Therapists for Teens in Kelowna, BC

Photo of Laura Belland, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Laura Belland
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
My Expertise: anxiety/social anxiety, perfectionism, and depression - Limiting beliefs, and negative thoughts that keep resurfacing - Negative body image and disordered eating - Self-esteem and self-worth - kBeing stuck and barriers to becoming your most vibrant self- Adolescent and teen issues: friendships and difficult emotions - Counselling for Parents.
Hi there, my name is Laura Belland. I specialize in CBT, self-compassion therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I believe we can often be our own worst enemies and harshest critics, and I hope to help you grow and get past any negative thinking to become your most alive and thriving self; through CBT, compassionate self-care, and mindfulness amongst other strategies. I am passionate about working with clients experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, stress, perfectionism, and depression. I have experience helping those with limiting beliefs about themselves, negative body image, and disordered eating.
My Expertise: anxiety/social anxiety, perfectionism, and depression - Limiting beliefs, and negative thoughts that keep resurfacing - Negative body image and disordered eating - Self-esteem and self-worth - kBeing stuck and barriers to becoming your most vibrant self- Adolescent and teen issues: friendships and difficult emotions - Counselling for Parents.
Hi there, my name is Laura Belland. I specialize in CBT, self-compassion therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I believe we can often be our own worst enemies and harshest critics, and I hope to help you grow and get past any negative thinking to become your most alive and thriving self; through CBT, compassionate self-care, and mindfulness amongst other strategies. I am passionate about working with clients experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, stress, perfectionism, and depression. I have experience helping those with limiting beliefs about themselves, negative body image, and disordered eating.
(226) 785-3042 View (226) 785-3042
Photo of Haida Gaede, RCC, MSW RSW, PgDip, BEd, BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haida Gaede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCC, MSW RSW, PgDip, BEd, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
If you're in search of supportive and affirming counselling therapy for yourself, your child, or adolescent, please reach out.
I’m Haida, a dedicated Clinician specialized in helping people navigate life's intricacies with empathy and understanding. I provide an inclusive and non-judgmental space where each person can feel deeply valued for who they are as they explore their unique thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In my view, therapy is not just about addressing problems, but also cultivating personal growth. Whether you are facing issues related to mental health, identity, relationships, or simply needing a nurturing environment to express yourself, I'm here to support you.
If you're in search of supportive and affirming counselling therapy for yourself, your child, or adolescent, please reach out.
I’m Haida, a dedicated Clinician specialized in helping people navigate life's intricacies with empathy and understanding. I provide an inclusive and non-judgmental space where each person can feel deeply valued for who they are as they explore their unique thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In my view, therapy is not just about addressing problems, but also cultivating personal growth. Whether you are facing issues related to mental health, identity, relationships, or simply needing a nurturing environment to express yourself, I'm here to support you.
(587) 803-1223 View (587) 803-1223
Photo of Deana Van Fleet - Okanagan Christian Counselling, RTC, Counsellor
Okanagan Christian Counselling
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
We work with all ages with anxiety/depression/self harm, trauma (including relational trauma), abuse, mental health (including mood and personality disorders), life transitions, emotional health and we also have a large child/ adolescent base.
Families, Marriages/Divorces, Individuals (Adults, Teens, Children) Welcome to your journey to a new and improved you! We believe that healthy relationships/marriages, healthy individuals, healthy families, and healthy children come from healthy hearts, healthy minds, healthy boundaries, healthy pregnancies and raising kids, and doing the healthy personal work necessary to be your best for yourself and for those in your life. You are important, and you taking the time to work on YOU and your relationships is important to your (and their) quality of life.
We work with all ages with anxiety/depression/self harm, trauma (including relational trauma), abuse, mental health (including mood and personality disorders), life transitions, emotional health and we also have a large child/ adolescent base.
Families, Marriages/Divorces, Individuals (Adults, Teens, Children) Welcome to your journey to a new and improved you! We believe that healthy relationships/marriages, healthy individuals, healthy families, and healthy children come from healthy hearts, healthy minds, healthy boundaries, healthy pregnancies and raising kids, and doing the healthy personal work necessary to be your best for yourself and for those in your life. You are important, and you taking the time to work on YOU and your relationships is important to your (and their) quality of life.
(855) 756-7612 View (855) 756-7612
Photo of Mary Elizabeth O'Neil, RCC, MA, Counsellor
Mary Elizabeth O'Neil
Counsellor, RCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Whether you're an individual, navigating personal growth, a parent of a struggling teen or a couple facing challenges, I bring the expertise needed to help foster healthier relationships.
Hello, I'm Mary, your Registered Clinical Counsellor, here to support you, both online or in person. My approach is holistic, recognizing the vital connection between mind body and spirit. If you struggle with anxiety, overthinking or overwhelm and are seeking practical tools to manage these challenges and regain a sense of balance. Let me support you in breaking free while cultivating sustainable coping strategies, and building resilience. I firmly believe in your innate wholeness and ability to live a fulfilled life. My goal is to empower you using therapeutic methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness.
Whether you're an individual, navigating personal growth, a parent of a struggling teen or a couple facing challenges, I bring the expertise needed to help foster healthier relationships.
Hello, I'm Mary, your Registered Clinical Counsellor, here to support you, both online or in person. My approach is holistic, recognizing the vital connection between mind body and spirit. If you struggle with anxiety, overthinking or overwhelm and are seeking practical tools to manage these challenges and regain a sense of balance. Let me support you in breaking free while cultivating sustainable coping strategies, and building resilience. I firmly believe in your innate wholeness and ability to live a fulfilled life. My goal is to empower you using therapeutic methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness.
(807) 806-0521 View (807) 806-0521
Photo of Andrea Hamel, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Andrea Hamel
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
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 Alexandra “Anna” Glassco, BASc, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra “Anna” Glassco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BASc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I am passionate about helping people through the challenges that they may face in life. I ensure my clients know that they are the expert on their own lives, and I use a client centered and holistic approach in my work. I have experience in various settings, including, Interior Health, mental health organizations and MCFD. I work with both teen and adult populations. My main area of focus includes individuals with complex trauma, attachment difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and more.
I am passionate about helping people through the challenges that they may face in life. I ensure my clients know that they are the expert on their own lives, and I use a client centered and holistic approach in my work. I have experience in various settings, including, Interior Health, mental health organizations and MCFD. I work with both teen and adult populations. My main area of focus includes individuals with complex trauma, attachment difficulties, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and more.
(236) 702-0929 View (236) 702-0929
Photo of Lori Oye, MEd, CCC, RCC, Counsellor
Lori Oye
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I specialize in understanding human emotions, especially in children and adolescents.
Navigating emotional struggles can be challenging, regardless of age or background. Whether you're a child grappling with big feelings, a teenager facing the complexities of adolescence, or an adult dealing with past traumas, the desire for healing and growth is universal. Everyone seeks inner peace, acceptance, and a sense of belonging. My aim is to guide my clients, no matter their age, towards a place of inner peace, belonging, and profound healing, liberating them from the burdens of shame, guilt, and loneliness.
I specialize in understanding human emotions, especially in children and adolescents.
Navigating emotional struggles can be challenging, regardless of age or background. Whether you're a child grappling with big feelings, a teenager facing the complexities of adolescence, or an adult dealing with past traumas, the desire for healing and growth is universal. Everyone seeks inner peace, acceptance, and a sense of belonging. My aim is to guide my clients, no matter their age, towards a place of inner peace, belonging, and profound healing, liberating them from the burdens of shame, guilt, and loneliness.
(431) 244-6218 View (431) 244-6218
Photo of Miranda Montgomery, BCYC, RPC, MPCC, Counsellor
Miranda Montgomery
Counsellor, BCYC, RPC, MPCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1P
Waitlist for new clients
My area of strengths and specialties include; complex trauma, anxiety, depression, parent teen conflict, parenting struggles, blended families, self esteem, negative self image, youth and children advocacy and support.
At times, life can be demanding, stressful and overwhelming. We often find ourselves in need of direction, support, and guidance. I have been working in this industry for over 17 years and have walked along side many clients as they face their challenges. My philosophy is; the journey of life is not to be walked alone.
My area of strengths and specialties include; complex trauma, anxiety, depression, parent teen conflict, parenting struggles, blended families, self esteem, negative self image, youth and children advocacy and support.
At times, life can be demanding, stressful and overwhelming. We often find ourselves in need of direction, support, and guidance. I have been working in this industry for over 17 years and have walked along side many clients as they face their challenges. My philosophy is; the journey of life is not to be walked alone.
(778) 770-5474 View (778) 770-5474
Photo of Brittany Parrotta - Parrotta Therapy, RPC, BA, CCATP-C, Counsellor
Parrotta Therapy
Counsellor, RPC, BA, CCATP-C
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1P
Do you feel like you're surviving, instead of living? Are you overthinking and obsessing over things that seem easy for others? Do you feel alone even though people are around? I teach people of all ages to worry less, quiet the noise, and take their lives back. This is your life, lets make it what you want. My goal is for you to feel more in control. This is my specialty. I am a registered counsellor and certified child and adolescent anxiety treatment professional, and I am currently accepting new clients in person and online.
Do you feel like you're surviving, instead of living? Are you overthinking and obsessing over things that seem easy for others? Do you feel alone even though people are around? I teach people of all ages to worry less, quiet the noise, and take their lives back. This is your life, lets make it what you want. My goal is for you to feel more in control. This is my specialty. I am a registered counsellor and certified child and adolescent anxiety treatment professional, and I am currently accepting new clients in person and online.
(778) 760-9099 View (778) 760-9099
Photo of Jamie Whitehead, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Jamie Whitehead
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V4V  (Online Only)
If you are facing parenting challenges and are looking for a supportive counsellor to process your experience with, wanting to engage differently with your child, seeking a counsellor who connects well with kids, or trying to help your teen find someone they can talk to, Jamie is likely a great fit! She offers evening sessions and a free consultation.
Jamie loves to see clients feel empowered to make change in their lives, and to realize the benefits of their efforts in both the immediate and long term. Her extensive experience supporting children and families makes her an ideal counsellor for kids, teens, young adults, parents, co-parents, and family units of all varieties. Jamie's focus is on listening to her client’s needs and working with them to create a plan for therapy. She aims to balance a warm and supportive approach with clear and straightforward reflections. Her goal is for her clients to feel both cared for and cheered on.
If you are facing parenting challenges and are looking for a supportive counsellor to process your experience with, wanting to engage differently with your child, seeking a counsellor who connects well with kids, or trying to help your teen find someone they can talk to, Jamie is likely a great fit! She offers evening sessions and a free consultation.
Jamie loves to see clients feel empowered to make change in their lives, and to realize the benefits of their efforts in both the immediate and long term. Her extensive experience supporting children and families makes her an ideal counsellor for kids, teens, young adults, parents, co-parents, and family units of all varieties. Jamie's focus is on listening to her client’s needs and working with them to create a plan for therapy. She aims to balance a warm and supportive approach with clear and straightforward reflections. Her goal is for her clients to feel both cared for and cheered on.
(249) 202-5216 View (249) 202-5216
Photo of Hanh My Sapsai, MEd, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Hanh My Sapsai
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1W
Are you tired of arguing with your child or teen about their grades or completing their homework? Is your child highly sensitive, resistant to feedback, or difficult to motivate? Many parents start to seek educational support services for their child or teen when they receive a less-than-ideal report card from the teacher. Others perhaps start to notice signs that their child or teen may not be performing as well as they are capable of. Regardless of whether your child or teen has a diagnosed learning difficulty, mental health concern, or some other form of neurodiversity, I am here to help restore peace and calm to your family!
Are you tired of arguing with your child or teen about their grades or completing their homework? Is your child highly sensitive, resistant to feedback, or difficult to motivate? Many parents start to seek educational support services for their child or teen when they receive a less-than-ideal report card from the teacher. Others perhaps start to notice signs that their child or teen may not be performing as well as they are capable of. Regardless of whether your child or teen has a diagnosed learning difficulty, mental health concern, or some other form of neurodiversity, I am here to help restore peace and calm to your family!
(343) 321-7964 View (343) 321-7964
Photo of Rebecca Olds, MACP, RCC, BA, Counsellor
Rebecca Olds
Counsellor, MACP, RCC, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1P
Waitlist for new clients
I have specific knowledge and experience in the areas of child and teen anxiety, parental anxiety, adoption issues, behaviour management, emotion coaching, sleep consultations and play and art therapy.
Children are one third of our population and all of our future. I specialize in children, teens and families. I believe that parents do the best they can with the tools they have been given - tools that can be learned and expanded through counselling. I graduated with my Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University, and am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors I work primarily with individual children (6-12), individual teens (ages 13+) and parents.
I have specific knowledge and experience in the areas of child and teen anxiety, parental anxiety, adoption issues, behaviour management, emotion coaching, sleep consultations and play and art therapy.
Children are one third of our population and all of our future. I specialize in children, teens and families. I believe that parents do the best they can with the tools they have been given - tools that can be learned and expanded through counselling. I graduated with my Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University, and am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors I work primarily with individual children (6-12), individual teens (ages 13+) and parents.
(778) 400-2097 View (778) 400-2097
Photo of Layne (Shelayne) Paul, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Layne (Shelayne) Paul
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Hey, I’m Layne. It’s my deepest intention to co-create a safe space for you to explore your inner world and further develop your sense of self. If you're navigating anxiety, depression, self-doubt, life transitions, or relational challenges, I'm here to support you with compassion and care. I also enjoy connecting with clients who are seeking personal growth and wish to re-define their self-concept. Your path to alignment starts here, and I look forward to walking it with you.
Hey, I’m Layne. It’s my deepest intention to co-create a safe space for you to explore your inner world and further develop your sense of self. If you're navigating anxiety, depression, self-doubt, life transitions, or relational challenges, I'm here to support you with compassion and care. I also enjoy connecting with clients who are seeking personal growth and wish to re-define their self-concept. Your path to alignment starts here, and I look forward to walking it with you.
(778) 400-1533 View (778) 400-1533
Photo of Lucy Snider, MA hons, PgDip, MSc, RCC-ACS, COSRT, Counsellor
Lucy Snider
Counsellor, MA hons, PgDip, MSc, RCC-ACS, COSRT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Are you looking for sex therapy, relationship therapy or couples counselling? Are you struggling with a sexual problem and don't know who to talk to? Are you having difficulties in your current relationship or are you worried about previous or future relationships? Are you struggling with a recent STI diagnosis? We all experience difficulties with sex and relationships but it can be hard to discuss these sensitive topics with friends or loved ones. Common issues that bring clients to see me are problems with sexual function or desire, difficulties with communication or conflict resolution or feeling stuck in your relationship.
Are you looking for sex therapy, relationship therapy or couples counselling? Are you struggling with a sexual problem and don't know who to talk to? Are you having difficulties in your current relationship or are you worried about previous or future relationships? Are you struggling with a recent STI diagnosis? We all experience difficulties with sex and relationships but it can be hard to discuss these sensitive topics with friends or loved ones. Common issues that bring clients to see me are problems with sexual function or desire, difficulties with communication or conflict resolution or feeling stuck in your relationship.
(778) 860-4552 View (778) 860-4552
Photo of Ashley Berg, RSW, MSW, BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Berg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I am currently accepting new clients! I am a warm, empathetic, supportive, and open-minded counsellor, who provides a safe and welcoming environment. I work collaboratively with my clients and provide therapy, support, and psychoeducation throughout counselling. My aim is to give you the coping tools to help you help yourself. I offer in-person, virtual, and telephone appointments, and have a flexible schedule to accommodate your busy life. I am a registered provider of First Nations Health Authority, ICBC, CVAP, EAP, and Autism Funding.
I am currently accepting new clients! I am a warm, empathetic, supportive, and open-minded counsellor, who provides a safe and welcoming environment. I work collaboratively with my clients and provide therapy, support, and psychoeducation throughout counselling. My aim is to give you the coping tools to help you help yourself. I offer in-person, virtual, and telephone appointments, and have a flexible schedule to accommodate your busy life. I am a registered provider of First Nations Health Authority, ICBC, CVAP, EAP, and Autism Funding.
(778) 766-2421 View (778) 766-2421
Photo of Rachel Jones-McKinley, BScOT, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Rachel Jones-McKinley
Counsellor, BScOT, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes life presents us with challenges that we didn't ask for. This can feel unfair, and navigating our struggles can feel overwhelming. It's not lost on me the strength that it takes to seek help. I believe in resilience, and that you know yourself better than anyone. Sometimes you just need some support discovering your true self.
Sometimes life presents us with challenges that we didn't ask for. This can feel unfair, and navigating our struggles can feel overwhelming. It's not lost on me the strength that it takes to seek help. I believe in resilience, and that you know yourself better than anyone. Sometimes you just need some support discovering your true self.
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Photo of Sheri Graham, BA, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Sheri Graham
Counsellor, BA, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
What if you could improve the quality of your life and your relationships by changing the way you think, feel and behave? I work with adults who struggle with anxiety, self esteem, stress, and anger issues, to do just that. I help individuals become aware of the thought patterns that keep them stuck and prevent them from living their life to the fullest. I show people how their thoughts, emotions and behaviours are linked and provide the necessary skills to change negative habits that have become normal over time.
What if you could improve the quality of your life and your relationships by changing the way you think, feel and behave? I work with adults who struggle with anxiety, self esteem, stress, and anger issues, to do just that. I help individuals become aware of the thought patterns that keep them stuck and prevent them from living their life to the fullest. I show people how their thoughts, emotions and behaviours are linked and provide the necessary skills to change negative habits that have become normal over time.
(825) 305-5006 View (825) 305-5006
Photo of Sara Combs, BA, MSW, RSW, CCPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Combs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, RSW, CCPA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Sara provides client-centered counselling services for children, youth, adults, and couples. She offers an eclectic approach to counselling, utilizing different therapies that are personally suited for her clients based on their personalities and difficulties. It is her belief that all people have the ability to heal and make positive changes to their lives. With empathy and validation, she integrates skills within these sessions to create a safe, relaxed, and confidential environment. Sara’s main orientation of practice is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness. 
Sara provides client-centered counselling services for children, youth, adults, and couples. She offers an eclectic approach to counselling, utilizing different therapies that are personally suited for her clients based on their personalities and difficulties. It is her belief that all people have the ability to heal and make positive changes to their lives. With empathy and validation, she integrates skills within these sessions to create a safe, relaxed, and confidential environment. Sara’s main orientation of practice is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness. 
(778) 767-2370 View (778) 767-2370
Photo of Justin Yuen, MSW, RSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Justin Yuen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Hello! My name is Justin and I am a Registered Social Worker. My practice focuses on providing inclusive and culturally competent counselling services, with a particular emphasis on supporting IBPOC communities. As a Chinese Canadian, I understand firsthand the complexities and obstacles that individuals from diverse backgrounds may face. I am passionate about creating a safe and affirming space where clients can explore their identities, navigate systemic barriers and cultivate resilience.
Hello! My name is Justin and I am a Registered Social Worker. My practice focuses on providing inclusive and culturally competent counselling services, with a particular emphasis on supporting IBPOC communities. As a Chinese Canadian, I understand firsthand the complexities and obstacles that individuals from diverse backgrounds may face. I am passionate about creating a safe and affirming space where clients can explore their identities, navigate systemic barriers and cultivate resilience.
(506) 802-1480 View (506) 802-1480
Photo of Pete Grinberg, BA, Bed, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Pete Grinberg
Counsellor, BA, Bed, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1V
Life can brings unexpected changes: Relationships come to an end; There may be Infidelity, failure, and disappointments. For those who value spirituality and faith there is a loss of hope. Alcohol and/or drug issues take control. If any of this resonates with you it may be a good time to consider counselling. I have a passion for people who struggle with chronic anxiety, aging gracefully, faith issues, addictions, depression, and relationship strife. I also have good understanding of the complicated world of blended families, those who struggle with work/family balance, and men who struggle with gaming/porn addictions.
Life can brings unexpected changes: Relationships come to an end; There may be Infidelity, failure, and disappointments. For those who value spirituality and faith there is a loss of hope. Alcohol and/or drug issues take control. If any of this resonates with you it may be a good time to consider counselling. I have a passion for people who struggle with chronic anxiety, aging gracefully, faith issues, addictions, depression, and relationship strife. I also have good understanding of the complicated world of blended families, those who struggle with work/family balance, and men who struggle with gaming/porn addictions.
(778) 745-5083 View (778) 745-5083
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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.