Photo of Erin Mccord, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Erin Mccord
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
I have extensive training and supervision in child and adolescent therapy, specifically play therapy, as well as specialized training in adoption and attachment.
I started my career in a private foster care agency, then transitioned to a group practice for 7 years before opening my own practice. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have specialized training in adoption and play therapy. I view counseling as a partnership between client and counselor. I value the therapeutic relationship as central to supporting clients in developing insight, increasing self-awareness, and processing hurts. I utilize a variety of strategies to assist clients with examining their patterns in thought, feelings, and behaviors, to increase understanding, and make adjustments toward improved functioning.
I have extensive training and supervision in child and adolescent therapy, specifically play therapy, as well as specialized training in adoption and attachment.
I started my career in a private foster care agency, then transitioned to a group practice for 7 years before opening my own practice. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have specialized training in adoption and play therapy. I view counseling as a partnership between client and counselor. I value the therapeutic relationship as central to supporting clients in developing insight, increasing self-awareness, and processing hurts. I utilize a variety of strategies to assist clients with examining their patterns in thought, feelings, and behaviors, to increase understanding, and make adjustments toward improved functioning.
(757) 364-0557 View (757) 364-0557
Photo of Inner-Missions PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Inner-Missions PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
My name is Richard St. Pierre. I am a licensed clinical social worker by profession, a former Marine, and founder of Inner-Missions. My area of focus is active duty military, recently discharged or retired veterans, and their families. Utilizing INDIVIDUAL, COUPLES & FAMILY THERAPY, I offer decades of experience, insight, and support, as you sort through the concerns that impede your journey of self-discovery: Let me help you with the stress and strain of family, work, and financial pressures; a teen with school or behavioral issues who is "Standing on Your Last Nerve". I offer you a new perspective.
My name is Richard St. Pierre. I am a licensed clinical social worker by profession, a former Marine, and founder of Inner-Missions. My area of focus is active duty military, recently discharged or retired veterans, and their families. Utilizing INDIVIDUAL, COUPLES & FAMILY THERAPY, I offer decades of experience, insight, and support, as you sort through the concerns that impede your journey of self-discovery: Let me help you with the stress and strain of family, work, and financial pressures; a teen with school or behavioral issues who is "Standing on Your Last Nerve". I offer you a new perspective.
(757) 774-5659 View (757) 774-5659
Photo of Kara Tracy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Kara Tracy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Kara Tracy, an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), brings over 5 years of expertise in assisting adolescents and adults in navigating through diverse life challenges, including trauma, adolescent out-of-home placement, life transitions, depression, anxiety, infertility, grief/pregnancy loss, and substance addiction. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Mary Baldwin University and her Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health from Capella University.
Kara Tracy, an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), brings over 5 years of expertise in assisting adolescents and adults in navigating through diverse life challenges, including trauma, adolescent out-of-home placement, life transitions, depression, anxiety, infertility, grief/pregnancy loss, and substance addiction. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Mary Baldwin University and her Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health from Capella University.
(757) 260-3628 View (757) 260-3628
Photo of Suzanne Saltisiak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Suzanne Saltisiak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
I help people who feel like anxiety has taken over their life find a way to take control back and find balance. You could be worried about your teenager figuring out who they are in high school. Maybe you are stuck in that in-between of adolescence and adulthood and trying to take those next steps feels overwhelming. Or you carry the weight of an old relationship and can’t seem to move forward. Perhaps you are trapped by panic and fear… of something new, of talking to people, of making a phone call, of germs or of losing your breath to panic. Or maybe the memories of past trauma haunt you in the present.
I help people who feel like anxiety has taken over their life find a way to take control back and find balance. You could be worried about your teenager figuring out who they are in high school. Maybe you are stuck in that in-between of adolescence and adulthood and trying to take those next steps feels overwhelming. Or you carry the weight of an old relationship and can’t seem to move forward. Perhaps you are trapped by panic and fear… of something new, of talking to people, of making a phone call, of germs or of losing your breath to panic. Or maybe the memories of past trauma haunt you in the present.
(757) 379-8432 View (757) 379-8432
Photo of Hope Psychotherapy Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Hope Psychotherapy Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
I am especially driven to help the adolescent and young adult population.
During this time of uncertainty and worry, we may struggle with managing our emotions. If you are struggling, you do not have to do it alone. Therapy is a place to explore what in your life needs attention and support. Together, we will work through and explore concerns & symptoms and determine what strategies will best enhance your life.
I am especially driven to help the adolescent and young adult population.
During this time of uncertainty and worry, we may struggle with managing our emotions. If you are struggling, you do not have to do it alone. Therapy is a place to explore what in your life needs attention and support. Together, we will work through and explore concerns & symptoms and determine what strategies will best enhance your life.
(757) 695-9294 View (757) 695-9294
Photo of Kimber Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Kimber Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
I am currently accepting new clients and would love to work with you or your adolescent daughter.
Life can get hard, no matter how old you are or how “great” you appear to have it. Navigating through daily stressors can take a toll on you, and make it hard to concentrate at work and(or) school, communicate with your family and friends, and do the things you usually love. These stressors can include relationship concerns, peer conflicts, parental conflicts/difficulties, continuing to make“bad” decisions; unresolved childhood concerns, un-fulfillment at work, or difficulties dealing with past trauma.
I am currently accepting new clients and would love to work with you or your adolescent daughter.
Life can get hard, no matter how old you are or how “great” you appear to have it. Navigating through daily stressors can take a toll on you, and make it hard to concentrate at work and(or) school, communicate with your family and friends, and do the things you usually love. These stressors can include relationship concerns, peer conflicts, parental conflicts/difficulties, continuing to make“bad” decisions; unresolved childhood concerns, un-fulfillment at work, or difficulties dealing with past trauma.
(757) 702-5021 View (757) 702-5021
Photo of Youth Mentoring Program-ATOM, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia Beach, VA
Youth Mentoring Program-ATOM
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Against The Odds Mentoring (ATOM) is a 12 month community-based group mentorship program, targeting middle school adolescent boys and girls ages 11-14 residing in Norfolk, Chesapeake and Virginia Beach Virginia. ATOM provides evidence based mentoring service to include: life skills, mental health and wellness, transitions, self-esteem, peer pressure, time and money management, self-control, organizational skills, etiquette and a host more.
Against The Odds Mentoring (ATOM) is a 12 month community-based group mentorship program, targeting middle school adolescent boys and girls ages 11-14 residing in Norfolk, Chesapeake and Virginia Beach Virginia. ATOM provides evidence based mentoring service to include: life skills, mental health and wellness, transitions, self-esteem, peer pressure, time and money management, self-control, organizational skills, etiquette and a host more.
(757) 720-7704 View (757) 720-7704
Photo of Eddy Rocha, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Eddy Rocha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? I am a Bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Provider, and I am currently accepting new clients! Have you struggled to find a counselor who can understand you? Are you a child, teen, or adult who needs help taking control of your own well-being?
Are you struggling to reach your full potential? I am a Bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Provider, and I am currently accepting new clients! Have you struggled to find a counselor who can understand you? Are you a child, teen, or adult who needs help taking control of your own well-being?
(757) 210-7736 View (757) 210-7736
Photo of Kime Kenslow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Kime Kenslow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty lies in working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced grief/loss and/or are dealing with residual trauma. I have an extensive history of working with pre-adolescent and adolescent girls in individual and group settings. I also offer counseling from a Christian perspective; utilizing a biblical approach to create coping skills in response to life stressors. I currently provide only individual therapy.
My specialty lies in working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced grief/loss and/or are dealing with residual trauma. I have an extensive history of working with pre-adolescent and adolescent girls in individual and group settings. I also offer counseling from a Christian perspective; utilizing a biblical approach to create coping skills in response to life stressors. I currently provide only individual therapy.
(757) 785-0199 View (757) 785-0199
Photo of Kathleen Elizabeth Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Kathleen Elizabeth Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
I provide culturally alert counseling to children, adolescent, adult, and LGBT populations.
I have over eight years of experience working in the mental health field with a variety of diverse populations. I believe in the incorporation of multicultural awareness and cultural humility in all aspects of my clinical work. I apply a CBT theoretical foundation to therapy incorporating strengths-based approaches, positive psychology, and mindfulness practices. I work to provide clients with a safe space in which to explore their current concerns, unpack their personal history, and positively develop their identity.
I provide culturally alert counseling to children, adolescent, adult, and LGBT populations.
I have over eight years of experience working in the mental health field with a variety of diverse populations. I believe in the incorporation of multicultural awareness and cultural humility in all aspects of my clinical work. I apply a CBT theoretical foundation to therapy incorporating strengths-based approaches, positive psychology, and mindfulness practices. I work to provide clients with a safe space in which to explore their current concerns, unpack their personal history, and positively develop their identity.
(757) 210-6774 View (757) 210-6774
Photo of Noeris Montanez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Noeris Montanez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Noeris Montanez is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from South University with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counselor in childhood/adolescent and education. Noeris believes in a holistic approach that ensures the individual is being understood in all areas in their lives. Being a veteran, serving in the United States Navy, Noeris understand the challenges kids and families may face. Additional Noeris is a Education Specialist involving schools in to the treatment process to help reduce symptoms.
Noeris Montanez is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from South University with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counselor in childhood/adolescent and education. Noeris believes in a holistic approach that ensures the individual is being understood in all areas in their lives. Being a veteran, serving in the United States Navy, Noeris understand the challenges kids and families may face. Additional Noeris is a Education Specialist involving schools in to the treatment process to help reduce symptoms.
(757) 908-3589 View (757) 908-3589
Photo of Atlantic Family & Adolescent Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Atlantic Family & Adolescent Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
We offer a variety of therapeutic services including family, adolescent, individual, and couples therapy.
We help families, couples, and individuals who are struggling. We offer them help when they are working through personal struggles, marriage/couple difficulties, family concerns, the difficult teen years, emotional/behavioral issues, or other difficult life circumstances. This process can be scary and I commend you for starting it! We accept Anthem/BCBS, Optima, and Tricare. We are currently open to new clients!
We offer a variety of therapeutic services including family, adolescent, individual, and couples therapy.
We help families, couples, and individuals who are struggling. We offer them help when they are working through personal struggles, marriage/couple difficulties, family concerns, the difficult teen years, emotional/behavioral issues, or other difficult life circumstances. This process can be scary and I commend you for starting it! We accept Anthem/BCBS, Optima, and Tricare. We are currently open to new clients!
(757) 239-2990 View (757) 239-2990
Photo of Matt Mullenix, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Matt Mullenix
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23456  (Online Only)
I specialize in teen, college aged and adult individuals who experience anxiety, depression, trauma and so much more.
Dealing with mental health symptoms that seem too difficult to take on alone? Do you struggle to fit in, feel misunderstood or that your voice isn't heard? Allow my warm, relaxed and non-judgmental style provide you with a safe and welcoming space to share. Together, let's explore your unique journey to help gather insight, explore emotions, and develop coping skills. Let's help you heal and regain a newfound sense of self and meaning as we set achievable goals, and cultivate resiliency in all facets of life. If you're ready for a collaborative and empowering therapeutic experience, reach out—because your well-being matters.
I specialize in teen, college aged and adult individuals who experience anxiety, depression, trauma and so much more.
Dealing with mental health symptoms that seem too difficult to take on alone? Do you struggle to fit in, feel misunderstood or that your voice isn't heard? Allow my warm, relaxed and non-judgmental style provide you with a safe and welcoming space to share. Together, let's explore your unique journey to help gather insight, explore emotions, and develop coping skills. Let's help you heal and regain a newfound sense of self and meaning as we set achievable goals, and cultivate resiliency in all facets of life. If you're ready for a collaborative and empowering therapeutic experience, reach out—because your well-being matters.
(757) 996-5244 View (757) 996-5244
Photo of Chris Doriani - Free Spirit Counseling And Collaborative, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Chris Doriani - Free Spirit Counseling And Collaborative
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA , ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
Meet Chris, LCSW: Nurturing Well-being and Unleashing Potential. My therapeutic philosophy revolves around active engagement, practical skill-building, and the cultivation of individual strengths. Together, we'll embark on a journey to uncover your unique potential and facilitate healing across social, physical, and spiritual dimensions of your life. I specialize in providing care for stress management, career/life transitions, adolescent/young adult adjustments, as well as addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
Meet Chris, LCSW: Nurturing Well-being and Unleashing Potential. My therapeutic philosophy revolves around active engagement, practical skill-building, and the cultivation of individual strengths. Together, we'll embark on a journey to uncover your unique potential and facilitate healing across social, physical, and spiritual dimensions of your life. I specialize in providing care for stress management, career/life transitions, adolescent/young adult adjustments, as well as addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
(757) 834-8879 View (757) 834-8879
Photo of Charnita Clements, Resident in Counseling in Virginia Beach, VA
Charnita Clements
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Charnita Clements, an experienced outpatient therapist dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. Whether you're a child, adolescent, or adult, my primary mission is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your concerns and build a path towards overcoming life's challenges. In our therapeutic journey together, I am committed to providing you with an environment that is peaceful, encouraging, and empowering. I believe that each person possesses unique strengths, and my goal is to help you uncover these strengths to enhance your well-being.
Hello, I'm Charnita Clements, an experienced outpatient therapist dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. Whether you're a child, adolescent, or adult, my primary mission is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your concerns and build a path towards overcoming life's challenges. In our therapeutic journey together, I am committed to providing you with an environment that is peaceful, encouraging, and empowering. I believe that each person possesses unique strengths, and my goal is to help you uncover these strengths to enhance your well-being.
(757) 866-3601 View (757) 866-3601
Photo of Rachel Kraemer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Rachel Kraemer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23464  (Online Only)
You can bring your child(dren) for child/adolescent therapy to be seen at same time.
Are you looking for a solution? Facing the same problem each day and do not know how to overcome it? You are in the right place. I will work on finding you evidenced based solutions to help you through your challenging times in a non-judgmental and supportive environment. My focus is to empower children, adolescents, adults and families building on the strengths of each individual and family in the sessions. When you call ask to make an appointment with me.
You can bring your child(dren) for child/adolescent therapy to be seen at same time.
Are you looking for a solution? Facing the same problem each day and do not know how to overcome it? You are in the right place. I will work on finding you evidenced based solutions to help you through your challenging times in a non-judgmental and supportive environment. My focus is to empower children, adolescents, adults and families building on the strengths of each individual and family in the sessions. When you call ask to make an appointment with me.
(757) 356-6149 View (757) 356-6149
Photo of Kristin Bates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Kristin Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
Whether you’re facing new personal challenges, feeling overwhelmed by life’s stresses, seeking self-growth, or looking for help for your teen or tween, I am grateful to explore the possibility of therapy with you. I am passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment to process your thoughts and concerns together. I value being present with you and exploring how you can utilize your strengths to overcome life’s challenges. My hope is that through therapy you will feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to reach your personal goals. My therapy style is not only heart warming but tough love and support as well in nature.
Whether you’re facing new personal challenges, feeling overwhelmed by life’s stresses, seeking self-growth, or looking for help for your teen or tween, I am grateful to explore the possibility of therapy with you. I am passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment to process your thoughts and concerns together. I value being present with you and exploring how you can utilize your strengths to overcome life’s challenges. My hope is that through therapy you will feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to reach your personal goals. My therapy style is not only heart warming but tough love and support as well in nature.
(757) 919-9360 View (757) 919-9360
Photo of Daniela Morillo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia Beach, VA
Daniela Morillo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
I specialize in therapy for children and teens dealing with behavioral and emotional challenges, and I'm here to support their parents too. If you're feeling overwhelmed by your child's intense emotions or behaviors, or if your teen is struggling with defiance, social challenges, or managing their feelings, just know that you're not alone. My approach focuses on helping your child or teen express and regulate their emotions positively, while also giving you as a parent effective strategies for support. Together, we'll work on building stronger family dynamics and individual emotional resilience.
I specialize in therapy for children and teens dealing with behavioral and emotional challenges, and I'm here to support their parents too. If you're feeling overwhelmed by your child's intense emotions or behaviors, or if your teen is struggling with defiance, social challenges, or managing their feelings, just know that you're not alone. My approach focuses on helping your child or teen express and regulate their emotions positively, while also giving you as a parent effective strategies for support. Together, we'll work on building stronger family dynamics and individual emotional resilience.
(804) 491-6421 View (804) 491-6421
Photo of Sadie F Sheafe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Sadie F Sheafe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ABSDip, BCD
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
I am Licensed Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst, Board Certified Clinical Sexologist, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Diplomate, Board of Clinical Sexology. I have been a therapist for over 30 years. My team of Psychiatrists,Psychologists & clinicians service over 500 clients monthly. This team approach affords you an opportunity to capitalize on the 150 years of therapeutic expertise of the entire staff. Their specialties include: Marriage/Couple/divorce, Work Related Stress, Depression, Addictions, Gay/Lesbian/Gender Issues, Sex counseling & therapy, Anger Management, PTSD, Juveniles & Adolescent, Physical -Emotional-Verbal Abuse, Grief, Attention functioning & learning disorders
I am Licensed Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst, Board Certified Clinical Sexologist, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Diplomate, Board of Clinical Sexology. I have been a therapist for over 30 years. My team of Psychiatrists,Psychologists & clinicians service over 500 clients monthly. This team approach affords you an opportunity to capitalize on the 150 years of therapeutic expertise of the entire staff. Their specialties include: Marriage/Couple/divorce, Work Related Stress, Depression, Addictions, Gay/Lesbian/Gender Issues, Sex counseling & therapy, Anger Management, PTSD, Juveniles & Adolescent, Physical -Emotional-Verbal Abuse, Grief, Attention functioning & learning disorders
(888) 657-2343 View (888) 657-2343
Photo of Lemuel Osbert Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Lemuel Osbert Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CT, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
As a Marriage/Family, Individual and Adolescent Therapist, I subscribe to trauma-informed strength based, Cognitive Behavioral and Gestalt models of therapies, believing in the importance and connection of choice, empowerment, thinking and feeling for creating long-lasting change within individuals and their varying "parts of self".
"Life without change is not living; To be uncomfortable means that change is right around the corner!" I believe these words wholeheartedly as every individual arrives at a crossroads that determine whether they move forward, backward or remain stagnant. I work alongside those who may be within a crossroad in life that has them questioning which direction to choose. In my work as a Therapist, my clinical training and experience encompasses depression, couples enrichment, grief/loss, separation/divorce, relationship issues, and other emotional/interpersonal disturbances. I specialize in trauma such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, and death/illness.
As a Marriage/Family, Individual and Adolescent Therapist, I subscribe to trauma-informed strength based, Cognitive Behavioral and Gestalt models of therapies, believing in the importance and connection of choice, empowerment, thinking and feeling for creating long-lasting change within individuals and their varying "parts of self".
"Life without change is not living; To be uncomfortable means that change is right around the corner!" I believe these words wholeheartedly as every individual arrives at a crossroads that determine whether they move forward, backward or remain stagnant. I work alongside those who may be within a crossroad in life that has them questioning which direction to choose. In my work as a Therapist, my clinical training and experience encompasses depression, couples enrichment, grief/loss, separation/divorce, relationship issues, and other emotional/interpersonal disturbances. I specialize in trauma such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, and death/illness.
(757) 663-5958 View (757) 663-5958

See more therapy options for Virginia Beach


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.