Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Stacie Carr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Stacie Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60617
I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and older adolescent children who are struggling with, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting struggles, PTSD, marital and divorce problems, somatization, aging, adoption/foster care, and grief along with many others.
My name is Stacie Carr, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I have had my clinical license for 13 years and I have experience working with children, adults, and adolescents in a clinical setting. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and older adolescent children who are struggling with, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting struggles, PTSD, marital and divorce problems, somatization, aging, adoption/foster care, and grief along with many others.
My name is Stacie Carr, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I have had my clinical license for 13 years and I have experience working with children, adults, and adolescents in a clinical setting. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(773) 839-7572 View (773) 839-7572
Photo of Jessica A Sweet, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jessica A Sweet
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Currently have immediate day time appointments. Waitlist for evening. If you have a child or adolescent that feels depressed, anxious, worried, disconnected from relationships, or struggling with a certain issue, I can help. I also have experience working with self-harming, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, or bullying. I also work with family dynamics like parenting struggles, issues with divorce, couple counseling, parent/child relationships. If you are an adult struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problem, work conflict or other issues, I can help create solutions for these problems.
Currently have immediate day time appointments. Waitlist for evening. If you have a child or adolescent that feels depressed, anxious, worried, disconnected from relationships, or struggling with a certain issue, I can help. I also have experience working with self-harming, suicidal thoughts, low self-esteem, or bullying. I also work with family dynamics like parenting struggles, issues with divorce, couple counseling, parent/child relationships. If you are an adult struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problem, work conflict or other issues, I can help create solutions for these problems.
(847) 380-3222 View (847) 380-3222
Photo of Erin Liebman, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Erin Liebman
Counselor, MEd, EdS, NCC, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Our youth and teen services include individual and family therapy.
Erin Liebman Inc. offers almost two decades of experience working with youth, teens, and young adults. We use an eclectic orientation with an emphasis on behavioral, cognitive behavioral, and solution focused therapy. Clients examine thoughts and behaviors in hopes of engendering positive changes. While the client is our primary focus, we collaborate with support systems to foster an environment steeped in opportunities for growth. Our professional goal is to assist clients in developing the life long skills necessary to become happy, healthy, productive members within their communities.
Our youth and teen services include individual and family therapy.
Erin Liebman Inc. offers almost two decades of experience working with youth, teens, and young adults. We use an eclectic orientation with an emphasis on behavioral, cognitive behavioral, and solution focused therapy. Clients examine thoughts and behaviors in hopes of engendering positive changes. While the client is our primary focus, we collaborate with support systems to foster an environment steeped in opportunities for growth. Our professional goal is to assist clients in developing the life long skills necessary to become happy, healthy, productive members within their communities.
(312) 614-0671 View (312) 614-0671
Photo of Jose Rodrigo Nino, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jose Rodrigo Nino
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60646
I specialize in working with a diverse population on a variety of issues related to child, adolescent, and adult mental health, as well as transitions, interpersonal relationships, and behavioral health conditions.
Do you ever stand back and take a look at the big picture of your life and wonder how things ended up this way? Do you feel unhappy with your choices or situation, but unsure about how to start unraveling barriers and start moving in the direction that you want? I can help you examine your choices and behaviors, big and small, understand how they might be keeping you stuck or unfulfilled, and collaboratively find your power to make changes that bring you more in line with the kind of life you want and deserve to have.
I specialize in working with a diverse population on a variety of issues related to child, adolescent, and adult mental health, as well as transitions, interpersonal relationships, and behavioral health conditions.
Do you ever stand back and take a look at the big picture of your life and wonder how things ended up this way? Do you feel unhappy with your choices or situation, but unsure about how to start unraveling barriers and start moving in the direction that you want? I can help you examine your choices and behaviors, big and small, understand how they might be keeping you stuck or unfulfilled, and collaboratively find your power to make changes that bring you more in line with the kind of life you want and deserve to have.
(773) 598-5743 View (773) 598-5743
Photo of Inna Popko, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Inna Popko
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Inna has also served as Case Manager for specialty mental health (SMH) in an award winning health system, and empowered teen girls through the Ready Set Girls Academy (RSGA) program.
Using an eclectic psychotherapy approach to address unique client needs, Inna helps clients and their families overcome impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. Her strategies enable people to better manage anger, cope with depression and anxiety, overcome addiction, promote personal growth, and exude higher levels of self-esteem while living happier, more successful lives. Inna integrates cultural fluency, her diverse understanding of cultural intelligence and interpersonal communications in multiple languages allows her to conquer barriers associated with cross-cultural differences.
Inna has also served as Case Manager for specialty mental health (SMH) in an award winning health system, and empowered teen girls through the Ready Set Girls Academy (RSGA) program.
Using an eclectic psychotherapy approach to address unique client needs, Inna helps clients and their families overcome impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. Her strategies enable people to better manage anger, cope with depression and anxiety, overcome addiction, promote personal growth, and exude higher levels of self-esteem while living happier, more successful lives. Inna integrates cultural fluency, her diverse understanding of cultural intelligence and interpersonal communications in multiple languages allows her to conquer barriers associated with cross-cultural differences.
(847) 443-5471 View (847) 443-5471
Photo of Dr. Calvin Young, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Dr. Calvin Young
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608  (Online Only)
Patients approach care with me for relationship troubles, couples troubles (all configurations), marriage issues, depression disorders, drugs and alcohol abuse and dependency problems, anger management dynamics, anxiety and panic attacks, grief and loss experiences, trauma, teen and adolescent issues, ADHD and other neurodivergent disorders (Adult, children).
Hello! My name is Dr. Calvin Young, a credentialed provider of telehealth care services. As a provider of telemental health as a Psychotherapist, forensic assessment and Substance Abuse Counseling and Addictions treatment professional, I am also US military veteran. For over two decades I have provided Online Therapy and in-person care, using an integrative approach that combines Psychodynamic, Behavior Therapy, Gestalt, Community Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems approaches, combined with Multicultural Psychotherapy, a Person-centered focus.
Patients approach care with me for relationship troubles, couples troubles (all configurations), marriage issues, depression disorders, drugs and alcohol abuse and dependency problems, anger management dynamics, anxiety and panic attacks, grief and loss experiences, trauma, teen and adolescent issues, ADHD and other neurodivergent disorders (Adult, children).
Hello! My name is Dr. Calvin Young, a credentialed provider of telehealth care services. As a provider of telemental health as a Psychotherapist, forensic assessment and Substance Abuse Counseling and Addictions treatment professional, I am also US military veteran. For over two decades I have provided Online Therapy and in-person care, using an integrative approach that combines Psychodynamic, Behavior Therapy, Gestalt, Community Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems approaches, combined with Multicultural Psychotherapy, a Person-centered focus.
(773) 687-5071 View (773) 687-5071
Photo of Victoriya Tsaran, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Victoriya Tsaran
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
My areas of clinical specialties are: Neurodevelopmental disorders, stress-related symptoms, Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorder, Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Behavioral Problems, Parenting Stress, Attention- Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Adolescent Issues, School Constulations.
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
My areas of clinical specialties are: Neurodevelopmental disorders, stress-related symptoms, Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorder, Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Behavioral Problems, Parenting Stress, Attention- Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Adolescent Issues, School Constulations.
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
(847) 786-2098 View (847) 786-2098
Photo of Active Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Active Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
I have worked with a variety of clients and multiple issues. This includes adults, couples, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, family/relationship issues, and childhood and adolescent disorders. Having worked with a variety of different ethnicities and cultures including LGBTQ, I attempt to bring that cultural sensitivity to my practice. My work with clients includes helping them to identify patterns of problematic thought and behavior, and explore ways these patterns may have developed. My objective is to help clients find ways to enjoy and succeed in their lives.
I have worked with a variety of clients and multiple issues. This includes adults, couples, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, grief, family/relationship issues, and childhood and adolescent disorders. Having worked with a variety of different ethnicities and cultures including LGBTQ, I attempt to bring that cultural sensitivity to my practice. My work with clients includes helping them to identify patterns of problematic thought and behavior, and explore ways these patterns may have developed. My objective is to help clients find ways to enjoy and succeed in their lives.
(773) 985-3407 View (773) 985-3407
Photo of Center for Relationship Health, The Juniper Center, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Center for Relationship Health, The Juniper Center
Psychologist, PsyD, CSADC, BCETS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Life gets complicated. You have been trying all that you know how to do to make things better for yourself or for someone you love but have run out of energy, ideas or both. You may have a relationship with someone you love but just can't seem to get along. You may be a parent trying to best figure out how to help a child or teen who is having problems. You may feel burdened by sadness, fear or stress.Or, perhaps you have old wounds that seem to keep interfering with you creating the life you want.
Life gets complicated. You have been trying all that you know how to do to make things better for yourself or for someone you love but have run out of energy, ideas or both. You may have a relationship with someone you love but just can't seem to get along. You may be a parent trying to best figure out how to help a child or teen who is having problems. You may feel burdened by sadness, fear or stress.Or, perhaps you have old wounds that seem to keep interfering with you creating the life you want.
(847) 920-7884 x1 View (847) 920-7884 x1
Photo of Nicole J. Howell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nicole J. Howell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
School and work difficulty from trauma, ADHD, anxiety, self injury, loss, as well as family/work struggles and life transitions often bring a child, teen, or adult to my office.
For over 15 years I have worked with children, teens and adults managing difficulties with social, emotional and behavioral difficulties. The diverse experience with each age has given me insight to share in the therapy room with you. I address each challenge with great care and energy to help move toward growth with you or your child to find understanding and greater ways of coping, being in relationships and thriving.
School and work difficulty from trauma, ADHD, anxiety, self injury, loss, as well as family/work struggles and life transitions often bring a child, teen, or adult to my office.
For over 15 years I have worked with children, teens and adults managing difficulties with social, emotional and behavioral difficulties. The diverse experience with each age has given me insight to share in the therapy room with you. I address each challenge with great care and energy to help move toward growth with you or your child to find understanding and greater ways of coping, being in relationships and thriving.
(312) 548-7742 View (312) 548-7742
Photo of Deborah Cihonski, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Deborah Cihonski
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, ITDS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I offer a caring and healing place for children and families to find solutions and hope. In practice for over 30 years, I offer unique, highly effective horse-assisted therapy in Milton, FL, specializing in adolescent & preteen girls and women. Our property connects to many trails in the Blackwater Forest where patients can experience amazing, healing natural beauty and peace. I also see children, families, and couples in my office in Gulf Breeze. I offer the resources & support needed to help your child and family find happiness, confidence, and success.
I offer a caring and healing place for children and families to find solutions and hope. In practice for over 30 years, I offer unique, highly effective horse-assisted therapy in Milton, FL, specializing in adolescent & preteen girls and women. Our property connects to many trails in the Blackwater Forest where patients can experience amazing, healing natural beauty and peace. I also see children, families, and couples in my office in Gulf Breeze. I offer the resources & support needed to help your child and family find happiness, confidence, and success.
(850) 818-9541 View (850) 818-9541
Photo of Halley Jacobs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Halley Jacobs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60706  (Online Only)
I'm an experienced psychotherapist working with adolescents and their families dealing with depression, anxiety, self-injury, substance use, school anxiety and school refusal, hallucinations, suicidal ideation, family conflict and more. While my background and passion is adolescent, family and young adult mental health counseling, I am also experienced with adults in all life stages. My goal in treatment is to help clients improve internal resources as well as external support to meet their goals.
I'm an experienced psychotherapist working with adolescents and their families dealing with depression, anxiety, self-injury, substance use, school anxiety and school refusal, hallucinations, suicidal ideation, family conflict and more. While my background and passion is adolescent, family and young adult mental health counseling, I am also experienced with adults in all life stages. My goal in treatment is to help clients improve internal resources as well as external support to meet their goals.
(224) 208-1324 View (224) 208-1324
Photo of Orchard Wellness, LLC, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Orchard Wellness, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60645
Orchard Wellness offers a range of psychological and mental health services, such as child, adolescent, and adult psychotherapy as well as academic assessments, ADHD assessments, psycho-educational assessments, and neuropsychological assessments.
Clinicians at Orchard Wellness are highly skilled mental health providers who deeply value your health and wellbeing and respect the challenges that you and/or your children or family is experiencing. We take great pride in providing our community with high quality, patient-centered care and health education. Our mission is to improve people's lives, one at a time. We base our success on helping people live and feel better.
Orchard Wellness offers a range of psychological and mental health services, such as child, adolescent, and adult psychotherapy as well as academic assessments, ADHD assessments, psycho-educational assessments, and neuropsychological assessments.
Clinicians at Orchard Wellness are highly skilled mental health providers who deeply value your health and wellbeing and respect the challenges that you and/or your children or family is experiencing. We take great pride in providing our community with high quality, patient-centered care and health education. Our mission is to improve people's lives, one at a time. We base our success on helping people live and feel better.
(224) 864-9512 View (224) 864-9512
Photo of Shannon A Daidone, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Shannon A Daidone
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult and messy, but also beautiful. I believe wholeheartedly in helping others find the beauty and balance the uncertainty in their lives through a collaborative process. As your therapist, I will listen and provide support and guidance on your journey. I believe growth and change are best fostered in an environment where you feel heard, seen, respected, safe, and valued. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where growth is cultivated to find a deeper understanding of self and ultimately evolve as you discover the power within yourself to create lasting change.
Life can be difficult and messy, but also beautiful. I believe wholeheartedly in helping others find the beauty and balance the uncertainty in their lives through a collaborative process. As your therapist, I will listen and provide support and guidance on your journey. I believe growth and change are best fostered in an environment where you feel heard, seen, respected, safe, and valued. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where growth is cultivated to find a deeper understanding of self and ultimately evolve as you discover the power within yourself to create lasting change.
(872) 204-1514 View (872) 204-1514
Photo of Melissa Goosmann, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Melissa Goosmann
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Therapy is a deeply personal process and relationship: whatever your reason for seeking support, you deserve to find a therapist who fits. ​Current times are marked by constant change, challenges, and opportunities. Through understanding and validation, I strive to create an accepting environment for my clients while providing the skills needed to achieve meaningful change. I believe in evidenced-based and collaborative work cultivated by a trusting therapeutic relationship.
Therapy is a deeply personal process and relationship: whatever your reason for seeking support, you deserve to find a therapist who fits. ​Current times are marked by constant change, challenges, and opportunities. Through understanding and validation, I strive to create an accepting environment for my clients while providing the skills needed to achieve meaningful change. I believe in evidenced-based and collaborative work cultivated by a trusting therapeutic relationship.
(872) 204-0214 View (872) 204-0214
Photo of Abayomi Nichols, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Abayomi Nichols
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
I am an EMDR-trained trauma informed therapist, international speaker , licensed in both Indiana and Illinois with over 20 years of counseling experience, 7 being direct work on military bases working with the U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marines. I work with issues like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, PTSD ,ADHD and more. If you're seeking positive changes in your life, schedule directly at https:/abayomi-nichols.clientsecure.me. Additionally, I offer crisis support to Corporations via EAP and provide trainings and workshops. Presently, I primarily offer virtual sessions but do some in person.
I am an EMDR-trained trauma informed therapist, international speaker , licensed in both Indiana and Illinois with over 20 years of counseling experience, 7 being direct work on military bases working with the U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marines. I work with issues like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, PTSD ,ADHD and more. If you're seeking positive changes in your life, schedule directly at https:/abayomi-nichols.clientsecure.me. Additionally, I offer crisis support to Corporations via EAP and provide trainings and workshops. Presently, I primarily offer virtual sessions but do some in person.
(630) 523-8482 View (630) 523-8482
Photo of Sonila Sejdaras, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Sonila Sejdaras
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
It is normal, on occasion, for everyone to experience some anxiety dealing with life. But lately those feelings have become overwhelming. Over time, it feels like you are anxious about everything, and nothing. The worry is starting to creep into every aspect of your life- work, family, relationships,... even going to get out of bed feels overwhelming some days! You are not going crazy, and you are not alone- anxiety is one of the most common reasons people reach out to for help. Therapy can help get things back to normal.
It is normal, on occasion, for everyone to experience some anxiety dealing with life. But lately those feelings have become overwhelming. Over time, it feels like you are anxious about everything, and nothing. The worry is starting to creep into every aspect of your life- work, family, relationships,... even going to get out of bed feels overwhelming some days! You are not going crazy, and you are not alone- anxiety is one of the most common reasons people reach out to for help. Therapy can help get things back to normal.
(872) 256-9283 View (872) 256-9283
Photo of Samantha Soll, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Samantha Soll
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660
There are many experiences and challenges in life that cause distress. Therapy can be a healthy and meaningful way to improve ones functioning, experience and level of fulfillment. It is my goal to provide a supportive and gently challenging environment, where a client can expect to make therapeutic change. My role in therapy is to work as a team with my client to identify therapeutic goals, identify how to best reach the goals and explore how to manage the social, emotional and environmental barriers in the individual's life.
There are many experiences and challenges in life that cause distress. Therapy can be a healthy and meaningful way to improve ones functioning, experience and level of fulfillment. It is my goal to provide a supportive and gently challenging environment, where a client can expect to make therapeutic change. My role in therapy is to work as a team with my client to identify therapeutic goals, identify how to best reach the goals and explore how to manage the social, emotional and environmental barriers in the individual's life.
(815) 261-1793 View (815) 261-1793
Photo of Leanne M Link, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Leanne M Link
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
You can and either crumble or pivot. I want to help you pivot and cope with the challenges of life. While I can’t change difficult situations, I can provide a safe and inclusive environment as you heal and work through the struggles of life. I am currently accepting new clients who have mid-morning and afternoon availability. Please note: All sessions are conducted virtually. Don't hesitate to contact me directly to schedule an initial appointment. If you are an existing client, please feel free to use the self-scheduling link below to scheduling a follow-up appointment.
You can and either crumble or pivot. I want to help you pivot and cope with the challenges of life. While I can’t change difficult situations, I can provide a safe and inclusive environment as you heal and work through the struggles of life. I am currently accepting new clients who have mid-morning and afternoon availability. Please note: All sessions are conducted virtually. Don't hesitate to contact me directly to schedule an initial appointment. If you are an existing client, please feel free to use the self-scheduling link below to scheduling a follow-up appointment.
(773) 496-4976 View (773) 496-4976
Photo of Sheila Marie Collins, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Sheila Marie Collins
Psychologist, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
I am a strong believer that successful therapy is centered around finding a therapist that’s a good fit for you. It can be hard to make steps toward change- whether those big changes or small. I focus both on developing new strengths and skills to effectively manage life’s difficulties in the short term, while gaining insight into reasons behind behaviors to regain the control and understanding of past patterns to facilitate future autonomy in handling life’s stressors. My style has been described by clients as supportive, warm, interactive, easy to talk to, direct, nonjudgmental while also being able to utilize humor & creativity.
I am a strong believer that successful therapy is centered around finding a therapist that’s a good fit for you. It can be hard to make steps toward change- whether those big changes or small. I focus both on developing new strengths and skills to effectively manage life’s difficulties in the short term, while gaining insight into reasons behind behaviors to regain the control and understanding of past patterns to facilitate future autonomy in handling life’s stressors. My style has been described by clients as supportive, warm, interactive, easy to talk to, direct, nonjudgmental while also being able to utilize humor & creativity.
(312) 940-1858 View (312) 940-1858
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.