Photo of Joanne Galatea Boelke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01262, MA
Joanne Galatea Boelke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWr, LICSW
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, MA 01262  (Online Only)
My desire is to help clients create a more positive and productive life experience in order to transform their lives and break the cycle of self-defeating behaviors. Life is not meant to be just endured, but enjoyed. We all deserve a chance to reach our fullest potential despite experiences which have created limited core beliefs and hold us back in self- destructive patterns of depression, anxiety, fear, and guilt. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative experience.
My desire is to help clients create a more positive and productive life experience in order to transform their lives and break the cycle of self-defeating behaviors. Life is not meant to be just endured, but enjoyed. We all deserve a chance to reach our fullest potential despite experiences which have created limited core beliefs and hold us back in self- destructive patterns of depression, anxiety, fear, and guilt. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative experience.
(413) 300-6106 View (413) 300-6106

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Teen Therapists

What does therapy for teenagers look like?

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

How long does therapy for teenagers generally take to work?

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

How do you encourage a teenager to go to therapy?

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

How do you prepare teens for therapy?

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