Therapists for Teens in Burlington, ON

Photo of Carey Campbell - H.o.p.e Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist
H.o.p.e Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7N
Some our services include Individual & Couples Therapy, Adolescent Counselling, Anxiety Therapy, Depression Therapy, CBT & EFT therapy and more.
H.o.p.e: helping out people earnestly, provides excellent, clinically sound, and deeply empathetic psychotherapy for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. Our multilingual staff is based in Burlington, Ontario, and provides both person-centered psychotherapy and therapy that is emotionally driven. We have more than 10 years of community service experience.
Some our services include Individual & Couples Therapy, Adolescent Counselling, Anxiety Therapy, Depression Therapy, CBT & EFT therapy and more.
H.o.p.e: helping out people earnestly, provides excellent, clinically sound, and deeply empathetic psychotherapy for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. Our multilingual staff is based in Burlington, Ontario, and provides both person-centered psychotherapy and therapy that is emotionally driven. We have more than 10 years of community service experience.
(289) 272-8991 View (289) 272-8991
Dr. Deborah Shaw
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7R
As an experienced licensed clinical psychologist, I offer evidence-based psychotherapy and consultation regarding a wide range of mental health conditions and situational stressors faced by youth during the pre- teen and adolescent years. My goal is to help my clients develop healthy and effective coping strategies in a caring, accepting, safe and client-centred environment. I provide individual therapy to late-stage adolescents through their college and and university years, and I work with parents to help them develop effective strategies to support their children to regulate their emotions and behaviour.
As an experienced licensed clinical psychologist, I offer evidence-based psychotherapy and consultation regarding a wide range of mental health conditions and situational stressors faced by youth during the pre- teen and adolescent years. My goal is to help my clients develop healthy and effective coping strategies in a caring, accepting, safe and client-centred environment. I provide individual therapy to late-stage adolescents through their college and and university years, and I work with parents to help them develop effective strategies to support their children to regulate their emotions and behaviour.
(289) 312-1626 View (289) 312-1626
Photo of Sarah Adams, RP Qual, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sarah Adams
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP Qual
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7R
Being a teenager can be really tough, especially if you're dealing with anxiety, trouble with relationships, and low self-esteem. You might feel a lot of pressure from school, friends, and family. It's normal to feel scared, confused, sad, or alone sometimes. If you've been through something traumatic, these feelings can be even stronger. You might start to doubt yourself and wonder about your future. Going through all of this can be very hard, but you don't have to do it by yourself.
Being a teenager can be really tough, especially if you're dealing with anxiety, trouble with relationships, and low self-esteem. You might feel a lot of pressure from school, friends, and family. It's normal to feel scared, confused, sad, or alone sometimes. If you've been through something traumatic, these feelings can be even stronger. You might start to doubt yourself and wonder about your future. Going through all of this can be very hard, but you don't have to do it by yourself.
(289) 803-8952 View (289) 803-8952
Photo of Krystal Carmichael - Counselling For Kids And Teens, CYW, CYC, (Cert), BA SDS, Counsellor
Krystal Carmichael - Counselling For Kids And Teens
Counsellor, CYW, CYC, (Cert), BA SDS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7R
Do you have a child or teen struggling with friendships, anxiety or difficulties at school? Is your family affected by these issues, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to help? Would you benefit from some strategies and tools of your own to support your child? Now more than ever, parents and caregivers are concerned about their children's mental well-being.
Do you have a child or teen struggling with friendships, anxiety or difficulties at school? Is your family affected by these issues, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to help? Would you benefit from some strategies and tools of your own to support your child? Now more than ever, parents and caregivers are concerned about their children's mental well-being.
(289) 302-3580 View (289) 302-3580
Photo of Amelia Lamb, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amelia Lamb
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7M
To discuss whether my services are a good fit for your child or teen, please email to schedule an initial consultation.
I am a clinical therapist currently completing my Master's in Psychology (MPsy) at Adler Graduate Professional School. I provide my services under the supervision of Dr. Carol-Anne Hendry, C. Psych. With experience in supporting children and adolescents with various challenges, I am also adept at addressing challenges related to grief and bereavement. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and integrative, weaving trauma-informed and emotion-focused modalities to create a tailored healing plan for each child, teen and family.
To discuss whether my services are a good fit for your child or teen, please email to schedule an initial consultation.
I am a clinical therapist currently completing my Master's in Psychology (MPsy) at Adler Graduate Professional School. I provide my services under the supervision of Dr. Carol-Anne Hendry, C. Psych. With experience in supporting children and adolescents with various challenges, I am also adept at addressing challenges related to grief and bereavement. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and integrative, weaving trauma-informed and emotion-focused modalities to create a tailored healing plan for each child, teen and family.
(289) 778-3283 View (289) 778-3283
Photo of Daniela Merenda, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Daniela Merenda
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7L  (Online Only)
She provides psychotherapy and counselling services to children, adolescents and adults seeking support in the areas of mental health, anxiety, mood, grief & loss, parent / adolescent conflict, addictions, suicide ideation, and behaviour; when it feels as though things are falling apart, Daniela is committed to helping you put the pieces together.
Daniela is a registered social worker offering psychotherapy and counselling services. Her practice uses a wide range of evidence-based interventions including but not limited to cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational counselling, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), emotion focused therapy and brief solution-focused therapy. She brings with her a well-rooted feminist, anti-oppressive, anti-discriminatory, harm reduction and trauma informed practice framework. Daniela has had the privilege to work within the field of social work for over 21 years where children, youth, women and families have allowed her into their lives.
She provides psychotherapy and counselling services to children, adolescents and adults seeking support in the areas of mental health, anxiety, mood, grief & loss, parent / adolescent conflict, addictions, suicide ideation, and behaviour; when it feels as though things are falling apart, Daniela is committed to helping you put the pieces together.
Daniela is a registered social worker offering psychotherapy and counselling services. Her practice uses a wide range of evidence-based interventions including but not limited to cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational counselling, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), emotion focused therapy and brief solution-focused therapy. She brings with her a well-rooted feminist, anti-oppressive, anti-discriminatory, harm reduction and trauma informed practice framework. Daniela has had the privilege to work within the field of social work for over 21 years where children, youth, women and families have allowed her into their lives.
(289) 513-3661 View (289) 513-3661
Photo of Jenna Burnham, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jenna Burnham
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7M
Accepting New Clients! Child therapy, teen counselling, and adult psychotherapy are the services I offer. Children, teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and trauma are clients with whom I have experience. Experience working with ASD and ADHD. If your goals are to reduce symptoms, improve functioning, and improve quality of life, I can help. I offer in person and virtual counselling at Brookside Psychologists under the clinical supervision of Jeffrey Sica, Registered Psychotherapist. Services are reimbursed by insurance plans that include Registered Psychotherapists.
Accepting New Clients! Child therapy, teen counselling, and adult psychotherapy are the services I offer. Children, teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and trauma are clients with whom I have experience. Experience working with ASD and ADHD. If your goals are to reduce symptoms, improve functioning, and improve quality of life, I can help. I offer in person and virtual counselling at Brookside Psychologists under the clinical supervision of Jeffrey Sica, Registered Psychotherapist. Services are reimbursed by insurance plans that include Registered Psychotherapists.
(289) 274-8201 View (289) 274-8201
Photo of Meghan Hamilton, MSW, RSW, MA, Registered Social Worker
Meghan Hamilton
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7N
Hello and welcome! Being a parent can be frustrating, lonely, draining and confusing. At the same time, being a child/ teen is also so confusing, stressful and overwhelming much of the time. While these relationships can be a source of pain, our connection to each other is also essential to our well-being. I work with children, teens and parents to help understand, work through and heal from pain and rebuild joy through connection. I will spend a lot of time really getting to know you and your family’s story. I aim to be compassionate and non-judgmental, understanding we all have a good reason for why we do the things we do.
Hello and welcome! Being a parent can be frustrating, lonely, draining and confusing. At the same time, being a child/ teen is also so confusing, stressful and overwhelming much of the time. While these relationships can be a source of pain, our connection to each other is also essential to our well-being. I work with children, teens and parents to help understand, work through and heal from pain and rebuild joy through connection. I will spend a lot of time really getting to know you and your family’s story. I aim to be compassionate and non-judgmental, understanding we all have a good reason for why we do the things we do.
(289) 401-9170 View (289) 401-9170
Photo of Caitlyn Young, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Caitlyn Young
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L
Welcome! I work with folks from young children in play therapy to teen counselling to parent coaching. What works for one child or family won't work for the next and that's why I focus on thorough assessments and working with my clients to set up a therapeutic approach that works for them. I specialize in working with neurodiverse kids, addressing symptoms like anxiety, depression, school refusal, OCD, self harm and suicidal ideation. If you are concerned for your child's mental health or are just looking to help them develop strong tools and supports then I am here to help!
Welcome! I work with folks from young children in play therapy to teen counselling to parent coaching. What works for one child or family won't work for the next and that's why I focus on thorough assessments and working with my clients to set up a therapeutic approach that works for them. I specialize in working with neurodiverse kids, addressing symptoms like anxiety, depression, school refusal, OCD, self harm and suicidal ideation. If you are concerned for your child's mental health or are just looking to help them develop strong tools and supports then I am here to help!
(365) 598-5842 View (365) 598-5842
Photo of Wesley A Paris - Umoja Guidance Inc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Umoja Guidance Inc
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7R
I worked with child and adolescent behavior for over 25 years.
I am the founder and sole therapist of Umoja Guidance Inc. I offer individual, couple and family therapy sessions. I provide a genuine and down to earth approach when interacting with my clients. The focus of sessions will be to assist with clients achieving their goals using a strength based approach. I believe everyone has strengths that can be identified to help them resolve challenging situations. There are various treatment methods I use based on the need. I am very flexible and understanding of peoples life schedules and am always willing to provide sessions that accommodate my clients busy schedule.
I worked with child and adolescent behavior for over 25 years.
I am the founder and sole therapist of Umoja Guidance Inc. I offer individual, couple and family therapy sessions. I provide a genuine and down to earth approach when interacting with my clients. The focus of sessions will be to assist with clients achieving their goals using a strength based approach. I believe everyone has strengths that can be identified to help them resolve challenging situations. There are various treatment methods I use based on the need. I am very flexible and understanding of peoples life schedules and am always willing to provide sessions that accommodate my clients busy schedule.
(905) 875-1616 View (905) 875-1616
Photo of Shauna Lynn Switzer, MCP, MA, CHyp, RP#6934, Registered Psychotherapist
Shauna Lynn Switzer
Registered Psychotherapist, MCP, MA, CHyp, RP#6934
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L
RECLAIM YOUR LIVES | INDIVIDUAL, COUPLE & CHILD/ ADOLESCENT & FAMILY COUNSELLING.
At times, many of us contend with emotions and suffering that are overwhelmingly painful, disheartening and difficult to bear, often as a result of unique stressors and events. I work with adults, adolescents, families and step-families using Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, interpersonal psychotherapy, and DBT/CBT within neuroscience and attachment frameworks. I encouraged clients to access inner strengths and free their capacity for growth. Whether you or a family member experience depression, anxiety, marital distress or difficulties with peers, you deserve support in a confidential, accepting, safe and caring environment.
RECLAIM YOUR LIVES | INDIVIDUAL, COUPLE & CHILD/ ADOLESCENT & FAMILY COUNSELLING.
At times, many of us contend with emotions and suffering that are overwhelmingly painful, disheartening and difficult to bear, often as a result of unique stressors and events. I work with adults, adolescents, families and step-families using Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, interpersonal psychotherapy, and DBT/CBT within neuroscience and attachment frameworks. I encouraged clients to access inner strengths and free their capacity for growth. Whether you or a family member experience depression, anxiety, marital distress or difficulties with peers, you deserve support in a confidential, accepting, safe and caring environment.
(905) 598-1859 View (905) 598-1859
Photo of Meghann Henderson - Child Therapy Halton, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Child Therapy Halton
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7M
Our diverse group of therapists have specialized training and years of experience working with children, teens, parents, and families.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress? Are they experiencing difficulty at home or at school? We are here to help! Our experienced therapists aim to provide a safe place for children, teens, parents and families to work on their goals and to move towards feeling better. Child Therapy Halton provides Psychotherapy services to children (2-10), adolescents (11-18), young adults (19-23), parents, and families. Our therapists are able to treat a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, difficulty coping, trauma, parental divorce or separation, adoption, ADHD/ LD's and more.
Our diverse group of therapists have specialized training and years of experience working with children, teens, parents, and families.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress? Are they experiencing difficulty at home or at school? We are here to help! Our experienced therapists aim to provide a safe place for children, teens, parents and families to work on their goals and to move towards feeling better. Child Therapy Halton provides Psychotherapy services to children (2-10), adolescents (11-18), young adults (19-23), parents, and families. Our therapists are able to treat a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, difficulty coping, trauma, parental divorce or separation, adoption, ADHD/ LD's and more.
(289) 272-8849 View (289) 272-8849
Photo of Brittany Meeks, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Brittany Meeks
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7T  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself constantly worrying about everything? You’re an adult or teenager who is always feeling anxious even though you don’t have anything happening in your life that should make you worry, it is impacting your ability to focus and sleep, and you feel like nothing can help you relax. You may feel like you will never be able to calm your mind, but you’re ready to make a change and try something new. You’re ready to learn strategies to help you relax. You want to learn how to manage your anxiety so that you can start living your life to the fullest without worrying what that will bring. I want to help guide you there.
Do you find yourself constantly worrying about everything? You’re an adult or teenager who is always feeling anxious even though you don’t have anything happening in your life that should make you worry, it is impacting your ability to focus and sleep, and you feel like nothing can help you relax. You may feel like you will never be able to calm your mind, but you’re ready to make a change and try something new. You’re ready to learn strategies to help you relax. You want to learn how to manage your anxiety so that you can start living your life to the fullest without worrying what that will bring. I want to help guide you there.
(289) 513-3534 View (289) 513-3534
Photo of Susan Henriques - New Horizons Child and Adolescent Psychology , MA, C Psych, Psychologist
New Horizons Child and Adolescent Psychology
Psychologist, MA, C Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L
It is not always easy to embark in this process but it really can result in positive change! Our treatment approaches include child and teen therapy and parenting support.
Are you concerned that your child or teen are not happy or reaching their potential? Is your child experiencing difficulties with attention, focus, achievement, self-regulation, learning or social skills? Do you or your teen/young adult need guidance on how to move forward? Through collaboration and a thoughtful, caring approach, we offer assessment, relevant diagnoses, therapy and parenting. As the director at New Horizons, I have over 23 years experience of helping countless families in my work in schools and within a clinical setting. We are a team of dedicated and caring psychologists and therapists.
It is not always easy to embark in this process but it really can result in positive change! Our treatment approaches include child and teen therapy and parenting support.
Are you concerned that your child or teen are not happy or reaching their potential? Is your child experiencing difficulties with attention, focus, achievement, self-regulation, learning or social skills? Do you or your teen/young adult need guidance on how to move forward? Through collaboration and a thoughtful, caring approach, we offer assessment, relevant diagnoses, therapy and parenting. As the director at New Horizons, I have over 23 years experience of helping countless families in my work in schools and within a clinical setting. We are a team of dedicated and caring psychologists and therapists.
(647) 370-2836 View (647) 370-2836
Photo of Marvin Arthur - Arthur Counselling Services, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Arthur Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L
I aim to work with you collaboratively to enable individuals to solve their social/emotional concerns. Over the years I’ve supported individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress management, coping skills, self harming behaviours, relationship issues and parent teen conflict. I understand stressors of life and how they may have an impact on individuals. Thus I seek to help individuals locate themselves in their daily situations, reflect and influence positive change.
I aim to work with you collaboratively to enable individuals to solve their social/emotional concerns. Over the years I’ve supported individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress management, coping skills, self harming behaviours, relationship issues and parent teen conflict. I understand stressors of life and how they may have an impact on individuals. Thus I seek to help individuals locate themselves in their daily situations, reflect and influence positive change.
(289) 813-7640 View (289) 813-7640
Photo of Dina Emaduldeen Couples And Relationship Therapist, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Dina Emaduldeen Couples And Relationship Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L
I provide therapeutic support to clients experiencing marital and pre-marital, relationship, and peer relationship concerns to pre- teen, teen, and adult clientele.
I believe that therapy is a powerful tool that aids open communication and emotional vulnerability. I strive to help couples and individuals develop skills that aid in the creation of deep, meaningful connections with others. Focusing on communication, conflict resolution, anxiety, depression and other life issues, I want to partner with you in your mental health journey.
I provide therapeutic support to clients experiencing marital and pre-marital, relationship, and peer relationship concerns to pre- teen, teen, and adult clientele.
I believe that therapy is a powerful tool that aids open communication and emotional vulnerability. I strive to help couples and individuals develop skills that aid in the creation of deep, meaningful connections with others. Focusing on communication, conflict resolution, anxiety, depression and other life issues, I want to partner with you in your mental health journey.
(289) 513-3603 View (289) 513-3603
Photo of Nick Lauwers, BSW , RSW, MDiv, RP, Registered Social Worker
Nick Lauwers
Registered Social Worker, BSW , RSW, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7T
Also, I have an adolescent focus having worked with adolescents and young adults in a school setting working on mental wellness, behavioural issues, coping skills, strengths and resilience building.
My practice has a comprehensive focus on mental heath, marriage couple and family therapy and family mediation. Having been trained in a hospital setting, I work effectively with depression, anxiety disorders, addictions and most mental health disorders. In addition, I have a comprehensive focus on marriage, couples and family therapy focusing on couples experiencing a high level of marital conflict, relationship breakdown or who want to improve the quality of their relationship. Restoring healthy relationships and supporting healthy family systems is one of my core passions! Do you feel you need this?
Also, I have an adolescent focus having worked with adolescents and young adults in a school setting working on mental wellness, behavioural issues, coping skills, strengths and resilience building.
My practice has a comprehensive focus on mental heath, marriage couple and family therapy and family mediation. Having been trained in a hospital setting, I work effectively with depression, anxiety disorders, addictions and most mental health disorders. In addition, I have a comprehensive focus on marriage, couples and family therapy focusing on couples experiencing a high level of marital conflict, relationship breakdown or who want to improve the quality of their relationship. Restoring healthy relationships and supporting healthy family systems is one of my core passions! Do you feel you need this?
(289) 210-4704 View (289) 210-4704
Photo of Lily Loretta Nell Burt, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Lily Loretta Nell Burt
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7N
Do you feel misunderstood or like you want to escape from painful memories, thoughts, and/or emotions? Do you feel stuck as though you are unable to move forward in life? Do you struggle with school, people-pleasing, relationship conflict, chronic illness, or feel emotionally disconnected? If any of this applies to you, please know that you are not alone. It is normal to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and disappointed when life appears to be passing us by and we feel stuck or held back by our past experiences. Having a therapist who provides a trauma-informed and client centred approach is essential in these cases.
Do you feel misunderstood or like you want to escape from painful memories, thoughts, and/or emotions? Do you feel stuck as though you are unable to move forward in life? Do you struggle with school, people-pleasing, relationship conflict, chronic illness, or feel emotionally disconnected? If any of this applies to you, please know that you are not alone. It is normal to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and disappointed when life appears to be passing us by and we feel stuck or held back by our past experiences. Having a therapist who provides a trauma-informed and client centred approach is essential in these cases.
(289) 216-5047 View (289) 216-5047
Photo of Sarah Prashad, MACP , Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sarah Prashad
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7R  (Online Only)
Additionally, I have experience working with children, youth, and teens.
Sometimes life’s challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or stressed. I am here to support you in finding your path while building on your strengths as an individual. I believe it is important to embrace one’s individuality and help you discover your true ability to overcome difficult situations. I aim to provide an empathetic, non-judgemental and safe space where you feel heard. I follow person-centered and strengths-based approaches, where I draw from various modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based interventions.
Additionally, I have experience working with children, youth, and teens.
Sometimes life’s challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or stressed. I am here to support you in finding your path while building on your strengths as an individual. I believe it is important to embrace one’s individuality and help you discover your true ability to overcome difficult situations. I aim to provide an empathetic, non-judgemental and safe space where you feel heard. I follow person-centered and strengths-based approaches, where I draw from various modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based interventions.
(289) 312-5392 View (289) 312-5392
Photo of Reza Rejahiyan, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Reza Rejahiyan
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L
I have a strong passion for helping a diversity of people who are experiencing major life challenges and mental health issues. I have worked with many clients from different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds in both individual therapy sessions, as well as couples and marriage therapy. My fluency in English and Persian is an essential asset for success in therapy for native Persian speakers. A background in medicine with an MD degree and over ten years of experience in medical practice complements my Master’s degree in Psychology from Yorkville.
I have a strong passion for helping a diversity of people who are experiencing major life challenges and mental health issues. I have worked with many clients from different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds in both individual therapy sessions, as well as couples and marriage therapy. My fluency in English and Persian is an essential asset for success in therapy for native Persian speakers. A background in medicine with an MD degree and over ten years of experience in medical practice complements my Master’s degree in Psychology from Yorkville.
(289) 514-5920 View (289) 514-5920
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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.