Therapists for Teens in Cook County, IL

Photo of Halley Jacobs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cook County, IL
Halley Jacobs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004  (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 Brendan C. Bell, Counselor in Cook County, IL
Brendan C. Bell
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Deer Park, IL 60010
Are you having trouble finding help for your middle schooler or teen? Is your teenager difficult-to-reach? Oppositional? Out-of-control? Resistant to therapy? Working with challenging kids is a passion of mine! Give me the opportunity to connect with your son or daughter, and then equip you as parents with the skills you need to bring order to your home and rebuild your family relationships. Your middle schooler or teen will discover an environment here that is safe, productive, and often quite fun!
Are you having trouble finding help for your middle schooler or teen? Is your teenager difficult-to-reach? Oppositional? Out-of-control? Resistant to therapy? Working with challenging kids is a passion of mine! Give me the opportunity to connect with your son or daughter, and then equip you as parents with the skills you need to bring order to your home and rebuild your family relationships. Your middle schooler or teen will discover an environment here that is safe, productive, and often quite fun!
(847) 852-4714 x14 View (847) 852-4714 x14
Photo of Kathy O'Dwyer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Cook County, IL
Kathy O'Dwyer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, MC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tinley Park, IL 60477
Do you have a child or teen struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, peer relationships, and/or depression? Is your child showing a lot of anger, refusing to go to school, or getting in trouble at school often? Is your child staying in their room all day, on their devices constantly, or rarely interacting with the family? Sometimes, allowing a child or teen to have an outlet to talk to someone other than family or friends, could help them tremendously. I am here to help!
Do you have a child or teen struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, peer relationships, and/or depression? Is your child showing a lot of anger, refusing to go to school, or getting in trouble at school often? Is your child staying in their room all day, on their devices constantly, or rarely interacting with the family? Sometimes, allowing a child or teen to have an outlet to talk to someone other than family or friends, could help them tremendously. I am here to help!
(708) 398-9420 View (708) 398-9420
Photo of Amber Waite, Counselor in Cook County, IL
Amber Waite
Counselor, LCPC, CMPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Glenview, IL 60026
I've worked with teen athletes in various sports on developing tools to support their mental health both on and off the field.
I work primarily with adolescents, young adults and adults and am passionate about working with athletes. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, life transition concerns, stress management, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, work/life balance issues, sports performance concerns, and injury recovery/rehabilitation. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy but typically focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Person-Centered modalities. I tend to meet the client where they are at and work with them to create a strong rapport.
I've worked with teen athletes in various sports on developing tools to support their mental health both on and off the field.
I work primarily with adolescents, young adults and adults and am passionate about working with athletes. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, life transition concerns, stress management, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, work/life balance issues, sports performance concerns, and injury recovery/rehabilitation. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy but typically focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Person-Centered modalities. I tend to meet the client where they are at and work with them to create a strong rapport.
(312) 854-7302 x31 View (312) 854-7302 x31
Photo of Kevin Lanham, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Cook County, IL
Kevin Lanham
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that relationships are fundamental to a person's health and happiness. Whether romantic, interpersonal, peer, parent-child, or work relationships I have found that the issues people bring to therapy stem from difficulties in connecting. Furthermore, I believe that a safe, open, and honest relationship in therapy is the key to personal mental health and creating healthy relationship's in one's life. I do interpersonal therapy with individuals, couples, and groups. In particular, I enjoy connecting with young men starting their careers, gamers, and adolescent boys.
I believe that relationships are fundamental to a person's health and happiness. Whether romantic, interpersonal, peer, parent-child, or work relationships I have found that the issues people bring to therapy stem from difficulties in connecting. Furthermore, I believe that a safe, open, and honest relationship in therapy is the key to personal mental health and creating healthy relationship's in one's life. I do interpersonal therapy with individuals, couples, and groups. In particular, I enjoy connecting with young men starting their careers, gamers, and adolescent boys.
(847) 380-3847 x8 View (847) 380-3847 x8
Photo of Safe Place Counseling, Counselor in Cook County, IL
Safe Place Counseling
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, LPC, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60609
Safe Place Counseling specializes in treatment with Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Grief/Loss, Identity/Self Esteem, Seniors/Older Adults, Relationship Issues, Crisis Counseling, Anger/Aggression Management, Trauma, and Teen Issues.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
Safe Place Counseling specializes in treatment with Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Grief/Loss, Identity/Self Esteem, Seniors/Older Adults, Relationship Issues, Crisis Counseling, Anger/Aggression Management, Trauma, and Teen Issues.
Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.
(312) 374-6518 View (312) 374-6518
Photo of Rachel Sharp, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Cook County, IL
Rachel Sharp
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Rachel. I graduated from Northwestern University in 2014 with a Masters in Counseling Psychology specializing in Child and Adolescent Psychology. I have been trained in EMDR, worked with trauma in the inner-city of Chicago and am very well versed in this department. I am LGBTQI affirming. My clients have said I have a warm presence. My therapeutic approach is client-centered- I use expressive/art therapy techniques, focus on internal family systems and parts work (essentially looking at oneself through a lens of functional parts, some more at the forefront than others). I offer free 15 min consultations.
Hi! I'm Rachel. I graduated from Northwestern University in 2014 with a Masters in Counseling Psychology specializing in Child and Adolescent Psychology. I have been trained in EMDR, worked with trauma in the inner-city of Chicago and am very well versed in this department. I am LGBTQI affirming. My clients have said I have a warm presence. My therapeutic approach is client-centered- I use expressive/art therapy techniques, focus on internal family systems and parts work (essentially looking at oneself through a lens of functional parts, some more at the forefront than others). I offer free 15 min consultations.
(773) 900-6731 View (773) 900-6731
Photo of Anne Elyse Morrill-Ploum, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Cook County, IL
Anne Elyse Morrill-Ploum
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
Hi, I am a child, adolescent and young adult therapist. I see clients from 3-25 years. I have a strong passion for working with adoptive families and all the challenges that this brings, and I also treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, kids and teens with huge behaviors, ADHD and executive skills deficits, learning disabilities, attachment, trauma, domestic abuse, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, developmental issues. I also do a lot of parenting work, and I teach Robyn Gobbel's parenting course. I work with a parent in the room for children under 12, as parents become my co-therapist, carrying on the work at home.
Hi, I am a child, adolescent and young adult therapist. I see clients from 3-25 years. I have a strong passion for working with adoptive families and all the challenges that this brings, and I also treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, kids and teens with huge behaviors, ADHD and executive skills deficits, learning disabilities, attachment, trauma, domestic abuse, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, developmental issues. I also do a lot of parenting work, and I teach Robyn Gobbel's parenting course. I work with a parent in the room for children under 12, as parents become my co-therapist, carrying on the work at home.
(773) 923-1874 View (773) 923-1874
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Cook County, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Nathan Dougal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cook County, IL
Nathan Dougal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Professional, yet comfortable physical setting in a charming Chicago apartment building of 1910 vintage which has been converted to offices ~ I have been adjunct faculty at Loyola University's MSW program, teaching "Clinical Diagnosis and Therapeutic Communication" and "Adolescent Diagnosis and Treatment".
During the lifespan people can experience suffering or emotional pain. Some are in need of relief from the manifestations, or even symptoms, of emotional pain. Others are curious to understand the source(s) of the suffering. Exploring emotional pain and its origins can lead to knowing oneself more deeply (including talents and other positive qualities). Some considering therapy are seeking to enhance their abilities to relate to significant people in their life. Any of these are good reasons to consult a well-trained and experienced therapist. I am available for such consultation, which can lead to a collaborative plan tailored to you in order to explore and ease any of the above impedances to leading a more satisfying and meaningful life.
Professional, yet comfortable physical setting in a charming Chicago apartment building of 1910 vintage which has been converted to offices ~ I have been adjunct faculty at Loyola University's MSW program, teaching "Clinical Diagnosis and Therapeutic Communication" and "Adolescent Diagnosis and Treatment".
During the lifespan people can experience suffering or emotional pain. Some are in need of relief from the manifestations, or even symptoms, of emotional pain. Others are curious to understand the source(s) of the suffering. Exploring emotional pain and its origins can lead to knowing oneself more deeply (including talents and other positive qualities). Some considering therapy are seeking to enhance their abilities to relate to significant people in their life. Any of these are good reasons to consult a well-trained and experienced therapist. I am available for such consultation, which can lead to a collaborative plan tailored to you in order to explore and ease any of the above impedances to leading a more satisfying and meaningful life.
(773) 669-7987 View (773) 669-7987
Photo of Sara Riggle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cook County, IL
Sara Riggle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Whether you're a parent seeking support for your child, an adolescent grappling with life's transitions, or an adult pursuing personal growth, I'm here to walk beside you on your journey.
Life has a way of presenting us with a multitude of challenges that can leave you feeling stuck. These struggles can manifest in various ways, making each day feel like a never-ending battle. Perhaps you find yourself constantly grappling with the weight of stress or are feeling weighed down by past traumas. Maybe you're wrestling with anxiety, those persistent worries that never seem to quiet down. Or you might be experiencing the looming cloud of depression, making it difficult to find joy in even the simplest of moments. The most important thing to remember is that you don't have to navigate these challenges alone.
Whether you're a parent seeking support for your child, an adolescent grappling with life's transitions, or an adult pursuing personal growth, I'm here to walk beside you on your journey.
Life has a way of presenting us with a multitude of challenges that can leave you feeling stuck. These struggles can manifest in various ways, making each day feel like a never-ending battle. Perhaps you find yourself constantly grappling with the weight of stress or are feeling weighed down by past traumas. Maybe you're wrestling with anxiety, those persistent worries that never seem to quiet down. Or you might be experiencing the looming cloud of depression, making it difficult to find joy in even the simplest of moments. The most important thing to remember is that you don't have to navigate these challenges alone.
(847) 503-9561 x1 View (847) 503-9561 x1
Photo of Lauren Gumbiner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cook County, IL
Lauren Gumbiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnetka, IL 60093
If you are seeking therapy or counseling for your child or adolescent I understand that it can be a difficult process to find just the right help for your family.
You may be seeking psychotherapy because something in your life is not going the way you would like. It could be troublesome relationships, depression, anxiety or general dissatisfaction. No matter the specific problem, it is my goal to help you understand why you are experiencing troublesome symptoms or challenges. Then we can get you back to feeling better, reaching personal goals and enjoying fulfilling relationships.
If you are seeking therapy or counseling for your child or adolescent I understand that it can be a difficult process to find just the right help for your family.
You may be seeking psychotherapy because something in your life is not going the way you would like. It could be troublesome relationships, depression, anxiety or general dissatisfaction. No matter the specific problem, it is my goal to help you understand why you are experiencing troublesome symptoms or challenges. Then we can get you back to feeling better, reaching personal goals and enjoying fulfilling relationships.
(847) 750-4649 View (847) 750-4649
Photo of Matthew Harings, Psychologist in Cook County, IL
Matthew Harings
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I received my doctorate in Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychology and am trained to work with individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in treating challenges that occur during critical periods of development, including neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD and learning disorders), anxiety, depression, and social challenges. My approach to treatment is active, present-focused, and based on established and effective interventions for psychological disorders and transitional challenges.
I received my doctorate in Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychology and am trained to work with individuals across the lifespan. I specialize in treating challenges that occur during critical periods of development, including neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD and learning disorders), anxiety, depression, and social challenges. My approach to treatment is active, present-focused, and based on established and effective interventions for psychological disorders and transitional challenges.
(224) 470-3182 View (224) 470-3182
Photo of Orson Morrison, Psychologist in Cook County, IL
Orson Morrison
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
Some of my specialty areas include: Adult, Couples and Adolescent Psychotherapy, Trauma, Abuse, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Gender Identity, Sexuality, Parenting, and Cultural Issues.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am co-owner and have worked extensively as an adolescent, adult, and couples therapist. My style is empathic, warm, and informative. At times, I am direct and challenging with clients in order to facilitate growth and insight. I draw upon relational, systems, and cognitive-behavioral approaches and tailor my treatment to each individual/couple's unique needs. My background/training, helps foster connections with people from various ethinicities, religions, and cultural identifications. I work with common adjustment concerns as well as with serious mental health issues.
Some of my specialty areas include: Adult, Couples and Adolescent Psychotherapy, Trauma, Abuse, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Gender Identity, Sexuality, Parenting, and Cultural Issues.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I am co-owner and have worked extensively as an adolescent, adult, and couples therapist. My style is empathic, warm, and informative. At times, I am direct and challenging with clients in order to facilitate growth and insight. I draw upon relational, systems, and cognitive-behavioral approaches and tailor my treatment to each individual/couple's unique needs. My background/training, helps foster connections with people from various ethinicities, religions, and cultural identifications. I work with common adjustment concerns as well as with serious mental health issues.
(708) 325-8554 View (708) 325-8554
Photo of Steph Meyers, Counselor in Cook County, IL
Steph Meyers
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
I specialize in relationship issues, stress reduction, anxiety, depression, women's concerns and adolescent struggles.
Is the stress of work or school overwhelming you? Are your relationships difficult? Are you struggling with feelings of shame or vulnerability? Do you feel unsatisfied? Everyone experiences life differently. My training and experience as a counselor has led me to a deep understanding of how we live in our worlds: with our families, within our relationships, and even how we perceive ourselves. My approach to counseling is based on helping others find the solutions that lie within themselves. Evening and weekend appointments are available.
I specialize in relationship issues, stress reduction, anxiety, depression, women's concerns and adolescent struggles.
Is the stress of work or school overwhelming you? Are your relationships difficult? Are you struggling with feelings of shame or vulnerability? Do you feel unsatisfied? Everyone experiences life differently. My training and experience as a counselor has led me to a deep understanding of how we live in our worlds: with our families, within our relationships, and even how we perceive ourselves. My approach to counseling is based on helping others find the solutions that lie within themselves. Evening and weekend appointments are available.
(312) 925-8086 View (312) 925-8086
Photo of Julie Portnoy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cook County, IL
Julie Portnoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
From the moment a teenager or young adult becomes my client, I am dedicated to providing expert, optimal care as well as empathy and accessibility. As a psychotherapist and an advocate, my collaboration with additional health providers, psychiatrists and school administrators and educators is often pivotal to my clients' success.
From the moment a teenager or young adult becomes my client, I am dedicated to providing expert, optimal care as well as empathy and accessibility. As a psychotherapist and an advocate, my collaboration with additional health providers, psychiatrists and school administrators and educators is often pivotal to my clients' success.
(312) 219-9290 View (312) 219-9290
Photo of Ditchek Psychological Services, PLLC, Psychologist in Cook County, IL
Ditchek Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niles, IL 60714  (Online Only)
I am a professional member of the American Psychological Association, Illinois Psychological Association, Association for Psychological Science, Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation, National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Eating Disorders, and the Anxiety Disorders Association of America.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who will offer you a safe, caring, and supportive environment. In my 20 + years of clinical experience, I believe having a mutual and reciprocal therapeutic relationship is one of the first steps for growth and change. I value your input and will work with you as a team to help you identify and achieve your goals. I have a strong background in treating children, adolescents and adults with issues related to mood, relationships, adjustments to life transitions, anxiety, work or school performance, medical issues, eating disorders, substance abuse, stress, parenting, and other psychological disorders.
I am a professional member of the American Psychological Association, Illinois Psychological Association, Association for Psychological Science, Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation, National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Eating Disorders, and the Anxiety Disorders Association of America.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who will offer you a safe, caring, and supportive environment. In my 20 + years of clinical experience, I believe having a mutual and reciprocal therapeutic relationship is one of the first steps for growth and change. I value your input and will work with you as a team to help you identify and achieve your goals. I have a strong background in treating children, adolescents and adults with issues related to mood, relationships, adjustments to life transitions, anxiety, work or school performance, medical issues, eating disorders, substance abuse, stress, parenting, and other psychological disorders.
(847) 920-7895 View (847) 920-7895
Photo of Inna Popko, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cook County, 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 Karen Fretzin, Counselor in Cook County, IL
Karen Fretzin
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Northfield, IL 60093
I have been working for 20+ years with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I am a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I also focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, adolescent turmoil, adoption issues, healthy parenting, and family/relationship issues. My passion also includes working with young adults and adults on exploring personal growth and life management issues. I have created an alternative to suspension program in numerous local high schools.
I have been working for 20+ years with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I am a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I also focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, adolescent turmoil, adoption issues, healthy parenting, and family/relationship issues. My passion also includes working with young adults and adults on exploring personal growth and life management issues. I have created an alternative to suspension program in numerous local high schools.
(847) 807-1098 View (847) 807-1098
Photo of Trevor Pontillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cook County, IL
Trevor Pontillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
My specialities include adolescent issues, young adult transitions, anxiety, and stress management.
As a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), I am committed to helping adolescents and young adults navigate the challenges and transitions of life. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and understanding, creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions freely. In my practice, clients are the experts of their own lives. I collaborate closely with adolescents and young adults to set personalized goals, explore their values, and work towards creating positive change.
My specialities include adolescent issues, young adult transitions, anxiety, and stress management.
As a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), I am committed to helping adolescents and young adults navigate the challenges and transitions of life. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and understanding, creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions freely. In my practice, clients are the experts of their own lives. I collaborate closely with adolescents and young adults to set personalized goals, explore their values, and work towards creating positive change.
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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.