Therapists for Teens in Valencia, CA

Photo of Julie Laws, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valencia, CA
Julie Laws
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
I have 17 years experience working with depression, teen issues, family issues, substance abuse and self esteem.
NOMINATED, SOCIAL WORKER OF THE YEAR 2013, BY THE PROFESSIONAL SOCIAL WORKER'S ASSOCIATION, LOS ANGELES COUNTY DEPT. OF MENTAL HEALTH. I have extensive experience related to all adolescent issues along with family therapy. I have a strong background in dealing with substance abuse issues. I provide effective strategies to cope with any mood related problems. I had additional training at USC focusing on school related problems. I have experience in working with individuals who have experienced some form of trauma.
I have 17 years experience working with depression, teen issues, family issues, substance abuse and self esteem.
NOMINATED, SOCIAL WORKER OF THE YEAR 2013, BY THE PROFESSIONAL SOCIAL WORKER'S ASSOCIATION, LOS ANGELES COUNTY DEPT. OF MENTAL HEALTH. I have extensive experience related to all adolescent issues along with family therapy. I have a strong background in dealing with substance abuse issues. I provide effective strategies to cope with any mood related problems. I had additional training at USC focusing on school related problems. I have experience in working with individuals who have experienced some form of trauma.
(661) 263-4802 View (661) 263-4802
Photo of Heather DeAngelis Hambleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valencia, CA
Heather DeAngelis Hambleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LCSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
ADHD can make you stuck. It can make you feel like you're walking through life in 3 feet of water. Every. Single. Day. Maybe you're a professional working in an environment that makes deadlines and productivity feel unreachable because it was designed for a different brain than yours. Or you're the parent of a struggling teen, often wondering to yourself what you can do to make them feel better. Or perhaps you're a college student, trying to balance the academic and social demands around you. Regardless, you live in a constant state of overwhelm. It’s enough to make you want to scream. Or cry. I'm here to help...
ADHD can make you stuck. It can make you feel like you're walking through life in 3 feet of water. Every. Single. Day. Maybe you're a professional working in an environment that makes deadlines and productivity feel unreachable because it was designed for a different brain than yours. Or you're the parent of a struggling teen, often wondering to yourself what you can do to make them feel better. Or perhaps you're a college student, trying to balance the academic and social demands around you. Regardless, you live in a constant state of overwhelm. It’s enough to make you want to scream. Or cry. I'm here to help...
(661) 464-0689 View (661) 464-0689
Photo of Valencia Relationship Institute, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valencia, CA
Valencia Relationship Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Is your child, adolescent or teenager depressed or acting out in ways that have you concerned? Are you worried about your child or teenager's behavior and emotional well being following a divorce? Are you a first responder family seeking culturally competent clinicians? Are you a person in the midst of life transitions and need some help moving forward? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, there is help. Valencia Relationship Institute (VRI) should be your first call for help. We have 17 therapists with specializations in all of these areas. Call right now and speak to our Client Care Coordinator. See you soon!
Is your child, adolescent or teenager depressed or acting out in ways that have you concerned? Are you worried about your child or teenager's behavior and emotional well being following a divorce? Are you a first responder family seeking culturally competent clinicians? Are you a person in the midst of life transitions and need some help moving forward? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, there is help. Valencia Relationship Institute (VRI) should be your first call for help. We have 17 therapists with specializations in all of these areas. Call right now and speak to our Client Care Coordinator. See you soon!
(661) 426-8124 x205 View (661) 426-8124 x205
Photo of Suzanne Holmes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Valencia, CA
Suzanne Holmes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
I currently work with individuals, couples, teens and families with issues including: Depression, Anxiety, Stress Adjustment problems, Grief and Loss, Couples issues, Substance use, Adolescent issues and Parent-Child Relationships I also have experience facilitating groups including: parenting skill building, youth creative expression, addiction support in recovery, and anger management.
Are you struggling with your emotions or relationships? I am here to help you find strength, resiliency, hope and solutions. I feel the goal of therapy is cultivating the self-confidence and compassion that is needed to help cope with all the uncertainties and difficulties in life. Can we be curious instead of judgmental as daily moments occur? The therapeutic alliance between client and therapist strengthens the integration of body, mind, and spirit, leading not only to a focus on personal healing, but on achieving greater well-being, peace, and passion for life.
I currently work with individuals, couples, teens and families with issues including: Depression, Anxiety, Stress Adjustment problems, Grief and Loss, Couples issues, Substance use, Adolescent issues and Parent-Child Relationships I also have experience facilitating groups including: parenting skill building, youth creative expression, addiction support in recovery, and anger management.
Are you struggling with your emotions or relationships? I am here to help you find strength, resiliency, hope and solutions. I feel the goal of therapy is cultivating the self-confidence and compassion that is needed to help cope with all the uncertainties and difficulties in life. Can we be curious instead of judgmental as daily moments occur? The therapeutic alliance between client and therapist strengthens the integration of body, mind, and spirit, leading not only to a focus on personal healing, but on achieving greater well-being, peace, and passion for life.
(818) 293-0243 View (818) 293-0243
Photo of Peggy Harden-Haig Marriage Family Therapist Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Valencia, CA
Peggy Harden-Haig Marriage Family Therapist Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91381
I also feel that it is often helpful to work with more then just the teen or the child in therapy and include the parents in the session as well.
I believe in offering my patients a confidental non judgemental approach to psychotherapy in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. I can help you with your couples or family problems, your teen and children issues. I also deal with blended family difficulties with my background from an inpatient hospital experience, I am here to offer my specialities in Panic Disorder, Post Trumatic stress disorder, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and Depression. When dealing with the disorders listed above I believe in taking an investigated approach of the source of the problem as well as teaching relaxation and positive thinking to help the patient gain control.
I also feel that it is often helpful to work with more then just the teen or the child in therapy and include the parents in the session as well.
I believe in offering my patients a confidental non judgemental approach to psychotherapy in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. I can help you with your couples or family problems, your teen and children issues. I also deal with blended family difficulties with my background from an inpatient hospital experience, I am here to offer my specialities in Panic Disorder, Post Trumatic stress disorder, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and Depression. When dealing with the disorders listed above I believe in taking an investigated approach of the source of the problem as well as teaching relaxation and positive thinking to help the patient gain control.
(661) 903-8669 View (661) 903-8669
Photo of Janet Miller Stier, Psychologist in Valencia, CA
Janet Miller Stier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
As a psychologist with a doctorate in clinical psychology, master's degree in developmental psychology, and certificate in marital and family therapy, I value treating the family as a whole. While I enjoy developing meaningful therapeutic relationships with individuals of all ages, I have an expertise in treating issues of early childhood through the teen years. The earlier we address developmental, emotional, or behavioral concerns, the better the likelihood for positive lifetime outcomes. Young people can quickly grow and adapt, and enjoy coming to talk and play in my office. I appreciate the time with my adult clients, as well.
As a psychologist with a doctorate in clinical psychology, master's degree in developmental psychology, and certificate in marital and family therapy, I value treating the family as a whole. While I enjoy developing meaningful therapeutic relationships with individuals of all ages, I have an expertise in treating issues of early childhood through the teen years. The earlier we address developmental, emotional, or behavioral concerns, the better the likelihood for positive lifetime outcomes. Young people can quickly grow and adapt, and enjoy coming to talk and play in my office. I appreciate the time with my adult clients, as well.
(661) 418-5376 View (661) 418-5376
Photo of Brian Wohlmuth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Valencia, CA
Brian Wohlmuth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
As a Marriage and Family Therapist in both a special education setting, and privately owned practice, I have accumulated over 25 years of understanding. Whether the therapeutic intervention involves an adult, child, adolescent, family, or couple, I believe that every participant should be afforded an opportunity to experience a secure and trusting alliance. This means that each client is unconditionally accepted with the belief that he or she has the capacity to achieve those goals which will contribute to an elevated sense of well being.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist in both a special education setting, and privately owned practice, I have accumulated over 25 years of understanding. Whether the therapeutic intervention involves an adult, child, adolescent, family, or couple, I believe that every participant should be afforded an opportunity to experience a secure and trusting alliance. This means that each client is unconditionally accepted with the belief that he or she has the capacity to achieve those goals which will contribute to an elevated sense of well being.
(818) 924-2427 View (818) 924-2427
Photo of Analin A Flores, Marriage & Family Therapist in Valencia, CA
Analin A Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
We provide culturally sensitive individual, couples, and child/teen counseling services that integrate culture, faith, and effective psychotherapy treatments to meet our clients’ unique situations.
Do you struggle with anxiety or depression that interferes with you having a satisfying life? Do you feel like you're constantly trying to catch up with your daily demands or that you are failing in your roles as a wife, mother, or in your career? Do you long for reaching a place of happiness and peace as you enjoy your accomplishments with your children and spouse? Now more than ever women are feeling challenged and tired by the demands of work, parenting, marriage, experiencing a loss or a big change in their lives, difficult relationships, or pain from past traumatic experiences.
We provide culturally sensitive individual, couples, and child/teen counseling services that integrate culture, faith, and effective psychotherapy treatments to meet our clients’ unique situations.
Do you struggle with anxiety or depression that interferes with you having a satisfying life? Do you feel like you're constantly trying to catch up with your daily demands or that you are failing in your roles as a wife, mother, or in your career? Do you long for reaching a place of happiness and peace as you enjoy your accomplishments with your children and spouse? Now more than ever women are feeling challenged and tired by the demands of work, parenting, marriage, experiencing a loss or a big change in their lives, difficult relationships, or pain from past traumatic experiences.
(805) 719-7240 View (805) 719-7240
Photo of Hope Therapy Center ~ Bringing Hope and Healing, Marriage & Family Therapist in Valencia, CA
Hope Therapy Center ~ Bringing Hope and Healing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Life experiences, transitions, and relationships provide an opportunity to be challenged and to grow. Are you tired of feeling stressed, worried, moody or depressed? Maybe you are feeling stuck or frustrated in your current circumstances or having a hard time communicating with others in your life. Is your teen acting out or engaging in problematic behaviors? These obstacles can get in the way of enjoying life. Making the decision to enter therapy requires courage. We bring hope, a belief in your strengths, and confidence that you can create positive change in your life.
Life experiences, transitions, and relationships provide an opportunity to be challenged and to grow. Are you tired of feeling stressed, worried, moody or depressed? Maybe you are feeling stuck or frustrated in your current circumstances or having a hard time communicating with others in your life. Is your teen acting out or engaging in problematic behaviors? These obstacles can get in the way of enjoying life. Making the decision to enter therapy requires courage. We bring hope, a belief in your strengths, and confidence that you can create positive change in your life.
(310) 494-7036 View (310) 494-7036
Photo of Annie Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Valencia, CA
Annie Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91381
My areas of specialty include depression, trauma, anxiety, women's issues, teen and young adult issues, LGBT community, helping families through the transitions of divorce.
It is my desire to provide a place of compassion and safety for individual adults, couples, children, and adolescents as they explore themselves and challenges in their life. Whether you are experiencing a loss, struggling with depression or anxiety, or facing changes in your family life or career, I will join with you to help you meet the goals you have to improve your life and relationships.
My areas of specialty include depression, trauma, anxiety, women's issues, teen and young adult issues, LGBT community, helping families through the transitions of divorce.
It is my desire to provide a place of compassion and safety for individual adults, couples, children, and adolescents as they explore themselves and challenges in their life. Whether you are experiencing a loss, struggling with depression or anxiety, or facing changes in your family life or career, I will join with you to help you meet the goals you have to improve your life and relationships.
(626) 389-2982 View (626) 389-2982
Photo of Mia Mik Hargrove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valencia, CA
Mia Mik Hargrove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91354
TEENS: parent of a TEEN that is struggling with-isolating, sadness, motivation, anger, school problems or a TEEN that wants help.
Feel overwhelmed, sad, worried, angry, lonely, or confused? Do you feel disconnected or unsupported from your intimate relationships? Or are you contemplating a major life change yet feel unsure or fearful of the changes to come? Are you a WOMEN, YOUNG ADULT or TEEN struggling with these feelings? You are not alone. Good news is a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship can lead to personal discoveries, personal growth and profound healing. I will listen attentively, provide compassionate support and together we can identify your strengths and build upon them to develop strategies to live a more meaningful life.
TEENS: parent of a TEEN that is struggling with-isolating, sadness, motivation, anger, school problems or a TEEN that wants help.
Feel overwhelmed, sad, worried, angry, lonely, or confused? Do you feel disconnected or unsupported from your intimate relationships? Or are you contemplating a major life change yet feel unsure or fearful of the changes to come? Are you a WOMEN, YOUNG ADULT or TEEN struggling with these feelings? You are not alone. Good news is a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship can lead to personal discoveries, personal growth and profound healing. I will listen attentively, provide compassionate support and together we can identify your strengths and build upon them to develop strategies to live a more meaningful life.
(562) 444-1646 View (562) 444-1646
Photo of Christina Trujillo Sieren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valencia, CA
Christina Trujillo Sieren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91354
Imagine having the support to know when to step-in, when to take a step back, when to listen, and how to communicate so that your teen really hears you.
Parenting your teen has nearly destroyed you. Their anger, depression, and self-destruction has devastated your entire family. Most days, you're barely hanging on by a thread. Your instinct is to protect, yet nothing you do seems to help. You feel alone and helpless. You're obsessing, hovering, and constantly questioning their state of mind. "What does she have to be depressed about?" "I don't understand; he has everything he needs." "Why would they do that?" You're expected to remain strong and contain your worst fears as you watch them unravel in self-defeat.
Imagine having the support to know when to step-in, when to take a step back, when to listen, and how to communicate so that your teen really hears you.
Parenting your teen has nearly destroyed you. Their anger, depression, and self-destruction has devastated your entire family. Most days, you're barely hanging on by a thread. Your instinct is to protect, yet nothing you do seems to help. You feel alone and helpless. You're obsessing, hovering, and constantly questioning their state of mind. "What does she have to be depressed about?" "I don't understand; he has everything he needs." "Why would they do that?" You're expected to remain strong and contain your worst fears as you watch them unravel in self-defeat.
(661) 622-2627 View (661) 622-2627
Photo of Stephen Haig LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Valencia, CA
Stephen Haig LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91381  (Online Only)
I provide for you a safe, caring, and supportive environment whether working with an individual, couple or family. Your therapy will be non-judgmental and compassionate which will help you to establish the trust that is necessary to explore the painful experiences of your life.
I provide for you a safe, caring, and supportive environment whether working with an individual, couple or family. Your therapy will be non-judgmental and compassionate which will help you to establish the trust that is necessary to explore the painful experiences of your life.
(661) 877-6025 View (661) 877-6025
Photo of Chelsea Reid, Marriage & Family Therapist in Valencia, CA
Chelsea Reid
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you feeling weighed down by past negative experiences, unable to fully embrace the present? Life's journey can be complex, and sometimes the weight of the past can hinder our ability to move forward. Whether you're struggling with the aftermath of a specific stressful event or navigating the complexities of ongoing emotional distress, therapy can be a powerful tool for transformation. By confronting and processing your negative experiences in a safe and supportive environment, you can break free from the grip of the past and embrace a brighter future.
Are you feeling weighed down by past negative experiences, unable to fully embrace the present? Life's journey can be complex, and sometimes the weight of the past can hinder our ability to move forward. Whether you're struggling with the aftermath of a specific stressful event or navigating the complexities of ongoing emotional distress, therapy can be a powerful tool for transformation. By confronting and processing your negative experiences in a safe and supportive environment, you can break free from the grip of the past and embrace a brighter future.
(661) 200-0453 View (661) 200-0453
Photo of Stefanie Lucia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Valencia, CA
Stefanie Lucia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
(707) 708-4461 View (707) 708-4461
Photo of Maureen Donohue, LCSW Therapy & Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Valencia, CA
Maureen Donohue, LCSW Therapy & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m glad that you are here and hope we meet one day soon. My purpose is to together, tap into the incredible healing power you have. As a certified Brainspotting practicioner and person who has done my own profound healing, I hold deep attunement and am an expert at reaching buried trauma capsules to process and heal. Whatever you're struggling with, you CAN heal deeply and profoundly and moved from the dysregulation you're suffering (in your nervous system) to regulation, calm, and joy. I've been helping people heal for 30 years from even the deepest trauma. You can and deserve to heal.
Welcome! I’m glad that you are here and hope we meet one day soon. My purpose is to together, tap into the incredible healing power you have. As a certified Brainspotting practicioner and person who has done my own profound healing, I hold deep attunement and am an expert at reaching buried trauma capsules to process and heal. Whatever you're struggling with, you CAN heal deeply and profoundly and moved from the dysregulation you're suffering (in your nervous system) to regulation, calm, and joy. I've been helping people heal for 30 years from even the deepest trauma. You can and deserve to heal.
(661) 402-8716 View (661) 402-8716
Photo of Virginia Chavez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Valencia, CA
Virginia Chavez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MS, PPS
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91354
Anxiety can give us all the feels… and not the pleasant ones. Overwhelm, exhaustion, panic, nervousness, distraction… you name it, Anxiety is a big deal. It can keep us from doing the things we love, spending time with family and friends, and keeps us from our day to day responsibilities. In therapy, you will learn skillful responses to anxiety… ‘cause let’s be real.. anxiety isn’t going away. So let’s find out how to to beat anxiety and win your life back. Because you are worth it!
Anxiety can give us all the feels… and not the pleasant ones. Overwhelm, exhaustion, panic, nervousness, distraction… you name it, Anxiety is a big deal. It can keep us from doing the things we love, spending time with family and friends, and keeps us from our day to day responsibilities. In therapy, you will learn skillful responses to anxiety… ‘cause let’s be real.. anxiety isn’t going away. So let’s find out how to to beat anxiety and win your life back. Because you are worth it!
(916) 280-0237 View (916) 280-0237
Photo of Robert A. Marselle, Psychologist in Valencia, CA
Robert A. Marselle
Psychologist, PsyD, RN
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355  (Online Only)
The techniques I use are tailored to each client's unique needs and challenges. I use a holistic approach that is clinical, psychological, medical, and spiritual. These techniques help me plan, diagnose, and treat individuals as well as couples in relationship counseling. This creates a confidential, non-judgmental atmosphere based on kindness and respect. Only in this environment can you begin to make healthy, confident and mindful decisions so that you can reach your personal and relationship goals. I will walk with you through whatever challenges stand in your way.
The techniques I use are tailored to each client's unique needs and challenges. I use a holistic approach that is clinical, psychological, medical, and spiritual. These techniques help me plan, diagnose, and treat individuals as well as couples in relationship counseling. This creates a confidential, non-judgmental atmosphere based on kindness and respect. Only in this environment can you begin to make healthy, confident and mindful decisions so that you can reach your personal and relationship goals. I will walk with you through whatever challenges stand in your way.
(661) 836-7443 View (661) 836-7443
Photo of Relinda Vanderwal Fisher, Marriage & Family Therapist in Valencia, CA
Relinda Vanderwal Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355  (Online Only)
The purpose of my practice is to provide a safe space, a sanctuary of sorts, where I guide you to discover insights and strengths about yourself within the context of your relationships. Your context might include such things profound adversity, compound losses, grief, caregiving for those with chronic health issues, parenting, life transitions, aging, caring for aging loved ones and navigating these unique family and relational dynamics, all within a range of mental health concerns. There is much to be gained when we are intent on building healthier and stronger relationships with our loved ones, the treasures of our lives.
The purpose of my practice is to provide a safe space, a sanctuary of sorts, where I guide you to discover insights and strengths about yourself within the context of your relationships. Your context might include such things profound adversity, compound losses, grief, caregiving for those with chronic health issues, parenting, life transitions, aging, caring for aging loved ones and navigating these unique family and relational dynamics, all within a range of mental health concerns. There is much to be gained when we are intent on building healthier and stronger relationships with our loved ones, the treasures of our lives.
(661) 690-2006 View (661) 690-2006
Photo of Silvia Haro-Givetz, Psychologist in Valencia, CA
Silvia Haro-Givetz
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
For the first time in our lifetime, we are experiencing a global pandemic with implications for added stressors and changes in our lives. During this difficult time, I can help with the stress, sadness, fear, and anxiety that surrounds the uncertainty. Living in distress is neither healthy nor desirable. As a clinical psychologist I can help address your felt distress. Together, we can conquer what is troubling you. My general approach is person-centered, strength-based, multi-modal, while providing you a safe place where you will find support, encouragement, and unconditional positive regard. I am experienced in the treatment of:
For the first time in our lifetime, we are experiencing a global pandemic with implications for added stressors and changes in our lives. During this difficult time, I can help with the stress, sadness, fear, and anxiety that surrounds the uncertainty. Living in distress is neither healthy nor desirable. As a clinical psychologist I can help address your felt distress. Together, we can conquer what is troubling you. My general approach is person-centered, strength-based, multi-modal, while providing you a safe place where you will find support, encouragement, and unconditional positive regard. I am experienced in the treatment of:
(661) 762-5873 View (661) 762-5873
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.