young adults focus on fostering positive attitudes towards life’s most complex growing pains. Together, we’ll create personalized goals to navigate these difficult times and cultivate resilience and confidence.
Are you heartbroken watching your teen struggle with anxiety or low self-esteem? Does your child seek more independence and push you away? I understand how challenging this can be for both you and your family. My specialized sessions for teenagers and young adults focus on fostering positive attitudes towards life’s most complex growing pains. Together, we’ll create personalized goals to navigate these difficult times and cultivate resilience and confidence.
(512) 598-6876 View (512) 598-6876

See more therapy options for Blanco

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.