Therapists for Teens in Wisconsin

Photo of Paula Witt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Paula Witt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCW
Verified Verified
Monona, WI 53716
Waitlist for new clients
Are you a parent that is worried about your kid? Do you feel just as stuck as they are and unsure where to go or what to do? This is COMMON, and you are not alone. With 13+ years of experience working with children/adolescents and families, I can assure you that THINGS CAN GET BETTER! Whether you have a child that is struggling behaviorally or a teen that is struggling with anxiety/depression and shutting you out, I can help. I balance supporting the individual, while also strengthening relationships among family members.
Are you a parent that is worried about your kid? Do you feel just as stuck as they are and unsure where to go or what to do? This is COMMON, and you are not alone. With 13+ years of experience working with children/adolescents and families, I can assure you that THINGS CAN GET BETTER! Whether you have a child that is struggling behaviorally or a teen that is struggling with anxiety/depression and shutting you out, I can help. I balance supporting the individual, while also strengthening relationships among family members.
(608) 420-5840 View (608) 420-5840
Photo of Melissa Wellenstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Melissa Wellenstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have extensive knowledge in child development, school-based issues, child & adolescent anxiety, and parenting and behavioral interventions.
I have an innate ability to connect and form relationships with people. This ability has allowed me to work individuals and families in different capacities for over 15 years. I believe that every individual is unique. My counseling approach is open, flexible, and adaptive to each person's needs depending on their expectations of treatment, the problem, and treatment goals. Through my work I strive to create a strong therapeutic connection with clients and develop a safe space where clients can grow and evolve.
I have extensive knowledge in child development, school-based issues, child & adolescent anxiety, and parenting and behavioral interventions.
I have an innate ability to connect and form relationships with people. This ability has allowed me to work individuals and families in different capacities for over 15 years. I believe that every individual is unique. My counseling approach is open, flexible, and adaptive to each person's needs depending on their expectations of treatment, the problem, and treatment goals. Through my work I strive to create a strong therapeutic connection with clients and develop a safe space where clients can grow and evolve.
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Photo of Life Point Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Life Point Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSE, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, WI 53073
Waitlist for new clients
My agency works with clients of all ages to define their goals for therapy. We work collaboratively with physicians, social workers, teachers etc., to implement the most effective treatment possible. We have clinicians with a wide variety of backgrounds, experience, and areas of expertise, including treatment for adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, recovery from trauma, substance abuse, parenting, relationship issues and child/teen issues. We offer psychological testing. We are partnered with ABC to provide Psychiatry services. Our goal is to help people heal and find their best path forward.
My agency works with clients of all ages to define their goals for therapy. We work collaboratively with physicians, social workers, teachers etc., to implement the most effective treatment possible. We have clinicians with a wide variety of backgrounds, experience, and areas of expertise, including treatment for adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, recovery from trauma, substance abuse, parenting, relationship issues and child/teen issues. We offer psychological testing. We are partnered with ABC to provide Psychiatry services. Our goal is to help people heal and find their best path forward.
(920) 482-6351 x104 View (920) 482-6351 x104
Photo of Joey Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Joey Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Racine, WI 53402  (Online Only)
Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to experience less anxiety? How about wanting to process through depressive symptoms. Maybe there just feels like a roadblock in life you cannot get around and having a new perspective would be beneficial. Have you thought about just feeling less stressed in general? Should you answer yes to any of these questions, or have at least thought about them, maybe now is the time to make a change for the better in your life and begin the therapeutic journey. Because my practice is online, I am only able to accept clients that are Teen to Adults.
Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to experience less anxiety? How about wanting to process through depressive symptoms. Maybe there just feels like a roadblock in life you cannot get around and having a new perspective would be beneficial. Have you thought about just feeling less stressed in general? Should you answer yes to any of these questions, or have at least thought about them, maybe now is the time to make a change for the better in your life and begin the therapeutic journey. Because my practice is online, I am only able to accept clients that are Teen to Adults.
(612) 445-3017 View (612) 445-3017
Photo of Rachel Tillman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Rachel Tillman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenfield, WI 53228
If you or your child/teenager are feeling like there has to be another option other than “just getting through the day,” I’m here to remind you there are ways to feel better.
Life gets heavy. There is no way around it. Even the most evolved, positive, balanced people get stuck sometimes. There is no reason why we need to feel stuck by ourselves. Therapy can be the gift we give ourselves to get through the times when things feel hopeless. It also doesn’t need to be used only when we hit rock bottom. Therapy can be used as a way to continue growing through challenging life changes, navigating relationships, and help you learn more about yourself.
If you or your child/teenager are feeling like there has to be another option other than “just getting through the day,” I’m here to remind you there are ways to feel better.
Life gets heavy. There is no way around it. Even the most evolved, positive, balanced people get stuck sometimes. There is no reason why we need to feel stuck by ourselves. Therapy can be the gift we give ourselves to get through the times when things feel hopeless. It also doesn’t need to be used only when we hit rock bottom. Therapy can be used as a way to continue growing through challenging life changes, navigating relationships, and help you learn more about yourself.
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Photo of Christie Gause-Bemis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Christie Gause-Bemis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Monona, WI 53716
Teen issues: depression, anxiety, self-harm and self-esteem have been a focus.
My ideal client is someone whom is struggling in life and motivated to seek help and make the changes necessary in their thoughts, beliefs or circumstances to get back into wellness. I enjoy working with teens. Most of my career has been with at risk youth. I also work with women's issues, addressing underlying causes of stress and overwhelm. I use Imago and Gottman approaches with couples. When working with men, we discuss the need for vulnerability and self-acceptance. Anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss can all be successfully addressed with psychotherapy.
Teen issues: depression, anxiety, self-harm and self-esteem have been a focus.
My ideal client is someone whom is struggling in life and motivated to seek help and make the changes necessary in their thoughts, beliefs or circumstances to get back into wellness. I enjoy working with teens. Most of my career has been with at risk youth. I also work with women's issues, addressing underlying causes of stress and overwhelm. I use Imago and Gottman approaches with couples. When working with men, we discuss the need for vulnerability and self-acceptance. Anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss can all be successfully addressed with psychotherapy.
(608) 480-1559 View (608) 480-1559
Photo of Carissa L. Dietzler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Carissa L. Dietzler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
Waitlist for new clients
As a Child & Adolescent Therapist with over 15 years of experience, I have had the opportunity to work with hundreds of children and teens experiencing a wide variety of emotional and behavioral health challenges. I am also passionate in my work providing support and training to parents. Perhaps your child is struggling at home, at school or socially. Perhaps your teenager is experiencing strong emotions and when you try to reach out and provide support, it doesn't seem to help. Perhaps you are a parent and you feel like you have tried everything to manage your child's difficult behaviors, but nothing seems to be working.
As a Child & Adolescent Therapist with over 15 years of experience, I have had the opportunity to work with hundreds of children and teens experiencing a wide variety of emotional and behavioral health challenges. I am also passionate in my work providing support and training to parents. Perhaps your child is struggling at home, at school or socially. Perhaps your teenager is experiencing strong emotions and when you try to reach out and provide support, it doesn't seem to help. Perhaps you are a parent and you feel like you have tried everything to manage your child's difficult behaviors, but nothing seems to be working.
(715) 502-3010 View (715) 502-3010
Photo of Jennifer Nichols, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Jennifer Nichols
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Onalaska, WI 54650
My specialties include life adjustments, teen pregnancy, Trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, depression and anxiety.
Life is full of surprises. Unexpected situations occur that impact the ways in which we cope with the world and our circumstances. Handling these issues over and over can leave us feeling exhausted, frustrated, out-of-control and saddened. When things just don’t feel right, it is time to reach out and ask for help. You don’t have to face your challenges alone. I’m a big fan of helping you find your voice and live the life you love. I want to help you find your power and purpose so you can navigate life like a boss!
My specialties include life adjustments, teen pregnancy, Trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, depression and anxiety.
Life is full of surprises. Unexpected situations occur that impact the ways in which we cope with the world and our circumstances. Handling these issues over and over can leave us feeling exhausted, frustrated, out-of-control and saddened. When things just don’t feel right, it is time to reach out and ask for help. You don’t have to face your challenges alone. I’m a big fan of helping you find your voice and live the life you love. I want to help you find your power and purpose so you can navigate life like a boss!
(608) 315-5834 View (608) 315-5834
Photo of Anni Cox Couseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Anni Cox Couseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greenfield, WI 53220
Ever feel like everyday is a struggle? Sometimes reaching out for help is the most difficult step. That is why it is so important to offer caring, compassionate solutions. I work with children, individuals, couples and families. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, child and adolescent issues, grief and loss, transitional times in life such as job loss or divorce. My therapy is client-centered and insight orientated. I am also EMDR certified. I will answer your calls promptly and offer consultations.
Ever feel like everyday is a struggle? Sometimes reaching out for help is the most difficult step. That is why it is so important to offer caring, compassionate solutions. I work with children, individuals, couples and families. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, child and adolescent issues, grief and loss, transitional times in life such as job loss or divorce. My therapy is client-centered and insight orientated. I am also EMDR certified. I will answer your calls promptly and offer consultations.
(262) 912-0291 View (262) 912-0291
Photo of Kallyn Heiges, Counselor in Wisconsin
Kallyn Heiges
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Greenfield, WI 53221
I received my Bachelor's in Psychology and my graduate degree in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health concentration from Mount Mary University. I am passionate about helping others with their mental health journey. I come from a background of working in inpatient and residential care with clients ages 11 and up. I have experience in various areas such as: Anxiety, Adolescent Issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy, Grief & Loss, Self-Esteem, Self-Harm, Social Anxiety, Substance Use, and Suicidal Thoughts.
I received my Bachelor's in Psychology and my graduate degree in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health concentration from Mount Mary University. I am passionate about helping others with their mental health journey. I come from a background of working in inpatient and residential care with clients ages 11 and up. I have experience in various areas such as: Anxiety, Adolescent Issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy, Grief & Loss, Self-Esteem, Self-Harm, Social Anxiety, Substance Use, and Suicidal Thoughts.
(414) 310-6653 View (414) 310-6653
Photo of Amanda King, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Amanda King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53005
Waitlist for new clients
I have been trained in multiple treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, child/adolescent behavior management, parent coaching, family systems, and attachment work.
I am a compassionate clinician who enjoys working with individuals (8 years old and above) and families. I have extensive experience in working at acute, higher levels of care including inpatient and day treatment programs. This experience has granted me the opportunity to work with various clientele and diagnoses and help support them in their most vulnerable moments.
I have been trained in multiple treatment modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, child/adolescent behavior management, parent coaching, family systems, and attachment work.
I am a compassionate clinician who enjoys working with individuals (8 years old and above) and families. I have extensive experience in working at acute, higher levels of care including inpatient and day treatment programs. This experience has granted me the opportunity to work with various clientele and diagnoses and help support them in their most vulnerable moments.
(920) 672-1959 View (920) 672-1959
Photo of Michael Kemp, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Wisconsin
Michael Kemp
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CSAC, NCAC I, CSW
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53092
I provide individual and group counseling to adults or adolescents who have a willingness to address a Substance Use Disorder (SUD)/ Addiction and / or are working on their recovery journey. I provide counseling for anxiety, depression, relational problems, and adolescent adjustment difficulties. I also provide services to professionals who are facing challenges with their career journey (e.g., vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, professional transitions, etc.)
I provide individual and group counseling to adults or adolescents who have a willingness to address a Substance Use Disorder (SUD)/ Addiction and / or are working on their recovery journey. I provide counseling for anxiety, depression, relational problems, and adolescent adjustment difficulties. I also provide services to professionals who are facing challenges with their career journey (e.g., vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, professional transitions, etc.)
(262) 600-3691 View (262) 600-3691
Photo of Michael Casali, PhD, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Michael Casali, PhD, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Germantown, WI 53022
I specialize in child and adolescent therapy.
My clients are children, adolescents, adults, couples and families facing a range of life challenges including, depression, anxiety, loneliness, identity, relationship issues, and life meaning. I tend to work best with individuals who are curious about themselves and motivated to understand how their choices are impacting their lives.
I specialize in child and adolescent therapy.
My clients are children, adolescents, adults, couples and families facing a range of life challenges including, depression, anxiety, loneliness, identity, relationship issues, and life meaning. I tend to work best with individuals who are curious about themselves and motivated to understand how their choices are impacting their lives.
(608) 352-9863 View (608) 352-9863
Photo of Michael Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Michael Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914
I worked in an adolescent correctional facility and was Director of a Therapeutic Community, and small Catholic Mental Health Clinic.
I have been doing individual, family and couples therapy for 38 years. I am an associate of the American Board of Medical Psychotherapists and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Professional Counselor. My graduate degree is in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin with undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Philosophy. My approach is eclectic focusing on cognitive behavioral, existential and problem solving therapy. I has been trained in transactional analysis and enjoy working with the Christian and spiritual perspective. I have a Lay Ministry certificate in Lutheran studies. I have studied eastern religion, philosophy, Yoga, Judeo-Christian ministry, and the paranormal.
I worked in an adolescent correctional facility and was Director of a Therapeutic Community, and small Catholic Mental Health Clinic.
I have been doing individual, family and couples therapy for 38 years. I am an associate of the American Board of Medical Psychotherapists and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Professional Counselor. My graduate degree is in Counseling from the University of Wisconsin with undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Philosophy. My approach is eclectic focusing on cognitive behavioral, existential and problem solving therapy. I has been trained in transactional analysis and enjoy working with the Christian and spiritual perspective. I have a Lay Ministry certificate in Lutheran studies. I have studied eastern religion, philosophy, Yoga, Judeo-Christian ministry, and the paranormal.
(920) 482-6294 View (920) 482-6294
Photo of Encompass-Effective Mental Health Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Encompass-Effective Mental Health Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Encompass has been providing mental health services in Milwaukee and the surrounding area for over 22 years. We are comprised of seven highly trained master level psychotherapists, including three Art Therapists and two Child and Adolescent Therapists. The staff at Encompass provides counseling for children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Due to our diverse backgrounds, Encompass provides therapy for a variety of clients with a variety of issues. We have sessions individually, as couples, and in family groups. Our atmosphere is one of comfort and safety, ensuring privacy for working on difficult issues
Encompass has been providing mental health services in Milwaukee and the surrounding area for over 22 years. We are comprised of seven highly trained master level psychotherapists, including three Art Therapists and two Child and Adolescent Therapists. The staff at Encompass provides counseling for children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Due to our diverse backgrounds, Encompass provides therapy for a variety of clients with a variety of issues. We have sessions individually, as couples, and in family groups. Our atmosphere is one of comfort and safety, ensuring privacy for working on difficult issues
(414) 386-5299 View (414) 386-5299
Photo of Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oconomowoc, WI 53066  (Online Only)
We have specific training in Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), a parent-based treatment program for treating child and adolescent anxiety disorders.
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services is a specialty clinic that strives to provide high-quality, evidence-based treatment for those who are suffering from anxiety and OCD, and who otherwise may not have access to specialized therapy services. We work with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with OCD- and anxiety-related concerns, including: OCD, panic and agoraphobia, health anxiety, social anxiety, specific phobias, separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, body-focused repetitive behaviors, body dysmorphic disorder, trauma and PTSD, depression and mood-related issues, among others.
We have specific training in Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), a parent-based treatment program for treating child and adolescent anxiety disorders.
Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services is a specialty clinic that strives to provide high-quality, evidence-based treatment for those who are suffering from anxiety and OCD, and who otherwise may not have access to specialized therapy services. We work with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with OCD- and anxiety-related concerns, including: OCD, panic and agoraphobia, health anxiety, social anxiety, specific phobias, separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, body-focused repetitive behaviors, body dysmorphic disorder, trauma and PTSD, depression and mood-related issues, among others.
(608) 200-5681 View (608) 200-5681
Photo of Lucia Stubbs, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Lucia Stubbs
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
The emphasis of my clinical work is in pediatric assessments including neuropsychological evaluations. I specialize in providing individually-tailored, extensive examinations of symptoms, development, and functioning in order to better understand each child or adolescent. Thus, the goal is not to arrive at a standardized diagnosis, but to achieve a deeper insight into each person's distinct biopsychosocial makeup. The most enjoyable aspect of assessment work is being able to provide children and families with clarifying "ah ha" moments, in order to help them make better sense and successes of their lives.
The emphasis of my clinical work is in pediatric assessments including neuropsychological evaluations. I specialize in providing individually-tailored, extensive examinations of symptoms, development, and functioning in order to better understand each child or adolescent. Thus, the goal is not to arrive at a standardized diagnosis, but to achieve a deeper insight into each person's distinct biopsychosocial makeup. The most enjoyable aspect of assessment work is being able to provide children and families with clarifying "ah ha" moments, in order to help them make better sense and successes of their lives.
(608) 260-7493 View (608) 260-7493
Photo of Courtney Senk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Courtney Senk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53186
I provide individual, group, and child & adolescent counseling.
Has shame kept you in silence? Have circumstances robbed you of your peace? Are you struggling to cope with the stressors in your life? Do you feel like no one understands you or that you don’t fit in? Do you feel alone, overwhelmed, hopeless, angry, worthless, anxious, in constant pain, or out of control? Have you been hurt by people or systems that are supposed to help you? Trauma can shake the very foundation of our sense of well-being, safety, and belonging. And shame can hinder us from living the life we want and deserve. Whatever you find yourself struggling with, you don't need to suffer in silence or walk this journey alone.
I provide individual, group, and child & adolescent counseling.
Has shame kept you in silence? Have circumstances robbed you of your peace? Are you struggling to cope with the stressors in your life? Do you feel like no one understands you or that you don’t fit in? Do you feel alone, overwhelmed, hopeless, angry, worthless, anxious, in constant pain, or out of control? Have you been hurt by people or systems that are supposed to help you? Trauma can shake the very foundation of our sense of well-being, safety, and belonging. And shame can hinder us from living the life we want and deserve. Whatever you find yourself struggling with, you don't need to suffer in silence or walk this journey alone.
(262) 747-2872 View (262) 747-2872
Photo of Jennifer Wangerin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Jennifer Wangerin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718
She has pursued that passion in many capacities, from providing in-home therapy, serving as Director of Child and Adolescent Services at a rural mental health center, providing mental health consultation for Head Start Preschools, and most recently, coordinating a child trauma program.
Jennifer has a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Human Development from the University of Wisconsin-Green. She earned her master's degree in counseling at Marquette University in 2008. She has over 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, utilizing a variety of theoretical perspectives. Her passion for working with children and their families dates to her days as a pre-school teacher, followed by providing in-home care in the inner city of Milwaukee.
She has pursued that passion in many capacities, from providing in-home therapy, serving as Director of Child and Adolescent Services at a rural mental health center, providing mental health consultation for Head Start Preschools, and most recently, coordinating a child trauma program.
Jennifer has a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Human Development from the University of Wisconsin-Green. She earned her master's degree in counseling at Marquette University in 2008. She has over 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, utilizing a variety of theoretical perspectives. Her passion for working with children and their families dates to her days as a pre-school teacher, followed by providing in-home care in the inner city of Milwaukee.
(608) 440-8483 View (608) 440-8483
Photo of Dr. Brittany Mathews, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Dr. Brittany Mathews
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53222  (Online Only)
Brittany Mathews (preferred pronouns: she/her), a Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologist licensed to provide psychology services in Wisconsin.
Dr. Mathews specializes in providing holistic evidence-based (a fancy way of saying treatment that works!) psychology services for adolescents (ages 10-25) in Wisconsin with anxiety and depression through her private practice, MindKind, LLC. Dr. Mathews works as a team with adolescents and their families, schools, and medical providers to improve symptoms of anxiety or depression by flexibly adapting science-backed psychology treatments to meet each client's individual needs. Dr. Mathews aspires to embody mindfulness and loving kindness on a daily basis and to share a compassionate, mindful presence with others through her work.
Brittany Mathews (preferred pronouns: she/her), a Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychologist licensed to provide psychology services in Wisconsin.
Dr. Mathews specializes in providing holistic evidence-based (a fancy way of saying treatment that works!) psychology services for adolescents (ages 10-25) in Wisconsin with anxiety and depression through her private practice, MindKind, LLC. Dr. Mathews works as a team with adolescents and their families, schools, and medical providers to improve symptoms of anxiety or depression by flexibly adapting science-backed psychology treatments to meet each client's individual needs. Dr. Mathews aspires to embody mindfulness and loving kindness on a daily basis and to share a compassionate, mindful presence with others through her work.
(262) 747-2336 View (262) 747-2336
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.