Therapists for Teens in Costa Mesa, CA

Photo of OC Teen Center- Adolescent and Teen Mental Health, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
OC Teen Center- Adolescent and Teen Mental Health
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
OC Teen Center has a great track record of dealing with these specific issues.
Dr. Lauren Armstrong is a highly passionate licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director with a PsyD from Pepperdine University, and has been working with children and adolescents for the past ten years. She is an expert in working with challenging psychological presentations such as trauma, self harm, mood changes, aggression, and other unsafe or maladaptive coping mechanisms. Dr. Lauren always believes in her patients, even when everyone else has stopped believing in them. She never loses hope, and tirelessly works with patients and their families on improving their relationships, coping skills, and positive change.
OC Teen Center has a great track record of dealing with these specific issues.
Dr. Lauren Armstrong is a highly passionate licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director with a PsyD from Pepperdine University, and has been working with children and adolescents for the past ten years. She is an expert in working with challenging psychological presentations such as trauma, self harm, mood changes, aggression, and other unsafe or maladaptive coping mechanisms. Dr. Lauren always believes in her patients, even when everyone else has stopped believing in them. She never loses hope, and tirelessly works with patients and their families on improving their relationships, coping skills, and positive change.
(714) 646-1580 View (714) 646-1580
Photo of Sessions Family Therapy, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Sessions Family Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, Adam S, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
It can be so discouraging to feel that you have put everything you have into a relationship and still find yourself unhappy on a daily basis. No matter how many different ways you have tried to approach your loved one, there seems to be no improvement. You have heard the full array of promises, excuses and arguments, and begin to believe it is all your fault at the end of the day. Perhaps you have made attempts to get your spouse into couples therapy, or agonized over whether to make your teen to go to therapy or not. Despite your best efforts, the situation continues to deteriorate, and your wellbeing along with it.
It can be so discouraging to feel that you have put everything you have into a relationship and still find yourself unhappy on a daily basis. No matter how many different ways you have tried to approach your loved one, there seems to be no improvement. You have heard the full array of promises, excuses and arguments, and begin to believe it is all your fault at the end of the day. Perhaps you have made attempts to get your spouse into couples therapy, or agonized over whether to make your teen to go to therapy or not. Despite your best efforts, the situation continues to deteriorate, and your wellbeing along with it.
(949) 347-5548 View (949) 347-5548
Photo of Parent with PRIDE, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Parent with PRIDE
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Effective September 2023 for new patients: Openings available for morning and afternoons only. Our mission is to help individuals through the teen years and on through adulthood, as they journey through life’s growing pressures and demands. Parent with PRIDE takes an individualized, whole person approach to identify the right plan to address the challenges that you identify. With the right tools, teens and adults can begin to alleviate some of their stress, enhance their quality of life, and improve their relationships.
Effective September 2023 for new patients: Openings available for morning and afternoons only. Our mission is to help individuals through the teen years and on through adulthood, as they journey through life’s growing pressures and demands. Parent with PRIDE takes an individualized, whole person approach to identify the right plan to address the challenges that you identify. With the right tools, teens and adults can begin to alleviate some of their stress, enhance their quality of life, and improve their relationships.
(949) 347-5988 View (949) 347-5988
Photo of Claire Sfregola, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Claire Sfregola
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
When deciding if your child or adolescent could benefit from therapy services, it can be a stressful experience fueled by uncertainty. Whether your child is struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, managing emotions/behavior, social skills, or issues at school, the goal of therapy is to identify the underlying cause and help the child develop the skills and tools necessary to better manage life's challenges. While addressing an individual child's specific challenges, it is also important to engage parents and other family members to identify how to best support long term positive change within the family unit.
When deciding if your child or adolescent could benefit from therapy services, it can be a stressful experience fueled by uncertainty. Whether your child is struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, managing emotions/behavior, social skills, or issues at school, the goal of therapy is to identify the underlying cause and help the child develop the skills and tools necessary to better manage life's challenges. While addressing an individual child's specific challenges, it is also important to engage parents and other family members to identify how to best support long term positive change within the family unit.
(657) 214-4653 View (657) 214-4653
Photo of Lily Tsutsumida, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Lily Tsutsumida
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Some of my focal areas are self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship health, unfulfilling behavior patterns, grief, teen issues, young adult issues, early and long-term recovery from substance use, relationship with body and food, and identity exploration.
Are you looking for a therapist who feels like a real person? Getting to the point where you are looking to sort out personal challenges can be very painful - I'm here to help you. Therapy is your time to talk through feelings, evaluate what's working and what isn't, and make choices about how to move forward. As your therapist, I listen and reflect back feelings and insights you share. I help you find connections and meaning in your experiences, and I ask questions to support a new perspective on your situation. I believe in embracing who you are and finding solutions that honor your specific mind, personality and values.
Some of my focal areas are self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship health, unfulfilling behavior patterns, grief, teen issues, young adult issues, early and long-term recovery from substance use, relationship with body and food, and identity exploration.
Are you looking for a therapist who feels like a real person? Getting to the point where you are looking to sort out personal challenges can be very painful - I'm here to help you. Therapy is your time to talk through feelings, evaluate what's working and what isn't, and make choices about how to move forward. As your therapist, I listen and reflect back feelings and insights you share. I help you find connections and meaning in your experiences, and I ask questions to support a new perspective on your situation. I believe in embracing who you are and finding solutions that honor your specific mind, personality and values.
(949) 353-6782 View (949) 353-6782
Photo of Chelsea Reeves, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Chelsea Reeves
Marriage & Family Therapist, LADC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Chelsea Reeves grew up in East Texas where her passion for connecting and helping others was first ignited. Chelsea moved to Newport Beach, CA when she was only 19 to begin her own journey of recovery. This experience inspired her to begin working in the mental health field, and for the last decade Chelsea has held positions at a variety of adult and adolescent treatment programs. . During her free time, Chelsea enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, attending concerts, and traveling the US in her custom-build skoolie.
Chelsea Reeves grew up in East Texas where her passion for connecting and helping others was first ignited. Chelsea moved to Newport Beach, CA when she was only 19 to begin her own journey of recovery. This experience inspired her to begin working in the mental health field, and for the last decade Chelsea has held positions at a variety of adult and adolescent treatment programs. . During her free time, Chelsea enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, attending concerts, and traveling the US in her custom-build skoolie.
(512) 764-9842 View (512) 764-9842
Photo of Lisa Enneis, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Lisa Enneis, MA, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I have over thirty years of experience working with couples, families, children and teens. If you need help with your special needs child or troubled teen, I'd be happy to talk to you to determine if an evaluation or assessment would benefit you or your family member. I'd love to tell you about the tools I have in my tool chest (neurofeedback, EFT, EMDR.) that could help all your relationships improve, as well as the quality of your relationship with your child. I have the expertise you need; let me collaborate with you to solve your problems.
I have over thirty years of experience working with couples, families, children and teens. If you need help with your special needs child or troubled teen, I'd be happy to talk to you to determine if an evaluation or assessment would benefit you or your family member. I'd love to tell you about the tools I have in my tool chest (neurofeedback, EFT, EMDR.) that could help all your relationships improve, as well as the quality of your relationship with your child. I have the expertise you need; let me collaborate with you to solve your problems.
(714) 489-5935 View (714) 489-5935
Photo of Melody Foxx, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
Melody Foxx
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Teen Support Groups are unique, because unlike other groups that labels groups "Anger Management", "Self-Esteem", etc.
I'd like to help... Your Relationship Within Yourself and With Others. I believe your mind and body work together; that you can create your own happiness by how you choose to respond to your feelings, and act towards yourselves and the world around you. If you are ready for change in your life, or would like to explore new ways of thinking and living your life, my Cognitive-Behavioral, Solution Focused, and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy approaches may help. My goals for you are to receive new insight/tools that you can use to help create a better, happier life.
Teen Support Groups are unique, because unlike other groups that labels groups "Anger Management", "Self-Esteem", etc.
I'd like to help... Your Relationship Within Yourself and With Others. I believe your mind and body work together; that you can create your own happiness by how you choose to respond to your feelings, and act towards yourselves and the world around you. If you are ready for change in your life, or would like to explore new ways of thinking and living your life, my Cognitive-Behavioral, Solution Focused, and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy approaches may help. My goals for you are to receive new insight/tools that you can use to help create a better, happier life.
(949) 829-2960 View (949) 829-2960
Photo of Kelly Barclay, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
Kelly Barclay
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Are you ready to make changes in your life and relationships? Are you a teenager who is struggling with distressing feelings,or an adult feeling challenged by the demands of parenting or your desire to improve your significant relationships? Whether you are ready for the next big step in your life or feeling completely stuck, I will help you discover the path that is right for you. I have 26 years of experience collaborating with clients to achieve relief from distressing symptoms, improve and rebuild damaged relationships, achieve personal goals, and create a calmer, more peaceful and fulfilling life.
Are you ready to make changes in your life and relationships? Are you a teenager who is struggling with distressing feelings,or an adult feeling challenged by the demands of parenting or your desire to improve your significant relationships? Whether you are ready for the next big step in your life or feeling completely stuck, I will help you discover the path that is right for you. I have 26 years of experience collaborating with clients to achieve relief from distressing symptoms, improve and rebuild damaged relationships, achieve personal goals, and create a calmer, more peaceful and fulfilling life.
(714) 582-5113 View (714) 582-5113
Photo of Sahar Sara Teimoori, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Sahar Sara Teimoori
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
The ideal client is someone who comes to therapy with a willingness to work on his/her issues. I am experienced in child, adolescent, family and individual. It is possible that you've been to therapists and counselors in the past, and you've been disappointed by the lack of concern and care. It is my firm belief that no one deserves to endure the pain of psychological affliction, especially when real help is available. I do everything within my means to ensure my clients' success, and if you happen to be struggling, I want to extend the same help to you.
The ideal client is someone who comes to therapy with a willingness to work on his/her issues. I am experienced in child, adolescent, family and individual. It is possible that you've been to therapists and counselors in the past, and you've been disappointed by the lack of concern and care. It is my firm belief that no one deserves to endure the pain of psychological affliction, especially when real help is available. I do everything within my means to ensure my clients' success, and if you happen to be struggling, I want to extend the same help to you.
(949) 485-4198 View (949) 485-4198
Photo of The Weichman Clinic, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
The Weichman Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
(949) 537-2393 View (949) 537-2393
Photo of Jennifer Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Jennifer Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Hello and welcome to my profile! I'm here to help! I would imagine you're here because you are struggling with one or more issues in your life right now. It may be that you've been stuck in the gripping bonds of anxiety for quite some time and everything you've tried is not helping. It may be that you're tired of feeling numb and constantly on autopilot where the days just seem to blend together without joy or happiness. Or you may have an adolescent that is having a hard time coping with the stress our teens experience with the pressure to get good grades, fit in, and excel in sports. If this sounds familiar, I can help.
Hello and welcome to my profile! I'm here to help! I would imagine you're here because you are struggling with one or more issues in your life right now. It may be that you've been stuck in the gripping bonds of anxiety for quite some time and everything you've tried is not helping. It may be that you're tired of feeling numb and constantly on autopilot where the days just seem to blend together without joy or happiness. Or you may have an adolescent that is having a hard time coping with the stress our teens experience with the pressure to get good grades, fit in, and excel in sports. If this sounds familiar, I can help.
(949) 397-2611 View (949) 397-2611
Photo of Sari J Mendelsohn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Sari J Mendelsohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I love working with children and adolescents. Before I get a history from you, I like to meet with your teenager to let them feel like they have a choice in picking their therapist. This gives them a sense of control and they are then more committed to the therapy. I will integrate the family as necessary. I have extensive success with children of divorce, those experiencing anxiety, depression, low self esteem and difficulty managing anger. I also connect well with adults and young adults dealing with life transitions.
I love working with children and adolescents. Before I get a history from you, I like to meet with your teenager to let them feel like they have a choice in picking their therapist. This gives them a sense of control and they are then more committed to the therapy. I will integrate the family as necessary. I have extensive success with children of divorce, those experiencing anxiety, depression, low self esteem and difficulty managing anger. I also connect well with adults and young adults dealing with life transitions.
(949) 334-7974 View (949) 334-7974
Photo of Gina L Sickels, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Gina L Sickels
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Working in residential treatment for 14 years and private practice for 7 years, I have experience in working with abuse, neglect, dual diagnosis, family issues, adolescent and young adults issues, addiction, depression, anxiety and behavioral problems.
If you can change your thoughts, you can change your world! I believe learning how to challenge negative thoughts can greatly impact your mood and subsequent behaviors. I am passionate about helping others live the life they deserve! Unfortunately, past traumas, experiences and life circumstances change our perception and view of the world. Fear, depression, anxiety and mistrust can interfere with our ability to pursue dreams, aspirations and healthy relationships. I provide an environment where you can feel safe, encouraged and validated. Together we can develop appropriate therapeutic goals to help you move at your pace toward healing and change.
Working in residential treatment for 14 years and private practice for 7 years, I have experience in working with abuse, neglect, dual diagnosis, family issues, adolescent and young adults issues, addiction, depression, anxiety and behavioral problems.
If you can change your thoughts, you can change your world! I believe learning how to challenge negative thoughts can greatly impact your mood and subsequent behaviors. I am passionate about helping others live the life they deserve! Unfortunately, past traumas, experiences and life circumstances change our perception and view of the world. Fear, depression, anxiety and mistrust can interfere with our ability to pursue dreams, aspirations and healthy relationships. I provide an environment where you can feel safe, encouraged and validated. Together we can develop appropriate therapeutic goals to help you move at your pace toward healing and change.
(714) 804-0598 View (714) 804-0598
Photo of Andrea D. Schoon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Andrea D. Schoon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: *COUPLES COUNSELING *ANXIETY *DEPRESSION *CHILD AND ADOLESCENT ISSUES *SUBSTANCE ABUSE *LOSS/GRIEF *RELATIONSHIP ISSUES *ADJUSTMENT ISSUES *ANGER MANAGEMENT *DIVORCE **I.
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: *COUPLES COUNSELING *ANXIETY *DEPRESSION *CHILD AND ADOLESCENT ISSUES *SUBSTANCE ABUSE *LOSS/GRIEF *RELATIONSHIP ISSUES *ADJUSTMENT ISSUES *ANGER MANAGEMENT *DIVORCE **I.
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
(714) 804-0590 View (714) 804-0590
Photo of David Kyle Bond, Psychologist in Costa Mesa, CA
David Kyle Bond
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
No matter what you're feeling or thinking or going through, I'd welcome the chance to work through it by your side--whether you're a teen or an adult, we can start figuring it out, together. If you're reading this, you might be ready to jump right in or you might be taking that first tentative step towards finding someone to talk to; either way, you've already actively moved forward (though I know it sometimes doesn't feel that way). If you're struggling with your feelings, your thoughts, or a difficult situation, I hope that you'll reach out; nobody is meant to handle everything on their own, and you absolutely don't have to.
No matter what you're feeling or thinking or going through, I'd welcome the chance to work through it by your side--whether you're a teen or an adult, we can start figuring it out, together. If you're reading this, you might be ready to jump right in or you might be taking that first tentative step towards finding someone to talk to; either way, you've already actively moved forward (though I know it sometimes doesn't feel that way). If you're struggling with your feelings, your thoughts, or a difficult situation, I hope that you'll reach out; nobody is meant to handle everything on their own, and you absolutely don't have to.
(949) 373-4387 View (949) 373-4387
Photo of Olivia Rose Powanda, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Olivia Rose Powanda
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Your thoughts and feelings are valid, but they do not define you! We are often our biggest critics, which can unfairly create roadblocks in our journey. I am passionate about helping clients harness their potential so they can live a fulfilling life. Whether you are a teen struggling with social life, a couple suffering from lack of connection or intimacy, an individual who wants to connect with their authentic self, parents, etc., I am here to help you navigate through the life you wanna change, improve or create.
Your thoughts and feelings are valid, but they do not define you! We are often our biggest critics, which can unfairly create roadblocks in our journey. I am passionate about helping clients harness their potential so they can live a fulfilling life. Whether you are a teen struggling with social life, a couple suffering from lack of connection or intimacy, an individual who wants to connect with their authentic self, parents, etc., I am here to help you navigate through the life you wanna change, improve or create.
(714) 475-7399 View (714) 475-7399
Photo of Jeannie Elbing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Jeannie Elbing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Parents- I can help your teen work through difficulties with anxiety, depression, and the big life transitions that come with adolescence.
I specialize in therapy for adolescents and young adults who are experiencing anxiety and depression. I use evidence-based treatments to help you or your loved one manage symptoms. I help my younger clients work through the many trials and adjustments that come with growing up, and I work with young adults who are experiencing periods of transition and who often describe themselves as stressed out and overwhelmed. Whether you are seeking support for yourself I’m here to help you through these difficult times and empower you with therapeutic tools that will last you a lifetime.
Parents- I can help your teen work through difficulties with anxiety, depression, and the big life transitions that come with adolescence.
I specialize in therapy for adolescents and young adults who are experiencing anxiety and depression. I use evidence-based treatments to help you or your loved one manage symptoms. I help my younger clients work through the many trials and adjustments that come with growing up, and I work with young adults who are experiencing periods of transition and who often describe themselves as stressed out and overwhelmed. Whether you are seeking support for yourself I’m here to help you through these difficult times and empower you with therapeutic tools that will last you a lifetime.
(949) 647-4328 View (949) 647-4328
Photo of Kecia Van Mechelen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Kecia Van Mechelen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I offer individual psychotherapy services, including EMDR for people of all ages: teens, young adults, men and women as well as couples and pre-martial counseling. My clients often feel stuck and are typically struggling with life changes, relationship difficulties, personal growth, adolescent challenges, are transitioning into adulthood, or want to enhance and lead a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I view my role, as a therapist as one who walks beside you on your journey, offering a safe place to talk about your worries and as a guide who nudges you in the direction of the life that you are destined to lead.
I offer individual psychotherapy services, including EMDR for people of all ages: teens, young adults, men and women as well as couples and pre-martial counseling. My clients often feel stuck and are typically struggling with life changes, relationship difficulties, personal growth, adolescent challenges, are transitioning into adulthood, or want to enhance and lead a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I view my role, as a therapist as one who walks beside you on your journey, offering a safe place to talk about your worries and as a guide who nudges you in the direction of the life that you are destined to lead.
(714) 266-3313 View (714) 266-3313
Photo of Jane Fahys, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Costa Mesa, CA
Jane Fahys
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Many of us want to feel more productive, self-confident, and successful. This can be difficult when we are regularly sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or simply too stressed-out to function well. When we feel stuck, working with a therapist can be a great choice. Teaming up with an attentive therapist you will likely feel less alone, and problems may begin to feel more manageable. You might be surprised that when you and your therapist examine difficulties from new angles, you or your pre/teen will grow and change in ways you never expected.
Many of us want to feel more productive, self-confident, and successful. This can be difficult when we are regularly sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or simply too stressed-out to function well. When we feel stuck, working with a therapist can be a great choice. Teaming up with an attentive therapist you will likely feel less alone, and problems may begin to feel more manageable. You might be surprised that when you and your therapist examine difficulties from new angles, you or your pre/teen will grow and change in ways you never expected.
(949) 506-3922 View (949) 506-3922
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.