Therapists for Teens in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Meghan Pistchik - Attached Kids, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Attached Kids
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Attached Kids' counsellors specialize in child, adolescent and parental mental health.
Attached Kids offers client-centered support to children, adolescents, parents, and families. Through in-person and secure online video counselling, we specialize in supporting children and adolescents with anxiety, stress management, sleep concerns, OCD, Selective Mutism, emotion regulation, self-esteem, adhd, depression, trauma and loss, family changes, and behavioural challenges. In our work with parents, we support with building strategies to strengthen family relationships and ensure that parents feel equipped to help their children through their most challenging moments.
Attached Kids' counsellors specialize in child, adolescent and parental mental health.
Attached Kids offers client-centered support to children, adolescents, parents, and families. Through in-person and secure online video counselling, we specialize in supporting children and adolescents with anxiety, stress management, sleep concerns, OCD, Selective Mutism, emotion regulation, self-esteem, adhd, depression, trauma and loss, family changes, and behavioural challenges. In our work with parents, we support with building strategies to strengthen family relationships and ensure that parents feel equipped to help their children through their most challenging moments.
(343) 304-5688 View (343) 304-5688
Photo of Rosalind J Gilchrist, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rosalind J Gilchrist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
I have experience working in the school setting and treating adolescent mental health & addiction.
I treat a variety of emotional issues and parenting challenges. These include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, gaming/internet addiction, trauma, bullying, relationship conflict, and disordered eating. I work with ages 9 to 99. Our goal at Mental Health & Addictions Services Ottawa is to support and strengthen your investment in your self and your relationships to best manage the challenges of daily life. Monday and Tuesday Evening appointments. Monday to Thursday day time appointments.
I have experience working in the school setting and treating adolescent mental health & addiction.
I treat a variety of emotional issues and parenting challenges. These include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, gaming/internet addiction, trauma, bullying, relationship conflict, and disordered eating. I work with ages 9 to 99. Our goal at Mental Health & Addictions Services Ottawa is to support and strengthen your investment in your self and your relationships to best manage the challenges of daily life. Monday and Tuesday Evening appointments. Monday to Thursday day time appointments.
(613) 900-5634 View (613) 900-5634
Photo of Heather Bragg, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Heather Bragg
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Parents I work with are often looking to strengthen their relationship with their child or teen, wanting to better support their children when they have strong or overwhelming emotions, or, feel overwhelmed with parenting at times. I've worked at CHEO's Outpatient Mental Health Program for the past decade where my clinical and research focus has been on parent intervention with children and teens with strong emotion and impulsive behaviour. With a down-to-earth, attachment-based approach I'm here to boost parents' confidence and connection with their kids and help home feel more peaceful.
Parents I work with are often looking to strengthen their relationship with their child or teen, wanting to better support their children when they have strong or overwhelming emotions, or, feel overwhelmed with parenting at times. I've worked at CHEO's Outpatient Mental Health Program for the past decade where my clinical and research focus has been on parent intervention with children and teens with strong emotion and impulsive behaviour. With a down-to-earth, attachment-based approach I'm here to boost parents' confidence and connection with their kids and help home feel more peaceful.
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Photo of Signy Fridriksson - Signy Fridriksson Counselling and Psychotherapy, MA, GradDip, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Signy Fridriksson Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, GradDip, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
My special interests: Growth over the Lifespan — Later Teen Years through Older Adulthood; Premarital and Relationship Counselling; Repair After Infidelity; Healthy Sexuality; Pregnancy, Birth, Postpartum; Parenting; Life Transitions; Grief and Loss, End-of-Life.
Welcoming Individuals and Couples - downtown Ottawa or online. Are you looking for someone to listen with empathy and respect as you explore the challenges life has brought you? I love meeting people where they are and helping them move forward from their stuck places. I provide a safe, reassuring environment, allowing you to grow in self-awareness, self-compassion and a sense of hope. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey!
My special interests: Growth over the Lifespan — Later Teen Years through Older Adulthood; Premarital and Relationship Counselling; Repair After Infidelity; Healthy Sexuality; Pregnancy, Birth, Postpartum; Parenting; Life Transitions; Grief and Loss, End-of-Life.
Welcoming Individuals and Couples - downtown Ottawa or online. Are you looking for someone to listen with empathy and respect as you explore the challenges life has brought you? I love meeting people where they are and helping them move forward from their stuck places. I provide a safe, reassuring environment, allowing you to grow in self-awareness, self-compassion and a sense of hope. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey!
(613) 707-4467 View (613) 707-4467
Photo of Kerri Stone, BA, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kerri Stone
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you find it hard to discover and honour your strengths in the midst of obstacles? I possess particular knowledge and experience in infant, child, and adolescent mental health and development. I am passionate about enhancing mental wellness by providing children, youth, parents, and families with support and strategies to maintain optimal family functioning and parent-child relationships. I have gained extensive experience treating anxiety and related disorders, emotion regulation challenges, depression, OCD, self-esteem concerns, ADHD, relationship difficulties, self-harming behaviour and traumatic stress.
Do you find it hard to discover and honour your strengths in the midst of obstacles? I possess particular knowledge and experience in infant, child, and adolescent mental health and development. I am passionate about enhancing mental wellness by providing children, youth, parents, and families with support and strategies to maintain optimal family functioning and parent-child relationships. I have gained extensive experience treating anxiety and related disorders, emotion regulation challenges, depression, OCD, self-esteem concerns, ADHD, relationship difficulties, self-harming behaviour and traumatic stress.
(343) 313-0782 View (343) 313-0782
Photo of Dr. Jessica Kurta, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Jessica Kurta
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Y
Getting started is easy: Call, email or visit our website today to start feeling better or to get your child or teen the support they need.
Currently short wait time for assessments (ADHD, Psychoeducational, etc.): booking in Sept/Oct 2024. Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Are you worried about your child or teen's peer relationships, emotional wellbeing, adjustment to school? Need help with ADHD or OCD? Are you feeling stuck or weighed down in your relationships and want to find a better way forward? Are you looking for strategies to manage workplace stress, change in your life, or loss/grief? Need relief from past difficult experiences?
Getting started is easy: Call, email or visit our website today to start feeling better or to get your child or teen the support they need.
Currently short wait time for assessments (ADHD, Psychoeducational, etc.): booking in Sept/Oct 2024. Are you feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Are you worried about your child or teen's peer relationships, emotional wellbeing, adjustment to school? Need help with ADHD or OCD? Are you feeling stuck or weighed down in your relationships and want to find a better way forward? Are you looking for strategies to manage workplace stress, change in your life, or loss/grief? Need relief from past difficult experiences?
(343) 307-0200 View (343) 307-0200
Photo of Kevin Amirault - Kevin Amirault - Outdoor Insight Psychotherapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kevin Amirault - Outdoor Insight Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K4A
Waitlist for new clients
Does it feel like difficult emotions are in control of your life or your household? See the path forward but can’t seem to take the needed steps? Is traditional office therapy a barrier for you or your teen and you want to try another way? Together, we can create a space and a relationship to make change for you and your loved ones. By exploring practical strategies and trying them out together, rather than just talking in the abstract, we can piece together the puzzle to not only better understand what is wrong, but find the tools to make it right.
Does it feel like difficult emotions are in control of your life or your household? See the path forward but can’t seem to take the needed steps? Is traditional office therapy a barrier for you or your teen and you want to try another way? Together, we can create a space and a relationship to make change for you and your loved ones. By exploring practical strategies and trying them out together, rather than just talking in the abstract, we can piece together the puzzle to not only better understand what is wrong, but find the tools to make it right.
(343) 501-3531 View (343) 501-3531
Photo of Quinn Keenan, RSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Quinn Keenan
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
Are you a teen or young adult who often feels lost and frustrated with aspects of yourself and your life? Do you struggle with anxiety, stress, conflict, insecurities or other mental health challenges? If so, I want to show you how you can transform your inner feedback to one that is supportive, strong and beneficial. How you can change patterns that are no longer serving you and create a life where you feel fulfilled and in control of your emotions, thoughts and behaviors.
Are you a teen or young adult who often feels lost and frustrated with aspects of yourself and your life? Do you struggle with anxiety, stress, conflict, insecurities or other mental health challenges? If so, I want to show you how you can transform your inner feedback to one that is supportive, strong and beneficial. How you can change patterns that are no longer serving you and create a life where you feel fulfilled and in control of your emotions, thoughts and behaviors.
(343) 321-1084 View (343) 321-1084
Photo of Brent Korosi, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Brent Korosi
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1K
I work with young people and their families who struggle with a variety of issues including ADHD, trauma, school avoidance, anxiety, depression, internet addiction, aggression, and many more. Families can be negatively impacted by the difficulties, and parents often want to help their children/ teen and don't know how to do this. I work with the individual or the parents to help them learn ways to work through their current difficulties by using evidence-based interventions that provides practical skills to use in a variety of settings (at home, at school, at work, in public, etc).
I work with young people and their families who struggle with a variety of issues including ADHD, trauma, school avoidance, anxiety, depression, internet addiction, aggression, and many more. Families can be negatively impacted by the difficulties, and parents often want to help their children/ teen and don't know how to do this. I work with the individual or the parents to help them learn ways to work through their current difficulties by using evidence-based interventions that provides practical skills to use in a variety of settings (at home, at school, at work, in public, etc).
(343) 801-5771 View (343) 801-5771
Photo of Donelda Pleau, MACP, MEd, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Donelda Pleau
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
I am passionate about helping both adult and teen clients overcome struggles related to body image, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, anxiety, depression, and school-related issues including school avoidance and learning disabilities. I offer an empathetic, compassionate approach for youth aged 14+ and adults looking to improve their overall quality of life.
I am passionate about helping both adult and teen clients overcome struggles related to body image, ADHD, OCD, panic disorder, anxiety, depression, and school-related issues including school avoidance and learning disabilities. I offer an empathetic, compassionate approach for youth aged 14+ and adults looking to improve their overall quality of life.
(343) 633-2912 View (343) 633-2912
Photo of Priya Mary Abraham, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Priya Mary Abraham
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2G
Parents, if you are seeking empathetic and timely assistance for your teenager, please reach out.
Teenager seeking guidance through life's challenges? Look no further! Allow me to help you explore (within a safe space) your thoughts, feeling and concerns. Whether you are facing anxiety, relationship issues or low self esteem, my 20+ years of Social Work experience can help you. Grounded in evidence-based practices, I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) among others.
Parents, if you are seeking empathetic and timely assistance for your teenager, please reach out.
Teenager seeking guidance through life's challenges? Look no further! Allow me to help you explore (within a safe space) your thoughts, feeling and concerns. Whether you are facing anxiety, relationship issues or low self esteem, my 20+ years of Social Work experience can help you. Grounded in evidence-based practices, I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) among others.
(343) 307-0663 View (343) 307-0663
Photo of Camille Champagne, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Camille Champagne
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Is your child struggling with mental health recently? Is your teenager or young adult suffering with social anxiety, anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, school avoidance, difficulty managing their own emotions, OCD, feeling overwhelmed or lacking self-confidence? I can help support your family navigate through these challenges and difficulties. I can provide a warm, non-judgemental and relaxed space for your child to talk about how they are feeling. I have experience working with Autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, Tourette's, Learning Disabilities and giftedness.
Is your child struggling with mental health recently? Is your teenager or young adult suffering with social anxiety, anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, school avoidance, difficulty managing their own emotions, OCD, feeling overwhelmed or lacking self-confidence? I can help support your family navigate through these challenges and difficulties. I can provide a warm, non-judgemental and relaxed space for your child to talk about how they are feeling. I have experience working with Autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, Tourette's, Learning Disabilities and giftedness.
(343) 342-0188 View (343) 342-0188
Photo of Dixie Joy Adjei, MDiv, RSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dixie Joy Adjei
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, RSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J
Is your child or teen, struggling with their daily functioning? Are they struggling to balance school, social media, puberty, friendships or family dynamics? I am here to help. Whether you're a child, adolescent, senior, or dealing with intricate family dynamics, I offer compassionate and experienced support tailored to your unique needs. In our sessions, you'll find a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Taking back power in your life and empowering you, or your child, to confidently navigate their healing journey is my goal.
Is your child or teen, struggling with their daily functioning? Are they struggling to balance school, social media, puberty, friendships or family dynamics? I am here to help. Whether you're a child, adolescent, senior, or dealing with intricate family dynamics, I offer compassionate and experienced support tailored to your unique needs. In our sessions, you'll find a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Taking back power in your life and empowering you, or your child, to confidently navigate their healing journey is my goal.
(343) 300-0619 View (343) 300-0619
Photo of Jake Ahern-Davy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jake Ahern-Davy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
If you feel like you need someone in your corner, are struggling with the above issues, or are a parent with a teenager who is facing challenges in those areas, please reach out and book a free phone consultation.
Are you struggling with worry, anxiety, or challenging relationships? Do you feel like you’re a little ‘stuck’, exhausted, or overwhelmed? Do you want to learn new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? I aim to provide a safe place for children, teens, and young adults to explore feelings of discomfort and improve their mental well-being. I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, bullying, interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation, aggression/anger, as well as other common concerns that affect our day-to-day lives.
If you feel like you need someone in your corner, are struggling with the above issues, or are a parent with a teenager who is facing challenges in those areas, please reach out and book a free phone consultation.
Are you struggling with worry, anxiety, or challenging relationships? Do you feel like you’re a little ‘stuck’, exhausted, or overwhelmed? Do you want to learn new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? I aim to provide a safe place for children, teens, and young adults to explore feelings of discomfort and improve their mental well-being. I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, bullying, interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation, aggression/anger, as well as other common concerns that affect our day-to-day lives.
(343) 305-1418 View (343) 305-1418
Photo of Delphine Amer, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Delphine Amer
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2J
You might be down or anxious, or perhaps, as a parent, you are worried about a child or teenager. Maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. ​ Perhaps you are burdened by fear, guilt, feel unmotivated, or feel hopeless. Perhaps something traumatic has overwhelmed you. Perhaps you are afraid or socially anxious or lack motivation. Maybe you are struggling at work, and you are not sure how to change things. Perhaps you don't know how to set goals or achieve them. Perhaps you feel sad, or feel overwhelmed by grief or loss. Perhaps you are angry.
You might be down or anxious, or perhaps, as a parent, you are worried about a child or teenager. Maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. ​ Perhaps you are burdened by fear, guilt, feel unmotivated, or feel hopeless. Perhaps something traumatic has overwhelmed you. Perhaps you are afraid or socially anxious or lack motivation. Maybe you are struggling at work, and you are not sure how to change things. Perhaps you don't know how to set goals or achieve them. Perhaps you feel sad, or feel overwhelmed by grief or loss. Perhaps you are angry.
(343) 321-2636 View (343) 321-2636
Photo of Nick Delroy, Registered Psychotherapist
Nick Delroy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2H
If you need someone in your corner, are struggling with the above issues, or are a parent and have a teenager who is struggling in those areas, please email, I may have something to offer.
If you decide to respond, please use only the most basic of generalities to describe your situation, this to preserve your privacy with electronic communication. Substance use, trauma and other mental health issues can do horrible damage to someone's quality of life. Parenting a teenager as they go through the chaos of drug use or mental health struggles can be immensely challenging also. Neither I nor anyone else here can make any promises, however, actual change, decreasing damage, processing things or at the very least adding another support, are utterly realistic possibilities with psychotherapy. If you need help, ask.
If you need someone in your corner, are struggling with the above issues, or are a parent and have a teenager who is struggling in those areas, please email, I may have something to offer.
If you decide to respond, please use only the most basic of generalities to describe your situation, this to preserve your privacy with electronic communication. Substance use, trauma and other mental health issues can do horrible damage to someone's quality of life. Parenting a teenager as they go through the chaos of drug use or mental health struggles can be immensely challenging also. Neither I nor anyone else here can make any promises, however, actual change, decreasing damage, processing things or at the very least adding another support, are utterly realistic possibilities with psychotherapy. If you need help, ask.
(613) 383-5469 View (613) 383-5469
Photo of Charlotte MacKenzie, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Charlotte MacKenzie
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
Currently accepting adult clients and adolescent clients 16 and older. In individual therapy, I work with adults and adolescents experiencing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety and burnout as well as self-esteem difficulties. I aim to create a nonjudgmental, empathic, shame-free therapeutic space where you may feel safe to express yourself fully and to explore challenging thoughts, emotions, behaviours and relationships. I am comfortable working with individuals from all socio-cultural backgrounds (i.e. race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation).
Currently accepting adult clients and adolescent clients 16 and older. In individual therapy, I work with adults and adolescents experiencing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety and burnout as well as self-esteem difficulties. I aim to create a nonjudgmental, empathic, shame-free therapeutic space where you may feel safe to express yourself fully and to explore challenging thoughts, emotions, behaviours and relationships. I am comfortable working with individuals from all socio-cultural backgrounds (i.e. race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation).
(613) 801-8626 View (613) 801-8626
Photo of Stéphanie Bédard, MA, RP, RSW, Registered Psychotherapist
Stéphanie Bédard
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
For youth looking for help with anxiety symptoms, you can find me at The Child, Adolescent, and Family Centre of Ottawa (CAFCO).
Anxious brain, scattered mind? Constantly feeling on edge? I’m here for you. Anxiety probably makes you feel like you’re missing out on the joys of being alive. It’s like living in a parallel world filled with worst-case scenarios and what-ifs. Exhausting, isn’t it? Over time, the accumulation of stressors and unresolved trauma changes the way the brain works, making it harder to face daily challenges. Whether you're seeking support for past trauma or struggling with anxiety symptoms, my goal is to provide you with the tools and guidance to navigate your healing journey. Reach out now to book your free 15-minute consultation.
For youth looking for help with anxiety symptoms, you can find me at The Child, Adolescent, and Family Centre of Ottawa (CAFCO).
Anxious brain, scattered mind? Constantly feeling on edge? I’m here for you. Anxiety probably makes you feel like you’re missing out on the joys of being alive. It’s like living in a parallel world filled with worst-case scenarios and what-ifs. Exhausting, isn’t it? Over time, the accumulation of stressors and unresolved trauma changes the way the brain works, making it harder to face daily challenges. Whether you're seeking support for past trauma or struggling with anxiety symptoms, my goal is to provide you with the tools and guidance to navigate your healing journey. Reach out now to book your free 15-minute consultation.
(343) 305-5474 View (343) 305-5474
Photo of Kelly Firth, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Kelly Firth
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2H
Currently accepting new clients! I aim to honour the experience of all of my clients and believe that starts with making a genuine connection from the first session. I offer psychotherapy services to adult and teen individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, addiction, grief and loss, life transitions, interpersonal relationships, and relationship conflict. I am also an LGBTQ2S+ positive, ENM-affirming, and kink-friendly therapist.
Currently accepting new clients! I aim to honour the experience of all of my clients and believe that starts with making a genuine connection from the first session. I offer psychotherapy services to adult and teen individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, addiction, grief and loss, life transitions, interpersonal relationships, and relationship conflict. I am also an LGBTQ2S+ positive, ENM-affirming, and kink-friendly therapist.
(343) 312-9804 View (343) 312-9804
Photo of Emily Light, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Emily Light
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
I am a bilingual psychotherapist available for preteen, teen, and adult clients (13+).
Are you looking for a confidential and non-judgmental space to vent or problem solve? I believe that everyone has a sense of autonomy and resilience, and sometimes a supportive environment is needed to reinforce those strengths that are within each one of us. I view the therapeutic process according to the client-centered framework, which places empathy and unconditional positive regard at the forefront. I combine this humanistic approach with cognitive techniques from approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a bilingual psychotherapist available for preteen, teen, and adult clients (13+).
Are you looking for a confidential and non-judgmental space to vent or problem solve? I believe that everyone has a sense of autonomy and resilience, and sometimes a supportive environment is needed to reinforce those strengths that are within each one of us. I view the therapeutic process according to the client-centered framework, which places empathy and unconditional positive regard at the forefront. I combine this humanistic approach with cognitive techniques from approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing.
(343) 453-0758 View (343) 453-0758
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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.