Photo of Gayle Elazar, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Gayle Elazar
Counselor, LMHC, CLC, CCATP, CCFC, CCDVC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33762
Specialties: Anxiety, Relationship issues, Marriage, Life Stress, Infidelity, Couples Counseling, Dating Struggles, Divorce Coaching, Life Transitions, Life Coaching, Self-esteem, Family Conflicts, Teen/ Adolescents, Mother/Daughter Relationship Issues, Childhood Trauma/Abuse, Childhood Emotional Neglect, Parent Coordination & Co-parenting counseling.
Are you feeling anxious? Unhappy? Relationship issues? Depressed? I can help. As a leading provider in Tampa, your goals and happiness are my main priority. My approach is warm, caring, supportive and solution focused. I am focused on listening to your needs and helping you with whatever issues your dealing with. We’ll work together to reach your goals. You’ll learn the tools to live a happier healthier life, feel more confident, and improve your relationships. With over 15 years of experience, education & training, I can help you feel better faster. Offering in office & virtual sessions. Call or text today for an appointment!
Specialties: Anxiety, Relationship issues, Marriage, Life Stress, Infidelity, Couples Counseling, Dating Struggles, Divorce Coaching, Life Transitions, Life Coaching, Self-esteem, Family Conflicts, Teen/ Adolescents, Mother/Daughter Relationship Issues, Childhood Trauma/Abuse, Childhood Emotional Neglect, Parent Coordination & Co-parenting counseling.
Are you feeling anxious? Unhappy? Relationship issues? Depressed? I can help. As a leading provider in Tampa, your goals and happiness are my main priority. My approach is warm, caring, supportive and solution focused. I am focused on listening to your needs and helping you with whatever issues your dealing with. We’ll work together to reach your goals. You’ll learn the tools to live a happier healthier life, feel more confident, and improve your relationships. With over 15 years of experience, education & training, I can help you feel better faster. Offering in office & virtual sessions. Call or text today for an appointment!
(727) 744-2559 View (727) 744-2559
Photo of Cassidy Wright, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Clearwater, FL
Cassidy Wright
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33756
Is your child or teen struggling to manage their emotions or having a hard time paying attention in class? I am here to help! I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern; Masters in Social Work graduate from Florida State University. I have spent most of my career in the child welfare system assisting a very vulnerable population navigate an extremely challenging time. As a licensed foster parent I have gained a unique experience working with children and teens; but also parenting alongside biological parents to better understand their child’s specific needs.
Is your child or teen struggling to manage their emotions or having a hard time paying attention in class? I am here to help! I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern; Masters in Social Work graduate from Florida State University. I have spent most of my career in the child welfare system assisting a very vulnerable population navigate an extremely challenging time. As a licensed foster parent I have gained a unique experience working with children and teens; but also parenting alongside biological parents to better understand their child’s specific needs.
(727) 955-3369 View (727) 955-3369
Photo of Brooke Beloso, Pre-Licensed Professional in Clearwater, FL
Brooke Beloso
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33761
I especially enjoy working with parents struggling to interrupt the intergenerational transmission of trauma, whether they are in the pre-parenting, postpartum, early childhood, adolescent, or adult child stage.
Many present-day struggles have their origin in responses to traumatic experiences in the past. While these responses deserve great respect for having kept us alive (physically and/or emotionally), moving from surviving to thriving asks us to recognize that the past is not present. Working together, we can strengthen your ability to stay and feel with what is, rather than continue to respond to the trauma that was. We can gently lay those old trauma responses to rest and find new, healing ways of responding to the here and now.
I especially enjoy working with parents struggling to interrupt the intergenerational transmission of trauma, whether they are in the pre-parenting, postpartum, early childhood, adolescent, or adult child stage.
Many present-day struggles have their origin in responses to traumatic experiences in the past. While these responses deserve great respect for having kept us alive (physically and/or emotionally), moving from surviving to thriving asks us to recognize that the past is not present. Working together, we can strengthen your ability to stay and feel with what is, rather than continue to respond to the trauma that was. We can gently lay those old trauma responses to rest and find new, healing ways of responding to the here and now.
(727) 626-5309 View (727) 626-5309
Photo of Caleb Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Caleb Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33764  (Online Only)
I am an MCAP (Master Certified Addictions Professional) and an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with background in residential, detox, adolescent therapy, and domestic violence.
My expertise is helping people (teens and adults) who have lived through a trauma to live a more fulfilling life in alignment with their abilities, values, and beliefs. If you feel stuck, find yourself repeating past negative patterns, self-medicating, or self-sabotaging and want positive change, schedule an appointment today.
I am an MCAP (Master Certified Addictions Professional) and an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with background in residential, detox, adolescent therapy, and domestic violence.
My expertise is helping people (teens and adults) who have lived through a trauma to live a more fulfilling life in alignment with their abilities, values, and beliefs. If you feel stuck, find yourself repeating past negative patterns, self-medicating, or self-sabotaging and want positive change, schedule an appointment today.
(727) 261-2539 View (727) 261-2539
Photo of Keniah Liz Rivera Santiago, LPC Intern in Clearwater, FL
Keniah Liz Rivera Santiago
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33755
I completed internships at Raising Teen Girls and at Robinson Kyles Counseling and Testing Center.
Have you ever felt like no one understands what you are going through? That you are alone on this road called life and not really sure where it is taking you? You may feel “weak” if you seek therapy, but let me tell you that is the complete opposite of what you are. By you finding help you are proving to yourself that you are stronger than what you think. As you take this big step in your journey it can bring a lot of nerves and excitement at the same time. It is not easy to find a stranger to talk about your feelings with. I want to be the person who will fill your cup up when you need it the most.
I completed internships at Raising Teen Girls and at Robinson Kyles Counseling and Testing Center.
Have you ever felt like no one understands what you are going through? That you are alone on this road called life and not really sure where it is taking you? You may feel “weak” if you seek therapy, but let me tell you that is the complete opposite of what you are. By you finding help you are proving to yourself that you are stronger than what you think. As you take this big step in your journey it can bring a lot of nerves and excitement at the same time. It is not easy to find a stranger to talk about your feelings with. I want to be the person who will fill your cup up when you need it the most.
(727) 353-8291 View (727) 353-8291
Photo of Hillary Reed, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Hillary Reed
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33755
Are you an individual trying to figure out where you are going in life but your past keeps holding you back? Are you a parent who has lost themselves in the identity of your child and you have no idea who you are? Are you a couple that has lost a connection you once had or have you lost your own individuality within the relationship? Are you an adolescent comparing yourself to the next latest trend that you now feel inadequate? Are you an individual who is now in recovery and you feel no one in your immediate support group understands you? You feel alone on this island and all you want is for someone to hear, validate, support you.
Are you an individual trying to figure out where you are going in life but your past keeps holding you back? Are you a parent who has lost themselves in the identity of your child and you have no idea who you are? Are you a couple that has lost a connection you once had or have you lost your own individuality within the relationship? Are you an adolescent comparing yourself to the next latest trend that you now feel inadequate? Are you an individual who is now in recovery and you feel no one in your immediate support group understands you? You feel alone on this island and all you want is for someone to hear, validate, support you.
(813) 535-4375 View (813) 535-4375
Photo of Kimberley E May, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Kimberley E May
Counselor, LMHC, CAP, CEAP, SAP, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33755
Counseling Services: Individual, Family, Couples Therapy, Child & Teen Therapy, DUI evaluations, substance abuse evaluations, DOT SAP services, Family Repair, High-conflict divorce, Co-Parenting Counseling Parenting Plan Support Reunification Therapy Blended Families.
I am a Licensed therapist, Certified Addictions Professional, Substance Abuse Professional, Certified Employee Assistance Professional as well as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have worked and practiced in the Tampa area for over 20 years. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. My treatment specialization includes: *PTSD *Children *Therapy for Depression and Anxiety *Couples Counseling *Family "Repair" *Parenting Support *Grief Counseling * *Addiction & Recovery *DUI evaluations *DOT SAP evaluation * I am EMDR trained. Counseling Services: Individual, Family, Couples Therapy, Child & Teen Therapy, PTSD
Counseling Services: Individual, Family, Couples Therapy, Child & Teen Therapy, DUI evaluations, substance abuse evaluations, DOT SAP services, Family Repair, High-conflict divorce, Co-Parenting Counseling Parenting Plan Support Reunification Therapy Blended Families.
I am a Licensed therapist, Certified Addictions Professional, Substance Abuse Professional, Certified Employee Assistance Professional as well as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have worked and practiced in the Tampa area for over 20 years. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. My treatment specialization includes: *PTSD *Children *Therapy for Depression and Anxiety *Couples Counseling *Family "Repair" *Parenting Support *Grief Counseling * *Addiction & Recovery *DUI evaluations *DOT SAP evaluation * I am EMDR trained. Counseling Services: Individual, Family, Couples Therapy, Child & Teen Therapy, PTSD
(813) 579-2530 View (813) 579-2530
Photo of Theresa A Ritz, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Theresa A Ritz
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33763
Now offering telehealth and in-office sessions. Do events from the past make it difficult to enjoy your life? I specialize in helping people resolve the pain from the past that fuels unhealthy behaviors such as using alcohol or other drugs, food, or dissatisfying relationships to numb the feelings. Do you feel like nothing will ever change? Maybe you feel that nothing can help. Not true! I have primarily evening and weekend appointments. Call me and we can work together to help you uncover the joy you have been seeking.
Now offering telehealth and in-office sessions. Do events from the past make it difficult to enjoy your life? I specialize in helping people resolve the pain from the past that fuels unhealthy behaviors such as using alcohol or other drugs, food, or dissatisfying relationships to numb the feelings. Do you feel like nothing will ever change? Maybe you feel that nothing can help. Not true! I have primarily evening and weekend appointments. Call me and we can work together to help you uncover the joy you have been seeking.
(727) 998-4280 View (727) 998-4280
Photo of Jennifer Paolillo, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Jennifer Paolillo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33761
Are you ready to gain control of your life? As a parent, we may face situations that at times make us feel challenged. As an individual or partner in a relationship, we may struggle to find personal balance or to make sense of our own lives. I'm a professional and licensed mental health counselor with 13 years experience working with children, families, couples and individuals from infancy throughout adulthood. My goal is for us to work together to help you move forward towards achieving your personal best and creating a balance that is empowering to you.
Are you ready to gain control of your life? As a parent, we may face situations that at times make us feel challenged. As an individual or partner in a relationship, we may struggle to find personal balance or to make sense of our own lives. I'm a professional and licensed mental health counselor with 13 years experience working with children, families, couples and individuals from infancy throughout adulthood. My goal is for us to work together to help you move forward towards achieving your personal best and creating a balance that is empowering to you.
(727) 777-6405 View (727) 777-6405
Photo of Nichole Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Nichole Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSP, MSMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33761
I really enjoy working through a variety of issues, and have a unique and comforting approach to guiding clients out of whatever they are currently sitting with. I believe the client is the expert in their own lives and they are capable of change, but sometimes need some help to figure out their path and find solutions. I don’t believe there is a one-size-fits-all approach to any issue, and use various methods such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and solution focused, depending on your needs. I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work with couples.
I really enjoy working through a variety of issues, and have a unique and comforting approach to guiding clients out of whatever they are currently sitting with. I believe the client is the expert in their own lives and they are capable of change, but sometimes need some help to figure out their path and find solutions. I don’t believe there is a one-size-fits-all approach to any issue, and use various methods such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and solution focused, depending on your needs. I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work with couples.
(727) 324-6449 View (727) 324-6449
Photo of Loredana Repetto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Loredana Repetto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33761
Maintaining an integrative approach, I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, EMDR and Self Regulation techniques modalities in my therapeutic practice. My specialties are Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Sexual Trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I believe that while it is crucial to have the knowledge and skills to implement the most effective evidence base protocols, the primary focus of my work is to create a safe therapeutic relationship with my clients, with whom I adopt a collaborative approach in order to tailor a treatment plan based on their needs and their cultural background.
Maintaining an integrative approach, I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, EMDR and Self Regulation techniques modalities in my therapeutic practice. My specialties are Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Sexual Trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I believe that while it is crucial to have the knowledge and skills to implement the most effective evidence base protocols, the primary focus of my work is to create a safe therapeutic relationship with my clients, with whom I adopt a collaborative approach in order to tailor a treatment plan based on their needs and their cultural background.
(727) 619-1542 View (727) 619-1542
Photo of Dolly Ferraiuolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Dolly Ferraiuolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759
The dragonfly, in almost every part of the world, symbolizes the change in the perspective of self-realization. The kind of change that has its source in mental and emotional maturity and the understanding of the deeper meaning of life. We weave this meaning into the fabric of our mission and in the work we provide to every client enrolled at SHARE. Are you stuck or lost? Are you struggling with anxiety and fear? Are those intrusive thoughts derailing your days? Feeling disconnected from yourself or your partner(s) can leave you feeling unloved, undesirable, and alone. Whatever your struggle, I am here for you.
The dragonfly, in almost every part of the world, symbolizes the change in the perspective of self-realization. The kind of change that has its source in mental and emotional maturity and the understanding of the deeper meaning of life. We weave this meaning into the fabric of our mission and in the work we provide to every client enrolled at SHARE. Are you stuck or lost? Are you struggling with anxiety and fear? Are those intrusive thoughts derailing your days? Feeling disconnected from yourself or your partner(s) can leave you feeling unloved, undesirable, and alone. Whatever your struggle, I am here for you.
(727) 496-7096 View (727) 496-7096
Photo of Ileana Abreu in Clearwater, FL
Ileana Abreu
MA, EdD, (ABD)
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33760
Rewire your brain; reclaim your life! Trauma and/or relational abuse can drive anyone to break down or act out. There is a way to find healing that does not involve pharmaceuticals or a deficit-based diagnosis. Dr. Ileana is poised to support and enhance your unique path of self-directed healing. She helps clients overcome fears and reclaim desires, specializing in mind-body-spirit alignment and psychological integration. (Spanish: La clave de la salud mental es el apoyo y la comprension. Existen soluciones que no implican el uso de drogas psiquiatricas. Por favor, llama a la Dra. Ileana por una consulta gratuita para saber mas.)
Rewire your brain; reclaim your life! Trauma and/or relational abuse can drive anyone to break down or act out. There is a way to find healing that does not involve pharmaceuticals or a deficit-based diagnosis. Dr. Ileana is poised to support and enhance your unique path of self-directed healing. She helps clients overcome fears and reclaim desires, specializing in mind-body-spirit alignment and psychological integration. (Spanish: La clave de la salud mental es el apoyo y la comprension. Existen soluciones que no implican el uso de drogas psiquiatricas. Por favor, llama a la Dra. Ileana por una consulta gratuita para saber mas.)
(727) 312-0626 View (727) 312-0626
Photo of Jodi B Porter, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Clearwater, FL
Jodi B Porter
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI, MSW
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33756  (Online Only)
I am a RCSWI in Florida and a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of New York. I have been working in the mental health field since 2010 and have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings, including residential programs, inpatient settings, private practice, and community mental health agencies. This has allowed me to gain experience and learn how best to support my clients depending on the needs of the individual. I have experience working with diverse populations and pride myself on being culturally competent.
I am a RCSWI in Florida and a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of New York. I have been working in the mental health field since 2010 and have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings, including residential programs, inpatient settings, private practice, and community mental health agencies. This has allowed me to gain experience and learn how best to support my clients depending on the needs of the individual. I have experience working with diverse populations and pride myself on being culturally competent.
(727) 607-3335 View (727) 607-3335
Photo of Molly Terry, Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Molly Terry
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33763
I specialize in offering dedicated support to navigate the complexities of stress, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties. To address immediate concerns; while arming you with the insights and tools necessary for a lifetime of resilience and growth. In our therapeutic journey, you can trust that I'll provide a secure and welcoming haven where you can explore your inner self with the utmost honesty and compassion. This is a space where the healing process unfolds, where personal growth takes root, and where you're free to become the best version of yourself without the weight of judgment.
I specialize in offering dedicated support to navigate the complexities of stress, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties. To address immediate concerns; while arming you with the insights and tools necessary for a lifetime of resilience and growth. In our therapeutic journey, you can trust that I'll provide a secure and welcoming haven where you can explore your inner self with the utmost honesty and compassion. This is a space where the healing process unfolds, where personal growth takes root, and where you're free to become the best version of yourself without the weight of judgment.
(727) 268-8814 View (727) 268-8814
Photo of Cathi Long 360 Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Clearwater, FL
Cathi Long 360 Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33761
Struggling with Anxiety or Depression? Cathi at 360 Counseling, LLC can help you through your difficult journey. Entering therapy can be a helpful way to work through grief, anxiety, worry, and other emotions that may be experienced as a result of trauma. I offer a safe environment to work with all members of your family or individuals depending on your need. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life please contact me.
Struggling with Anxiety or Depression? Cathi at 360 Counseling, LLC can help you through your difficult journey. Entering therapy can be a helpful way to work through grief, anxiety, worry, and other emotions that may be experienced as a result of trauma. I offer a safe environment to work with all members of your family or individuals depending on your need. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life please contact me.
(727) 205-6110 View (727) 205-6110
Photo of Laurie Elbow, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Clearwater, FL
Laurie Elbow
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33762
I treat a wide range concerns and am confident in referring to other providers if I am not a good fit. I value and acknowledge the unique background and experience of each person and enjoy helping find your voice. I take a collaborative approach to all facets of the process of therapy. I use a range of modalities based on client preference and fit: Strength-based, Solution-focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to name a few. I ask for frequent feedback on the process and its outcomes.
I treat a wide range concerns and am confident in referring to other providers if I am not a good fit. I value and acknowledge the unique background and experience of each person and enjoy helping find your voice. I take a collaborative approach to all facets of the process of therapy. I use a range of modalities based on client preference and fit: Strength-based, Solution-focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to name a few. I ask for frequent feedback on the process and its outcomes.
(727) 349-3871 x703 View (727) 349-3871 x703
Photo of Yvonne Cochran, Pre-Licensed Professional in Clearwater, FL
Yvonne Cochran
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33759
*** Now Accepting New Clients! *** The decision to begin therapy can be challenging. At ClearPath Health, we view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate setting. Clients who have completed treatment leave with new coping skills, a renewed sense of confidence and fresh perspectives on their lives. Reach out today for an appointment.
*** Now Accepting New Clients! *** The decision to begin therapy can be challenging. At ClearPath Health, we view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate setting. Clients who have completed treatment leave with new coping skills, a renewed sense of confidence and fresh perspectives on their lives. Reach out today for an appointment.
(727) 855-4976 View (727) 855-4976
Photo of Michele Messina in Clearwater, FL
Michele Messina
MA, CAGS, LSP
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33762
Welcome to my practice, where I am dedicated to providing compassionate support for individuals, couples, and children navigating emotional, social, or adjustment challenges. Whether rooted in depression, anxiety, OCD, or complex trauma, I offer a diverse range of therapeutic interventions tailored to the unique needs of each client. Collaboratively, we develop and monitor treatment plans to ensure they align with your specific goals and preferences. Treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, and play therapy.
Welcome to my practice, where I am dedicated to providing compassionate support for individuals, couples, and children navigating emotional, social, or adjustment challenges. Whether rooted in depression, anxiety, OCD, or complex trauma, I offer a diverse range of therapeutic interventions tailored to the unique needs of each client. Collaboratively, we develop and monitor treatment plans to ensure they align with your specific goals and preferences. Treatment modalities include CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, and play therapy.
(941) 676-9547 View (941) 676-9547
Photo of Ellie Holmberg, Pre-Licensed Professional in Clearwater, FL
Ellie Holmberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33761
Do you feel overwhelmed by life? Everything just piling on? Maybe you’re just struggling to feel like yourself, or questioning who you really are. Therapy becomes a pivotal space to navigate and understand these emotions, fostering a journey towards healing and self-discovery. My passion lies in assisting individuals through this discomfort, aiming to help them to tap into their inherent strengths, unearth fresh perspectives, and ultimately embrace their authentic selves. Together, we embark on a transformative path toward realizing your full potential and living in alignment with your own truth.
Do you feel overwhelmed by life? Everything just piling on? Maybe you’re just struggling to feel like yourself, or questioning who you really are. Therapy becomes a pivotal space to navigate and understand these emotions, fostering a journey towards healing and self-discovery. My passion lies in assisting individuals through this discomfort, aiming to help them to tap into their inherent strengths, unearth fresh perspectives, and ultimately embrace their authentic selves. Together, we embark on a transformative path toward realizing your full potential and living in alignment with your own truth.
(727) 788-3906 View (727) 788-3906
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.