Therapists for Teens in Dale City, VA

Photo of Hemini Naik - Woodbridge Therapy Group, PsyD, Psychologist
Woodbridge Therapy Group
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dale City, VA 22193
Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Social Skills Groups, Psychological Testing and Evaluation, Mindfulness Psychoeducation, Stress Management, Bilingual Therapy offered in Individual, Family, Couples, and Group format, Depression Groups, Adolescent Groups.
Established over 10 years ago, we originally opened as Prince William Family Counseling and provided the community with trustworthy therapy services in a safe, welcoming environment. In 2015 the agency was purchased and took on new ownership and we became Woodbridge Therapy Group. With the recent change in ownership, we have expanded our number of providers, added more services, and renewed our investment in the community.
Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Social Skills Groups, Psychological Testing and Evaluation, Mindfulness Psychoeducation, Stress Management, Bilingual Therapy offered in Individual, Family, Couples, and Group format, Depression Groups, Adolescent Groups.
Established over 10 years ago, we originally opened as Prince William Family Counseling and provided the community with trustworthy therapy services in a safe, welcoming environment. In 2015 the agency was purchased and took on new ownership and we became Woodbridge Therapy Group. With the recent change in ownership, we have expanded our number of providers, added more services, and renewed our investment in the community.
(571) 946-4129 View (571) 946-4129
Photo of Paige Malnofsky, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paige Malnofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Dale City, VA 22193
Services Provided: Couples counseling, Adolescent/child counseling, Individual adult counseling Current Concerns: ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral disorders, developmental trauma, divorce/separation, grief/loss, life adjustments/transitions, self-esteem, body image, stress/anger management, trauma, learning disabilities, RAD.
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR Trained. Lets face it life is challenging and living is not an easy task. Everyday we wake up we never know what is going to occur or what challenges we may face. If you are finding yourself struggling on the day to day, having poor motivation, feeling lonely, or that you are just going through the motions in life rather than truly living, then please reach out to me. Take back the control you once had in your life and together we will work to find the root of these concerns you are struggling with as well as find techniques and skills that promote growth and overall wellness.
Services Provided: Couples counseling, Adolescent/child counseling, Individual adult counseling Current Concerns: ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, behavioral disorders, developmental trauma, divorce/separation, grief/loss, life adjustments/transitions, self-esteem, body image, stress/anger management, trauma, learning disabilities, RAD.
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR Trained. Lets face it life is challenging and living is not an easy task. Everyday we wake up we never know what is going to occur or what challenges we may face. If you are finding yourself struggling on the day to day, having poor motivation, feeling lonely, or that you are just going through the motions in life rather than truly living, then please reach out to me. Take back the control you once had in your life and together we will work to find the root of these concerns you are struggling with as well as find techniques and skills that promote growth and overall wellness.
(412) 419-3421 View (412) 419-3421
Photo of Gabrielle Oblena - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dale City, VA 22193
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(571) 496-8605 View (571) 496-8605
Photo of Joseph Autry, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joseph Autry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dale City, VA 22193
Nice to meet you! My name is Joseph Autry and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience. I have worked with clients with anxiety, depression, substance use, personality, mood regulation, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, PTSD, eating disorders, and problems with trauma. I will often use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy are forms of therapy I usually like to use as well. I believe that being a therapist has allowed me to work and help clients who are feeling depressed and having thoughts of wanting to hurt
Nice to meet you! My name is Joseph Autry and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience. I have worked with clients with anxiety, depression, substance use, personality, mood regulation, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, PTSD, eating disorders, and problems with trauma. I will often use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy are forms of therapy I usually like to use as well. I believe that being a therapist has allowed me to work and help clients who are feeling depressed and having thoughts of wanting to hurt
(571) 548-3425 View (571) 548-3425
Photo of Claudia L Bailey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia L Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dale City, VA 22193
I have worked in a number of mental health settings, beginning in residential treatment for adolescents, progressing to an inpatient psychiatric hospital for adults and continuing for the past 24 years in the public sector providing outpatient mental health treatment.
I view therapy as a collaboration between myself and the client. I rely on my client's knowledge about themselves and their identified strengths, in combination with my knowledge and application of different treatment models, assisting the client in formulating goals and making healthy changes in their life. I understand the importance of connecting easily and genuinely with a client, helping them to feel comfortable in the therapeutic process and successful in treatment.
I have worked in a number of mental health settings, beginning in residential treatment for adolescents, progressing to an inpatient psychiatric hospital for adults and continuing for the past 24 years in the public sector providing outpatient mental health treatment.
I view therapy as a collaboration between myself and the client. I rely on my client's knowledge about themselves and their identified strengths, in combination with my knowledge and application of different treatment models, assisting the client in formulating goals and making healthy changes in their life. I understand the importance of connecting easily and genuinely with a client, helping them to feel comfortable in the therapeutic process and successful in treatment.
(703) 457-1748 View (703) 457-1748
Photo of Rita M Romano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rita M Romano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dale City, VA 22193
I have a healthy respect for the difficulties and complexities of life and will provide a non-judgemental environment for individuals or couples to explore solutions to the problems they face. The most common issues I work with are depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship problems. I like to look at what is working in a person's life and to promote wellness, as opposed to focusing on pathology or sickness. I find that once an individual focuses on specific goals, it does not take a long time to make significant movement in a positive direction.
I have a healthy respect for the difficulties and complexities of life and will provide a non-judgemental environment for individuals or couples to explore solutions to the problems they face. The most common issues I work with are depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship problems. I like to look at what is working in a person's life and to promote wellness, as opposed to focusing on pathology or sickness. I find that once an individual focuses on specific goals, it does not take a long time to make significant movement in a positive direction.
(703) 594-8052 View (703) 594-8052
Photo of Dr. Karen Renee Yaw, PhD, LPC-R
Dr. Karen Renee Yaw
Resident in Counseling, PhD, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dale City, VA 22193  (Online Only)
I also facilitate DBT group therapy sessions for adolescents which include training in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, Ultimately, achieving personal growth is a transformative process and I consider it an honor to journey alongside my clients.
Therapy is meant to be a completely individual experience and I treat it as such with compassion and cultural humility. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in developing personalized coping skills which foster resilience for challenging life transitions while also helping you to discover your purpose in life. I offer compassionate listening as we work together to find comfort and resolve in the difficult areas of your life, relationships and the challenges you are facing. I have specialized maternal mental health training with Postpartum Virginia Support and I am certified as a marriage facilitator with Prep/Enrich.
I also facilitate DBT group therapy sessions for adolescents which include training in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, Ultimately, achieving personal growth is a transformative process and I consider it an honor to journey alongside my clients.
Therapy is meant to be a completely individual experience and I treat it as such with compassion and cultural humility. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in developing personalized coping skills which foster resilience for challenging life transitions while also helping you to discover your purpose in life. I offer compassionate listening as we work together to find comfort and resolve in the difficult areas of your life, relationships and the challenges you are facing. I have specialized maternal mental health training with Postpartum Virginia Support and I am certified as a marriage facilitator with Prep/Enrich.
(703) 643-4093 View (703) 643-4093
Photo of Yasmin Vigil-Chavez, Pre-Licensed Professional
Yasmin Vigil-Chavez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dale City, VA 22193
Are you tired of carrying the heavy weight of life that never seems to lighten up? Whether it's the daily grind, unexpected setbacks, or feeling stuck, I'm here to help you lighten the load. I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families toward identifying, confronting, and overcoming the challenges blocking the path toward a better life.
Are you tired of carrying the heavy weight of life that never seems to lighten up? Whether it's the daily grind, unexpected setbacks, or feeling stuck, I'm here to help you lighten the load. I am dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families toward identifying, confronting, and overcoming the challenges blocking the path toward a better life.
(571) 554-6876 View (571) 554-6876
Photo of Andranita Dogan - Anew Hope LLC, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anew Hope LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Dale City, VA 22193
Anew Hope LLC is Mental Health Counseling provider, meeting your mental health needs online and in office. Do you experience sleep disturbances more than twice a week? Did you transition from the military and find civilian life stressful? Are you a student with a busy work & school life that's not quite balancing out? Did you just end a relationship? Call us and get scheduled.
Anew Hope LLC is Mental Health Counseling provider, meeting your mental health needs online and in office. Do you experience sleep disturbances more than twice a week? Did you transition from the military and find civilian life stressful? Are you a student with a busy work & school life that's not quite balancing out? Did you just end a relationship? Call us and get scheduled.
(703) 972-1641 View (703) 972-1641

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Elayne Smith - The Center for Connection, Healing and Change, LMFT-R, LPC-R, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
The Center for Connection, Healing and Change
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT-R, LPC-R, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital therapy, sex therapy, child/ teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, Parent-Child Interaction therapy, trauma therapy, EMDR, and group therapy.
Accepting new clients -The Center for Connection, Healing & Change focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships- within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying connections for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, be responsive to loved ones, set boundaries, deal with loss, heal trauma, move through stressful experiences, find our purpose, and access resilience in moments of need.
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital therapy, sex therapy, child/ teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, Parent-Child Interaction therapy, trauma therapy, EMDR, and group therapy.
Accepting new clients -The Center for Connection, Healing & Change focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships- within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying connections for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, be responsive to loved ones, set boundaries, deal with loss, heal trauma, move through stressful experiences, find our purpose, and access resilience in moments of need.
(804) 336-3063 View (804) 336-3063
Photo of Nathan Duff, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nathan Duff
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22193  (Online Only)
Last but not least, as I mentioned, I enjoy working with teenagers, the gifted, and anyone with philosophic meaning-of-life kind of questions.
You can read the complete bio on my website, but let's hit the highlights here. Since 8th grade I wanted to be a therapist – primarily driven by a desire to help people, but coming in a close second is my general fascination with why humans think and act the way we do. I studied psychology, minoring in philosophy, and at the same time began working in mental health in 1996. At first this was with "at-risk" children/ teens, although later I shifted to residential treatment while pursuing my master's in school counseling. Although I had always wanted to be in a clinical setting, being a guidance counselor was a more practical start.
Last but not least, as I mentioned, I enjoy working with teenagers, the gifted, and anyone with philosophic meaning-of-life kind of questions.
You can read the complete bio on my website, but let's hit the highlights here. Since 8th grade I wanted to be a therapist – primarily driven by a desire to help people, but coming in a close second is my general fascination with why humans think and act the way we do. I studied psychology, minoring in philosophy, and at the same time began working in mental health in 1996. At first this was with "at-risk" children/ teens, although later I shifted to residential treatment while pursuing my master's in school counseling. Although I had always wanted to be in a clinical setting, being a guidance counselor was a more practical start.
(434) 533-9352 View (434) 533-9352
Photo of Natasha R Black, MS, RIC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Natasha R Black
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RIC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22193
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist specializing in at-risk child and adolescent mental health care. I am committed to assisting patients in achieving long-term self-management of their mental health. I firmly believe the first step in youth mental health treatment is recognizing that therapy is not a punishment but an opportunity to unlock one's potential. I strive to create a safe and supportive space that fosters growth and development, allows individual development of coping skills, identifies sources of support, increases mindfulness, and promotes accountability of mental health goals.
I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist specializing in at-risk child and adolescent mental health care. I am committed to assisting patients in achieving long-term self-management of their mental health. I firmly believe the first step in youth mental health treatment is recognizing that therapy is not a punishment but an opportunity to unlock one's potential. I strive to create a safe and supportive space that fosters growth and development, allows individual development of coping skills, identifies sources of support, increases mindfulness, and promotes accountability of mental health goals.
(703) 546-9239 View (703) 546-9239
Photo of Jennifer Rulli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Rulli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
In my work with teens and families, we identify healthy ways to process and cope with distress, supporting your teen to feel more confident and connected and less burdened by anxiety or low self-worth.
Our early family of origin experiences lay the foundation for internal and relational patterns that continue to play out in later life. Many of our patterns include our best and most creative efforts to adapt to the tough stuff of life such as trauma, misattunement, and loss. Though these patterns are not set in stone, they are often automatic and hard to recognize, change, or understand. Together we can explore the ways in which our adaptations may have served you well in earlier times but are no longer proving to be helpful, effective, or authentic. I work with clients to create connection, healing, safety, and satisfaction.
In my work with teens and families, we identify healthy ways to process and cope with distress, supporting your teen to feel more confident and connected and less burdened by anxiety or low self-worth.
Our early family of origin experiences lay the foundation for internal and relational patterns that continue to play out in later life. Many of our patterns include our best and most creative efforts to adapt to the tough stuff of life such as trauma, misattunement, and loss. Though these patterns are not set in stone, they are often automatic and hard to recognize, change, or understand. Together we can explore the ways in which our adaptations may have served you well in earlier times but are no longer proving to be helpful, effective, or authentic. I work with clients to create connection, healing, safety, and satisfaction.
(571) 470-7292 View (571) 470-7292
Anthony R DiFrancesco
Psychologist, PhD, PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Currently my practice consists of primarily Adults and Adolescents with a few younger children.
As a Clinical Psychologist I enjoy working with the entire life span. It gives me a unique perspective and understanding of what challenges occur at different stages of life whether it's a child/ adolescent/young adult making changes for the future or an older adult working through childhood experiences or traumas. For healing to occur it is critical to understand how past patterns of coping and beliefs are an active part of our current lives. Practical reflection and problem solving is an integral part of my treatment. I have been in private practice in Prince William County since 1988.
Currently my practice consists of primarily Adults and Adolescents with a few younger children.
As a Clinical Psychologist I enjoy working with the entire life span. It gives me a unique perspective and understanding of what challenges occur at different stages of life whether it's a child/ adolescent/young adult making changes for the future or an older adult working through childhood experiences or traumas. For healing to occur it is critical to understand how past patterns of coping and beliefs are an active part of our current lives. Practical reflection and problem solving is an integral part of my treatment. I have been in private practice in Prince William County since 1988.
(703) 491-9701 View (703) 491-9701
Photo of Patrick Curley - Clinic Director, LCSW
Patrick Curley - Clinic Director
LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge provides a variety of clinicians that specialize in children, teens and families.
Does your teenager have feelings of anxiety, sadness, depression, feeling hopeless, having trouble with motivation, getting out of bed? Or, does your child have difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, won't sit still or listen? As parents, do you feel your at your wits end, tried everything, need help? Whatever mental, emotional and behavioral issues your child is going thru, We are here to help. We can assist those with anxiety, depression, add and everything in between. At Ellie Mental Health, we provide services in a safe, authentic, fun environment that helps our clients overcome their obstacles.
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge provides a variety of clinicians that specialize in children, teens and families.
Does your teenager have feelings of anxiety, sadness, depression, feeling hopeless, having trouble with motivation, getting out of bed? Or, does your child have difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, won't sit still or listen? As parents, do you feel your at your wits end, tried everything, need help? Whatever mental, emotional and behavioral issues your child is going thru, We are here to help. We can assist those with anxiety, depression, add and everything in between. At Ellie Mental Health, we provide services in a safe, authentic, fun environment that helps our clients overcome their obstacles.
(703) 215-3609 View (703) 215-3609
Photo of Jessica Carroll, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Carroll
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
A graduate of Capella University’s Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, I have 14 years experience working in the counseling field. This includes working in a group home for children with an array of behavioral diagnoses. I also have worked with adolescents with substance abuse concerns. I am familiar with depression, anxiety, PTSD, & ADHD. I completed an internship conducting individual sessions and group therapy (adult & adolescent) I work well with a diverse client population, as well as multiple mental health disorders.
A graduate of Capella University’s Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, I have 14 years experience working in the counseling field. This includes working in a group home for children with an array of behavioral diagnoses. I also have worked with adolescents with substance abuse concerns. I am familiar with depression, anxiety, PTSD, & ADHD. I completed an internship conducting individual sessions and group therapy (adult & adolescent) I work well with a diverse client population, as well as multiple mental health disorders.
(540) 845-6940 x1 View (540) 845-6940 x1
Photo of Ben Clark - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Woodbridge, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Woodbridge
Counselor
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
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.
(571) 630-3680 View (571) 630-3680
Photo of Ellie Mental Health- Woodbridge Elizabeth Cerrato, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Mental Health- Woodbridge Elizabeth Cerrato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I am a bilingual (Spanish/English), Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing in person and telehealth services. I graduated from USC with a Master's in Social Work. I have over 5 years of experience in working with children, adolescents, their families and seniors. I provide services to individuals with Depression, Anxiety, adjustments and burnout.
I am a bilingual (Spanish/English), Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing in person and telehealth services. I graduated from USC with a Master's in Social Work. I have over 5 years of experience in working with children, adolescents, their families and seniors. I provide services to individuals with Depression, Anxiety, adjustments and burnout.
(703) 935-4911 View (703) 935-4911
Photo of Mollie Kimball, LPC, LMHC, CASAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mollie Kimball
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
I have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including private practice, residential, outpatient, in-home, and addictions. There are various times in our lives that are challenging and taking the first step to asks for help can feel overwhelming. I have experience working with individuals, and couples ranging in age from pre teen to adulthood in many areas of need such as depression, mood instability, substance use, anxiety, history of trauma, and family/relationships conflicts.
I have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including private practice, residential, outpatient, in-home, and addictions. There are various times in our lives that are challenging and taking the first step to asks for help can feel overwhelming. I have experience working with individuals, and couples ranging in age from pre teen to adulthood in many areas of need such as depression, mood instability, substance use, anxiety, history of trauma, and family/relationships conflicts.
(804) 913-2935 View (804) 913-2935
Photo of Ezra Randle, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ezra Randle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22193  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Ezra, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in guiding individuals through life’s most challenging times. I believe that everyone possesses unique strengths and gifts, even if they may not always recognize them. My passion lies in helping clients discover these strengths as they work to overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth.
Welcome! I'm Ezra, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in guiding individuals through life’s most challenging times. I believe that everyone possesses unique strengths and gifts, even if they may not always recognize them. My passion lies in helping clients discover these strengths as they work to overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth.
(540) 660-7604 View (540) 660-7604

See more therapy options for Dale City

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.