Photo of CradleStone, LLC , Counselor in Anacortes, WA
CradleStone, LLC
Counselor, MS, MAC, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Are you alone and feeling no support? Is your teenager struggling to be part of your family? Whether your teen is acting out through high-risk behaviors or isolating through technology, your family is probably feeling the strain. When you aren't sure how to help your teen or what they truly need, it can feel overwhelming and hopeless. I'm here to support you, your teen, and your family so you can move through your challenges together. Individuals seeking help with depressive or anxious feelings can find solutions through me as well.
Are you alone and feeling no support? Is your teenager struggling to be part of your family? Whether your teen is acting out through high-risk behaviors or isolating through technology, your family is probably feeling the strain. When you aren't sure how to help your teen or what they truly need, it can feel overwhelming and hopeless. I'm here to support you, your teen, and your family so you can move through your challenges together. Individuals seeking help with depressive or anxious feelings can find solutions through me as well.
(360) 614-2842 View (360) 614-2842
Photo of Jonathan Vander Schuur, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Jonathan Vander Schuur
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221
I love serving my community in Anacortes and surrounding areas. I have a wide range of expertise. I offer counseling for individuals, couples and minors. I work with all ages, especially children and teens, and take state insurances. I have significant experience working with couples, especially in domestic violence situations and in family reunification. I am also a Guardian Ad Litem for Island county.
I love serving my community in Anacortes and surrounding areas. I have a wide range of expertise. I offer counseling for individuals, couples and minors. I work with all ages, especially children and teens, and take state insurances. I have significant experience working with couples, especially in domestic violence situations and in family reunification. I am also a Guardian Ad Litem for Island county.
(833) 232-4735 View (833) 232-4735
Photo of Gino Wolfe—Anxiety•depression•grief—Kids Adults, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Anacortes, WA
Gino Wolfe—Anxiety•depression•grief—Kids Adults
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, SUDP, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in life as if the world is resting on your shoulders? Do you feel the burden of caring for loved ones while feeling like no one is there to take care of you? Do you feel disconnected from relationships in your life? Are you in the military and struggling with feelings of anxiety or stress about your deployment? Are you having trouble leaving your experiences from the military behind or experiencing PTSD? Is grief from losing a loved one impacting your relationships and your ability to manage the day-to-day? Through expert therapy, you can learn to move beyond your pain and be happier. Reach out now
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in life as if the world is resting on your shoulders? Do you feel the burden of caring for loved ones while feeling like no one is there to take care of you? Do you feel disconnected from relationships in your life? Are you in the military and struggling with feelings of anxiety or stress about your deployment? Are you having trouble leaving your experiences from the military behind or experiencing PTSD? Is grief from losing a loved one impacting your relationships and your ability to manage the day-to-day? Through expert therapy, you can learn to move beyond your pain and be happier. Reach out now
(360) 219-9635 View (360) 219-9635
Photo of Thom Thornsberry Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Thom Thornsberry Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Not accepting new clients
Adolescent issues of depression and anxiety impact families today like never before.
We are truly living in troubled times, globally and personally. Many of us find ourselves fluctuating between feelings of anxiety and/or depression. At 67 years old, I’ve spent nearly half my life – 35 years – as a Marriage and Family Therapist/Psychotherapist. Adding Hypnotherapy to my practice has been a game changer, and that, along with friends, colleagues, and many clients, I’ve learned ways of managing my thinking and thereby managing my emotions. This is what I do in my private practice and I can help you to do the same.
Adolescent issues of depression and anxiety impact families today like never before.
We are truly living in troubled times, globally and personally. Many of us find ourselves fluctuating between feelings of anxiety and/or depression. At 67 years old, I’ve spent nearly half my life – 35 years – as a Marriage and Family Therapist/Psychotherapist. Adding Hypnotherapy to my practice has been a game changer, and that, along with friends, colleagues, and many clients, I’ve learned ways of managing my thinking and thereby managing my emotions. This is what I do in my private practice and I can help you to do the same.
(206) 207-3006 View (206) 207-3006
Photo of Mary Susan Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Mary Susan Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Perhaps you're hoping to improve your mood, increase your self-compassion, or enhance your romantic relationship. Maybe you're seeking a non-judgmental and supportive relationship with your therapist, within which you can learn strategies you can use right away. If so, I look forward to hearing from you!
Perhaps you're hoping to improve your mood, increase your self-compassion, or enhance your romantic relationship. Maybe you're seeking a non-judgmental and supportive relationship with your therapist, within which you can learn strategies you can use right away. If so, I look forward to hearing from you!
(206) 455-8671 View (206) 455-8671

Online Therapists

Photo of Counseling Services for Wellbeing, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Counseling Services for Wellbeing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
Mood Disorders, depression/anxiety, Parenting Concerns, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Problems Women’s Issues, pregnancy-related difficulties, PPD, Body image Personal Growth, introspective, spiritual, and emotional exploration Trauma and Loss Interpersonal Issues Interpersonal Issues Family Matters Self-Injury, Transitional Concerns, Addiction.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
Mood Disorders, depression/anxiety, Parenting Concerns, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Problems Women’s Issues, pregnancy-related difficulties, PPD, Body image Personal Growth, introspective, spiritual, and emotional exploration Trauma and Loss Interpersonal Issues Interpersonal Issues Family Matters Self-Injury, Transitional Concerns, Addiction.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
(206) 426-0366 View (206) 426-0366
Photo of Sarah Reijnen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Anacortes, WA
Sarah Reijnen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice I work with both teens and adults ages 13 and up, and I particularly enjoy working with teen girls and young women on issues such as self-esteem and body image, school and familial struggles, trauma, and anxiety. I am also a mom to a toddler and love working with new mothers on the unique challenges, experiences, and joys that come with motherhood. I work best with clients who are motivated, open, and engaged in the therapeutic process.
In my practice I work with both teens and adults ages 13 and up, and I particularly enjoy working with teen girls and young women on issues such as self-esteem and body image, school and familial struggles, trauma, and anxiety. I am also a mom to a toddler and love working with new mothers on the unique challenges, experiences, and joys that come with motherhood. I work best with clients who are motivated, open, and engaged in the therapeutic process.
(360) 245-6725 View (360) 245-6725
Photo of Makael L White, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Anacortes, WA
Makael L White
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT, ATR, MA
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
Waitlist for new clients
I am onboarding clients for interns under my supervision only. My waitlist is CLOSED - Ideal clients for my expertise are LGBTQIA+ families, individuals, or relationships. Therapy focus can include (not limited to): navigating the world as a queer or transgender person; navigating neurodivergence; working with a chronic illness and degenerative disorders. Whether this is a work relationship, monogamous marriage, parent/teen relationship in a blended family, or one of the relationships in your polycule, we can find solutions together. The single greatest protective/healing factor in all of these are our supportive relationships.
I am onboarding clients for interns under my supervision only. My waitlist is CLOSED - Ideal clients for my expertise are LGBTQIA+ families, individuals, or relationships. Therapy focus can include (not limited to): navigating the world as a queer or transgender person; navigating neurodivergence; working with a chronic illness and degenerative disorders. Whether this is a work relationship, monogamous marriage, parent/teen relationship in a blended family, or one of the relationships in your polycule, we can find solutions together. The single greatest protective/healing factor in all of these are our supportive relationships.
(206) 312-7423 View (206) 312-7423
Photo of Vermeda Fred, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Vermeda Fred
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MFA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Whenever you think of talking with someone, thoroughly explaining everything from how you feel today, or how you have felt for years, or to the choices you are facing, or how your body and sense of yourself alters things, and you wonder, how do I find that "right" person to talk to? You have found them. Adolescent or adult, individual or a couple, call me for a free consultation, and let's see where to go from here!
Whenever you think of talking with someone, thoroughly explaining everything from how you feel today, or how you have felt for years, or to the choices you are facing, or how your body and sense of yourself alters things, and you wonder, how do I find that "right" person to talk to? You have found them. Adolescent or adult, individual or a couple, call me for a free consultation, and let's see where to go from here!
(360) 800-4531 View (360) 800-4531
Photo of Why’s Words Therapy, Nhautrey Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional in Anacortes, WA
Why’s Words Therapy, Nhautrey Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSWAIC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98057
Nhautrey is the owner of Why’s Words Therapy. Nhautrey works with clients between the ages of 3-70 years old, and has worked with clients from various cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds in the form of individual, family, and group therapy. Are you struggling with anxiety? Fighting to get out of that depressive fog? Maybe you are very clear on what your traumas are, or need guidance in figuring out how your traumas have affected you. Have a kid/teen that is struggling? Maybe you just want to see what therapy is all about. Nhautrey is here to help you piece together those aspects of your life and end the stigma of mental health!
Nhautrey is the owner of Why’s Words Therapy. Nhautrey works with clients between the ages of 3-70 years old, and has worked with clients from various cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds in the form of individual, family, and group therapy. Are you struggling with anxiety? Fighting to get out of that depressive fog? Maybe you are very clear on what your traumas are, or need guidance in figuring out how your traumas have affected you. Have a kid/teen that is struggling? Maybe you just want to see what therapy is all about. Nhautrey is here to help you piece together those aspects of your life and end the stigma of mental health!
(206) 385-1411 View (206) 385-1411
Photo of Charline Arends, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Charline Arends
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Lake Stevens, WA 98258
Waitlist for new clients
My life gives me insight into blended families, parenting multiples, the teen years, stress, post-partum issues, child developmental issues, trying to balance life, finances, jobs, marriage, and sense of self.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Child Mental Health Specialist in Washington State. I counsel people ages two to hundred in aspects of their lives from creating a strong parent/infant bond to adolescent struggles to saying goodbye at life's end. I see individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and families.
My life gives me insight into blended families, parenting multiples, the teen years, stress, post-partum issues, child developmental issues, trying to balance life, finances, jobs, marriage, and sense of self.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Child Mental Health Specialist in Washington State. I counsel people ages two to hundred in aspects of their lives from creating a strong parent/infant bond to adolescent struggles to saying goodbye at life's end. I see individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and families.
(425) 318-1814 View (425) 318-1814
Photo of Alexis Roberson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Alexis Roberson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502  (Online Only)
Whether you’re a teen searching for a sense of direction, a parent struggling to hold it all together, or an adult feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I can provide a safe space for you to explore, grow, and heal. Understanding how you got “here” is often important as you try to get “there.” It can be a lonely journey without someone alongside you. I understand that finding the right therapist is paramount when it comes to seeking guidance, or when you need someone to share your story with. Asking for help is often difficult and uncomfortable. I am experienced, approachable, and I look forward to working collaboratively with you.
Whether you’re a teen searching for a sense of direction, a parent struggling to hold it all together, or an adult feeling stressed and overwhelmed, I can provide a safe space for you to explore, grow, and heal. Understanding how you got “here” is often important as you try to get “there.” It can be a lonely journey without someone alongside you. I understand that finding the right therapist is paramount when it comes to seeking guidance, or when you need someone to share your story with. Asking for help is often difficult and uncomfortable. I am experienced, approachable, and I look forward to working collaboratively with you.
(855) 591-4796 View (855) 591-4796
Photo of Olga Lopez-Rangel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Olga Lopez-Rangel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98007
Immigration evaluations and teen support are my passions. I enjoy working with people of all races, ethnicities and cultures, and I am passionate in advocating for social justice issues. I believe that when transgressions occur and cause trauma, one should have a place to find safety. I myself have Dyslexia and HSP (Highly Sensitive Personality), which have presented challenges in my life, but I have learned to use them as the gifts that they are. For example, being highly sensitive enables me to be an excellent empathetic listener, and my dyslexia sometimes allows me to see possibilities for growth that others might not.
Immigration evaluations and teen support are my passions. I enjoy working with people of all races, ethnicities and cultures, and I am passionate in advocating for social justice issues. I believe that when transgressions occur and cause trauma, one should have a place to find safety. I myself have Dyslexia and HSP (Highly Sensitive Personality), which have presented challenges in my life, but I have learned to use them as the gifts that they are. For example, being highly sensitive enables me to be an excellent empathetic listener, and my dyslexia sometimes allows me to see possibilities for growth that others might not.
(425) 584-2816 View (425) 584-2816
Photo of Cher Anderton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Cher Anderton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I work with assigned female at birth (AFAB) and female identifying clients, adolescent age and older, and their families only.
There is power in our voices, and we deserve spaces where we can learn to feel safe expressing our pain, our hopes and our truth. I consider it my life's work to help create sacred spaces for those seeking ways to let go of the weight of their trauma and/or simply learn how to live life well and more authentically. Trust fostered in therapeutic relationships can open doors for increased self-awareness and self-love, inviting you to create healthier beliefs about yourself, your relationships, your life, your choices and your potential.
I work with assigned female at birth (AFAB) and female identifying clients, adolescent age and older, and their families only.
There is power in our voices, and we deserve spaces where we can learn to feel safe expressing our pain, our hopes and our truth. I consider it my life's work to help create sacred spaces for those seeking ways to let go of the weight of their trauma and/or simply learn how to live life well and more authentically. Trust fostered in therapeutic relationships can open doors for increased self-awareness and self-love, inviting you to create healthier beliefs about yourself, your relationships, your life, your choices and your potential.
(401) 404-5932 View (401) 404-5932
Photo of Nancy E Cohen, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Nancy E Cohen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I can help you feel happier & less stressed, improve your relationships, and manage your health issues. If your child, teen, or young adult struggles, I can help them thrive at home, school, & work. I offer individual, family, and group parenting therapy. I've provided psychotherapy for 20 years, and trained at the UW (internship), UC Berkeley (PhD & MA), & Harvard (BA). I'm interactive, practical, and will tailor my approach to you. We'll sort issues, identify priorities, make plans, and achieve goals. I'll teach you effective, evidence-based tools that you can use to live with more ease and success.
I can help you feel happier & less stressed, improve your relationships, and manage your health issues. If your child, teen, or young adult struggles, I can help them thrive at home, school, & work. I offer individual, family, and group parenting therapy. I've provided psychotherapy for 20 years, and trained at the UW (internship), UC Berkeley (PhD & MA), & Harvard (BA). I'm interactive, practical, and will tailor my approach to you. We'll sort issues, identify priorities, make plans, and achieve goals. I'll teach you effective, evidence-based tools that you can use to live with more ease and success.
(206) 329-1230 View (206) 329-1230
Photo of Angela R. Schellenberg, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Angela R. Schellenberg
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR, K-8 cer
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, EMDR, Individual, couple, child, teen and family counseling.
My approach to counseling is holistic, humanistic and client-centered. I am trained in EMDR and trauma. I work with you and together we create an individualized approach to counseling that supports your goals. My professional background is in Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Loss, Early Parent loss. Anxiety, Depression. CBT, Family Systems Counseling, Narrative Therapy, Restorative Retelling, EFT, Matrix Reprinting, Multicultural Cultural Counseling, Feminist, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Since 2000, I have had the experience of living abroad as an elementary K-8 Certified teacher in Shanghai, China, Chiangmai, and Saudi Arabia.
I specialize in trauma, EMDR, Individual, couple, child, teen and family counseling.
My approach to counseling is holistic, humanistic and client-centered. I am trained in EMDR and trauma. I work with you and together we create an individualized approach to counseling that supports your goals. My professional background is in Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Loss, Early Parent loss. Anxiety, Depression. CBT, Family Systems Counseling, Narrative Therapy, Restorative Retelling, EFT, Matrix Reprinting, Multicultural Cultural Counseling, Feminist, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Since 2000, I have had the experience of living abroad as an elementary K-8 Certified teacher in Shanghai, China, Chiangmai, and Saudi Arabia.
(206) 278-3407 View (206) 278-3407
Photo of Kelley Kohlwes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Kelley Kohlwes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am trained in evidenced-based practices as well as systemic frameworks for the management of depression and anxiety, low self-esteem, relational challenges, stress management, adolescent therapy, couples therapy, and trauma-related challenges.
Working from a relational-narrative perspective, I am committed to supporting you in your life journey. If you are feeling unhappy within your relationship, personal experiences or simply feel “stuck”, I’m here to help support you in the pursuit of your preferred way of living. I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing life transitions and couples in any relational stage, offering support to all gender identities and sexual orientations.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am trained in evidenced-based practices as well as systemic frameworks for the management of depression and anxiety, low self-esteem, relational challenges, stress management, adolescent therapy, couples therapy, and trauma-related challenges.
Working from a relational-narrative perspective, I am committed to supporting you in your life journey. If you are feeling unhappy within your relationship, personal experiences or simply feel “stuck”, I’m here to help support you in the pursuit of your preferred way of living. I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing life transitions and couples in any relational stage, offering support to all gender identities and sexual orientations.
(253) 666-6954 View (253) 666-6954
Photo of Sumi Garg, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Anacortes, WA
Sumi Garg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I specialize in supporting perinatal populations, couples, and teen families including multicultural or racial issues.
I am a Perinatal and Family Therapist, dedicated to guiding my clients through significant life changes such as beginning a family, supporting couples on the edge, and the ups and downs of the teen years. Sometimes it feels like everything is happening all at once and you don't have the emotional bandwidth to cope. I offer a safe environment to process and untangle the environmental, emotional, physical, and relational stressors impacting your current situation.
I specialize in supporting perinatal populations, couples, and teen families including multicultural or racial issues.
I am a Perinatal and Family Therapist, dedicated to guiding my clients through significant life changes such as beginning a family, supporting couples on the edge, and the ups and downs of the teen years. Sometimes it feels like everything is happening all at once and you don't have the emotional bandwidth to cope. I offer a safe environment to process and untangle the environmental, emotional, physical, and relational stressors impacting your current situation.
(425) 517-1639 View (425) 517-1639
Photo of Lori D. Wolff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Lori D. Wolff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MHP, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Monroe, WA 98272  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The ultimate goal at Harmony in Tranquility: Counseling for the Soul, is to support individuals and families in building healthier and happier lives. Starting internally, creating further external success and happiness. My expertise includes individual, family, and couple's therapy (to include child and adolescent treatment). I believe in the utmost respect of individuals and emphasize the importance of dignity and worth within each person. See Link(s): https://youtu.be/XvoWIkFik5o / https://youtu.be/nlF-L2VqeVI / https://harmonyintranquility.clientsecure.me/
The ultimate goal at Harmony in Tranquility: Counseling for the Soul, is to support individuals and families in building healthier and happier lives. Starting internally, creating further external success and happiness. My expertise includes individual, family, and couple's therapy (to include child and adolescent treatment). I believe in the utmost respect of individuals and emphasize the importance of dignity and worth within each person. See Link(s): https://youtu.be/XvoWIkFik5o / https://youtu.be/nlF-L2VqeVI / https://harmonyintranquility.clientsecure.me/
(253) 528-7475 View (253) 528-7475
Photo of Rion Lee Tisino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Rion Lee Tisino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, SUDPT, EMMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
TFS provides group therapy, social groups, protective parenting, father engagement services, anger management assessments, children and teen counseling, individual counseling, and family support services, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Art-Play Therapy, Triple P framework, Behavior Modification techniques and Solution-focused approaches.
As I thought of the mission for Tisino Family Services, I thought of strength's-based. TFS facilitates children, youth, adults, and families back into the arms of what family means. One important goal of TFS is to reduce recidivism and teach preventative steps for sustaintainability. So often, I see individuals dealing with unmitigated trauma, self-identified barriers, and generational disadvantages without coping skills. This mission implements practical skills with persistence that capture the attention of specialized techniques that provides significant breakthroughs of unstable mental health and increase healthy living.
TFS provides group therapy, social groups, protective parenting, father engagement services, anger management assessments, children and teen counseling, individual counseling, and family support services, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Art-Play Therapy, Triple P framework, Behavior Modification techniques and Solution-focused approaches.
As I thought of the mission for Tisino Family Services, I thought of strength's-based. TFS facilitates children, youth, adults, and families back into the arms of what family means. One important goal of TFS is to reduce recidivism and teach preventative steps for sustaintainability. So often, I see individuals dealing with unmitigated trauma, self-identified barriers, and generational disadvantages without coping skills. This mission implements practical skills with persistence that capture the attention of specialized techniques that provides significant breakthroughs of unstable mental health and increase healthy living.
(253) 785-3571 View (253) 785-3571

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.