Therapists for Teens in Alabama

Photo of Donald 'jay' Mulkerne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Donald 'jay' Mulkerne
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Foley, AL 36535
I utilize these approaches in treating mood disorders, behavioral issues, chronic pain and disease, child and adolescent issues, parenting skill training, and special interest problems such as anxiety, panic disorder, depression, and PTSD.
Are you experiencing distress in your life? is your marriage floundering, or are your kids out of control? Are you losing sleep nightly worrying about the future, or are you down and depressed most days feeling burdened by events from your past or current life circumstances? You need someone to talk to you can trust, but don't have anyone in your circle of family friends, or acquaintances? Please call me today for a free consultation over the phone. Let me share my approach to your difficulties that may make your days and nights easier, your marriage better, or any other difficulties bearable.
I utilize these approaches in treating mood disorders, behavioral issues, chronic pain and disease, child and adolescent issues, parenting skill training, and special interest problems such as anxiety, panic disorder, depression, and PTSD.
Are you experiencing distress in your life? is your marriage floundering, or are your kids out of control? Are you losing sleep nightly worrying about the future, or are you down and depressed most days feeling burdened by events from your past or current life circumstances? You need someone to talk to you can trust, but don't have anyone in your circle of family friends, or acquaintances? Please call me today for a free consultation over the phone. Let me share my approach to your difficulties that may make your days and nights easier, your marriage better, or any other difficulties bearable.
(251) 257-3250 View (251) 257-3250
Photo of Ansley Hanson Beverly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Ansley Hanson Beverly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairhope, AL 36532
I would love to help you or your teenager/young person navigate these times.
Working with teens and early twenties is my specialty. This age group has unique needs and wants. They are trying to figure out who they are and what they want to pursue in life. Often times certain events or ways of thinking can start to interfere with this stage of maturing. The young people I work with are striving to belong, feel good about themselves and succeed.
I would love to help you or your teenager/young person navigate these times.
Working with teens and early twenties is my specialty. This age group has unique needs and wants. They are trying to figure out who they are and what they want to pursue in life. Often times certain events or ways of thinking can start to interfere with this stage of maturing. The young people I work with are striving to belong, feel good about themselves and succeed.
(251) 322-4047 View (251) 322-4047
Photo of Dorelle Wilson, Counselor in Alabama
Dorelle Wilson
Counselor, MEd, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35215
Dear Teen/ Young Adult, It can be hard always being the “strong” friend. You’re always there for others and uplifting them with a BIG smile on your face while deep inside you are feeling weak, down, and lost. It’s time to start taking care of yourself. We can be so into others and their life while neglecting our very own. It’s okay to tell others “NO” while telling yourself “YES”. When will you stop and put yourself first? I’m here to aid you in putting yourself as first in all areas of your life. Let’s work together so you can be who you desire to be and learn what it takes to put you FIRST!
Dear Teen/ Young Adult, It can be hard always being the “strong” friend. You’re always there for others and uplifting them with a BIG smile on your face while deep inside you are feeling weak, down, and lost. It’s time to start taking care of yourself. We can be so into others and their life while neglecting our very own. It’s okay to tell others “NO” while telling yourself “YES”. When will you stop and put yourself first? I’m here to aid you in putting yourself as first in all areas of your life. Let’s work together so you can be who you desire to be and learn what it takes to put you FIRST!
(205) 851-2839 View (205) 851-2839
Photo of TMS Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
TMS Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northport, AL 35473
Has your teenager suddenly become someone you don't recognize? Does your child seem sad, withdrawn, & angry? Are you finding it difficult to juggle home, work, & friends? Are you suffering from a recent loss? Does it seem you are just going through the motions? I may be able to help.
Looking for peace, a way to calm life's storms? Trying hard to keep your head above water? Try counseling it may be the answer you are looking for. My style is open, flexible, & laid back. I believe in providing ethically sound therapy within the confines of a strong therapeutic relationship. I provide individualized treatment & I try to meet each client where they are. If you are considering therapy you have made a valuable step in the right direction. Choosing therapy is hard but often rewarding.
Has your teenager suddenly become someone you don't recognize? Does your child seem sad, withdrawn, & angry? Are you finding it difficult to juggle home, work, & friends? Are you suffering from a recent loss? Does it seem you are just going through the motions? I may be able to help.
Looking for peace, a way to calm life's storms? Trying hard to keep your head above water? Try counseling it may be the answer you are looking for. My style is open, flexible, & laid back. I believe in providing ethically sound therapy within the confines of a strong therapeutic relationship. I provide individualized treatment & I try to meet each client where they are. If you are considering therapy you have made a valuable step in the right direction. Choosing therapy is hard but often rewarding.
(205) 216-5180 View (205) 216-5180
Photo of Jocelyn Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Jocelyn Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, JSOCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35216
There is hope! Have you become stuck in your own personal growth? Are you struggling with the behaviors of a child or adolescent? I am willing to help you learn to overcome these struggles and more. We can work together to achieve your own goals, manage life situations, trauma, anxiety, and depression to get your life back on track. Allow me to help you explore new ways to cope with life's challenges.
There is hope! Have you become stuck in your own personal growth? Are you struggling with the behaviors of a child or adolescent? I am willing to help you learn to overcome these struggles and more. We can work together to achieve your own goals, manage life situations, trauma, anxiety, and depression to get your life back on track. Allow me to help you explore new ways to cope with life's challenges.
(205) 984-4933 View (205) 984-4933
Photo of Morgan Jenkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Morgan Jenkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburn, AL 36830
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with adult and teen clients suffering from LGBTQ+ concerns, trauma, depression, identity crises, relational issues, anxiety, and more.
As a therapist, my goal is for you to leave each session feeling like you accomplished something. Change is hard and therapy can be scary. Let me help. From the wise words of Shannon L. Alder, "Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life."
I have experience working with adult and teen clients suffering from LGBTQ+ concerns, trauma, depression, identity crises, relational issues, anxiety, and more.
As a therapist, my goal is for you to leave each session feeling like you accomplished something. Change is hard and therapy can be scary. Let me help. From the wise words of Shannon L. Alder, "Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life."
(334) 269-8184 View (334) 269-8184
Photo of Angelica Bellman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Angelica Bellman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I have experience ranging from in-home therapy for children and families, to inpatient adolescent treatment, to private practice involving many varied issues.
Are you wanting some help for your child - and maybe for yourself as well? Although I also work with adults, my specialty is working with children and adolescents who have experienced trauma and anxiety. Everyone can make progress with the right amount of support, guidance, and encouragement. I help children and adults recognize their strengths, make better decisions, and develop healthy relationships with others. "Balance is not something you find, it's something you create." (Jana Kingsford)
I have experience ranging from in-home therapy for children and families, to inpatient adolescent treatment, to private practice involving many varied issues.
Are you wanting some help for your child - and maybe for yourself as well? Although I also work with adults, my specialty is working with children and adolescents who have experienced trauma and anxiety. Everyone can make progress with the right amount of support, guidance, and encouragement. I help children and adults recognize their strengths, make better decisions, and develop healthy relationships with others. "Balance is not something you find, it's something you create." (Jana Kingsford)
(205) 882-3745 View (205) 882-3745
Photo of Amanda King, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Amanda King
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
I have experience working with adjustment issues, marital conflict, child/teen behavioral problems, grief, trauma processing, blended family transitions, spiritual issues and parenting.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself, your family, or your marriage? Do you experience significant discord at home? Are your children acting out behaviorally? Do you feel hopeless or helpless to change your situation? If so, you may need to re-Connect. At Connect Relational Counseling, we will explore themes of self-awareness, relationship, and true intimacy. I believe life is about connection. If you are feeling broken, come on in and re-Connect.
I have experience working with adjustment issues, marital conflict, child/teen behavioral problems, grief, trauma processing, blended family transitions, spiritual issues and parenting.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself, your family, or your marriage? Do you experience significant discord at home? Are your children acting out behaviorally? Do you feel hopeless or helpless to change your situation? If so, you may need to re-Connect. At Connect Relational Counseling, we will explore themes of self-awareness, relationship, and true intimacy. I believe life is about connection. If you are feeling broken, come on in and re-Connect.
(256) 437-6959 View (256) 437-6959
Photo of Steven Wright, Counselor in Alabama
Steven Wright
Counselor, PhD, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburn, AL 36830
My professional experiences have allowed me opportunities to provide culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and evidenced-based counseling services to adolescent and adult populations in Alabama and college students in Connecticut.
Thank you for considering me to serve as your counselor! I would like to share a little about myself, as well as what you can expect during counseling. To start, I have good news for you. Regardless of where you are now, I firmly believe you already have tools necessary to grow! As a counselor, I will provide a safe place to discuss your lived experiences, learn more about your mental health, and identify goals for the counseling process. We will work together to reinforce existing strengths while also exploring and identifying new strategies to help overcome challenges that are unique to you, but also common to human existence.
My professional experiences have allowed me opportunities to provide culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and evidenced-based counseling services to adolescent and adult populations in Alabama and college students in Connecticut.
Thank you for considering me to serve as your counselor! I would like to share a little about myself, as well as what you can expect during counseling. To start, I have good news for you. Regardless of where you are now, I firmly believe you already have tools necessary to grow! As a counselor, I will provide a safe place to discuss your lived experiences, learn more about your mental health, and identify goals for the counseling process. We will work together to reinforce existing strengths while also exploring and identifying new strategies to help overcome challenges that are unique to you, but also common to human existence.
(334) 432-8536 View (334) 432-8536
Photo of Richard Fallin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Richard Fallin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35244
Many people believe therapy is a quick fix, or more accurately that a therapist can “fix” us or our problems. In reality, therapy is a process that can take time, but most importantly, hard work. Have you struggled with anxiety, depression, or maintaining social connections? Do you need to repair or restore your marriage? Take first steps in preparing for marriage? Learn how to connect as a family? Find a new normal after divorce? Heal from a loss? Navigate the waters of being a teenager and managing your parents and teacher's expectations? As a therapist with over 18 years of experience, I am excited to help you begin.
Many people believe therapy is a quick fix, or more accurately that a therapist can “fix” us or our problems. In reality, therapy is a process that can take time, but most importantly, hard work. Have you struggled with anxiety, depression, or maintaining social connections? Do you need to repair or restore your marriage? Take first steps in preparing for marriage? Learn how to connect as a family? Find a new normal after divorce? Heal from a loss? Navigate the waters of being a teenager and managing your parents and teacher's expectations? As a therapist with over 18 years of experience, I am excited to help you begin.
(205) 751-6905 View (205) 751-6905
Photo of Amanda Riendeau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Amanda Riendeau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S
Verified Verified
Demopolis, AL 36732  (Online Only)
Let's get real - LIFE is HARD sometimes! Finding that "perfect" balance of work, school, social and home obligations can be difficult. When we don't feel our best, we can't do our best. Whether the school is calling about academic or behavioral concerns for your child or teen, you have noticed a change in your child's behavior/mood, or you are struggling to find balance and meaning in your activities, I am here to guide you.
Let's get real - LIFE is HARD sometimes! Finding that "perfect" balance of work, school, social and home obligations can be difficult. When we don't feel our best, we can't do our best. Whether the school is calling about academic or behavioral concerns for your child or teen, you have noticed a change in your child's behavior/mood, or you are struggling to find balance and meaning in your activities, I am here to guide you.
(334) 453-5771 View (334) 453-5771
Photo of Dr. Dotti Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Dr. Dotti Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Pelham, AL 35124
Dr. Bailey offers a multi-dimensional, holistic and individualized approach of trauma-focused therapy in a safe, supportive child/adolescent friendly environment. The purpose of trauma-focused therapy is to offer skills and strategies to assist them in better understanding, coping with and processing emotions and memories tied to traumatic experiences.
Dr. Bailey offers a multi-dimensional, holistic and individualized approach of trauma-focused therapy in a safe, supportive child/adolescent friendly environment. The purpose of trauma-focused therapy is to offer skills and strategies to assist them in better understanding, coping with and processing emotions and memories tied to traumatic experiences.
(205) 947-3013 View (205) 947-3013
Photo of Ashley Gilbert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Ashley Gilbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
As a marriage and family therapist I have worked extensively with adult and adolescent individuals, and families.
Telling your story takes tremendous courage. In my work I am constantly humbled and honored to receive those stories. As a therapist I work from the premise that people are deeply complex and multilayered beings. Our past, our present, and expectations of our future dictate how we navigate life's inevitable challenges. Because our lives are a constant state of transition, we have the opportunity to learn from the past and navigate our present through awareness and understanding of ourselves, and others. I feel it a great honor to support people in their transitions, and foster their awareness and growth.
As a marriage and family therapist I have worked extensively with adult and adolescent individuals, and families.
Telling your story takes tremendous courage. In my work I am constantly humbled and honored to receive those stories. As a therapist I work from the premise that people are deeply complex and multilayered beings. Our past, our present, and expectations of our future dictate how we navigate life's inevitable challenges. Because our lives are a constant state of transition, we have the opportunity to learn from the past and navigate our present through awareness and understanding of ourselves, and others. I feel it a great honor to support people in their transitions, and foster their awareness and growth.
(205) 419-0039 View (205) 419-0039
Photo of Counseling and Therapy Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Counseling and Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Auburn, AL 36830
Couples counseling, marriage and family therapy, couples communication, parenting, child and adolescent behavioral problems, depression, trauma in childhood (child sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect), intimacy & sexuality issues, addictive/compulsive behavior, faith-transitions, substance abuse, children/adults with ADHD, divorce & co-parenting, individuals with disabilities, grief, and mental illness.
Therapy works! Healing begins. Your relationships are transformed. Your children / adolescents can behave and thrive. You can find purpose together. Your life direction can become clear. You can have your life back! Counseling and Therapy Services can help you on your road to healing, recovery, and happiness.
Couples counseling, marriage and family therapy, couples communication, parenting, child and adolescent behavioral problems, depression, trauma in childhood (child sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect), intimacy & sexuality issues, addictive/compulsive behavior, faith-transitions, substance abuse, children/adults with ADHD, divorce & co-parenting, individuals with disabilities, grief, and mental illness.
Therapy works! Healing begins. Your relationships are transformed. Your children / adolescents can behave and thrive. You can find purpose together. Your life direction can become clear. You can have your life back! Counseling and Therapy Services can help you on your road to healing, recovery, and happiness.
(334) 239-4707 View (334) 239-4707
Photo of Elizabeth Tindell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Elizabeth Tindell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dothan, AL 36305
Are you struggling to maintain a healthy, loving relationship with your child or teen? Is your child dealing with anger issues, depression or anxiety? Does your child often feel sad or frustrated when completing homework due to learning problems or focus issues? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, I am here to help you!! I have years of experience working with children and teenagers through various issues including anger, depression, self-harming behavior, anxiety, bullying, grief issues and ADHD among many others.
Are you struggling to maintain a healthy, loving relationship with your child or teen? Is your child dealing with anger issues, depression or anxiety? Does your child often feel sad or frustrated when completing homework due to learning problems or focus issues? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, I am here to help you!! I have years of experience working with children and teenagers through various issues including anger, depression, self-harming behavior, anxiety, bullying, grief issues and ADHD among many others.
(334) 472-0158 View (334) 472-0158
Photo of Rachel A. James, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Rachel A. James
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Florence, AL 35630
Do you ever find yourself feeling overwhelmed or boggled down with everyday stressors and struggles? We have all been there before. I believe that everyone needs a supportive, objective person to talk to when they are struggling and deciding which move to make next. I can be that supportive person for you. I have experience in substance abuse, child/adolescent counseling, anxiety/depression, coping skills, etc... My main goal as a counselor is to make a difference in the lives of others, and hopefully provide you with helpful tools for whatever journey you may be on in your life.
Do you ever find yourself feeling overwhelmed or boggled down with everyday stressors and struggles? We have all been there before. I believe that everyone needs a supportive, objective person to talk to when they are struggling and deciding which move to make next. I can be that supportive person for you. I have experience in substance abuse, child/adolescent counseling, anxiety/depression, coping skills, etc... My main goal as a counselor is to make a difference in the lives of others, and hopefully provide you with helpful tools for whatever journey you may be on in your life.
(256) 743-8630 View (256) 743-8630
Photo of Deon Gatson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Deon Gatson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Daphne, AL 36526
Waitlist for new clients
Our youth groups, therapeutic in nature, demand teen self examination & development.
Some stages of life can be tough, finding relevant help that is measurable shouldn't be. Compass II Life exists solely for youth, couples, & families in need of brief therapy & support, yet with results the family can measure. Day & evening appointment availability for support with parenting, anxiety/depression, anger management, respect for parents/authority, purpose, marriage counseling, & more. Different by design, my practice targets a new approach to the delivery of mental health care & mentoring for youth/families across the Gulf Coast. Telehealth remains available for those in need of remote services or support.
Our youth groups, therapeutic in nature, demand teen self examination & development.
Some stages of life can be tough, finding relevant help that is measurable shouldn't be. Compass II Life exists solely for youth, couples, & families in need of brief therapy & support, yet with results the family can measure. Day & evening appointment availability for support with parenting, anxiety/depression, anger management, respect for parents/authority, purpose, marriage counseling, & more. Different by design, my practice targets a new approach to the delivery of mental health care & mentoring for youth/families across the Gulf Coast. Telehealth remains available for those in need of remote services or support.
(251) 229-2860 View (251) 229-2860
Photo of ACA Counseling Alexis Sapp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
ACA Counseling Alexis Sapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-S, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
Mrs. Sapp is a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NBCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor, (LPC), and a Supervising Counselor, SC. Mrs. Sapp is trained in EMDR and is eager to continue her professional development in the area of EMDR with children, adolescents, and teens. Mrs. Sapp enjoys the therapeutic benefit of engaging clients in walk-and-talk therapy while utilizing ACA's facility dogs. Her mission is to empower children, teens, and their families to overcome personal obstacles and improve their quality of life. She is passionate about the impact of counseling during childhood and adolescent years.
Mrs. Sapp is a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NBCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor, (LPC), and a Supervising Counselor, SC. Mrs. Sapp is trained in EMDR and is eager to continue her professional development in the area of EMDR with children, adolescents, and teens. Mrs. Sapp enjoys the therapeutic benefit of engaging clients in walk-and-talk therapy while utilizing ACA's facility dogs. Her mission is to empower children, teens, and their families to overcome personal obstacles and improve their quality of life. She is passionate about the impact of counseling during childhood and adolescent years.
(205) 530-8743 View (205) 530-8743
Photo of Leslie Herhold Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Leslie Herhold Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
We have therapists specializing in perinatal mental health, trauma, couples counseling, addiction, teen therapy, child therapy, and more!.
We are a multi-specialty therapy practice serving the needs of the entire family. From postpartum depression and infertility, to trauma and addiction, to ADHD and anxiety, we are here for your family. We utilize evidence-based therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness, and Art and Play therapy. We have each received specialized training in our respective areas of expertise, and we are so excited to bring these services to Baldwin and Jefferson Counties.
We have therapists specializing in perinatal mental health, trauma, couples counseling, addiction, teen therapy, child therapy, and more!.
We are a multi-specialty therapy practice serving the needs of the entire family. From postpartum depression and infertility, to trauma and addiction, to ADHD and anxiety, we are here for your family. We utilize evidence-based therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness, and Art and Play therapy. We have each received specialized training in our respective areas of expertise, and we are so excited to bring these services to Baldwin and Jefferson Counties.
(251) 202-9003 View (251) 202-9003
Photo of Connie Vais Fleming, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Connie Vais Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
For you, your child, or teen please know I am available to provide help. With a strong background in inpatient, intensive outpatient and many years of private practice. I have 34 years of specialized clinical training, strong commitment to the advancement of my career, and offer therapeutic guidance & support to my clients. I work with women of all ages, children and teens. I specialize in treating emotional and physical trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression. I also am very passionate about my work with children and families with issues related to adoption & attachment trauma/wounds.
For you, your child, or teen please know I am available to provide help. With a strong background in inpatient, intensive outpatient and many years of private practice. I have 34 years of specialized clinical training, strong commitment to the advancement of my career, and offer therapeutic guidance & support to my clients. I work with women of all ages, children and teens. I specialize in treating emotional and physical trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression. I also am very passionate about my work with children and families with issues related to adoption & attachment trauma/wounds.
(251) 766-5838 View (251) 766-5838
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.