Therapists for Teens in 80302

Photo of Kimberly J Lubuguin in 80302, CO
Kimberly J Lubuguin
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I have extensive experience working with families with children and /or adolescents with ADHD in assessment, child and adolescent social skills development, individual therapy, parenting skills training, and school-based consultation and interventions.
I focus on the strengths of the individual children, adolescents, and the families and use this as a basis for developing treatments that are individualized for the child, adolescent, and family and takes into account family routines and rituals. I set goals that are attainable. Families with children or adolescents with ADHD, disruptive behavior disorders,family issues, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, school phobia, consultation and managing pediatric and adolescent chronic illness (e.g., Asthma, diabetes) at home and school. Helping manage transitions and adjustment for children, adolescents, and families (starting a new school, moving, coping with parent's separation/divorce).
I have extensive experience working with families with children and /or adolescents with ADHD in assessment, child and adolescent social skills development, individual therapy, parenting skills training, and school-based consultation and interventions.
I focus on the strengths of the individual children, adolescents, and the families and use this as a basis for developing treatments that are individualized for the child, adolescent, and family and takes into account family routines and rituals. I set goals that are attainable. Families with children or adolescents with ADHD, disruptive behavior disorders,family issues, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, school phobia, consultation and managing pediatric and adolescent chronic illness (e.g., Asthma, diabetes) at home and school. Helping manage transitions and adjustment for children, adolescents, and families (starting a new school, moving, coping with parent's separation/divorce).
(720) 213-5706 View (720) 213-5706
Photo of D. Hope Tola, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80302, CO
D. Hope Tola
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, NCC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Relationship Therapy is coming together to learn how to really listen & support each other - couples, parent+teen, family.
I specialize in Relationship Therapy (couples, pairs) & High-Powered Therapy for individuals. <> Relationships: we feel frustration, anger & loneliness when we're not understood, seen or respected. We wonder - How can I love someone & also hate them? Why do I want to push them away & also wish they'd be closer? How can I feel lonely in a partnership I'm not alone in? <> Individuals: I work with strong, high-achieving "Type A"s who find it hard to slow down, to "just be" content, who need someone who understands your pace, how your mind works, how it feels like you're 15 steps ahead when everyone else is still figuring out step 1.
Relationship Therapy is coming together to learn how to really listen & support each other - couples, parent+teen, family.
I specialize in Relationship Therapy (couples, pairs) & High-Powered Therapy for individuals. <> Relationships: we feel frustration, anger & loneliness when we're not understood, seen or respected. We wonder - How can I love someone & also hate them? Why do I want to push them away & also wish they'd be closer? How can I feel lonely in a partnership I'm not alone in? <> Individuals: I work with strong, high-achieving "Type A"s who find it hard to slow down, to "just be" content, who need someone who understands your pace, how your mind works, how it feels like you're 15 steps ahead when everyone else is still figuring out step 1.
(303) 384-5581 View (303) 384-5581
Photo of Jamie Law, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80302, CO
Jamie Law
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I work with adult and teen individuals from a humanistic, somatic, mindfulness based perspective. It is my belief that the therapeutic relationship itself is a guiding force in the healing process and an essential component for clients to more deeply access themselves. In our time together, we will increase awareness around your relationship to self, relationship patterns with others, how you work to notice and process feelings, how you relate to past wounds and trauma and how you regulate through stressful times. Together we will increase your capacity to compassionately trust and come back to yourself over and over again.
I work with adult and teen individuals from a humanistic, somatic, mindfulness based perspective. It is my belief that the therapeutic relationship itself is a guiding force in the healing process and an essential component for clients to more deeply access themselves. In our time together, we will increase awareness around your relationship to self, relationship patterns with others, how you work to notice and process feelings, how you relate to past wounds and trauma and how you regulate through stressful times. Together we will increase your capacity to compassionately trust and come back to yourself over and over again.
(720) 806-4189 View (720) 806-4189
Photo of Antelope Recovery, Psychologist in 80302, CO
Antelope Recovery
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Parenting a struggling teenager can be a nightmare. Not only are they changing, but your relationship with them and your role is changing as well and the stakes are higher. As they work to establish independence, develop self-identity, and take steps toward becoming adults, they can reject your help, especially when they need it the most! Often, struggling teens create destructive and negative intense experiences because it is the only way they know how to feel connected. Our tight-knit team of clinicians can help your teen, and you take on the teen years with more confidence and grace.
Parenting a struggling teenager can be a nightmare. Not only are they changing, but your relationship with them and your role is changing as well and the stakes are higher. As they work to establish independence, develop self-identity, and take steps toward becoming adults, they can reject your help, especially when they need it the most! Often, struggling teens create destructive and negative intense experiences because it is the only way they know how to feel connected. Our tight-knit team of clinicians can help your teen, and you take on the teen years with more confidence and grace.
(720) 815-9042 View (720) 815-9042
Photo of Erin R Whitney, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Erin R Whitney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Only the strongest and most courageous know when it is time to get help. Together we can work through nearly any difficulty. I personalize my counseling and coaching practices based on your or your family's needs, using effective, yet gentle and powerful, proven methods. With 25+ years in practice working with people who have depression, anxiety, OCD, childhood/teen behavioral concerns, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorders, and adjustments to significant life changes, I have the experience to meet your needs . Not sure if counseling or coaching is right for you? Please call me for a free consultation. Warmest regards, Erin
Only the strongest and most courageous know when it is time to get help. Together we can work through nearly any difficulty. I personalize my counseling and coaching practices based on your or your family's needs, using effective, yet gentle and powerful, proven methods. With 25+ years in practice working with people who have depression, anxiety, OCD, childhood/teen behavioral concerns, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorders, and adjustments to significant life changes, I have the experience to meet your needs . Not sure if counseling or coaching is right for you? Please call me for a free consultation. Warmest regards, Erin
(832) 850-2262 View (832) 850-2262
Photo of Antelope Recovery, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Antelope Recovery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
If your teen needs help, reach out to us to schedule a free discovery call.
Disconnected, stuck, unmotivated, or deeply pained teens improve with therapy. If your teen is glued to their phone, failing school, has experienced a traumatic event, suicide attempt, is self-harming, abusing drugs, or has parents going through a divorce - we've seen it all. The teen experience is tough! At Antelope Recovery, we understand that not all teens want to go to therapy, but they know that what they're currently doing isn't working, and they want to feel better. We also specialize in helping teens who have tried other types of help, such as 1:1 therapy or medication but have not experienced significant improvement.
If your teen needs help, reach out to us to schedule a free discovery call.
Disconnected, stuck, unmotivated, or deeply pained teens improve with therapy. If your teen is glued to their phone, failing school, has experienced a traumatic event, suicide attempt, is self-harming, abusing drugs, or has parents going through a divorce - we've seen it all. The teen experience is tough! At Antelope Recovery, we understand that not all teens want to go to therapy, but they know that what they're currently doing isn't working, and they want to feel better. We also specialize in helping teens who have tried other types of help, such as 1:1 therapy or medication but have not experienced significant improvement.
(720) 780-1028 View (720) 780-1028
Photo of Moana Kruschwitz, Psychologist in 80302, CO
Moana Kruschwitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Each individual has a great potential for change and growth; whether a preschooler learning to label and describe mad or sad feelings, or a teenager developing self-soothing strategies for lonely and sad feelings, or an adult learning ways to communicate what they need from their partner when feeling anxious.
I believe that there is great power in developing a deeper understanding of who you are, your strengths and weakness, and how your brain functions and adapts-and applying this information to develop ways to manage and communicate your emotions and needs to the important people in your life. I have been working with kids, teens, adults and families for the last 15 years, and find it very meaningful and rewarding. I specialize in anxiety, depression, attachment and neurodevelopmental disorders, using cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, solution-oriented and family systems based approaches.
Each individual has a great potential for change and growth; whether a preschooler learning to label and describe mad or sad feelings, or a teenager developing self-soothing strategies for lonely and sad feelings, or an adult learning ways to communicate what they need from their partner when feeling anxious.
I believe that there is great power in developing a deeper understanding of who you are, your strengths and weakness, and how your brain functions and adapts-and applying this information to develop ways to manage and communicate your emotions and needs to the important people in your life. I have been working with kids, teens, adults and families for the last 15 years, and find it very meaningful and rewarding. I specialize in anxiety, depression, attachment and neurodevelopmental disorders, using cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, solution-oriented and family systems based approaches.
(303) 951-4779 View (303) 951-4779
Photo of Dan Fox, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Dan Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCN
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I am committed to the idea that there is hope for your teen and relief for your family.
I have spent the past 20 years helping adolescents (and their families) with the work of growing into healthy, happy adults. My background includes teaching high school, running a summer camp, school counseling, and directing September High School. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have brought these experiences into my clinical work.
I am committed to the idea that there is hope for your teen and relief for your family.
I have spent the past 20 years helping adolescents (and their families) with the work of growing into healthy, happy adults. My background includes teaching high school, running a summer camp, school counseling, and directing September High School. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have brought these experiences into my clinical work.
(720) 605-4393 View (720) 605-4393
Photo of Kimberly Donars, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Kimberly Donars
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
New Year, New Time to refresh yourself and your goals. I can support you or your older adolescent to live a happier, healthier life. Some of the many issues I've helped my clients with include: trouble focusing, feeling anxious, depressed, lethargic, overwhelmed, indecisive, chronic procrastination, issues with relationships, insomnia, ruminating/overthinking. Do you want to quit smoking or drinking? Exercise more? Would you like to fulfill more of your goals and dreams? Live a more creative and/or adventurous way? I can help you identify where you want to go.
New Year, New Time to refresh yourself and your goals. I can support you or your older adolescent to live a happier, healthier life. Some of the many issues I've helped my clients with include: trouble focusing, feeling anxious, depressed, lethargic, overwhelmed, indecisive, chronic procrastination, issues with relationships, insomnia, ruminating/overthinking. Do you want to quit smoking or drinking? Exercise more? Would you like to fulfill more of your goals and dreams? Live a more creative and/or adventurous way? I can help you identify where you want to go.
(720) 466-2785 View (720) 466-2785
Photo of Michelle Frieswyk-Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Michelle Frieswyk-Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Simply put, I love being a part of one's journey toward his/hers greatest emotional health. I believe that all persons have unique tools to heal one's self. I see my role as a compassionate guide who, through effective inquiry, honesty, and our reflection upon the power of choice, can assist your transformation big or small. Whether you desire to improve your parenting skills, assist your struggling teen or clear your path to living more authentically, I would enjoy joining you along your journey toward your greatest health.
Simply put, I love being a part of one's journey toward his/hers greatest emotional health. I believe that all persons have unique tools to heal one's self. I see my role as a compassionate guide who, through effective inquiry, honesty, and our reflection upon the power of choice, can assist your transformation big or small. Whether you desire to improve your parenting skills, assist your struggling teen or clear your path to living more authentically, I would enjoy joining you along your journey toward your greatest health.
(720) 204-8940 View (720) 204-8940
Photo of Kaia Livingstone, Registered Psychotherapist in 80302, CO
Kaia Livingstone
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Many people find themselves at a cross roads in their life where something needs to shift. I specialize in helping people through transitions to find a balance in their lifestyle and themselves. Whether that transition is becoming a teenager, becoming an adult, finding or loosing a job, entering or exiting a relationship, parenting, or a family that has decided that they need to change their dynamic, I help clients take what is important and healthy to them, and leave what is not.
Many people find themselves at a cross roads in their life where something needs to shift. I specialize in helping people through transitions to find a balance in their lifestyle and themselves. Whether that transition is becoming a teenager, becoming an adult, finding or loosing a job, entering or exiting a relationship, parenting, or a family that has decided that they need to change their dynamic, I help clients take what is important and healthy to them, and leave what is not.
(720) 506-2745 View (720) 506-2745
Photo of Boulder Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Boulder Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
It takes courage to ask for help; you have already taken the first step. Life throws us situations we don't anticipate or have encountered before and we need help getting through. You are here because you or someone you care about is in pain. You have come to the right place. We have all had those times when we need someone besides family and friends to talk to. People come to me for a variety of reasons: anxiety and depression, relationship problems, family issues, emotional and social struggles, rebuilding self-esteem, teen difficulties, general life transitions, and personal growth.
It takes courage to ask for help; you have already taken the first step. Life throws us situations we don't anticipate or have encountered before and we need help getting through. You are here because you or someone you care about is in pain. You have come to the right place. We have all had those times when we need someone besides family and friends to talk to. People come to me for a variety of reasons: anxiety and depression, relationship problems, family issues, emotional and social struggles, rebuilding self-esteem, teen difficulties, general life transitions, and personal growth.
(720) 440-2030 View (720) 440-2030
Photo of Rocky Mountain Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Rocky Mountain Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I provide individual, teen, family, and group counseling services.
Is your anxiety getting the best of you? Are you struggling to adjust to life after a divorce? Is your teenager struggling and you are not sure how to help? If you answered “yes” to any of the above, you’ve come to the right place. For the past 23 years, I’ve been counseling children, teens, adults, and families. In addition, to help with anxiety and depression, I offer parenting coaching, as well as help for individuals and families who have recently gone through a divorce. I am also Certified in Brainspotting. I’m honored to say that I’ve won the Best of Louisville, Mental Health Services Award, for the past five years in a row.
I provide individual, teen, family, and group counseling services.
Is your anxiety getting the best of you? Are you struggling to adjust to life after a divorce? Is your teenager struggling and you are not sure how to help? If you answered “yes” to any of the above, you’ve come to the right place. For the past 23 years, I’ve been counseling children, teens, adults, and families. In addition, to help with anxiety and depression, I offer parenting coaching, as well as help for individuals and families who have recently gone through a divorce. I am also Certified in Brainspotting. I’m honored to say that I’ve won the Best of Louisville, Mental Health Services Award, for the past five years in a row.
(720) 439-8103 View (720) 439-8103
Photo of Jen Lafond, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Jen Lafond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR, BSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Whether you are looking for support for yourself or your teen, know I have deep pockets of wisdom to help you or your child to navigate and move from crisis/survival to wellness/thriving.
My sincere apologies, I am not taking new clients at this time. I wish you the best in finding a good fit therapist. You may be looking for a therapist because of a crisis of some kind; a depression, a loss, anxiety, or trauma symptoms. I see crisis as an opportunity for growth and love being there for people in their time of greatest need. Crisis can be seen as an invitation to go inward and reflect on what is not working. As a trauma informed psychotherapist with a relational approach, I work collaboratively with clients to identify what is keeping you from living more fully so you can live a more integrated and healthier life.
Whether you are looking for support for yourself or your teen, know I have deep pockets of wisdom to help you or your child to navigate and move from crisis/survival to wellness/thriving.
My sincere apologies, I am not taking new clients at this time. I wish you the best in finding a good fit therapist. You may be looking for a therapist because of a crisis of some kind; a depression, a loss, anxiety, or trauma symptoms. I see crisis as an opportunity for growth and love being there for people in their time of greatest need. Crisis can be seen as an invitation to go inward and reflect on what is not working. As a trauma informed psychotherapist with a relational approach, I work collaboratively with clients to identify what is keeping you from living more fully so you can live a more integrated and healthier life.
(720) 924-7435 View (720) 924-7435
Photo of Elena Schmeising, Counselor in 80302, CO
Elena Schmeising
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Hey there, I'm Elena, a queer, sex-positive therapist specializing in working with LGBTQIA+ and non-monogamous clients. At Arcana Counseling, I welcome adolescent and adult individuals and relationship configurations of all kinds. Whether you're facing mental health or relationship issues, moving through a difficult life transition, seeking coping or communication skills, or continuing on your journey of self-discovery, you don't have to do it alone. Wherever you are on your path, I will meet you there and support you every step of the way as we work collaboratively toward your goals.
Hey there, I'm Elena, a queer, sex-positive therapist specializing in working with LGBTQIA+ and non-monogamous clients. At Arcana Counseling, I welcome adolescent and adult individuals and relationship configurations of all kinds. Whether you're facing mental health or relationship issues, moving through a difficult life transition, seeking coping or communication skills, or continuing on your journey of self-discovery, you don't have to do it alone. Wherever you are on your path, I will meet you there and support you every step of the way as we work collaboratively toward your goals.
(720) 458-9318 View (720) 458-9318
Photo of Natalie Teeters, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80302, CO
Natalie Teeters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Looking for counseling for your teen or child? Wanting a stronger connection with your spouse? Have you noticed that you do not feel much joy in your life, and are desiring a change? Do you have family conflicts that you'd like to resolve? Need help achieving your goals? You've come to the right place. Hi, I'm Natalie. I have a private practice where I provide counseling to children, teens, and adults. I realize how scary it can be to reach out for help. " A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. " I can be the one to stand with you and conquer.
Looking for counseling for your teen or child? Wanting a stronger connection with your spouse? Have you noticed that you do not feel much joy in your life, and are desiring a change? Do you have family conflicts that you'd like to resolve? Need help achieving your goals? You've come to the right place. Hi, I'm Natalie. I have a private practice where I provide counseling to children, teens, and adults. I realize how scary it can be to reach out for help. " A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. " I can be the one to stand with you and conquer.
(720) 745-6770 View (720) 745-6770
Photo of Compassion Connection Therapy - Jessie Harris , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Compassion Connection Therapy - Jessie Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I specialize in the treatment of child, adolescent, and adult eating disorders, body image issues, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parent coaching and life transitions.
If you are finding yourself on this site it may be that you are considering making some change in your life or looking for support for someone you love. The most important part in taking a step in therapy is feeling connected and safe with the clinician you are meeting. My name is Jessie Harris and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in mental health practice. I received my masters degree from the University of Denver in 2015 and spent most of my professional experience working at the Children's Hospital Colorado's Eating Disorder Program as an individual and family therapist.
I specialize in the treatment of child, adolescent, and adult eating disorders, body image issues, perfectionism, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parent coaching and life transitions.
If you are finding yourself on this site it may be that you are considering making some change in your life or looking for support for someone you love. The most important part in taking a step in therapy is feeling connected and safe with the clinician you are meeting. My name is Jessie Harris and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in mental health practice. I received my masters degree from the University of Denver in 2015 and spent most of my professional experience working at the Children's Hospital Colorado's Eating Disorder Program as an individual and family therapist.
(720) 679-5472 View (720) 679-5472
Photo of Ash McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Ash McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I hold a degree emphasis in Child and Adolescent disorders so I am always eager to work with that population.
We all have a story to tell and I believe every person can benefit by sitting with someone and sharing their story, perspective, joy, and pain. I personally love to work with teens as they are discovering their story and the impact they want to have on the world. As well as for many adults our stories hold a significant amount of unresolved hurt and pain, I appreciate the honor of walking alongside people as they navigate their past, current, and future circumstances.
I hold a degree emphasis in Child and Adolescent disorders so I am always eager to work with that population.
We all have a story to tell and I believe every person can benefit by sitting with someone and sharing their story, perspective, joy, and pain. I personally love to work with teens as they are discovering their story and the impact they want to have on the world. As well as for many adults our stories hold a significant amount of unresolved hurt and pain, I appreciate the honor of walking alongside people as they navigate their past, current, and future circumstances.
(720) 928-9506 View (720) 928-9506
Photo of Lori Schumacher, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Lori Schumacher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
If you have a child or teen who is struggling, you are not alone and I believe I can help.
Many of us carry the idea that happiness is about being content, cheerful, carrying a smile on one's face all the time. Rather, I like to think of well-being as a balance in one's "emotional ecosystem," or variety of different emotions we allow ourselves to experience.I believe that our emotional flexibility to experience a full range of emotions (positive, negative, & a mix of both) is strongly linked to our feelings of happiness & well-being. No, I don't believe there's anything wrong with you. Perhaps all you need rightnow are tools to help you embrace the full range of your human experience while "surfing" those emotional waves.
If you have a child or teen who is struggling, you are not alone and I believe I can help.
Many of us carry the idea that happiness is about being content, cheerful, carrying a smile on one's face all the time. Rather, I like to think of well-being as a balance in one's "emotional ecosystem," or variety of different emotions we allow ourselves to experience.I believe that our emotional flexibility to experience a full range of emotions (positive, negative, & a mix of both) is strongly linked to our feelings of happiness & well-being. No, I don't believe there's anything wrong with you. Perhaps all you need rightnow are tools to help you embrace the full range of your human experience while "surfing" those emotional waves.
(720) 571-9359 View (720) 571-9359
Photo of Matty Blanc-Paul, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80302, CO
Matty Blanc-Paul
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
However, I also recognize that every teenager is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet the specific needs of each individual client.
As a therapist who specializes in working with teenagers, I understand how important it is for parents to have confidence in the person they entrust with their child's mental health. Adolescence is a challenging time for both teens and parents, and it can be difficult to navigate the emotional and behavioral changes that come with this stage of life. That's why I take a collaborative approach to counseling, working closely with both parents and teens to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and concerns.
However, I also recognize that every teenager is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet the specific needs of each individual client.
As a therapist who specializes in working with teenagers, I understand how important it is for parents to have confidence in the person they entrust with their child's mental health. Adolescence is a challenging time for both teens and parents, and it can be difficult to navigate the emotional and behavioral changes that come with this stage of life. That's why I take a collaborative approach to counseling, working closely with both parents and teens to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and concerns.
(720) 637-3899 View (720) 637-3899
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.