Therapists for Teens in Potomac, VA

Photo of Jorge Wallace - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Alexandria, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Alexandria
Counselor
Verified Verified
Potomac, VA 22301
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.
(703) 457-1318 View (703) 457-1318
Photo of Marna D Rowe, LPC, MS, Counselor
Marna D Rowe
Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Potomac, VA 22301
I have a passion for aiding the change in the lives of others. My diverse background and multifaceted experience provides a foundational framework for counseling. As a former educator, I have developed skills in communication, establishing rapport, interaction, and engagement.
I have a passion for aiding the change in the lives of others. My diverse background and multifaceted experience provides a foundational framework for counseling. As a former educator, I have developed skills in communication, establishing rapport, interaction, and engagement.
(571) 526-0849 View (571) 526-0849

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
Alexandria, VA 22314
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 Alyssa Coan - Alyssa Coan—Trauma-informed, whole person care, MSW, LGSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Coan—Trauma-informed, whole person care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Are you, or your teenager struggling with anxiety? Do you have difficulty moving forward in life toward your goals? Are traumatic events from your past interfering with your well-being in the present? Often, our brains get stuck in ways that hold us back. In therapy, you can learn to defuse the experiences, thoughts, and feelings that cause you difficulty. You can develop practical tools that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer, more confident, more balanced, more motivated, and more in control. You can improve your relationships. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
Are you, or your teenager struggling with anxiety? Do you have difficulty moving forward in life toward your goals? Are traumatic events from your past interfering with your well-being in the present? Often, our brains get stuck in ways that hold us back. In therapy, you can learn to defuse the experiences, thoughts, and feelings that cause you difficulty. You can develop practical tools that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer, more confident, more balanced, more motivated, and more in control. You can improve your relationships. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping!
(703) 686-8961 View (703) 686-8961
Photo of Elizabeth Hussey Clinical Supervisor - Elizabeth Hussey, LPC, Clinical Supervisor, LPC, NCC, MS, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Hussey, LPC, Clinical Supervisor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302  (Online Only)
The decision to start therapy is a huge, brave step in seeking to improve your life and make positive changes. As a compassionate and supportive therapist, I work to support your goals by learning your unique story and exploring your concerns and presenting issues in order to guide you to meaningful, beneficial outcomes. I primarily work with adolescent and young adult women and focus on helping individuals with a wide range of goals, such as improving family dynamics, building healthy romantic and peer relationships, learning positive coping strategies, improving self-esteem, and increasing self-confidence and resilience.
The decision to start therapy is a huge, brave step in seeking to improve your life and make positive changes. As a compassionate and supportive therapist, I work to support your goals by learning your unique story and exploring your concerns and presenting issues in order to guide you to meaningful, beneficial outcomes. I primarily work with adolescent and young adult women and focus on helping individuals with a wide range of goals, such as improving family dynamics, building healthy romantic and peer relationships, learning positive coping strategies, improving self-esteem, and increasing self-confidence and resilience.
(571) 451-2961 View (571) 451-2961
Photo of Adrienne Harding - Adrienne Harding, MA, LPC — Optimal Wellness, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adrienne Harding, MA, LPC — Optimal Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Are you stuck? Do you or your teenager need support recovering from addiction? Are depression, anxiety, or poor self-image keeping you stuck in life? Have you been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (BPD), schizophrenia, or other mental health challenges? Have you experienced traumatic events in childhood or in your adult life? In therapy, we will draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other treatment modalities to support you in developing effective coping skills. We can work on resolving trauma and defusing other factors that may be powering your difficulties. Contact me today. I am looking forward to hearing your story.
Are you stuck? Do you or your teenager need support recovering from addiction? Are depression, anxiety, or poor self-image keeping you stuck in life? Have you been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (BPD), schizophrenia, or other mental health challenges? Have you experienced traumatic events in childhood or in your adult life? In therapy, we will draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other treatment modalities to support you in developing effective coping skills. We can work on resolving trauma and defusing other factors that may be powering your difficulties. Contact me today. I am looking forward to hearing your story.
(202) 866-1366 View (202) 866-1366
Photo of Dennis J. Hunt - International Psychological & Consulting Svs Inc, PhD, Psychologist
International Psychological & Consulting Svs Inc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Currently, adult, teen and parent sessions are conducted online, while child sessions are in-person.
Dennis J Hunt, PhD., Licensed Clinical Psychologist, CEO of the International Psychological and Consulting Services (IPCS), Inc. At our practice, we use a Positive Psychology approach, working with individuals to develop the understanding and skills they need to achieve a higher level of daily functioning and quality of life. For more information, instructions for making appointments, and clinicians available, please go to www.ipcspositivechange.com . E-mail is the best way to get in touch with us! Due to being a small operation, we are often unable to answer calls.
Currently, adult, teen and parent sessions are conducted online, while child sessions are in-person.
Dennis J Hunt, PhD., Licensed Clinical Psychologist, CEO of the International Psychological and Consulting Services (IPCS), Inc. At our practice, we use a Positive Psychology approach, working with individuals to develop the understanding and skills they need to achieve a higher level of daily functioning and quality of life. For more information, instructions for making appointments, and clinicians available, please go to www.ipcspositivechange.com . E-mail is the best way to get in touch with us! Due to being a small operation, we are often unable to answer calls.
(703) 997-7945 View (703) 997-7945
Photo of Alexandra M. Knezo, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra M. Knezo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I am in a group practice called Alexandria Adolescent and Adult Therapy, Inc.
Live the life you choose! Let me assist you in recognizing your own courage and transform frustration into strength! I utilize an integrative approach based on a strengths model of treatment. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psycho-dynamic, interpersonal, solutions-focused, family systems, and empowerment. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that best meets your needs. We will work together to address challenges you are facing and identify solutions to cope. In addition, I will coordinate with other providers such as psychiatrists and physicians who are on your wellness team.
I am in a group practice called Alexandria Adolescent and Adult Therapy, Inc.
Live the life you choose! Let me assist you in recognizing your own courage and transform frustration into strength! I utilize an integrative approach based on a strengths model of treatment. I have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psycho-dynamic, interpersonal, solutions-focused, family systems, and empowerment. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that best meets your needs. We will work together to address challenges you are facing and identify solutions to cope. In addition, I will coordinate with other providers such as psychiatrists and physicians who are on your wellness team.
(703) 935-5821 View (703) 935-5821
Photo of Daniel J Gibson, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Daniel J Gibson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302
There are three certainties in life - death, taxes, and relationships. When the last of those is struggling—whether it’s your partner, teenager, or other loved one—it affects every area of your life. Relationships are important to you, or affect someone you love, making turbulence all the more confusing and painful, leaving you feeling lost and hurting. When they start to break down, from life stressors, change, or for reasons you don't understand, they can be hard to fix despite your best efforts. Conflict can feel inevitable or repetitive, while deep down all you want is to connect, come close, and enjoy one another.
There are three certainties in life - death, taxes, and relationships. When the last of those is struggling—whether it’s your partner, teenager, or other loved one—it affects every area of your life. Relationships are important to you, or affect someone you love, making turbulence all the more confusing and painful, leaving you feeling lost and hurting. When they start to break down, from life stressors, change, or for reasons you don't understand, they can be hard to fix despite your best efforts. Conflict can feel inevitable or repetitive, while deep down all you want is to connect, come close, and enjoy one another.
(571) 946-4985 View (571) 946-4985
Photo of Jessica Ellin Schladt, MSEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Ellin Schladt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302  (Online Only)
My mission through counseling is to foster hope to aid in inspiring change. I believe in the innate resilience of people to rise above their struggles. Sometimes we all need a little help to get there. I utilize a strengths-based approach to therapy, focused on resilience, empowerment, and building on a person’s current skill set. I am focused on meeting the client where they are to help them achieve where they want to be. Through compassion, challenging, and humor, I support my teen and adult clients in developing a growth mindset to reach their goals.
My mission through counseling is to foster hope to aid in inspiring change. I believe in the innate resilience of people to rise above their struggles. Sometimes we all need a little help to get there. I utilize a strengths-based approach to therapy, focused on resilience, empowerment, and building on a person’s current skill set. I am focused on meeting the client where they are to help them achieve where they want to be. Through compassion, challenging, and humor, I support my teen and adult clients in developing a growth mindset to reach their goals.
(571) 450-9488 View (571) 450-9488
Photo of Barbara Hernandez - Dr. Barbara Hernandez, Clinical Psychologist, PhD, MS, LCP, CSOTP, Psychologist
Dr. Barbara Hernandez, Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, MS, LCP, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Are you or your teenager experiencing difficulty? In therapy, you can develop coping skills to address depression, anxiety, psychosis, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, and problematic sexual behaviors. You can reduce family conflict and live a healthier and more fulfilling life. Therapy will use evidence-based approaches for sustainable improvement. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping you! You are not alone.
Are you or your teenager experiencing difficulty? In therapy, you can develop coping skills to address depression, anxiety, psychosis, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, and problematic sexual behaviors. You can reduce family conflict and live a healthier and more fulfilling life. Therapy will use evidence-based approaches for sustainable improvement. Contact me via phone, text, or email. I am looking forward to helping you! You are not alone.
(571) 487-8850 View (571) 487-8850
Photo of Suzanne Dunn - A Therapeutic Alliance, LICSW, LCSW, LMSW, CST, LGSW
A Therapeutic Alliance
LICSW, LCSW, LMSW, CST, LGSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Discussion topics include: Behavioral challenges at each developmental stage of growth; Handling transitions; How to talk to your straight or LGBTQ teen; and Talking about sex in an honest and responsible way, beyond abstinence.
Using a client-centered approach, our Clinicians help Clients understand and work through problems of everyday living, including relationship issues, work-life balance and self care issues, the impact of traumatic experiences past and present, and issues which affect day-to-day living. Connecting the dots of your inner experience and your outward struggles can be a powerful motivator for change. Together, we keep close track of your goals for therapy and your satisfaction with the results.
Discussion topics include: Behavioral challenges at each developmental stage of growth; Handling transitions; How to talk to your straight or LGBTQ teen; and Talking about sex in an honest and responsible way, beyond abstinence.
Using a client-centered approach, our Clinicians help Clients understand and work through problems of everyday living, including relationship issues, work-life balance and self care issues, the impact of traumatic experiences past and present, and issues which affect day-to-day living. Connecting the dots of your inner experience and your outward struggles can be a powerful motivator for change. Together, we keep close track of your goals for therapy and your satisfaction with the results.
(571) 882-9743 View (571) 882-9743
Photo of Eleanor Whitaker, MSN, LPC Intern
Eleanor Whitaker
LPC Intern, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Whether you are a child, teenager, or adult of any age, struggling with anxiety, sadness, grief, or trauma, whatever it is that brings you here, welcome. When we reach a crossroads or struggle to move forward, therapy can broaden our perspectives and offer new insights. As we take what we learn in therapy and apply it in our lives, we can begin to feel different: lighter, richer, fuller. It can feel like opening a window to allow more oxygen and light to enter.
Whether you are a child, teenager, or adult of any age, struggling with anxiety, sadness, grief, or trauma, whatever it is that brings you here, welcome. When we reach a crossroads or struggle to move forward, therapy can broaden our perspectives and offer new insights. As we take what we learn in therapy and apply it in our lives, we can begin to feel different: lighter, richer, fuller. It can feel like opening a window to allow more oxygen and light to enter.
(571) 570-3276 View (571) 570-3276
Photo of Alexandra Mai - Alexandra Mai, LMSW — Anxiety, Addiction, Biplolar, LMSW
Alexandra Mai, LMSW — Anxiety, Addiction, Biplolar
LMSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Do you or your teen struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Are you frequently nervous, or do you have trouble sleeping? In therapy, you can build coping skills that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer and more in control. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Our goal will be resilience and sustained healing. You can gain clarity on what matters to you most. You can open up to your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Contact me today to learn more about therapy. I am looking forward to helping!
Do you or your teen struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Are you frequently nervous, or do you have trouble sleeping? In therapy, you can build coping skills that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer and more in control. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Our goal will be resilience and sustained healing. You can gain clarity on what matters to you most. You can open up to your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Contact me today to learn more about therapy. I am looking forward to helping!
(301) 781-7972 View (301) 781-7972
Photo of André Allen, LCSW, MSW, QMHP-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
André Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, QMHP-C
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302  (Online Only)
As an African American male mental health professional, my passion lies in providing culturally sensitive and affirming care to disadvantaged-minority-adolescent populations struggling with mental health issues. I firmly believe that every individual deserves access to quality mental health services, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. Having grown up in a community that faced many mental health challenges, I understand firsthand the unique struggles that individuals from minority communities face when seeking mental health support. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for disadvantaged households!
As an African American male mental health professional, my passion lies in providing culturally sensitive and affirming care to disadvantaged-minority-adolescent populations struggling with mental health issues. I firmly believe that every individual deserves access to quality mental health services, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. Having grown up in a community that faced many mental health challenges, I understand firsthand the unique struggles that individuals from minority communities face when seeking mental health support. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for disadvantaged households!
(757) 571-8621 View (757) 571-8621
Photo of Sara Bond - Sunstone Counseling , MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sunstone Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301
Do you find yourself struggling to understand or help with your child or teen's emotions or behaviors? Do you sometimes feel like what you’re doing is not enough? Children and teens are developing at a rapid and different pace than adults are. They have different ways of understanding their own world, expressing and managing emotions, and interacting with others. While at times, guardians may feel stuck, the child or teen may feel the same way, yet struggle to process and understand how they’re feeling. Without proper coping tools, support, and warmth, they may find themselves struggling further. This is where I can help.
Do you find yourself struggling to understand or help with your child or teen's emotions or behaviors? Do you sometimes feel like what you’re doing is not enough? Children and teens are developing at a rapid and different pace than adults are. They have different ways of understanding their own world, expressing and managing emotions, and interacting with others. While at times, guardians may feel stuck, the child or teen may feel the same way, yet struggle to process and understand how they’re feeling. Without proper coping tools, support, and warmth, they may find themselves struggling further. This is where I can help.
(571) 475-9841 View (571) 475-9841
Photo of Nichelle Hammiel, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichelle Hammiel
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples and families to provide support through relationship enrichment and repair, pre-marital/commitment therapy, couples counseling, divorce discernment/collaboration, sexual issues, trauma, self-worth, grief, addiction, abuse & illness. My work helps individuals and couples at any stage of life explore their strengths and vulnerabilities and create a plan for success that includes: healthy communication, validation, emotional intimacy, etc. In my work with parents and families, I address parenting/co-parenting strategies, blended family challenges, teen issues, collaborative divorce, military life, etc.
I work with individuals, couples and families to provide support through relationship enrichment and repair, pre-marital/commitment therapy, couples counseling, divorce discernment/collaboration, sexual issues, trauma, self-worth, grief, addiction, abuse & illness. My work helps individuals and couples at any stage of life explore their strengths and vulnerabilities and create a plan for success that includes: healthy communication, validation, emotional intimacy, etc. In my work with parents and families, I address parenting/co-parenting strategies, blended family challenges, teen issues, collaborative divorce, military life, etc.
(571) 777-0128 View (571) 777-0128
Photo of Lynda Tsai Guo, MA, Counselor
Lynda Tsai Guo
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22302
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or frustrated? Has life been painful, confusing, and just plain complicated? You’ve tried to cope yet it doesn’t seem to get any better. Whether you’re a teen or adult struggling with relationships, life transitions, work, school, or life in general, I can help you. Let’s sort through the chaos and hurt together to find the hidden strengths that will empower you to begin living with more clarity and contentment.
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or frustrated? Has life been painful, confusing, and just plain complicated? You’ve tried to cope yet it doesn’t seem to get any better. Whether you’re a teen or adult struggling with relationships, life transitions, work, school, or life in general, I can help you. Let’s sort through the chaos and hurt together to find the hidden strengths that will empower you to begin living with more clarity and contentment.
(571) 554-5532 View (571) 554-5532
Photo of Halle Marie Wendel - Eagles Wings Counseling, LLC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eagles Wings Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22202
Compassionate, Bilingual Therapist uniquely trained to treat the sensitive needs of the whole person, integrating Spirituality with Psychology in helping you overcome personal obstacles to living your best life! Specializing in inner healing, resolving simple and complex marital issues, career changes, midlife and adolescent struggles, treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual abuse and domestic violence. I also offer Clinical Assessments for Immigration Situations dealing with Asylum, Hardship Waivers, U Visa and VAWA cases. Christian Counseling available upon request.
Compassionate, Bilingual Therapist uniquely trained to treat the sensitive needs of the whole person, integrating Spirituality with Psychology in helping you overcome personal obstacles to living your best life! Specializing in inner healing, resolving simple and complex marital issues, career changes, midlife and adolescent struggles, treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual abuse and domestic violence. I also offer Clinical Assessments for Immigration Situations dealing with Asylum, Hardship Waivers, U Visa and VAWA cases. Christian Counseling available upon request.
(706) 550-9567 View (706) 550-9567
Photo of Dr. Vester Appiah, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Vester Appiah
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22301  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the courageous step towards positive change. I'm Dr. Vester Appiah, and I'm here to provide you with specialized support on your journey to well-being. With over a decade of experience, my passion lies in offering compassionate counseling to individuals of all age groups. Whether you're a teenager navigating the complexities of youth, a young adult grappling with life's transitions, or an experienced individual seeking personal growth and healing, I'm here to walk with you every step of the way.
Congratulations on taking the courageous step towards positive change. I'm Dr. Vester Appiah, and I'm here to provide you with specialized support on your journey to well-being. With over a decade of experience, my passion lies in offering compassionate counseling to individuals of all age groups. Whether you're a teenager navigating the complexities of youth, a young adult grappling with life's transitions, or an experienced individual seeking personal growth and healing, I'm here to walk with you every step of the way.
(540) 274-9948 View (540) 274-9948

See more therapy options for Potomac

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.