Therapists for Teens in Burnaby, BC

Photo of Jace Park, RPC, Coach, MA, Counsellor
Jace Park
Counsellor, RPC, Coach, MA
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5H
As a counsellor, coach, and psychologist, I have worked for lots of clients suffering from psychological problems with substance abuse, adolescent depressive symptoms, aggression, ADHD, and online game addiction, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, depression, panic disorder, burnout syndrome, eating disorder, and social phobia.
Let's make a beautiful world together! The real meaning of my own being does not exist without you. My existence is relying on you and my beautiful tomorrow is related to making relationships with you. I would like to support you emotionally, physically, spiritually, and mentally. You are the reason for my being. I would like to make a wonderful world with you.
As a counsellor, coach, and psychologist, I have worked for lots of clients suffering from psychological problems with substance abuse, adolescent depressive symptoms, aggression, ADHD, and online game addiction, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, depression, panic disorder, burnout syndrome, eating disorder, and social phobia.
Let's make a beautiful world together! The real meaning of my own being does not exist without you. My existence is relying on you and my beautiful tomorrow is related to making relationships with you. I would like to support you emotionally, physically, spiritually, and mentally. You are the reason for my being. I would like to make a wonderful world with you.
(587) 851-5689 View (587) 851-5689
Photo of Shauna Randhawa - Oceanside Psychology Group, PsyD, RPsych, Psychologist
Oceanside Psychology Group
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationships, or feel stuck in unresolved feelings from your past that affect your relationships, work, or how you feel about yourself? Are you a partner wanting to learn to communicate and connect more in your relationship or a parent who’s worried about their teen? You’re in the right place. Oceanside Psychology Group (OPG) is a specialized private practice that focuses on helping youth, adults, couples, and families change the way they feel about themselves and strengthen their relationships.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationships, or feel stuck in unresolved feelings from your past that affect your relationships, work, or how you feel about yourself? Are you a partner wanting to learn to communicate and connect more in your relationship or a parent who’s worried about their teen? You’re in the right place. Oceanside Psychology Group (OPG) is a specialized private practice that focuses on helping youth, adults, couples, and families change the way they feel about themselves and strengthen their relationships.
(672) 906-1280 View (672) 906-1280
Photo of Anna Maliatski, MA, RTC, ExAT, Art Therapist
Anna Maliatski
Art Therapist, MA, RTC, ExAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5G
Throughout the years, I have extensively worked with neurotypical and neurodivergent teens, adults and seniors in groups or individually.
Welcome to Golem Expressive Arts Therapy! Do you wake up feeling like “something is off”? Are you navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, or grief, with diagnoses piling up? Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed or a teenager going through a tough time? Using a trauma-informed lens, I help you rediscover the compassionate, resilient parts of yourself. My intuitive, custom-tailored approach blends counseling, Expressive Arts Therapy (ExAT), clay work, IFS-informed therapy, somatic practices, and mindfulness. In my Burnaby studio or online, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space for healing and growth.
Throughout the years, I have extensively worked with neurotypical and neurodivergent teens, adults and seniors in groups or individually.
Welcome to Golem Expressive Arts Therapy! Do you wake up feeling like “something is off”? Are you navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, or grief, with diagnoses piling up? Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed or a teenager going through a tough time? Using a trauma-informed lens, I help you rediscover the compassionate, resilient parts of yourself. My intuitive, custom-tailored approach blends counseling, Expressive Arts Therapy (ExAT), clay work, IFS-informed therapy, somatic practices, and mindfulness. In my Burnaby studio or online, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space for healing and growth.
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Photo of Gabriel C. Fung, MA-MFT, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Gabriel C. Fung
Counsellor, MA-MFT, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
I have a passion for working with youths, young adults, couples, and families on personal and relationship issues. My training is in Marriage and Family Therapy and I have experience working with youths and their families. I understand the difficulties of teenage development, but at the same time, I can appreciate how difficult it is to parent an adolescent. However, the "rebellious teen" is not inevitable and I would be happy to meet with you and your family to discuss your relationships and strategies for making parenting work.
I have a passion for working with youths, young adults, couples, and families on personal and relationship issues. My training is in Marriage and Family Therapy and I have experience working with youths and their families. I understand the difficulties of teenage development, but at the same time, I can appreciate how difficult it is to parent an adolescent. However, the "rebellious teen" is not inevitable and I would be happy to meet with you and your family to discuss your relationships and strategies for making parenting work.
(855) 534-4664 View (855) 534-4664
Photo of Alice Wiafe - Positive Kids inc, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Positive Kids inc
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V3N
Did you know that EQ ( Emotional Intelligence) is a greater predictor of later adult success that IQ? Why register your child or adolescent: Greater self-Control, Greater academic success, Less behavioral problems & aggression, Less emotional problems anxiety.
Does your child or adolescent struggle with ADHD, Behavioral issues, Motivation, Decision Making, Anger Management, Shyness, Anxiety or other type of Social-Emotional issue? Positive Kids is a revolutionary concept created by experts of Emotional Intelligence. We help children label and identify their emotions, manage their emotions and ultimately regulate their emotions. Our program results in a child or adolescent who has more self control, better interpersonal skills and increased IQ. Our curriculum focuses on using cognitive and emotional tools to help children who may struggle with the issues above.
Did you know that EQ ( Emotional Intelligence) is a greater predictor of later adult success that IQ? Why register your child or adolescent: Greater self-Control, Greater academic success, Less behavioral problems & aggression, Less emotional problems anxiety.
Does your child or adolescent struggle with ADHD, Behavioral issues, Motivation, Decision Making, Anger Management, Shyness, Anxiety or other type of Social-Emotional issue? Positive Kids is a revolutionary concept created by experts of Emotional Intelligence. We help children label and identify their emotions, manage their emotions and ultimately regulate their emotions. Our program results in a child or adolescent who has more self control, better interpersonal skills and increased IQ. Our curriculum focuses on using cognitive and emotional tools to help children who may struggle with the issues above.
(782) 312-0124 View (782) 312-0124
Photo of Barbara Beach, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Barbara Beach
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
Waitlist for new clients
I have been a Psychologist for over 20 years, working with adolescents and adults around a variety of issues that limit life and love.
As a Registered Psychologist, I work from a positive place, seeing disordered behaviours as ways of coping that create problems as well as solves them. I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals and desires. We may use a motivational approach at first, if appropriate. Then we may focus on barriers to recovery, dysfunctional thinking, practical strategies for change, and past painful experiences or trauma, if relevant, using relationship-based, cognitive behaviour therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and emotion focused approaches. At the end of our session, I write my notes in the form of a letter to share.
I have been a Psychologist for over 20 years, working with adolescents and adults around a variety of issues that limit life and love.
As a Registered Psychologist, I work from a positive place, seeing disordered behaviours as ways of coping that create problems as well as solves them. I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals and desires. We may use a motivational approach at first, if appropriate. Then we may focus on barriers to recovery, dysfunctional thinking, practical strategies for change, and past painful experiences or trauma, if relevant, using relationship-based, cognitive behaviour therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and emotion focused approaches. At the end of our session, I write my notes in the form of a letter to share.
(866) 380-4110 View (866) 380-4110
Photo of Lisa Ferrari - Vancouver Psychology Centre, PsyDs, PhDs, RCCs, BCATR, CCC, Psychologist
Vancouver Psychology Centre
Psychologist, PsyDs, PhDs, RCCs, BCATR, CCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
We provide assessment and treatment across the lifespan and we have a dynamic team with diverse training and experience: Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Teen & Anxiety Treatment, Pain Mgmt ,Psychoeducational Assessment.
The Vancouver Psychology Centre is a group of like-minded professionals here to provide evidence-based assessment, consultation and treatment to all ages who seek greater happiness and meaning in their lives. Our Psychologists, Counsellors, Art Therapists and Youth Care Workers use the science of psychology and apply it to the goals of positive emotion and connection. We highlight people's strengths and use Positive Psychology's science and techniques to maximize positive emotion, virtuous personal characteristics, fulfilment with life and to improve connection with others.
We provide assessment and treatment across the lifespan and we have a dynamic team with diverse training and experience: Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Teen & Anxiety Treatment, Pain Mgmt ,Psychoeducational Assessment.
The Vancouver Psychology Centre is a group of like-minded professionals here to provide evidence-based assessment, consultation and treatment to all ages who seek greater happiness and meaning in their lives. Our Psychologists, Counsellors, Art Therapists and Youth Care Workers use the science of psychology and apply it to the goals of positive emotion and connection. We highlight people's strengths and use Positive Psychology's science and techniques to maximize positive emotion, virtuous personal characteristics, fulfilment with life and to improve connection with others.
(866) 588-2710 View (866) 588-2710
Photo of Kristie De Jong - Phoenix Soars Counseling Inc., MA, CCC, Counsellor
Phoenix Soars Counseling Inc.
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V3J
I have extensive expertise within the area of child/ adolescent and historical trauma and anxiety/depression.
Are you finding yourself stuck in life but wanting to soar? Are you longing for freedom? If so, I invite you to visit my website to determine if Phoenix Soars Counselling Services is right for you. With over 9 years of counselling individuals coupled with my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology I have a strong foundation to help you find the inner peace you have been searching for. My primary goal is helping you achieve your personal freedom and destiny using a variety of approaches that will promote your personal growth and healing. www.phoenix-soars.com
I have extensive expertise within the area of child/ adolescent and historical trauma and anxiety/depression.
Are you finding yourself stuck in life but wanting to soar? Are you longing for freedom? If so, I invite you to visit my website to determine if Phoenix Soars Counselling Services is right for you. With over 9 years of counselling individuals coupled with my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology I have a strong foundation to help you find the inner peace you have been searching for. My primary goal is helping you achieve your personal freedom and destiny using a variety of approaches that will promote your personal growth and healing. www.phoenix-soars.com
(877) 243-1657 View (877) 243-1657
Photo of Jessa Turner, RPC, Counsellor
Jessa Turner
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V3J
My educational credentials are a result of my desire to work as a counsellor since I was a teen and my demonstrated passion for mental health in the community stems from my own extensive lived experience beginning from before the age of 12 with the suicide of my oldest sister.
Making healthy changes in life can be difficult when experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, job stressors, and other challenges. My goal is to help you gain a new perspective and provide you with skills to help you move forward in life. I will work collaboratively with you to help you cope with your challenges and stressful situations. My hope is to help you connect with your inner strengths and values, resulting in finding your full potential and connecting with your true self.
My educational credentials are a result of my desire to work as a counsellor since I was a teen and my demonstrated passion for mental health in the community stems from my own extensive lived experience beginning from before the age of 12 with the suicide of my oldest sister.
Making healthy changes in life can be difficult when experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, job stressors, and other challenges. My goal is to help you gain a new perspective and provide you with skills to help you move forward in life. I will work collaboratively with you to help you cope with your challenges and stressful situations. My hope is to help you connect with your inner strengths and values, resulting in finding your full potential and connecting with your true self.
(249) 559-1251 View (249) 559-1251
Photo of Michael Pandher, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Michael Pandher
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V3N
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor based in Vancouver, BC, with over a decade of experience specializing in youth, adolescent, and teen mental health, I am dedicated to helping you address your concerns and focus on what truly matters to you. Together, we can navigate through life's challenges on your terms and at your pace. I strive to establish a nurturing and non-judgemental therapeutic bond, fostering a safe environment for you to navigate the complexities of your life and enact meaningful, pragmatic changes. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use issues, or any other concerns,
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor based in Vancouver, BC, with over a decade of experience specializing in youth, adolescent, and teen mental health, I am dedicated to helping you address your concerns and focus on what truly matters to you. Together, we can navigate through life's challenges on your terms and at your pace. I strive to establish a nurturing and non-judgemental therapeutic bond, fostering a safe environment for you to navigate the complexities of your life and enact meaningful, pragmatic changes. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use issues, or any other concerns,
(438) 796-4471 View (438) 796-4471
Photo of Andrea Hamel, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Andrea Hamel
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V3J
Waitlist for new clients
Hamel received her PhD from SFU and has trained at BC Children's Hospital, the Maples Adolescent Treatment Centre, and the University of Manitoba.
Dr. Andrea Hamel is a registered psychologist in Kelowna who specializes in assessment and treatment of children, teens, and young adults. She offers psychoeducational assessments for learning issues, intellectual disability, ADHD, giftedness, behaviour issues, anxiety, and other school difficulties. She also offers therapy for social anxiety, performance anxiety, generalized anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, depression, mood swings, emotional outbursts, behaviour issues, low self-esteem, body image issues, and disordered eating. She will soon be receiving training in autism assessment for children and teens.
Hamel received her PhD from SFU and has trained at BC Children's Hospital, the Maples Adolescent Treatment Centre, and the University of Manitoba.
Dr. Andrea Hamel is a registered psychologist in Kelowna who specializes in assessment and treatment of children, teens, and young adults. She offers psychoeducational assessments for learning issues, intellectual disability, ADHD, giftedness, behaviour issues, anxiety, and other school difficulties. She also offers therapy for social anxiety, performance anxiety, generalized anxiety, perfectionism, phobias, depression, mood swings, emotional outbursts, behaviour issues, low self-esteem, body image issues, and disordered eating. She will soon be receiving training in autism assessment for children and teens.
(249) 294-2604 View (249) 294-2604
Photo of Cristina Higgins, RCC, MEd, BA, PBD, Counsellor
Cristina Higgins
Counsellor, RCC, MEd, BA, PBD
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5K
Are you a teen who needs to talk? A parent struggling with your teen? A member of Alanon? Or could you just use a compassionate therapist to help you overcome your struggles and achieve your goals? You have the potential and right to live a fulfilling and meaningful life, and I am committed to helping you realize that potential. I use a variety of evidence-based therapies to work with my clients in finding wellness. Whether struggling with stress and anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship stress, parenting issues, addiction or other life-stressors, I will help you sort out how to move ahead in wellness.
Are you a teen who needs to talk? A parent struggling with your teen? A member of Alanon? Or could you just use a compassionate therapist to help you overcome your struggles and achieve your goals? You have the potential and right to live a fulfilling and meaningful life, and I am committed to helping you realize that potential. I use a variety of evidence-based therapies to work with my clients in finding wellness. Whether struggling with stress and anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship stress, parenting issues, addiction or other life-stressors, I will help you sort out how to move ahead in wellness.
(249) 702-0930 View (249) 702-0930
Photo of Courtney Sung, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Courtney Sung
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
I also work with children and teens who are facing challenges including low self-esteem and social conflict.
If you or your child/ teen struggling with life transitions, relationships, anxiety/depression, I am here to support you virtually or in person on the North Shore. My counselling philosophy is to witness your journey with gentle curiosity and to empower you to make change. We may unpack past experiences through a trauma-informed lens, develop tools for managing emotions by utilizing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or process current life challenges from a strengths-based, solution-focused perspective. I am committed to inclusivity and welcome clients from all backgrounds. You are unique, and your counselling experience should be too.
I also work with children and teens who are facing challenges including low self-esteem and social conflict.
If you or your child/ teen struggling with life transitions, relationships, anxiety/depression, I am here to support you virtually or in person on the North Shore. My counselling philosophy is to witness your journey with gentle curiosity and to empower you to make change. We may unpack past experiences through a trauma-informed lens, develop tools for managing emotions by utilizing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or process current life challenges from a strengths-based, solution-focused perspective. I am committed to inclusivity and welcome clients from all backgrounds. You are unique, and your counselling experience should be too.
(873) 300-1338 View (873) 300-1338
Photo of Johnson Ma, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Johnson Ma
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5H
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a bilingual psychologist based in Greater Vancouver area. I have experiences in providing culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychological services in English, Mandarin and Cantonese to people of diversity struggling with serious mental illness, complex trauma, addiction, concurrent disorders, rehabilitation from physical injuries and traumatic events. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing and growth.
I'm a bilingual psychologist based in Greater Vancouver area. I have experiences in providing culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychological services in English, Mandarin and Cantonese to people of diversity struggling with serious mental illness, complex trauma, addiction, concurrent disorders, rehabilitation from physical injuries and traumatic events. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing and growth.
(604) 670-9580 View (604) 670-9580
Photo of Christina Boonzaayer, BA, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Christina Boonzaayer
Counsellor, BA, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V3N  (Online Only)
I take an integrative approach in my practice in order to provide a client-centred and culturally inclusive environment for clients to thrive. I include aspects from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, and areas of Psychoanalysis to ensure I meet the needs of each unique client.
I take an integrative approach in my practice in order to provide a client-centred and culturally inclusive environment for clients to thrive. I include aspects from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, and areas of Psychoanalysis to ensure I meet the needs of each unique client.
(587) 400-7661 View (587) 400-7661
Photo of Jane Li, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Jane Li
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5H
I am passionate and dedicated to providing psychotherapy from a systemic, holistic (bio-psycho-social-spiritual) and client-centered approach. I believe that you are the expert in yourself and my role is to support you in finding your own pathway of health. I am here to help you and your loved ones to live your lives to the fullest! I am also dedicated to support parents with ADHD kids and teens as I have 2 sons with ADHD too. I made a wonderful online ADHD Parenting course in Chinese and English for those who needs to know how to help their kids and teens to thrive.
I am passionate and dedicated to providing psychotherapy from a systemic, holistic (bio-psycho-social-spiritual) and client-centered approach. I believe that you are the expert in yourself and my role is to support you in finding your own pathway of health. I am here to help you and your loved ones to live your lives to the fullest! I am also dedicated to support parents with ADHD kids and teens as I have 2 sons with ADHD too. I made a wonderful online ADHD Parenting course in Chinese and English for those who needs to know how to help their kids and teens to thrive.
(604) 245-8572 View (604) 245-8572
Photo of Hanna Peterson, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Hanna Peterson
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5A
Do you fear rejection, struggle to understand your feelings, or have difficulty being your authentic self in your relationships? Do you regularly put others’ needs above your own and feel unworthy when you can’t live up to others’ expectations? Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, people-pleasing, issues related to identity, or complex interpersonal dynamics, I can help you break harmful cycles and live a more fulfilling, authentic life. If you’re a couple in a relationship, we’ll work to help you feel close again and rebuild emotional intimacy, trust, and understanding where it’s been lost.
Do you fear rejection, struggle to understand your feelings, or have difficulty being your authentic self in your relationships? Do you regularly put others’ needs above your own and feel unworthy when you can’t live up to others’ expectations? Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, people-pleasing, issues related to identity, or complex interpersonal dynamics, I can help you break harmful cycles and live a more fulfilling, authentic life. If you’re a couple in a relationship, we’ll work to help you feel close again and rebuild emotional intimacy, trust, and understanding where it’s been lost.
(902) 705-6046 View (902) 705-6046
Photo of Saima Shah, MBA, CHT, RTC, ACTA, Counsellor
Saima Shah
Counsellor, MBA, CHT, RTC, ACTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
My clients are incredible people who have gone through a major life transition (trauma, loss, career change, breakup, migration, health diagnosis and/or narcissistic abuse) and value professional support to navigate it all. There may be concerns around career/family and how to show up for life while feeling anxious, burnt out or struggling to keep it together. Clients see me for self-esteem, perfectionism, sleep issues, chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression, sports performance, cultural oppression, workplace alienation and complex childhood trauma. Im a member of both ACCT and ACTA. I see BIPOC and other clients in BC and Alberta.
My clients are incredible people who have gone through a major life transition (trauma, loss, career change, breakup, migration, health diagnosis and/or narcissistic abuse) and value professional support to navigate it all. There may be concerns around career/family and how to show up for life while feeling anxious, burnt out or struggling to keep it together. Clients see me for self-esteem, perfectionism, sleep issues, chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression, sports performance, cultural oppression, workplace alienation and complex childhood trauma. Im a member of both ACCT and ACTA. I see BIPOC and other clients in BC and Alberta.
(587) 805-0360 View (587) 805-0360
Photo of Adam Butz, RCC, MA, Counsellor
Adam Butz
Counsellor, RCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
Do you struggle with anxiety and depression that affect your relationship with others, work, or school? Do you feel overwhelmed by living up to ever increasing standards? Do you feel exhausted from answering several phone calls and emails? Do you think that your work position could be better? Now more than ever, men are feeling overwhelmed about overcoming a difficult relationship and feeling uncertain about finding their place in life.
Do you struggle with anxiety and depression that affect your relationship with others, work, or school? Do you feel overwhelmed by living up to ever increasing standards? Do you feel exhausted from answering several phone calls and emails? Do you think that your work position could be better? Now more than ever, men are feeling overwhelmed about overcoming a difficult relationship and feeling uncertain about finding their place in life.
(226) 741-3685 View (226) 741-3685
Photo of Lisa Rositano, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Lisa Rositano
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5C  (Online Only)
My specialities are working with youth and adults, with a variety of mental health issues - depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, aspects of trauma, support for gender diverse teens and adults, low self-esteem and many others.
My experience in working in mental health services over the last 17 years - both adults and youth - has allowed me to meet clients with a variety of backgrounds and individual needs. An ideal client is one who is in need of a therapist that is a skilled listener who can help them develop and achieve their goals.
My specialities are working with youth and adults, with a variety of mental health issues - depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, aspects of trauma, support for gender diverse teens and adults, low self-esteem and many others.
My experience in working in mental health services over the last 17 years - both adults and youth - has allowed me to meet clients with a variety of backgrounds and individual needs. An ideal client is one who is in need of a therapist that is a skilled listener who can help them develop and achieve their goals.
(587) 602-0145 View (587) 602-0145
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Teen Counsellors

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.