Therapists for Teens in West Mclean, VA

Photo of Susan M Pan, LCSW, CSAT, CDWF, CPTT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan M Pan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, CDWF, CPTT
Verified Verified
West Mclean, VA 22102
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Daring Way Facilitator (CDWF), a Certified Partner & Trauma Therapist (CPTT) , and an experienced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have been in practice since 1986. Through psychotherapy, I help clients identify and use these resources to grow and change. I specialize in empowering people to resolve issues such as: addictions, co-dependency, anxiety, depression, family discord, couples conflict, parenting struggles and post divorce relationships.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Daring Way Facilitator (CDWF), a Certified Partner & Trauma Therapist (CPTT) , and an experienced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have been in practice since 1986. Through psychotherapy, I help clients identify and use these resources to grow and change. I specialize in empowering people to resolve issues such as: addictions, co-dependency, anxiety, depression, family discord, couples conflict, parenting struggles and post divorce relationships.
(540) 227-0917 View (540) 227-0917
Photo of Ophelia Boadi, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ophelia Boadi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Mclean, VA 22102  (Online Only)
Ophelia works with children, adolescents, and adults to help them gain insight and build tools to face challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other related issues with others including peers/family, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, grief and loss, and specific life stressors.
Ophelia Boadi is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the Commonwealth of Virginia. She is an experienced Children and Family Mental Health Therapist with a history of working in the field since 2010 in Nonprofit Organizations, community-based organizations, individual/family therapy, group therapy, crisis intervention, and psychotherapy based on research studies to help children and families meet their goals in treatment.
Ophelia works with children, adolescents, and adults to help them gain insight and build tools to face challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other related issues with others including peers/family, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, grief and loss, and specific life stressors.
Ophelia Boadi is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the Commonwealth of Virginia. She is an experienced Children and Family Mental Health Therapist with a history of working in the field since 2010 in Nonprofit Organizations, community-based organizations, individual/family therapy, group therapy, crisis intervention, and psychotherapy based on research studies to help children and families meet their goals in treatment.
(703) 782-3994 View (703) 782-3994
Photo of Cate Riihimaki, LPC, MEd, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cate Riihimaki
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, EdS
Verified Verified
West Mclean, VA 22102
Using evidence-based therapy models (DBT, CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT), I work with adolescents and adults to replace maladaptive behaviors, thoughts, and emotions with positive coping skills.
Perhaps you are seeking therapy for a specific concern: depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting support, relational issues, or personal loss. Or maybe, you are entering counseling for less easily defined goals, such as self-awareness, creating a more meaningful life, increasing resilience, or personal empowerment. Whatever brings you to counseling, I will work to provide a safe and supportive space for you to engage in the therapeutic process.
Using evidence-based therapy models (DBT, CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT), I work with adolescents and adults to replace maladaptive behaviors, thoughts, and emotions with positive coping skills.
Perhaps you are seeking therapy for a specific concern: depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting support, relational issues, or personal loss. Or maybe, you are entering counseling for less easily defined goals, such as self-awareness, creating a more meaningful life, increasing resilience, or personal empowerment. Whatever brings you to counseling, I will work to provide a safe and supportive space for you to engage in the therapeutic process.
(703) 215-9013 View (703) 215-9013
Photo of Carolin Jassem, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carolin Jassem
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Mclean, VA 22102
I conduct Neuropsychology, Autism, ADHD, and personality testing with great passion and dedication. Through years of experience, I have come to appreciate the immense value of comprehensive evaluations in accurately diagnosing conditions, fostering personal growth, and making informed career decisions. My commitment to this field is fueled by a genuine desire to help individuals better understand themselves and reach their full potential. Together, we can identify patterns that keep you stuck, develop new coping skills, and take steps towards healing and growth.
I conduct Neuropsychology, Autism, ADHD, and personality testing with great passion and dedication. Through years of experience, I have come to appreciate the immense value of comprehensive evaluations in accurately diagnosing conditions, fostering personal growth, and making informed career decisions. My commitment to this field is fueled by a genuine desire to help individuals better understand themselves and reach their full potential. Together, we can identify patterns that keep you stuck, develop new coping skills, and take steps towards healing and growth.
(703) 293-5276 View (703) 293-5276

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Atim Bassey - Atim Bassey - Couples And Family Therapist, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Atim Bassey - Couples And Family Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Now accepting NEW Clients for in person (or virtual) therapy for MD, VA, and DC. Is your teen and family struggling? Are you ready to make a change and improve your relationship with your partner and kids? Are you exhausted from all the fighting or lack of communication and overall distress? I absolutely love working with families and couples and helping them connect back together. I am also trained in EMDR and has a passion for working with clients who have experienced trauma. I welcome families and couples seeking to strengthen their relationships and navigate life's complexities with compassion and expertise.
Now accepting NEW Clients for in person (or virtual) therapy for MD, VA, and DC. Is your teen and family struggling? Are you ready to make a change and improve your relationship with your partner and kids? Are you exhausted from all the fighting or lack of communication and overall distress? I absolutely love working with families and couples and helping them connect back together. I am also trained in EMDR and has a passion for working with clients who have experienced trauma. I welcome families and couples seeking to strengthen their relationships and navigate life's complexities with compassion and expertise.
(240) 248-9241 View (240) 248-9241
Photo of Fereshteh Khodaei Shahrokhi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fereshteh Khodaei Shahrokhi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Additional to attending many training & taking courses in different areas of mental health & behavioral difficulties, took advanced courses in Family & Group Therapy, Adolescent Sex Offenders & ADHD/EFD.
My name is Fereshteh Shahrokhi. Have worked decades as clinical & school social worker with K-12 students & families. Worked at day treatment, children & adolescents & juvenile delinquents residential placements with emotional & behavioral difficulties. In particular is skilled working with people with ADHD/Executive Function Deficits (EFD). Provided local, state, and national level presentations in ADHD/EFD, Depression Awareness & Prevention, Bullying & did Depression Screening. Also have been nominated as "The Social Worker of the Year" in 2011 by Fairfax County Association of School Social Workers, the second one ever nominated. Also worked with traumatized children & adolescents & sex offenders.
Additional to attending many training & taking courses in different areas of mental health & behavioral difficulties, took advanced courses in Family & Group Therapy, Adolescent Sex Offenders & ADHD/EFD.
My name is Fereshteh Shahrokhi. Have worked decades as clinical & school social worker with K-12 students & families. Worked at day treatment, children & adolescents & juvenile delinquents residential placements with emotional & behavioral difficulties. In particular is skilled working with people with ADHD/Executive Function Deficits (EFD). Provided local, state, and national level presentations in ADHD/EFD, Depression Awareness & Prevention, Bullying & did Depression Screening. Also have been nominated as "The Social Worker of the Year" in 2011 by Fairfax County Association of School Social Workers, the second one ever nominated. Also worked with traumatized children & adolescents & sex offenders.
(703) 609-9387 View (703) 609-9387
Photo of Michelle Hallahan, EdD, LPC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Hallahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
You’re allowed to feel enough just as you are. My passion lies with those who feel misunderstood, who mask to fit in, or who feel "normal" is a distant concept. It can feel exhausting navigating a world that feels unnatural, unsafe, uncontrollable, or judgmental, like others don't connect with who you are. It falsifies reality and reinforces irrational, intrusive, uncontrollable, and disruptive beliefs; you convince yourself you are the problem… but you aren’t. Whether an adolescent, neurodivergent, challenged by a life transition, socially awkward/isolated, or struggling to process a big or little trauma, you matter.
You’re allowed to feel enough just as you are. My passion lies with those who feel misunderstood, who mask to fit in, or who feel "normal" is a distant concept. It can feel exhausting navigating a world that feels unnatural, unsafe, uncontrollable, or judgmental, like others don't connect with who you are. It falsifies reality and reinforces irrational, intrusive, uncontrollable, and disruptive beliefs; you convince yourself you are the problem… but you aren’t. Whether an adolescent, neurodivergent, challenged by a life transition, socially awkward/isolated, or struggling to process a big or little trauma, you matter.
(571) 384-2805 View (571) 384-2805
Photo of Gyoen G Soggin, PsyD, Psychologist
Gyoen G Soggin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
I help children, adolescents, and adults overcome challenges and traumatic events that shape their development, self esteem, and interpersonal relationships. I utilize a psychodynamic, client centered treatment approach to address each individual's educational, occupational and interpersonal goals. My specialties include child and adolescent development, couple's communication and parenting, separation and divorce, and the treatment of complex trauma.
I help children, adolescents, and adults overcome challenges and traumatic events that shape their development, self esteem, and interpersonal relationships. I utilize a psychodynamic, client centered treatment approach to address each individual's educational, occupational and interpersonal goals. My specialties include child and adolescent development, couple's communication and parenting, separation and divorce, and the treatment of complex trauma.
(720) 571-4268 View (720) 571-4268
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry McLean
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
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) 604-6761 View (571) 604-6761
Photo of Mary A Ellis, JD, PsyD, Psychologist
Mary A Ellis
Psychologist, JD, PsyD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102
With background in child/ adolescent/adult work, I have developed a special interest in treating adults of all ages struggling with balancing competing demands of work, family, social life, and self-care. Having enjoyed a successful, though unusual, career path I have a particular affinity for individuals in the science/tech fields and for those undertaking advanced degrees in highly competitive programs, including the arts. I am well placed to appreciate the unspoken challenges attending living and thriving in and around the Nation’s Capital.
With background in child/ adolescent/adult work, I have developed a special interest in treating adults of all ages struggling with balancing competing demands of work, family, social life, and self-care. Having enjoyed a successful, though unusual, career path I have a particular affinity for individuals in the science/tech fields and for those undertaking advanced degrees in highly competitive programs, including the arts. I am well placed to appreciate the unspoken challenges attending living and thriving in and around the Nation’s Capital.
(703) 596-1895 View (703) 596-1895
Photo of Kelly O'Connor, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Kelly O'Connor
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22027  (Online Only)
If your teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, or the aftermath of trauma, I’m here to help them find their way back to a life that feels manageable.
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma making your teen feel like their life is out of control? As a child and adolescent psychologist, I specialize in helping teens and young adults navigate these intense emotions. I understand how overwhelming it can be for both teens and their families when mental health takes over. My goal is to provide a compassionate, evidence-based approach that not only addresses the symptoms but also empowers your teen with the skills to regain control and thrive.
If your teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, or the aftermath of trauma, I’m here to help them find their way back to a life that feels manageable.
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma making your teen feel like their life is out of control? As a child and adolescent psychologist, I specialize in helping teens and young adults navigate these intense emotions. I understand how overwhelming it can be for both teens and their families when mental health takes over. My goal is to provide a compassionate, evidence-based approach that not only addresses the symptoms but also empowers your teen with the skills to regain control and thrive.
(804) 531-4452 View (804) 531-4452
Photo of David Edelman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Edelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vienna, VA 22182
I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with my adolescent and adult clients.
Are you a young adult trying to find your place in the world? Or, are you the parent of teenager that you can’t understand what is wrong with your child? Are you struggling with addiction. If so, you’ve come to the right place. I’m passionate about helping teens, families and adults overcome their mental health and substance use challenges. Over the past 25 years I’ve helped hundreds of people lead happier, healthier lives. I’m currently doing most of my sessions online, using secure and confidential video platforms.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with my adolescent and adult clients.
Are you a young adult trying to find your place in the world? Or, are you the parent of teenager that you can’t understand what is wrong with your child? Are you struggling with addiction. If so, you’ve come to the right place. I’m passionate about helping teens, families and adults overcome their mental health and substance use challenges. Over the past 25 years I’ve helped hundreds of people lead happier, healthier lives. I’m currently doing most of my sessions online, using secure and confidential video platforms.
(571) 620-6075 View (571) 620-6075
Photo of Katie Clark, LPC, RPT-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S, NCC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, I create a welcoming and secure space for individuals to address a range of concerns. With a wealth of experience focusing on children and adolescents grappling with issues like depression, anxiety, behavior challenges, ADHD, sleep disturbances, sensory issues, self-esteem, and life transitions, I am committed to fostering an environment of warmth, acceptance, and respect for every unique child, adolescent, and family under my care.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, I create a welcoming and secure space for individuals to address a range of concerns. With a wealth of experience focusing on children and adolescents grappling with issues like depression, anxiety, behavior challenges, ADHD, sleep disturbances, sensory issues, self-esteem, and life transitions, I am committed to fostering an environment of warmth, acceptance, and respect for every unique child, adolescent, and family under my care.
(703) 348-3732 View (703) 348-3732
Photo of Tawanda Turner Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tawanda Turner Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
I provide supportive counseling with high risk Adolescents, address marital discord, PTSD within the armed forces and Foreign Service and those in the LGBT community and work/life consultation.
I have over 35 years providing counseling. My work has included individual, child and adolescent treatment as well as family/couples counseling. I specialize in providing support in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and marital discord. Additionally, I have had the honor of providing support to military and Foreign Service Officers', federal government workers and their families. I provide supportive counseling to a clients with a diverse cultural background. The time is now to begin your emotional healing and to renew your Hope for Today and the Future.
I provide supportive counseling with high risk Adolescents, address marital discord, PTSD within the armed forces and Foreign Service and those in the LGBT community and work/life consultation.
I have over 35 years providing counseling. My work has included individual, child and adolescent treatment as well as family/couples counseling. I specialize in providing support in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and marital discord. Additionally, I have had the honor of providing support to military and Foreign Service Officers', federal government workers and their families. I provide supportive counseling to a clients with a diverse cultural background. The time is now to begin your emotional healing and to renew your Hope for Today and the Future.
(571) 200-9872 View (571) 200-9872
Photo of Emily Christison Schmidt, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Christison Schmidt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
Is your child struggling with anxiety or emotional regulation? Is your teenager having difficulty navigating the many challenges associated with growing up? Or are you an adult seeking help in processing life transitions, trauma, or just coping with everyday life? No matter what stage of life, counseling can be healing and empowering. These are just a few of the many challenges I strive to help individuals cope with.
Is your child struggling with anxiety or emotional regulation? Is your teenager having difficulty navigating the many challenges associated with growing up? Or are you an adult seeking help in processing life transitions, trauma, or just coping with everyday life? No matter what stage of life, counseling can be healing and empowering. These are just a few of the many challenges I strive to help individuals cope with.
(571) 202-6997 View (571) 202-6997
Photo of Lynda Tsai Guo, MA, Counselor
Lynda Tsai Guo
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102
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 Brittany Belscher, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Belscher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
Whether you're seeking support for your child or adolescent, a young adult through the transition into adulthood, an athlete wanting to reach peak performance, or navigating the complexities of parenthood, I am here to help you on your transformative journey. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where individuals and families can navigate challenges, develop effective coping strategies, and foster personal growth. My practice approach to therapy is rooted in three core principles: an evidence-based approach, holistic perspective, and compassionate, gentle support.
Whether you're seeking support for your child or adolescent, a young adult through the transition into adulthood, an athlete wanting to reach peak performance, or navigating the complexities of parenthood, I am here to help you on your transformative journey. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where individuals and families can navigate challenges, develop effective coping strategies, and foster personal growth. My practice approach to therapy is rooted in three core principles: an evidence-based approach, holistic perspective, and compassionate, gentle support.
(571) 475-8252 View (571) 475-8252
Photo of Erica Ohnstad - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry McLean, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry McLean
Counselor
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
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) 540-7917 View (571) 540-7917
Photo of Daniel Brooks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
Are you looking to become the best version of yourself or hoping your teen becomes more motivated? if so then I am here to help. Good Counsel, LLC mission is to "Make Healing Possible" through education, connection and innovation. We meet you where you are to help you or your loved one reach live the life you desire. We utilize various treatment modalities through individual or group sessions to help those we work with become more self aware, unlock their purpose and learn to live authentically.
Are you looking to become the best version of yourself or hoping your teen becomes more motivated? if so then I am here to help. Good Counsel, LLC mission is to "Make Healing Possible" through education, connection and innovation. We meet you where you are to help you or your loved one reach live the life you desire. We utilize various treatment modalities through individual or group sessions to help those we work with become more self aware, unlock their purpose and learn to live authentically.
(757) 780-8442 View (757) 780-8442
Photo of Vincent DAvena, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Vincent DAvena
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
I work with couples, individual adults and adolescents 15+ who are experiencing individual, relational and communication challenges. Stressors I work with include family challenges, communication issues, work-life balance, parental- teen conflict, anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, bullying, grief, identity, & adjustment challenges. I work with you to increase personal awareness, build inner strength, and to thrive interpersonally. I help you better understand what's happened to you, where you come from, how to identify your blind spots, and to manage your personal + professional challenges in a way that is helpful and rewarding.
I work with couples, individual adults and adolescents 15+ who are experiencing individual, relational and communication challenges. Stressors I work with include family challenges, communication issues, work-life balance, parental- teen conflict, anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, bullying, grief, identity, & adjustment challenges. I work with you to increase personal awareness, build inner strength, and to thrive interpersonally. I help you better understand what's happened to you, where you come from, how to identify your blind spots, and to manage your personal + professional challenges in a way that is helpful and rewarding.
(571) 341-7271 View (571) 341-7271

See more therapy options for West Mclean

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.