Therapists for Teens in Madison, WI

Photo of Susan LeGrand Levine, MS, LPC, Counselor
Susan LeGrand Levine
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53717
Having experience as a Dane County Treatment Foster Parent for 20 years with over 90 adolescent boys in our home, I have expertise in working with teens and their families.
Because your life is worth my time. I provide non-judgemental, client-centered psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My focus is solution-oriented and goal-driven. My office is conveniently located off of the West Beltline in Madison. You and I can navigate difficult life challenges and changes with confidence and assurance. I have significant experience as a psychotherapist, having been in practice in Madison, Wisconsin for over 25 years. My clients come to me for issues including depression, anxiety, relational issues, and grief. I offer adoption competent therapy.
Having experience as a Dane County Treatment Foster Parent for 20 years with over 90 adolescent boys in our home, I have expertise in working with teens and their families.
Because your life is worth my time. I provide non-judgemental, client-centered psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My focus is solution-oriented and goal-driven. My office is conveniently located off of the West Beltline in Madison. You and I can navigate difficult life challenges and changes with confidence and assurance. I have significant experience as a psychotherapist, having been in practice in Madison, Wisconsin for over 25 years. My clients come to me for issues including depression, anxiety, relational issues, and grief. I offer adoption competent therapy.
(608) 208-9869 View (608) 208-9869
Photo of Katrina Lewellyn, LPC-IT, Counselor
Katrina Lewellyn
Counselor, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
I specialize in therapy for teens & adults seeking support as they navigate their day to day challenges, relationships, anxiety, or depression.
You’re at a crossroads, and you’re not sure what to do—or where to go—next. Maybe you’re the parent of a teen who has changed before your eyes, and you’re at a loss for how to help them. Perhaps you’re feeling anxious and uncertain due to a big life change, questioning your purpose, your relationships, and your future direction. If you’re grappling with questions related to your sexual health or experiences, you might feel especially anxious or unsure right now. No matter where you find yourself today, I’ll meet you right there. You’ve come to the right place to find guidance, support, and a way forward.
I specialize in therapy for teens & adults seeking support as they navigate their day to day challenges, relationships, anxiety, or depression.
You’re at a crossroads, and you’re not sure what to do—or where to go—next. Maybe you’re the parent of a teen who has changed before your eyes, and you’re at a loss for how to help them. Perhaps you’re feeling anxious and uncertain due to a big life change, questioning your purpose, your relationships, and your future direction. If you’re grappling with questions related to your sexual health or experiences, you might feel especially anxious or unsure right now. No matter where you find yourself today, I’ll meet you right there. You’ve come to the right place to find guidance, support, and a way forward.
(608) 315-5494 View (608) 315-5494
Photo of Denise Rosby, MS, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denise Rosby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53704  (Online Only)
Significant experience working with adolescents, substance abuse and trauma as well as older age groups.
I created Choose You Counseling to empower my clients to engage in collaborative problem-solving so they can own their solution and take pride in their ability to heal. I work with people 12 to 100 years old helping with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, relationship and family issues, anger, school and adolescent difficulties. I am focused on listening to my client's life story to get an understanding how events have impacted their views and life choices then implement strategies to help promote healing and positive change. I believe choosing oneself is the foundation of improving our life.
Significant experience working with adolescents, substance abuse and trauma as well as older age groups.
I created Choose You Counseling to empower my clients to engage in collaborative problem-solving so they can own their solution and take pride in their ability to heal. I work with people 12 to 100 years old helping with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, relationship and family issues, anger, school and adolescent difficulties. I am focused on listening to my client's life story to get an understanding how events have impacted their views and life choices then implement strategies to help promote healing and positive change. I believe choosing oneself is the foundation of improving our life.
(608) 892-8527 View (608) 892-8527
Photo of Nathaniel Aymaar Willkomm, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nathaniel Aymaar Willkomm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53713
I’d be honored to help your child or teen stop feeling stuck and move forward to becoming their best selves.
Your teen doesn’t know what they want, and neither do you. At home, the conflicts seem constant—you’re always butting heads and they never seem happy, no matter what you do. You feel defeated. Teenagers are looking for a sense of belonging and it’s often hard for them to feel confident and explain their internal world to others when life is throwing so much at them. They need a space for someone to listen and validate their feelings, without fear of judgment. Understanding their behavior can be confusing and frustrating, but I’m here to tell you there is hope.
I’d be honored to help your child or teen stop feeling stuck and move forward to becoming their best selves.
Your teen doesn’t know what they want, and neither do you. At home, the conflicts seem constant—you’re always butting heads and they never seem happy, no matter what you do. You feel defeated. Teenagers are looking for a sense of belonging and it’s often hard for them to feel confident and explain their internal world to others when life is throwing so much at them. They need a space for someone to listen and validate their feelings, without fear of judgment. Understanding their behavior can be confusing and frustrating, but I’m here to tell you there is hope.
(608) 496-9797 View (608) 496-9797
Photo of Jennifer Wangerin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Wangerin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
She has pursued that passion in many capacities, from providing in-home therapy, serving as Director of Child and Adolescent Services at a rural mental health center, providing mental health consultation for Head Start Preschools, and most recently, coordinating a child trauma program.
Jennifer has a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Human Development from the University of Wisconsin-Green. She earned her master's degree in counseling at Marquette University in 2008. She has over 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, utilizing a variety of theoretical perspectives. Her passion for working with children and their families dates to her days as a pre-school teacher, followed by providing in-home care in the inner city of Milwaukee.
She has pursued that passion in many capacities, from providing in-home therapy, serving as Director of Child and Adolescent Services at a rural mental health center, providing mental health consultation for Head Start Preschools, and most recently, coordinating a child trauma program.
Jennifer has a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Human Development from the University of Wisconsin-Green. She earned her master's degree in counseling at Marquette University in 2008. She has over 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, utilizing a variety of theoretical perspectives. Her passion for working with children and their families dates to her days as a pre-school teacher, followed by providing in-home care in the inner city of Milwaukee.
(608) 440-8483 View (608) 440-8483
Photo of Lucia Stubbs, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Lucia Stubbs
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
My training and experience includes Autism-specific diagnostic testing, socioemotional developmental assessments, as well as psychiatric and treatment evaluations primarily among children and adolescents.
The emphasis of my clinical work is in pediatric assessments including neuropsychological evaluations. I specialize in providing individually-tailored, extensive examinations of symptoms, development, and functioning in order to better understand each child or adolescent. Thus, the goal is not to arrive at a standardized diagnosis, but to achieve a deeper insight into each person's distinct biopsychosocial makeup. The most enjoyable aspect of assessment work is being able to provide children and families with clarifying "ah ha" moments, in order to help them make better sense and successes of their lives.
My training and experience includes Autism-specific diagnostic testing, socioemotional developmental assessments, as well as psychiatric and treatment evaluations primarily among children and adolescents.
The emphasis of my clinical work is in pediatric assessments including neuropsychological evaluations. I specialize in providing individually-tailored, extensive examinations of symptoms, development, and functioning in order to better understand each child or adolescent. Thus, the goal is not to arrive at a standardized diagnosis, but to achieve a deeper insight into each person's distinct biopsychosocial makeup. The most enjoyable aspect of assessment work is being able to provide children and families with clarifying "ah ha" moments, in order to help them make better sense and successes of their lives.
(608) 260-7493 View (608) 260-7493
Photo of Darald Hanusa, PhD, LSCW, SAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darald Hanusa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSCW, SAC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
It was Ralph Waldo Emerson who once said that, "What lies behind us and what lies before us matters little compared to what lies within us". For more than 30 years I have focused on helping children and adults, individually, in couples, in families and groups achieve strength, peace and confidence by improving conflict resolution, communication, stress and anxiety, anger management skills, child and adolescent behavioral problems, and parenting skills as well as improved functioning and decreased emotional distress related to depression, self-esteem, post-traumatic stress and bipolar disorders. Through a combination of interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral and motivational approaches I have seen my clients make meaningful and lasting transformations in both emotional and behavioral dimensions. I provide evidence-based, focused, and time-limited treatment with documented results for mental health, behavioral health and substance use issues.
It was Ralph Waldo Emerson who once said that, "What lies behind us and what lies before us matters little compared to what lies within us". For more than 30 years I have focused on helping children and adults, individually, in couples, in families and groups achieve strength, peace and confidence by improving conflict resolution, communication, stress and anxiety, anger management skills, child and adolescent behavioral problems, and parenting skills as well as improved functioning and decreased emotional distress related to depression, self-esteem, post-traumatic stress and bipolar disorders. Through a combination of interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral and motivational approaches I have seen my clients make meaningful and lasting transformations in both emotional and behavioral dimensions. I provide evidence-based, focused, and time-limited treatment with documented results for mental health, behavioral health and substance use issues.
(608) 579-0529 x229 View (608) 579-0529 x229
Photo of Ted Izydor, MS, LPC, CSAC, ICS, MBA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Ted Izydor
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC, ICS, MBA
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53716
Ted Izydor specializes in adult and adolescent addiction and mental health counseling. His unique counseling approach blends his extensive education with his 25 years of diverse clinical experience as a licensed mental health and addiction counselor. His coaching/counseling sessions strive to provide a safe, supportive and confidential environment so that people can be themselves and achieve the success they so deserve in their lives. Ted has an easy going and relaxed approach and views everyone as having unique strengths and a success mechanism within.
Ted Izydor specializes in adult and adolescent addiction and mental health counseling. His unique counseling approach blends his extensive education with his 25 years of diverse clinical experience as a licensed mental health and addiction counselor. His coaching/counseling sessions strive to provide a safe, supportive and confidential environment so that people can be themselves and achieve the success they so deserve in their lives. Ted has an easy going and relaxed approach and views everyone as having unique strengths and a success mechanism within.
(608) 472-2428 View (608) 472-2428
Photo of Jenna Matthews, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenna Matthews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) holding Master’s degrees in Community Counseling and Child & Adolescent Psychology.
Respect for the person is of critical importance to me. It is the cornerstone of my professional practice.​ It is important to recognize that, as human beings, we all struggle from time to time. No one is perfect. No one should need to carry this weight alone. I strive to provide you with a safe, comfortable, confidential environment in which to share, process, and heal.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) holding Master’s degrees in Community Counseling and Child & Adolescent Psychology.
Respect for the person is of critical importance to me. It is the cornerstone of my professional practice.​ It is important to recognize that, as human beings, we all struggle from time to time. No one is perfect. No one should need to carry this weight alone. I strive to provide you with a safe, comfortable, confidential environment in which to share, process, and heal.
(608) 557-8305 View (608) 557-8305
Photo of Carissa L. Dietzler, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carissa L. Dietzler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
Waitlist for new clients
As a Child & Adolescent Therapist with over 15 years of experience, I have had the opportunity to work with hundreds of children and teens experiencing a wide variety of emotional and behavioral health challenges. I am also passionate in my work providing support and training to parents. Perhaps your child is struggling at home, at school or socially. Perhaps your teenager is experiencing strong emotions and when you try to reach out and provide support, it doesn't seem to help. Perhaps you are a parent and you feel like you have tried everything to manage your child's difficult behaviors, but nothing seems to be working.
As a Child & Adolescent Therapist with over 15 years of experience, I have had the opportunity to work with hundreds of children and teens experiencing a wide variety of emotional and behavioral health challenges. I am also passionate in my work providing support and training to parents. Perhaps your child is struggling at home, at school or socially. Perhaps your teenager is experiencing strong emotions and when you try to reach out and provide support, it doesn't seem to help. Perhaps you are a parent and you feel like you have tried everything to manage your child's difficult behaviors, but nothing seems to be working.
(715) 502-3010 View (715) 502-3010
Photo of Liz Light, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liz Light
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53704
Waitlist for new clients
I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and work with adolescent and adult clients of all backgrounds, cultures, and identities.
Greetings! Sometimes we benefit from a non-biased, affirming source of support to open new pathways to pleasure and fulfillment - both of which we are all inherently deserving of. I invite clients to come as their authentic selves, explore the nuance of “what is,” and challenge narratives they may be ready to shed. As a systemic therapist, I believe all systems we exist within impact us. Clients can expect to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as experiences informed by family, partnership, community, work, and broader social systems.
I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and work with adolescent and adult clients of all backgrounds, cultures, and identities.
Greetings! Sometimes we benefit from a non-biased, affirming source of support to open new pathways to pleasure and fulfillment - both of which we are all inherently deserving of. I invite clients to come as their authentic selves, explore the nuance of “what is,” and challenge narratives they may be ready to shed. As a systemic therapist, I believe all systems we exist within impact us. Clients can expect to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors as experiences informed by family, partnership, community, work, and broader social systems.
(608) 979-7417 View (608) 979-7417
Photo of Emily Kay Schill, LPC-IT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Kay Schill
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
As a teenager, I was heavily impacted by the hard work and dedication of domestic violence and family counselors; it became my goal to help others as I had been helped to create positive change for children and families.
I believe that everyone is unique, and that this uniqueness should be celebrated and used as a tool for growth and healing. I employ a person-centered and trauma-informed approach as it encourages the client to be in charge of the therapeutic process. I describe it as I'm holding the flashlight so you can find the right path. I look forward to meeting you and going on this journey together!
As a teenager, I was heavily impacted by the hard work and dedication of domestic violence and family counselors; it became my goal to help others as I had been helped to create positive change for children and families.
I believe that everyone is unique, and that this uniqueness should be celebrated and used as a tool for growth and healing. I employ a person-centered and trauma-informed approach as it encourages the client to be in charge of the therapeutic process. I describe it as I'm holding the flashlight so you can find the right path. I look forward to meeting you and going on this journey together!
(608) 650-6372 View (608) 650-6372
Photo of Stefan Matioc, MFT IT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stefan Matioc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT IT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53715
I work with adolescent and adult individuals, families, and couples that are looking to understand themselves and relationships more intimately. Often people come to therapy during a transition and have a desire to talk about their strategies and skills for navigating their life experience.
I work with adolescent and adult individuals, families, and couples that are looking to understand themselves and relationships more intimately. Often people come to therapy during a transition and have a desire to talk about their strategies and skills for navigating their life experience.
(608) 925-2056 x124 View (608) 925-2056 x124
Photo of Christie Gause-Bemis, MSW, LCSW, CSTIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christie Gause-Bemis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
Teen issues: depression, anxiety, self-harm and self-esteem have been a focus.
My ideal client is someone whom is struggling in life and motivated to seek help and make the changes necessary in their thoughts, beliefs or circumstances to get back into wellness. I enjoy working with teens. Most of my career has been with at risk youth. I also work with women's issues, addressing underlying causes of stress and overwhelm. I use Imago and Gottman approaches with couples. When working with men, we discuss the need for vulnerability and self-acceptance. Anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss can all be successfully addressed with psychotherapy.
Teen issues: depression, anxiety, self-harm and self-esteem have been a focus.
My ideal client is someone whom is struggling in life and motivated to seek help and make the changes necessary in their thoughts, beliefs or circumstances to get back into wellness. I enjoy working with teens. Most of my career has been with at risk youth. I also work with women's issues, addressing underlying causes of stress and overwhelm. I use Imago and Gottman approaches with couples. When working with men, we discuss the need for vulnerability and self-acceptance. Anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss can all be successfully addressed with psychotherapy.
(608) 480-1559 View (608) 480-1559
Photo of Paula Witt, MSW, LSCW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Witt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience providing therapy for children/ adolescents & evidence-based FAMILY THERAPY.
Are you a parent that is worried about your kid? Do you feel just as stuck as they are and unsure where to go or what to do? This is COMMON, and you are not alone. With 13+ years of experience working with children/ adolescents and families, I can assure you that THINGS CAN GET BETTER! Whether you have a child that is struggling behaviorally or a teen that is struggling with anxiety/depression and shutting you out, I can help. I balance supporting the individual, while also strengthening relationships among family members.
I have extensive experience providing therapy for children/ adolescents & evidence-based FAMILY THERAPY.
Are you a parent that is worried about your kid? Do you feel just as stuck as they are and unsure where to go or what to do? This is COMMON, and you are not alone. With 13+ years of experience working with children/ adolescents and families, I can assure you that THINGS CAN GET BETTER! Whether you have a child that is struggling behaviorally or a teen that is struggling with anxiety/depression and shutting you out, I can help. I balance supporting the individual, while also strengthening relationships among family members.
(608) 420-5840 View (608) 420-5840
Photo of Leah Hibl, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah Hibl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705  (Online Only)
I have spent my career specializing in child/ adolescent therapy, but enjoy working with people of all ages! I have great interest in working with individuals with PTSD, and teens/adults who cope with pain using alcohol, drugs or self-harm.
A therapist has three jobs: to listen, to teach and to instill hope. I'd be grateful for the opportunity to do those things for you. I consider myself a "guardian of potential"-I see people beyond the problems that bring them to my office and for who they really are. I have the ability to "reach the unreachable". You may be nervous about trying therapy for the first time, or you may have had bad experiences in the past, but I believe in the power of human connection and I believe you no longer have to live in the pain or circumstances you've been in. The time for change has arrived!
I have spent my career specializing in child/ adolescent therapy, but enjoy working with people of all ages! I have great interest in working with individuals with PTSD, and teens/adults who cope with pain using alcohol, drugs or self-harm.
A therapist has three jobs: to listen, to teach and to instill hope. I'd be grateful for the opportunity to do those things for you. I consider myself a "guardian of potential"-I see people beyond the problems that bring them to my office and for who they really are. I have the ability to "reach the unreachable". You may be nervous about trying therapy for the first time, or you may have had bad experiences in the past, but I believe in the power of human connection and I believe you no longer have to live in the pain or circumstances you've been in. The time for change has arrived!
(262) 205-6608 View (262) 205-6608
Photo of Jennifer Nichols, MS, LPC, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Nichols
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53701
My specialties include life adjustments, teen pregnancy, Trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, depression and anxiety.
Life is full of surprises. Unexpected situations occur that impact the ways in which we cope with the world and our circumstances. Handling these issues over and over can leave us feeling exhausted, frustrated, out-of-control and saddened. When things just don’t feel right, it is time to reach out and ask for help. You don’t have to face your challenges alone. I’m a big fan of helping you find your voice and live the life you love. I want to help you find your power and purpose so you can navigate life like a boss!
My specialties include life adjustments, teen pregnancy, Trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, depression and anxiety.
Life is full of surprises. Unexpected situations occur that impact the ways in which we cope with the world and our circumstances. Handling these issues over and over can leave us feeling exhausted, frustrated, out-of-control and saddened. When things just don’t feel right, it is time to reach out and ask for help. You don’t have to face your challenges alone. I’m a big fan of helping you find your voice and live the life you love. I want to help you find your power and purpose so you can navigate life like a boss!
(608) 315-5834 View (608) 315-5834
Photo of Lyndsey Litwin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lyndsey Litwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53706  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Lyndsey and I specialize in providing online therapy for teens and young adults struggling with low self-esteem and relationship issues. At times, it can feel like your own self-doubt is getting in the way of moving forward. Like you are constantly stuck in your head, replaying a past conversation or preparing for the worst case scenario. Whether you're an adult seeking guidance through life transitions or an adolescent navigating the challenges of growing up, I can help support you in building a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
Hello! My name is Lyndsey and I specialize in providing online therapy for teens and young adults struggling with low self-esteem and relationship issues. At times, it can feel like your own self-doubt is getting in the way of moving forward. Like you are constantly stuck in your head, replaying a past conversation or preparing for the worst case scenario. Whether you're an adult seeking guidance through life transitions or an adolescent navigating the challenges of growing up, I can help support you in building a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
(262) 592-5538 View (262) 592-5538
Photo of Cheryl Buroker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl Buroker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53703
I’m a licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. I have additional training specific to Brainspotting. I work with individuals ages 14+, who have experienced various types of traumas, those struggling with anxiety, boundaries, attachment issues, people-pleasing tendencies, life changes, and family issues. My approach to therapy is eclectic. I believe that people are impacted based on early family dynamics, culture, as well as other factors that shape perspectives and situations for individuals later in their lives.
I’m a licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. I have additional training specific to Brainspotting. I work with individuals ages 14+, who have experienced various types of traumas, those struggling with anxiety, boundaries, attachment issues, people-pleasing tendencies, life changes, and family issues. My approach to therapy is eclectic. I believe that people are impacted based on early family dynamics, culture, as well as other factors that shape perspectives and situations for individuals later in their lives.
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Photo of Anne-Marie Makongho, MSE, LPC, Counselor
Anne-Marie Makongho
Counselor, MSE, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, burned out, struggling with your mental health, and substance use due to life transitions, relationships, peer relationships, school, parenting/co-parenting struggles, divorce, traumatic experiences, abuse, balancing work and personal life, and other stress-triggering events? I offer online and in-office therapy sessions working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a holistic approach to helping clients. Taking New CLIENTS, no waitlist.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, burned out, struggling with your mental health, and substance use due to life transitions, relationships, peer relationships, school, parenting/co-parenting struggles, divorce, traumatic experiences, abuse, balancing work and personal life, and other stress-triggering events? I offer online and in-office therapy sessions working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a holistic approach to helping clients. Taking New CLIENTS, no waitlist.
(608) 596-5862 View (608) 596-5862
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Teen Therapists

What does therapy for teenagers look like?

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

How long does therapy for teenagers generally take to work?

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

How do you encourage a teenager to go to therapy?

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

How do you prepare teens for therapy?

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