Therapists for Teens in Plano, TX

Photo of Tuba Fidan, MA, LPC-A, EMDR
Tuba Fidan
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Services Offered: Adolescent Counseling, EMDR Trauma counseling, Guidance Depression and Anxiety Therapy, and Career Counseling for teens &adults.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, cultural issues, or a challenging relationship that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, and career? Do you feel overwhelmed, and frustrated by just getting through the day, with the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? I specialize in helping passionate professional people who are struggling with anxiety and burnout to learn to put themselves first by setting healthy boundaries and leading more fulfilling lives.As an experienced counselor, I understand your fear. I believe living better shouldn’t be so hard.
Services Offered: Adolescent Counseling, EMDR Trauma counseling, Guidance Depression and Anxiety Therapy, and Career Counseling for teens &adults.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, cultural issues, or a challenging relationship that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, and career? Do you feel overwhelmed, and frustrated by just getting through the day, with the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? I specialize in helping passionate professional people who are struggling with anxiety and burnout to learn to put themselves first by setting healthy boundaries and leading more fulfilling lives.As an experienced counselor, I understand your fear. I believe living better shouldn’t be so hard.
(972) 200-3861 View (972) 200-3861
Photo of Jennifer Milligan, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Milligan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I am trained in Play Therapy and have been coined the Tween/ Teen Whisperer.
Hi! Whether this is your first attempt or your last effort to find help, I am happy you’re here. Having worked in the school setting the last 10 years, I know that times are really tough for our kids. As parents, we may not know how to handle the things our kids go through, or even understand. I want to help by providing a safe and nurturing environment for children and youth to process their emotions and teach them healthy coping skills to get them through life’s difficult times.
I am trained in Play Therapy and have been coined the Tween/ Teen Whisperer.
Hi! Whether this is your first attempt or your last effort to find help, I am happy you’re here. Having worked in the school setting the last 10 years, I know that times are really tough for our kids. As parents, we may not know how to handle the things our kids go through, or even understand. I want to help by providing a safe and nurturing environment for children and youth to process their emotions and teach them healthy coping skills to get them through life’s difficult times.
(214) 609-1647 View (214) 609-1647
Photo of Ryanne Niki Shewchuk, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryanne Niki Shewchuk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
I am an LPC and I work to provide evidenced-based interventions for children, teens, and adults so that client’s have the opportunity to heal past traumas and reach their goals.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or at a loss about how to help your child or teen? Perhaps your child’s school has suggested you reach out to a counselor, and you’re not sure where to start, but know that you need some support. If so, I applaud you for taking steps in the right direction to seek professional help for your child. I can help guide you and help you find a way to re-connect with yourself and/or your child. Connection is the key in relationship building. I work best with families and children who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and difficulty coping.
I am an LPC and I work to provide evidenced-based interventions for children, teens, and adults so that client’s have the opportunity to heal past traumas and reach their goals.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or at a loss about how to help your child or teen? Perhaps your child’s school has suggested you reach out to a counselor, and you’re not sure where to start, but know that you need some support. If so, I applaud you for taking steps in the right direction to seek professional help for your child. I can help guide you and help you find a way to re-connect with yourself and/or your child. Connection is the key in relationship building. I work best with families and children who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, and difficulty coping.
(214) 617-9277 View (214) 617-9277
Photo of David Ha - Counseling at Cornerstone, LMFT, MMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Counseling at Cornerstone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
My areas of focus include: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, family of origin issues, couples counseling, relational stressors, children/ teen counseling, life transitions, grief, spiritual/identity issues, negative self-talk, challenges with boundary setting and religious trauma.
Welcome and thank you for exploring my profile! The process of therapy begins with hearing your story and the things you are struggling with. I hope to provide a non-judgmental, safe place where counseling care is contextualized to meet your needs. I believe that what we do flows from who we are. And when we experience various traumas/stressors in our life, we can internalize them and believe unhealthy narratives about ourself and the world. While learning coping skills/practical tools are important, I have learned that working through the core/root issues are where long-lasting healing takes place.
My areas of focus include: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, family of origin issues, couples counseling, relational stressors, children/ teen counseling, life transitions, grief, spiritual/identity issues, negative self-talk, challenges with boundary setting and religious trauma.
Welcome and thank you for exploring my profile! The process of therapy begins with hearing your story and the things you are struggling with. I hope to provide a non-judgmental, safe place where counseling care is contextualized to meet your needs. I believe that what we do flows from who we are. And when we experience various traumas/stressors in our life, we can internalize them and believe unhealthy narratives about ourself and the world. While learning coping skills/practical tools are important, I have learned that working through the core/root issues are where long-lasting healing takes place.
(214) 380-3575 View (214) 380-3575
Photo of Jillissa Cooper, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jillissa Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Other specialties for Jillissa include therapy for children and adolescents who are the product of divorce or who are currently in blended family situations.
Counseling has been Jillissa's passion for years. She specializes in, but is not limited to, issues including: marriage and family, relationship dynamics, boundary issues, adolescent and children's issues, and woman's issues such as eating disorders, depression, anger, anxiety, divorce care, singleness, grief, bitterness, identity and significance issues and mood disorders. She also works with clients struggling with anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Adjustment Disorders. Jillissa's philosophy of counseling is the integration of Christianity and psychology, and her counseling methods include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Psychoeducation, and Child Play Therapy.
Other specialties for Jillissa include therapy for children and adolescents who are the product of divorce or who are currently in blended family situations.
Counseling has been Jillissa's passion for years. She specializes in, but is not limited to, issues including: marriage and family, relationship dynamics, boundary issues, adolescent and children's issues, and woman's issues such as eating disorders, depression, anger, anxiety, divorce care, singleness, grief, bitterness, identity and significance issues and mood disorders. She also works with clients struggling with anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Adjustment Disorders. Jillissa's philosophy of counseling is the integration of Christianity and psychology, and her counseling methods include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Psychoeducation, and Child Play Therapy.
(972) 767-9518 View (972) 767-9518
Photo of Barbara Ritchie, MA, LPC, NCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Ritchie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I have worked in a variety of settings over my 25 years of practice. These experiences have prepared me to treat a wide variety of issues. My first work experience was in an adolescent treatment center and with children in foster care. I have worked as a psychotherapist treating individuals and families.I have worked closely with the Psychiatry staff and school staff treating children and adolescents with a team approach. I also worked as a school counselor where I became aware of the stresses and issues for both children and educators in the school system.
I have worked in a variety of settings over my 25 years of practice. These experiences have prepared me to treat a wide variety of issues. My first work experience was in an adolescent treatment center and with children in foster care. I have worked as a psychotherapist treating individuals and families.I have worked closely with the Psychiatry staff and school staff treating children and adolescents with a team approach. I also worked as a school counselor where I became aware of the stresses and issues for both children and educators in the school system.
(469) 723-7348 View (469) 723-7348
Photo of Jessica A Kuehn, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica A Kuehn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075  (Online Only)
I am an open and compassionate person. I work with clients from many different backgrounds and life experiences. Since every client is different, I use a variety of techniques to tailor treatment to your family. I work primarily with adolescents, families, and couples, but also see adult clients individually. I specialize in teen issues, gender questioning teens and young adults, parenting issues, cutting/self-harm, depression, and anxiety. Depression and anxiety in teens can look very different than they do in adults, so if you have any concerns about your child's behaviors, call me today.
I am an open and compassionate person. I work with clients from many different backgrounds and life experiences. Since every client is different, I use a variety of techniques to tailor treatment to your family. I work primarily with adolescents, families, and couples, but also see adult clients individually. I specialize in teen issues, gender questioning teens and young adults, parenting issues, cutting/self-harm, depression, and anxiety. Depression and anxiety in teens can look very different than they do in adults, so if you have any concerns about your child's behaviors, call me today.
(469) 291-9451 View (469) 291-9451
Photo of Lori Michele Kennedy, MS, LPC, RPT, Owner, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lori Michele Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT, Owner
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Whether you are wanting insight into your young child's behavior, a safe space for your teen, a unique and creative approach to therapy through art mediums or support for yourself, you've already made the first step in searching for help and connection.
DFW Child Magazine MOM Approved! Expressions Family Counseling is a place for everyone to experience the difference wellness focused therapy can make! I combine traditional talk therapy with creativity and expressive arts, play therapy and experiential activities. My clients love the variety of ways to work on their strengths and struggles. Helping clients express through other mediums inspires self-exploration and insight on a deeper level, alleviating the need for the "perfect words" and taking the pressure off of overthinking and anxiety. I love helping clients find the perfect way to harness strengths in order to thrive.
Whether you are wanting insight into your young child's behavior, a safe space for your teen, a unique and creative approach to therapy through art mediums or support for yourself, you've already made the first step in searching for help and connection.
DFW Child Magazine MOM Approved! Expressions Family Counseling is a place for everyone to experience the difference wellness focused therapy can make! I combine traditional talk therapy with creativity and expressive arts, play therapy and experiential activities. My clients love the variety of ways to work on their strengths and struggles. Helping clients express through other mediums inspires self-exploration and insight on a deeper level, alleviating the need for the "perfect words" and taking the pressure off of overthinking and anxiety. I love helping clients find the perfect way to harness strengths in order to thrive.
(972) 362-1399 View (972) 362-1399
Photo of Andrea Schultz, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Schultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents and families experiencing child anxiety and depression, abuse, trauma, grief and loss, divorce and blended-family issues, parent-child relationship issues, school problems and a variety of behavioral issues.
Is your child struggling in school or acting out in anger? Is your teen anxious, depressed or making poor choices? Maybe you're overwhelmed as a parent or need help repairing your own relationships. For more than 25 years I've specialized in counseling services for children, adolescents and families. My approach is both supportive and solution-focused. I provide the encouragement, support and practical feedback individuals and families need to face challenges, resolve problems and achieve their goals. I can help you or your child get back on track to leading a happier, healthier and more productive life.
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents and families experiencing child anxiety and depression, abuse, trauma, grief and loss, divorce and blended-family issues, parent-child relationship issues, school problems and a variety of behavioral issues.
Is your child struggling in school or acting out in anger? Is your teen anxious, depressed or making poor choices? Maybe you're overwhelmed as a parent or need help repairing your own relationships. For more than 25 years I've specialized in counseling services for children, adolescents and families. My approach is both supportive and solution-focused. I provide the encouragement, support and practical feedback individuals and families need to face challenges, resolve problems and achieve their goals. I can help you or your child get back on track to leading a happier, healthier and more productive life.
(972) 762-5795 View (972) 762-5795
Photo of Megan M Krizan, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan M Krizan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
As an LPC-Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist - Supervisor, I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families, using play, activity, and talk therapy.
We all wish life’s journey could be an easy one, but the reality is the path is not always smooth. Life can be filled with uncertainty, conflict, and hard choices. No matter what your age, there are times when life can leave you feeling lost. The good news is that this journey does not have to be faced alone. With a focus on compassion, connection, and what is developmentally appropriate, I can provide support and guidance through these challenges. Whether you are an adult, child, teen, parent, or whole family, I am able to help. I consider it a great privilege to be allowed to walk with people on their life's journey.
As an LPC-Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist - Supervisor, I work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families, using play, activity, and talk therapy.
We all wish life’s journey could be an easy one, but the reality is the path is not always smooth. Life can be filled with uncertainty, conflict, and hard choices. No matter what your age, there are times when life can leave you feeling lost. The good news is that this journey does not have to be faced alone. With a focus on compassion, connection, and what is developmentally appropriate, I can provide support and guidance through these challenges. Whether you are an adult, child, teen, parent, or whole family, I am able to help. I consider it a great privilege to be allowed to walk with people on their life's journey.
(214) 934-0543 View (214) 934-0543
Photo of Tonya Willis, MA
Tonya Willis
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
The pre teen/ teen stage is my favorite, but I work with all ages, 12-65+, couples and families.
It is not uncommon to feel like life is unraveling at the seams; it has a way of making you feel lonely, lost, uncertain and trapped at times. You deserve the best support possible.
The pre teen/ teen stage is my favorite, but I work with all ages, 12-65+, couples and families.
It is not uncommon to feel like life is unraveling at the seams; it has a way of making you feel lonely, lost, uncertain and trapped at times. You deserve the best support possible.
(214) 643-8406 View (214) 643-8406
Photo of Kelley Connell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Connell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Some topics I commonly address in therapy are; depression, anxiety, grief and loss, marital couples counseling, recovery from an affair, teen issues, parenting and blended families.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. I am privileged to counsel with adolescents age 15 and above, individuals and couples. Through counseling, I provide increased awareness and understanding of one's thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how one can develop more positive experiences in many areas of life. My therapy approach is interactive and solution focused utilizing various counseling methods to help you learn new skills and gain new insights. I collaborate with you to achieve healing and growth, emotionally, intellectually, behaviorally and spiritually.
Some topics I commonly address in therapy are; depression, anxiety, grief and loss, marital couples counseling, recovery from an affair, teen issues, parenting and blended families.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. I am privileged to counsel with adolescents age 15 and above, individuals and couples. Through counseling, I provide increased awareness and understanding of one's thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how one can develop more positive experiences in many areas of life. My therapy approach is interactive and solution focused utilizing various counseling methods to help you learn new skills and gain new insights. I collaborate with you to achieve healing and growth, emotionally, intellectually, behaviorally and spiritually.
(972) 532-9535 View (972) 532-9535
Photo of Madee Hayes, MA
Madee Hayes
LPC Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I work with children, teens, & adults.
Your child has been bullied, feels overwhelmed easily, and has had difficulty making friends. Your teen may be showing signs of anxiety or depression and are having difficulty feeling confident and capable in their world. You as an adult may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed and you just need help making sense of it all.
I work with children, teens, & adults.
Your child has been bullied, feels overwhelmed easily, and has had difficulty making friends. Your teen may be showing signs of anxiety or depression and are having difficulty feeling confident and capable in their world. You as an adult may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed and you just need help making sense of it all.
(214) 239-4987 View (214) 239-4987
Photo of Dr. Rachel Moore, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Rachel Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I help adult and adolescent individuals, couples and families connect with themselves, with others, and with the things that bring purpose to their lives to create lasting change.
I believe healthy relationships are key to living a happier and more fulfilling life. There’s no denying that relationships are hard, especially when life throws unexpected obstacles our way. Relationships are complex, whether it be the relationship you have with yourself, or the ones with your parents, siblings, partner, family members, friends, or co-workers. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or stuck. Perhaps you are feeling disconnected, frustrated, or unappreciated in your relationships. Or you might be on a journey of personal growth or seeking to strengthen your relationships, but are not sure where to start.
I help adult and adolescent individuals, couples and families connect with themselves, with others, and with the things that bring purpose to their lives to create lasting change.
I believe healthy relationships are key to living a happier and more fulfilling life. There’s no denying that relationships are hard, especially when life throws unexpected obstacles our way. Relationships are complex, whether it be the relationship you have with yourself, or the ones with your parents, siblings, partner, family members, friends, or co-workers. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or stuck. Perhaps you are feeling disconnected, frustrated, or unappreciated in your relationships. Or you might be on a journey of personal growth or seeking to strengthen your relationships, but are not sure where to start.
(469) 809-4866 View (469) 809-4866
Photo of Tiffany Romer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Romer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I provide therapy for children, teens, and young adults.
You may be wondering why your child is having big behaviors, why your teen is pulling away and resisting your attempts to help, why you're feeling so overwhelmed as you leave home, start college, or embark on your life as an adult.
I provide therapy for children, teens, and young adults.
You may be wondering why your child is having big behaviors, why your teen is pulling away and resisting your attempts to help, why you're feeling so overwhelmed as you leave home, start college, or embark on your life as an adult.
(469) 807-8202 View (469) 807-8202
Photo of Cassie Hubble - Spero Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor
Spero Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Spero Counseling Services offers individual, couples, teen counseling and play therapy.
Are you at a loss on how to support your teen? Do you feel overwhelmed with behavioral issues of your little one? Are you struggling with balancing work and life? Is resentment becoming a more familiar feeling than love and compassion?
Spero Counseling Services offers individual, couples, teen counseling and play therapy.
Are you at a loss on how to support your teen? Do you feel overwhelmed with behavioral issues of your little one? Are you struggling with balancing work and life? Is resentment becoming a more familiar feeling than love and compassion?
(972) 576-9755 View (972) 576-9755
Photo of Ashmal Naveed, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashmal Naveed
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
adolescents, college students/young adults, adults and families.
I am a licensed professional counseling passionate about helping individuals navigate cultural and social identities, especially during significant life transitions and stressful experiences. I aim to provide a safe space where individuals can process their experiences and emotions without needing to explain their multicultural background.
adolescents, college students/young adults, adults and families.
I am a licensed professional counseling passionate about helping individuals navigate cultural and social identities, especially during significant life transitions and stressful experiences. I aim to provide a safe space where individuals can process their experiences and emotions without needing to explain their multicultural background.
(469) 757-8736 View (469) 757-8736
Photo of Jenna Bishop, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I offer individual, couples, teen and emerging adult counseling to support the treatment of relational issues, anxiety, trauma and overall health and wellness.
I'm so glad you are here! I desire to see each woman who crosses my doorstep feel empowered. My hope is to help you pursue a deeper understanding of who you are and the desires of your heart, so that you might live life abundantly. I imagine you might find yourself reaching out because you are hurting and I am here to tell you that you do not have to walk this road alone. I consider it a privilege to hold space for your story and your pain. I honor the bravery it takes to reach out for help, and start a journey towards making meaningful change in your life. I would love to support you in your process.
I offer individual, couples, teen and emerging adult counseling to support the treatment of relational issues, anxiety, trauma and overall health and wellness.
I'm so glad you are here! I desire to see each woman who crosses my doorstep feel empowered. My hope is to help you pursue a deeper understanding of who you are and the desires of your heart, so that you might live life abundantly. I imagine you might find yourself reaching out because you are hurting and I am here to tell you that you do not have to walk this road alone. I consider it a privilege to hold space for your story and your pain. I honor the bravery it takes to reach out for help, and start a journey towards making meaningful change in your life. I would love to support you in your process.
(214) 390-7975 View (214) 390-7975
Photo of Sarah E Carlson, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, E-RYT, YACEP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah E Carlson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, E-RYT, YACEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
We provide play therapy, adolescent counseling, adult therapy, yoga, parenting, and social skills groups.
Sometimes, the smallest steps can lead to the biggest change! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and Experienced-Registered Yoga Teacher 200 Hour, and Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider. I have been providing services in the DFW area since 2007, including services for children, adults, and families. Through a warm and caring approach, I can help you find within yourself the positive qualities to help you feel empowered. I can help you understand yourself and/or your child more fully, to be ready to face the big and little challenges that life can throw your way.
We provide play therapy, adolescent counseling, adult therapy, yoga, parenting, and social skills groups.
Sometimes, the smallest steps can lead to the biggest change! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and Experienced-Registered Yoga Teacher 200 Hour, and Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider. I have been providing services in the DFW area since 2007, including services for children, adults, and families. Through a warm and caring approach, I can help you find within yourself the positive qualities to help you feel empowered. I can help you understand yourself and/or your child more fully, to be ready to face the big and little challenges that life can throw your way.
(469) 698-3590 View (469) 698-3590
Photo of Danni Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danni Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074  (Online Only)
Finding a therapist that is a good fit for you and/or your teen is essential and can be hard work, PLEASE invite your teen to read this.
I am passionate about working with teens and young adults as they explore and become the adults they want to be, assisting them in setting good boundaries and finding ways to safely express themselves while being and growing into productive members of society. I enjoy working with teens and their families regardless of their sexual orientation, gender, family composition, religious backgrounds and beliefs, or schooling choices. I believe in solution-focused therapies that bring families together in healthy ways, integrating the needs of both teens and parents. I am also kink aware and familiar with ENM. I meet you where you are.
Finding a therapist that is a good fit for you and/or your teen is essential and can be hard work, PLEASE invite your teen to read this.
I am passionate about working with teens and young adults as they explore and become the adults they want to be, assisting them in setting good boundaries and finding ways to safely express themselves while being and growing into productive members of society. I enjoy working with teens and their families regardless of their sexual orientation, gender, family composition, religious backgrounds and beliefs, or schooling choices. I believe in solution-focused therapies that bring families together in healthy ways, integrating the needs of both teens and parents. I am also kink aware and familiar with ENM. I meet you where you are.
(469) 240-6932 View (469) 240-6932
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Teen Therapists

What does therapy for teenagers look like?

When a therapist works with a teenager, the pair will talk about what the teen is struggling with and explore solutions, which may involve interpersonal skills, coping strategies, medication, or lifestyle changes related to sleep, diet, and exercise. Different therapists employ different modalities, but most involve a combination of conversation and skill building.

How long does therapy for teenagers generally take to work?

There’s variability in teenagers’ experiences and challenges; some may begin to improve from therapy within a few weeks while others may take several months or longer. Teens can discuss their progress with their therapist periodically to assess how they’re improving and any changes to the treatment plan that could potentially accelerate that progress.

How do you encourage a teenager to go to therapy?

It’s helpful to express your concern and love while framing therapy as an opportunity to explore a tool that could help improve their life; just like they practice baseball or dance, now they can practice their emotional skills. Give your teen control over the process where you can—maybe by weighing in on choice of therapist and signaling that therapy involves confidentiality, so a parent need not know all that is discussed in sessions.

How do you prepare teens for therapy?

You can prepare your teenager for therapy by describing what the process will look like and setting expectations for timeline, if requested. You can explain that the first session may begin with an assessment phase, that they can describe their experiences but that the therapist will ask questions too, and that it may take time to feel comfortable opening up. Ask how they’re feeling about the process and answer any questions calmly and supportively.