Therapists for Teens in Arkansas

Photo of Aaron G Ermert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Aaron G Ermert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Batesville, AR 72501
Hey there! I'm on a mission to make happiness a reality for all ages. whether you're a teen tackling adolescence, an adult navigating life's challenges, or a couple seeking a stronger bond. My passion is supporting individuals through depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I've noticed that, regardless of size, trauma often underlies various challenges. My ultimate goal is to guide you toward long-lasting happiness. I've seen the transformative power of healing, and I'm committed to creating a space that's supportive, non-judgmental, and comfortable. Let's work together to unlock the happiness you deserve!
Hey there! I'm on a mission to make happiness a reality for all ages. whether you're a teen tackling adolescence, an adult navigating life's challenges, or a couple seeking a stronger bond. My passion is supporting individuals through depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I've noticed that, regardless of size, trauma often underlies various challenges. My ultimate goal is to guide you toward long-lasting happiness. I've seen the transformative power of healing, and I'm committed to creating a space that's supportive, non-judgmental, and comfortable. Let's work together to unlock the happiness you deserve!
(870) 493-3924 View (870) 493-3924
Photo of The Therapy Office, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
The Therapy Office
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Springdale, AR 72762
At The Therapy Office, our dedicated therapists specialize in EMDR, grief counseling, Cognitive Processing Therapy, parent support, and teen counseling.
Feeling exhausted from endless scrolling, clicking on ads, and trying every magic fix? If you've been on this search forever, tried all the fads, and still find yourself overwhelmed and at square one, we've got your back. At The Therapy Office, we offer in-office and telehealth counseling specifically for teens and young adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression. No more endless searches, it's time to find the support you've been looking for.
At The Therapy Office, our dedicated therapists specialize in EMDR, grief counseling, Cognitive Processing Therapy, parent support, and teen counseling.
Feeling exhausted from endless scrolling, clicking on ads, and trying every magic fix? If you've been on this search forever, tried all the fads, and still find yourself overwhelmed and at square one, we've got your back. At The Therapy Office, we offer in-office and telehealth counseling specifically for teens and young adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, and depression. No more endless searches, it's time to find the support you've been looking for.
(479) 348-3960 View (479) 348-3960
Photo of Talicia Richardson, Counselor in Arkansas
Talicia Richardson
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72903
My ideal client is someone who has hit their rock bottom and knows change must occur. Their issues could range from anxiety, to processing being an empty nester, dealing with death, caring for aging parents or children's children, navigating teen age years, etc. Their need is peace. Their goal clarity and direction to find peace within and with others.
My ideal client is someone who has hit their rock bottom and knows change must occur. Their issues could range from anxiety, to processing being an empty nester, dealing with death, caring for aging parents or children's children, navigating teen age years, etc. Their need is peace. Their goal clarity and direction to find peace within and with others.
(479) 370-4385 View (479) 370-4385
Photo of Airity Hesington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Airity Hesington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Farmington, AR 72730
Are you exhausted by constant negative and noisy streaming in your head? You want out of this predicament; but getting out of it can sometimes seem impossible and disheartening. Airity has experience and expertise in helping people get freed from this. Airity is ready to work with your child/teen or your family on internal validation and towards transformation. You will learn to ignite your unique superpowers, while obtaining sustainable healing that comes from within, and ultimately leads to self-empowerment and resiliency. Airity is here to help you navigate life’s tough obstacles.
Are you exhausted by constant negative and noisy streaming in your head? You want out of this predicament; but getting out of it can sometimes seem impossible and disheartening. Airity has experience and expertise in helping people get freed from this. Airity is ready to work with your child/teen or your family on internal validation and towards transformation. You will learn to ignite your unique superpowers, while obtaining sustainable healing that comes from within, and ultimately leads to self-empowerment and resiliency. Airity is here to help you navigate life’s tough obstacles.
Photo of Kelsie Hammons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Kelsie Hammons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72207
I strive to offer compassionate and practical support helping clients find their way through a variety of stressors, including: pre-parenting stress, reproductive decisions, unexpected pregnancy, teen pregnancy/parenthood, support plans for birth and postpartum, birth story processing, support after birth trauma, overwhelming emotions, etc.
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) with a specialization in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C). I have a heart for supporting people through their reproductive years while they navigate the ups and downs of pre-parenting, pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood. My approach is to support clients holistically using an integrated therapeutic approach. I draw from elements of psychodynamic (narrative), acceptance commitment (ACT), cognitive behavioral (CBT), and mindfulness therapies in to ensure the whole person’s needs are met.
I strive to offer compassionate and practical support helping clients find their way through a variety of stressors, including: pre-parenting stress, reproductive decisions, unexpected pregnancy, teen pregnancy/parenthood, support plans for birth and postpartum, birth story processing, support after birth trauma, overwhelming emotions, etc.
I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) with a specialization in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C). I have a heart for supporting people through their reproductive years while they navigate the ups and downs of pre-parenting, pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood. My approach is to support clients holistically using an integrated therapeutic approach. I draw from elements of psychodynamic (narrative), acceptance commitment (ACT), cognitive behavioral (CBT), and mindfulness therapies in to ensure the whole person’s needs are met.
(501) 391-1852 View (501) 391-1852
Photo of DreamLab Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
DreamLab Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Texarkana, AR 71854
There is hope for your teenager.
Are you ready to break out of negative thought patterns and behaviors that have kept you tied to your past? Do you desire more peace in your relationships? Are you tired of feeling "stuck" in life, and unsure how to move forward? Are you ready to step toward a brighter future?
There is hope for your teenager.
Are you ready to break out of negative thought patterns and behaviors that have kept you tied to your past? Do you desire more peace in your relationships? Are you tired of feeling "stuck" in life, and unsure how to move forward? Are you ready to step toward a brighter future?
(870) 451-5554 View (870) 451-5554
Photo of Bambi Marie Parks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Bambi Marie Parks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP ™, RPT-S ™, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maumelle, AR 72113  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the weight of past traumas or relationships? Whether you're an adult, teen, or child grappling with these challenges, or if you or your family is undergoing significant changes or stressors know that you're not alone. Therapy offers a sanctuary—a safe haven where you can unpack your burdens, explore your emotions, and acquire invaluable coping mechanisms. It's a place where your story matters, and where you're truly seen and heard. I'm here to accompany you on your journey towards healing, offering guidance and support every step of the way.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the weight of past traumas or relationships? Whether you're an adult, teen, or child grappling with these challenges, or if you or your family is undergoing significant changes or stressors know that you're not alone. Therapy offers a sanctuary—a safe haven where you can unpack your burdens, explore your emotions, and acquire invaluable coping mechanisms. It's a place where your story matters, and where you're truly seen and heard. I'm here to accompany you on your journey towards healing, offering guidance and support every step of the way.
(501) 273-1631 View (501) 273-1631
Photo of Leah Payne in Arkansas
Leah Payne
LPE-I, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205  (Online Only)
Are you a stressed mama?! An anxious teen? Parent of an angry adolescent? A successful, independent woman struggling with relationships? Sometimes we become overwhelmed by life. Whether you are a parent, child, sibling, spouse, or partner, navigating stresses and relationships are an essential part of everyday life. Sometimes, we become so caught up in our own personal bubble that we need an outside perspective to help us see what is happening in order to gain clarity or bring about change within our lives.
Are you a stressed mama?! An anxious teen? Parent of an angry adolescent? A successful, independent woman struggling with relationships? Sometimes we become overwhelmed by life. Whether you are a parent, child, sibling, spouse, or partner, navigating stresses and relationships are an essential part of everyday life. Sometimes, we become so caught up in our own personal bubble that we need an outside perspective to help us see what is happening in order to gain clarity or bring about change within our lives.
(719) 966-7442 View (719) 966-7442
Photo of Joshua Garrett-Jones, Counselor in Arkansas
Joshua Garrett-Jones
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression? Do you have a history of trauma? Are you parenting a difficult adolescent? Are you experiencing familial conflict or relationship issues? Do you have difficulty connecting with others and the world? It is my goal to motivate and empower my clients to make changes that will lead to a more peaceful and productive life. I am devoted to providing a welcoming, non-judgmental environment to help adolescents, adults, couples, families, and the LGBTQ+ community develop the awareness and skills they need to navigate trauma, difficult emotions, relationships, and tough life situations.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression? Do you have a history of trauma? Are you parenting a difficult adolescent? Are you experiencing familial conflict or relationship issues? Do you have difficulty connecting with others and the world? It is my goal to motivate and empower my clients to make changes that will lead to a more peaceful and productive life. I am devoted to providing a welcoming, non-judgmental environment to help adolescents, adults, couples, families, and the LGBTQ+ community develop the awareness and skills they need to navigate trauma, difficult emotions, relationships, and tough life situations.
(501) 236-6853 View (501) 236-6853
Photo of Joylyn Bartlett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Joylyn Bartlett
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, AR 72401
With extensive experience working with individuals of all ages, I have a meaningful understanding of the unique challenges and developmental stages faced by adults, children, and adolescents. Whether you're an adult seeking personal growth, a parent navigating family dynamics, or a teenager facing the complexities of adolescence, I am committed to providing compassionate and effective therapeutic support. I have assisted people experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and many other life challenges. I love to advocate for people from a holistic approach to improve overall well-being.
With extensive experience working with individuals of all ages, I have a meaningful understanding of the unique challenges and developmental stages faced by adults, children, and adolescents. Whether you're an adult seeking personal growth, a parent navigating family dynamics, or a teenager facing the complexities of adolescence, I am committed to providing compassionate and effective therapeutic support. I have assisted people experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and many other life challenges. I love to advocate for people from a holistic approach to improve overall well-being.
(870) 539-9132 View (870) 539-9132
Photo of Christy Miller, Counselor in Arkansas
Christy Miller
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72756
Are you a parent/guardian struggling to help your child or adolescent? You may feel helpless and isolated if your child is experiencing behavioral or emotional difficulties. I can help you by working with your child from a developmentally appropriate approach. Each person has a unique journey, and no one should ever feel they must navigate it alone. Therefore, throughout this process, your child will experience a warm, safe, and accepting environment as we work collaboratively to help. I’ll also work to help you understand your child more and provide you with tools to feel more empowered.
Are you a parent/guardian struggling to help your child or adolescent? You may feel helpless and isolated if your child is experiencing behavioral or emotional difficulties. I can help you by working with your child from a developmentally appropriate approach. Each person has a unique journey, and no one should ever feel they must navigate it alone. Therefore, throughout this process, your child will experience a warm, safe, and accepting environment as we work collaboratively to help. I’ll also work to help you understand your child more and provide you with tools to feel more empowered.
(479) 265-5322 View (479) 265-5322
Photo of Wind River Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Wind River Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I am Linehan trained: DBT Skills, DBT Foundation Training, DBT Intensive Training, DBT-PE Advanced Trained(Prolong Exposure for trauma), DBT-SUD (Substance Use Disorder), DBT Adolescent and Family Training, DBT-ED Adult (Eating Disorder Level 2 Trained), DBT-ED Adolescent Level 2, DBT-PTSD for complex trauma, DBT High Conflict Couples Trained.
I am licensed in Arkansas LCSW 7331-C, Washington State LICSW-LW61228901, Georgia LCSW-CSW008640, Louisiana LCSW 17421. I require my clients to engage and follow DBT protocol. I have completed my Linehan DBT Certification. I love to treat individuals that want change and need support. If you are unsure you want DBT or you want to work hard to change your life, I am not the therapist for you. I take what I do very seriously and love it. I am currently undergoing certification for eating disorder specialist through IAEDP, ending Dec 2023.
I am Linehan trained: DBT Skills, DBT Foundation Training, DBT Intensive Training, DBT-PE Advanced Trained(Prolong Exposure for trauma), DBT-SUD (Substance Use Disorder), DBT Adolescent and Family Training, DBT-ED Adult (Eating Disorder Level 2 Trained), DBT-ED Adolescent Level 2, DBT-PTSD for complex trauma, DBT High Conflict Couples Trained.
I am licensed in Arkansas LCSW 7331-C, Washington State LICSW-LW61228901, Georgia LCSW-CSW008640, Louisiana LCSW 17421. I require my clients to engage and follow DBT protocol. I have completed my Linehan DBT Certification. I love to treat individuals that want change and need support. If you are unsure you want DBT or you want to work hard to change your life, I am not the therapist for you. I take what I do very seriously and love it. I am currently undergoing certification for eating disorder specialist through IAEDP, ending Dec 2023.
(501) 566-1632 View (501) 566-1632
Photo of Susan L Bryant, Psychologist in Arkansas
Susan L Bryant
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205
As a clinical psychologist in central Arkansas for over 20 years, my passion is providing evidence-based cognitive and behavioral therapies to promote real, lasting change. My desire is to help adults, teens, and children develop the skills needed to feel better and live happier lives. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar, trauma and stress disorders as well as ADHD and other child and adolescent behavior problems.
As a clinical psychologist in central Arkansas for over 20 years, my passion is providing evidence-based cognitive and behavioral therapies to promote real, lasting change. My desire is to help adults, teens, and children develop the skills needed to feel better and live happier lives. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar, trauma and stress disorders as well as ADHD and other child and adolescent behavior problems.
(501) 359-5746 View (501) 359-5746
Dr. Ron Pelz
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP, MBACert
Verified Verified
Conway, AR 72032
With 20 years in the field of psychology, Dr. Pelz is an adult, marital, child and adolescent-trained Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Dr. Pelz' specialties include ADHD, Parenting skills, along with coping strategies for anxiety and depression. He provides ADHD evaluations, as well as providing couples therapy. He holds a Masters' of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP). Dr. Pelz received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Behavioral Science and Law, Sociology, and Psychology from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He holds a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, and a Doctorate of Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago.
With 20 years in the field of psychology, Dr. Pelz is an adult, marital, child and adolescent-trained Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Dr. Pelz' specialties include ADHD, Parenting skills, along with coping strategies for anxiety and depression. He provides ADHD evaluations, as well as providing couples therapy. He holds a Masters' of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP). Dr. Pelz received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Behavioral Science and Law, Sociology, and Psychology from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He holds a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, and a Doctorate of Psychology from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago.
(501) 932-8558 View (501) 932-8558
Photo of Nicole Dill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Nicole Dill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Are you a child, teen, or adult with struggling anxiety and/or depression that is becoming debilitating? Are you ready to heal from trauma? You're in the right place! Nicole believes in a holistic view of health, which looks at the many complexities of a person-physical, mental, social, and spiritual. Nicole believes that a struggle in any of these areas affects the overall health and wellbeing of a person. Nicole strives to create a safe space within a strong therapeutic relationship to explore how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors impact mental health.
Are you a child, teen, or adult with struggling anxiety and/or depression that is becoming debilitating? Are you ready to heal from trauma? You're in the right place! Nicole believes in a holistic view of health, which looks at the many complexities of a person-physical, mental, social, and spiritual. Nicole believes that a struggle in any of these areas affects the overall health and wellbeing of a person. Nicole strives to create a safe space within a strong therapeutic relationship to explore how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors impact mental health.
Photo of Jack Arneze Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Jack Arneze Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72206  (Online Only)
I previously worked as a therapist with the Veterans Administration and agencies that serve child and adolescent populations.
I am the Lead Therapist and Director of Arkansas Holistic Therapy (AHT). AHT is a mental health counseling center that provides traditional psychotherapy services with ecological-based interventions to support overall health outcomes. I’m a LCSW trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) for children & adolescents, Trauma Conscious Yoga Method, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). AHT’s goal is to provide self-directed, therapeutic interventions to holistically improve psycho-social-emotional outcomes for our clients.
I previously worked as a therapist with the Veterans Administration and agencies that serve child and adolescent populations.
I am the Lead Therapist and Director of Arkansas Holistic Therapy (AHT). AHT is a mental health counseling center that provides traditional psychotherapy services with ecological-based interventions to support overall health outcomes. I’m a LCSW trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) for children & adolescents, Trauma Conscious Yoga Method, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). AHT’s goal is to provide self-directed, therapeutic interventions to holistically improve psycho-social-emotional outcomes for our clients.
(501) 382-7384 View (501) 382-7384
Photo of Patrick Tyler Luse, Counselor in Arkansas
Patrick Tyler Luse
Counselor, LAC, MA, ADHD -, CCSP
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71913
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about life's challenges? I believe that every individual, regardless of age, background, or situation, deserves support and healing. With compassion, I am dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, gain clarity, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you or your child/teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or any other personal struggle, I am here to help you navigate your journey towards personal growth and well-being. Don't face your transitions and milestones alone.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about life's challenges? I believe that every individual, regardless of age, background, or situation, deserves support and healing. With compassion, I am dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, gain clarity, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you or your child/teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or any other personal struggle, I am here to help you navigate your journey towards personal growth and well-being. Don't face your transitions and milestones alone.
(501) 386-4141 View (501) 386-4141
Photo of Deborah Braboy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Deborah Braboy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Smith, AR 72901
I completed my doctoral dissertation on adolescent grief.
My goal is that folks feel hope when they leave my office. I believe that individuals, couples, and families are at times lacking the tools to get back on track after they have been derailed by life. I believe healing starts within the therapeutic relationship and I look forward to connecting with clients! My job is to help them on their journey in working toward a healthy outlook and better connections in their relationships. I enjoy working with those who are dealing with grief & loss issues, relationship struggles, adolescents who are figuring out life, & adults who need someone who cares.
I completed my doctoral dissertation on adolescent grief.
My goal is that folks feel hope when they leave my office. I believe that individuals, couples, and families are at times lacking the tools to get back on track after they have been derailed by life. I believe healing starts within the therapeutic relationship and I look forward to connecting with clients! My job is to help them on their journey in working toward a healthy outlook and better connections in their relationships. I enjoy working with those who are dealing with grief & loss issues, relationship struggles, adolescents who are figuring out life, & adults who need someone who cares.
(479) 385-6098 View (479) 385-6098
Photo of Michael Aaron Thomason, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Michael Aaron Thomason
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72202
As an LPC, I have spent the past 13 years helping clients (child, adolescent, and adults) with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, problem family dynamics, crisis mental health assessment, and issues specific to the LBGT population.
Each day, we are witness to a social climate that surrounds us in fear and uncertainty. These negative effects are especially hard on those facing challenges with anxiety, depression, grief, job stress, trauma, or situational life crisis. If you are feeling overwhelmed in any of these areas, the first step to healing is asking for help. Support is there. It is my belief that we all have the inherent ability to foster change within us. It is my privilege to assist you with cultivating tools to use on a journey of emotional/ spiritual growth.
As an LPC, I have spent the past 13 years helping clients (child, adolescent, and adults) with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, problem family dynamics, crisis mental health assessment, and issues specific to the LBGT population.
Each day, we are witness to a social climate that surrounds us in fear and uncertainty. These negative effects are especially hard on those facing challenges with anxiety, depression, grief, job stress, trauma, or situational life crisis. If you are feeling overwhelmed in any of these areas, the first step to healing is asking for help. Support is there. It is my belief that we all have the inherent ability to foster change within us. It is my privilege to assist you with cultivating tools to use on a journey of emotional/ spiritual growth.
(501) 602-7023 View (501) 602-7023
Photo of Pamela R Ramsfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Pamela R Ramsfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
Do you, a child, or adolescent that you know start your day already stressed wondering what the day will bring or wishing things could be better. I've been there, many people have been there: struggling or attempting to cope and adjust to various of life’s stressors: trauma, loss and grief, anxiety, depression, or behavioral problems. The exciting part is that you, the child, and adolescent that you know all have the tools and wisdom within to make the shift toward a better tomorrow. People sometimes need assistance, support, guidance, and a bit more strength and courage to tap into this inner wisdom
Do you, a child, or adolescent that you know start your day already stressed wondering what the day will bring or wishing things could be better. I've been there, many people have been there: struggling or attempting to cope and adjust to various of life’s stressors: trauma, loss and grief, anxiety, depression, or behavioral problems. The exciting part is that you, the child, and adolescent that you know all have the tools and wisdom within to make the shift toward a better tomorrow. People sometimes need assistance, support, guidance, and a bit more strength and courage to tap into this inner wisdom
(479) 446-6567 View (479) 446-6567
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.