Teen Therapists in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Sara DeLaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Sara DeLaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
My experience includes acting as a Clinical Director in adolescent residential treatment, as a mentor & therapist in multiple settings and as Master's fellow in Cedar-Sinai's Department of Psychiatry.
Are you feeling stuck in some aspect of your life? Are you ready for a change, but are unsure of where or how to start? I would like to help! Life takes on new meaning when we look inward, develop a greater sense of purpose and feel energized. So many things can get us stuck, leaving us unsure or afraid to move forward. I want to help you figure out what is holding you back and enhance your journey of self-discovery. With 15 years of experience working with people, I have learned valuable tools to help you on your journey and have seen people make incredible progress.
My experience includes acting as a Clinical Director in adolescent residential treatment, as a mentor & therapist in multiple settings and as Master's fellow in Cedar-Sinai's Department of Psychiatry.
Are you feeling stuck in some aspect of your life? Are you ready for a change, but are unsure of where or how to start? I would like to help! Life takes on new meaning when we look inward, develop a greater sense of purpose and feel energized. So many things can get us stuck, leaving us unsure or afraid to move forward. I want to help you figure out what is holding you back and enhance your journey of self-discovery. With 15 years of experience working with people, I have learned valuable tools to help you on your journey and have seen people make incredible progress.
(424) 347-1474 View (424) 347-1474
Photo of Laura Jean Brownstein, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Laura Jean Brownstein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Have you ever felt like you weren't being heard? Have you struggled to advocate for yourself? Have you felt like you were different from others? If you answered, yes, to any of these questions, know that you are not alone. Whether you are seeking treatment as an adult or for a child or adolescent, being able to learn skills to advocate for yourself and develop confidence in that ability can be enlightening. I can help in making speaking up less stressful by helping you understand the roots of that difficulty and help you find your voice. For minors, I can work with other providers in helping your child feel heard and understood.
Have you ever felt like you weren't being heard? Have you struggled to advocate for yourself? Have you felt like you were different from others? If you answered, yes, to any of these questions, know that you are not alone. Whether you are seeking treatment as an adult or for a child or adolescent, being able to learn skills to advocate for yourself and develop confidence in that ability can be enlightening. I can help in making speaking up less stressful by helping you understand the roots of that difficulty and help you find your voice. For minors, I can work with other providers in helping your child feel heard and understood.
(424) 408-1730 View (424) 408-1730
Photo of Robert Garza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Robert Garza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
I have spent most of my career working with teens in the Merced and Stanislaus Counties Adolescent and Children System of Care.
I’m excited to join PATH as a Therapist. I’m a highly experienced Therapist (LCSW) with 20 years of experience. I have worked across various Behavioral Health Programs. I received my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, and substance abuse from Stanislaus State University and my master’s degree in Social Work from California State University Stanislaus. I also received specialized substance abuse addiction while completing my master’s degree. I was also instrumental in the leadership program bringing the Substance Abuse Program to Stanislaus State University.
I have spent most of my career working with teens in the Merced and Stanislaus Counties Adolescent and Children System of Care.
I’m excited to join PATH as a Therapist. I’m a highly experienced Therapist (LCSW) with 20 years of experience. I have worked across various Behavioral Health Programs. I received my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, and substance abuse from Stanislaus State University and my master’s degree in Social Work from California State University Stanislaus. I also received specialized substance abuse addiction while completing my master’s degree. I was also instrumental in the leadership program bringing the Substance Abuse Program to Stanislaus State University.
(559) 934-5158 View (559) 934-5158
Photo of Lily Fray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Lily Fray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, EMDR, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
As a sex and relationships therapist, I support individuals and couples in working through discrepancy in desire, betrayal and lack of trust due to infidelity, sexual compulsivity, sexual trauma, sexual inexperience, STI/STDs, sex therapy, ENM, healthy relationships, sexual dysfunction such as erectile dysfunction and vaginismus, and more. I use a warm and nonjudgmental approach to support clients in releasing shame to get to the root of healing. I believe that all clients have the inner resources and tools with which to navigate life’s challenges and that it is my job to support clients in identifying and strengthening these tools.
As a sex and relationships therapist, I support individuals and couples in working through discrepancy in desire, betrayal and lack of trust due to infidelity, sexual compulsivity, sexual trauma, sexual inexperience, STI/STDs, sex therapy, ENM, healthy relationships, sexual dysfunction such as erectile dysfunction and vaginismus, and more. I use a warm and nonjudgmental approach to support clients in releasing shame to get to the root of healing. I believe that all clients have the inner resources and tools with which to navigate life’s challenges and that it is my job to support clients in identifying and strengthening these tools.
(310) 929-9670 View (310) 929-9670
Photo of Michelle Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Perhaps you are encountering roadblocks of a happier and more satisfying life. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, and dissatisfaction as well as relationship difficulties, can leave us feeling frustrated and confused. I extend my help in a safe and supportive way. Together, we can explore your experiences to create meaning and movement towards fulfillment. Our earlier life events may have influenced us to establish unhelpful patterns in how we regard ourselves and relate to others.
Perhaps you are encountering roadblocks of a happier and more satisfying life. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, and dissatisfaction as well as relationship difficulties, can leave us feeling frustrated and confused. I extend my help in a safe and supportive way. Together, we can explore your experiences to create meaning and movement towards fulfillment. Our earlier life events may have influenced us to establish unhelpful patterns in how we regard ourselves and relate to others.
(747) 240-3616 View (747) 240-3616
Photo of Alison Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Alison Smith, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90064
I work with individuals and couples on enhancing relationships with one's self and with others. I create a warm and collaborative environment in order to foster insight and awareness about your areas of concern and to create desired change. I specialize in relationship concerns including: creating and maintaining satisfying interpersonal relationships, coping with feelings that arise as a result of the ending of relationship and healing from divorce. I also focus on developing improved communication and assertiveness skills to help achieve a greater sense of connection and intimacy in your existing and future relationships.
I work with individuals and couples on enhancing relationships with one's self and with others. I create a warm and collaborative environment in order to foster insight and awareness about your areas of concern and to create desired change. I specialize in relationship concerns including: creating and maintaining satisfying interpersonal relationships, coping with feelings that arise as a result of the ending of relationship and healing from divorce. I also focus on developing improved communication and assertiveness skills to help achieve a greater sense of connection and intimacy in your existing and future relationships.
(424) 570-1012 View (424) 570-1012
Photo of Michelle Chong, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Chong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90004
These are difficult times navigating the on-going effects of the pandemic, US politics, climate change, and other global issues - all on top of your daily struggles. Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or fatigued? Are your relationships under stress? Are you dealing with job insecurity or a career change? If you're in need of support and looking to make some sense of these trying times, then please reach out. Together we can identify the problems you are experiencing, and find ways to make sustainable, meaningful changes and find personal growth.
These are difficult times navigating the on-going effects of the pandemic, US politics, climate change, and other global issues - all on top of your daily struggles. Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or fatigued? Are your relationships under stress? Are you dealing with job insecurity or a career change? If you're in need of support and looking to make some sense of these trying times, then please reach out. Together we can identify the problems you are experiencing, and find ways to make sustainable, meaningful changes and find personal growth.
(213) 335-2580 View (213) 335-2580
Photo of Jennifer Sleeper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Jennifer Sleeper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
At times, we experience painful feelings of guilt and shame, or think "I am not good enough". I specialize in helping individuals with severe sexual abuse & trauma. My primary approach is called EMDR, a mind and body therapy which can help you cope more effectively with painful emotions. When a person experiences mild to severe trauma such as abuse, divorce, job stress, or a life-threatening illness, the brain cannot always process the event as it should. As a result, trauma can have a lasting effect and can interfere with your relationships, job and coping with everyday life. EMDR treatment can help move toward healing.
At times, we experience painful feelings of guilt and shame, or think "I am not good enough". I specialize in helping individuals with severe sexual abuse & trauma. My primary approach is called EMDR, a mind and body therapy which can help you cope more effectively with painful emotions. When a person experiences mild to severe trauma such as abuse, divorce, job stress, or a life-threatening illness, the brain cannot always process the event as it should. As a result, trauma can have a lasting effect and can interfere with your relationships, job and coping with everyday life. EMDR treatment can help move toward healing.
(424) 396-0987 View (424) 396-0987
Photo of Kim Hollingdale - The Movemental, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Kim Hollingdale - The Movemental
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CMPC
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I help stressed-out, underperforming, or 'just plain exhausted' athletes bounce back from performance slumps, anxiety, self-doubt, imposter syndrome, depression & burnout. My mission is to combine the powerful tools of traditional psychotherapy with sports and performance psychology, somatic, movement and mindfulness practices and make them accessible to the peak performers, the over-achievers, and the ‘I don't have time for that stuff, I’ve got training to do’ crew. No stuffy therapy office to visit, no long wait times, just plenty of real talk, tons of fresh perspective, and tangible performance results.
I help stressed-out, underperforming, or 'just plain exhausted' athletes bounce back from performance slumps, anxiety, self-doubt, imposter syndrome, depression & burnout. My mission is to combine the powerful tools of traditional psychotherapy with sports and performance psychology, somatic, movement and mindfulness practices and make them accessible to the peak performers, the over-achievers, and the ‘I don't have time for that stuff, I’ve got training to do’ crew. No stuffy therapy office to visit, no long wait times, just plenty of real talk, tons of fresh perspective, and tangible performance results.
(424) 425-3906 View (424) 425-3906
Photo of Dr. Jordyn Trockman, Psychologist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Jordyn Trockman
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I help clients come to terms with their past, heal, grow, get unstuck, and move forward. You may be feeling stressed, overwhelmed, lonely, hopeless, lost, or just "stuck." Still, I know that you can overcome your struggles and begin to live your best life. I help women of all ages and life stages rise up to meet life's many challenges. I help clients overcome their struggles with anxiety, depression, chronic stress, feelings of overwhelm, relationship issues, work challenges, and difficulties staying focused and making important decisions. I'm an active, engaging therapist with a supportive and collaborative approach.
I help clients come to terms with their past, heal, grow, get unstuck, and move forward. You may be feeling stressed, overwhelmed, lonely, hopeless, lost, or just "stuck." Still, I know that you can overcome your struggles and begin to live your best life. I help women of all ages and life stages rise up to meet life's many challenges. I help clients overcome their struggles with anxiety, depression, chronic stress, feelings of overwhelm, relationship issues, work challenges, and difficulties staying focused and making important decisions. I'm an active, engaging therapist with a supportive and collaborative approach.
(424) 341-5210 View (424) 341-5210
Photo of Kim Seabrooks, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Kim Seabrooks
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
What are you experiencing right now? Are you feeling emotionally overwhelmed, unheard, or misunderstood? Maybe you feel inadequate, incomplete, numb, or blocked by anxiety or fear. With me, therapy can be a safe space to be seen, heard, and validated. Most of us want to feel better about ourselves and our closest relationships. I help individuals, couples, and families learn to listen more effectively to themselves and each other.
What are you experiencing right now? Are you feeling emotionally overwhelmed, unheard, or misunderstood? Maybe you feel inadequate, incomplete, numb, or blocked by anxiety or fear. With me, therapy can be a safe space to be seen, heard, and validated. Most of us want to feel better about ourselves and our closest relationships. I help individuals, couples, and families learn to listen more effectively to themselves and each other.
(310) 861-6806 View (310) 861-6806
Photo of Taylor Galvin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Taylor Galvin
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Welcome to my corner, where therapy is Taylor-d (get it?) to YOU! As your therapist, I'm committed to integrating evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs and communication style. As a person, I understand the importance of having someone on your team and the healing power of a good chuckle. Together, we can explore the sticky and confusing parts of your life in a safe, non-judgmental space. Whether you're facing challenges in relationships, struggling with anxiety or depression, or simply seeking personal development, I am here to provide a supportive and empathetic space for transformation
Welcome to my corner, where therapy is Taylor-d (get it?) to YOU! As your therapist, I'm committed to integrating evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs and communication style. As a person, I understand the importance of having someone on your team and the healing power of a good chuckle. Together, we can explore the sticky and confusing parts of your life in a safe, non-judgmental space. Whether you're facing challenges in relationships, struggling with anxiety or depression, or simply seeking personal development, I am here to provide a supportive and empathetic space for transformation
(310) 356-9434 View (310) 356-9434
Photo of Aba Horthy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Aba Horthy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I am a queer multicultural nonbinary AuDHD therapist who creates a nonjudgemental space for their clients. I mainly focus on the trans and nonbinary experience, complex trauma, chronic/terminal illnesses, ADHD/autism and grief/loss. I have clinical and personal experiences regarding my specializations. I have a deep capacity for working with trauma & supporting clients who think their story is “too heavy” for others to bear. I am really good at helping you (re)connect with who you are, who you want to be & figuring out how self-care looks like for you. Whatever we work on, I will create a safe environment and affirm your experience.
I am a queer multicultural nonbinary AuDHD therapist who creates a nonjudgemental space for their clients. I mainly focus on the trans and nonbinary experience, complex trauma, chronic/terminal illnesses, ADHD/autism and grief/loss. I have clinical and personal experiences regarding my specializations. I have a deep capacity for working with trauma & supporting clients who think their story is “too heavy” for others to bear. I am really good at helping you (re)connect with who you are, who you want to be & figuring out how self-care looks like for you. Whatever we work on, I will create a safe environment and affirm your experience.
(310) 564-1408 View (310) 564-1408
Photo of Britt Eden Morrissey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Britt Eden Morrissey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
I am a psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience providing quality mental health care for clients of all ages. Are you experiencing symptoms of depression such as feelings of hopelessness, tearfulness, or an inability to enjoy daily life? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, worry, or intermittent panic attacks? Do you have a history of trauma that haunts your dreams and affects your relationships? Has your child experienced trauma that is impacting his or her mood or school performance? Has family stress taken a toll on your children, your marriage, or yourself?
I am a psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience providing quality mental health care for clients of all ages. Are you experiencing symptoms of depression such as feelings of hopelessness, tearfulness, or an inability to enjoy daily life? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, worry, or intermittent panic attacks? Do you have a history of trauma that haunts your dreams and affects your relationships? Has your child experienced trauma that is impacting his or her mood or school performance? Has family stress taken a toll on your children, your marriage, or yourself?
(424) 375-7957 View (424) 375-7957
Photo of Susan Fox Horn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Susan Fox Horn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
You may be feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or confused. You may be experiencing a difficult life transition or feel that something is missing in your life. It is important to find a therapist with whom you have a good fit, a feeling that your therapist "gets" you in order to develop the trust necessary in a therapeutic relationship. I have over 35 years of experience helping people in a safe, non-judgmental environment. It is through feeling understood that we come to understand ourselves better.
You may be feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or confused. You may be experiencing a difficult life transition or feel that something is missing in your life. It is important to find a therapist with whom you have a good fit, a feeling that your therapist "gets" you in order to develop the trust necessary in a therapeutic relationship. I have over 35 years of experience helping people in a safe, non-judgmental environment. It is through feeling understood that we come to understand ourselves better.
(310) 856-9428 View (310) 856-9428
Photo of Greta Hassel Grace, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Greta Hassel Grace
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
GRETA is passionate about reaching couples needing to de-escalate conflict, deepen safety and transparency, and strengthen sexual compatibility and connection. She approaches presenting symptoms - anxiety, depression, or addictions - previously deemed problems, as messengers with keys for healing to reveal our buried treasure within. "Where you stumble, therein lies your treasure" is the north star that guides her work to reveal the LOVE that truly lives within. With singles, as a Certified Coach of Katherine Woodward Thomas' program, "Calling in the One", she offers a 6 week course in cultivating Your Attractor Factor.
GRETA is passionate about reaching couples needing to de-escalate conflict, deepen safety and transparency, and strengthen sexual compatibility and connection. She approaches presenting symptoms - anxiety, depression, or addictions - previously deemed problems, as messengers with keys for healing to reveal our buried treasure within. "Where you stumble, therein lies your treasure" is the north star that guides her work to reveal the LOVE that truly lives within. With singles, as a Certified Coach of Katherine Woodward Thomas' program, "Calling in the One", she offers a 6 week course in cultivating Your Attractor Factor.
(424) 570-2238 View (424) 570-2238
Photo of Maddie Miyoshi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Maddie Miyoshi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
You are enough. Past experiences may have created a negative inner voice undercutting your self-worth and capacity for joy. People pleasing and perfectionism may have left you needing to do or be more, unable to enjoy the present. We will work together in a safe and non-judgmental space to rewrite your self-talk and your narrative. We will identify and prioritize your own needs, allowing you to be present with grace and acceptance as you navigate healing past wounds & face life's challenges. Therapy will empower you to recognize your intrinsic strengths, forging a new path toward a life of meaning and fulfillment.
You are enough. Past experiences may have created a negative inner voice undercutting your self-worth and capacity for joy. People pleasing and perfectionism may have left you needing to do or be more, unable to enjoy the present. We will work together in a safe and non-judgmental space to rewrite your self-talk and your narrative. We will identify and prioritize your own needs, allowing you to be present with grace and acceptance as you navigate healing past wounds & face life's challenges. Therapy will empower you to recognize your intrinsic strengths, forging a new path toward a life of meaning and fulfillment.
(626) 313-2818 View (626) 313-2818
Photo of Carla Litto, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Carla Litto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
I help people build healthy relationships, work through painful break-ups, improve their social interactions and reduce their anxiety. If you are looking for clarity on your situation, struggling in a difficult relationship, worrying a great deal about upsetting others, feeling confused or overwhelmed, I can help. Particularly, if you or someone in your life identifies with traits of Narcissistic or Borderline Personality Disorder, I can help you cope, whether it's you or your loved one suffering from these symptoms.
I help people build healthy relationships, work through painful break-ups, improve their social interactions and reduce their anxiety. If you are looking for clarity on your situation, struggling in a difficult relationship, worrying a great deal about upsetting others, feeling confused or overwhelmed, I can help. Particularly, if you or someone in your life identifies with traits of Narcissistic or Borderline Personality Disorder, I can help you cope, whether it's you or your loved one suffering from these symptoms.
(424) 329-5553 View (424) 329-5553
Photo of Dr. Christine Powell: Education Therapist Adhd Coach in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Christine Powell: Education Therapist Adhd Coach
EdD, MEd
Verified Verified
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Seeing my son struggle with ADHD was difficult. As an Education Therapist and Special Educator, I wanted to have alternatives to prescription medication for his lack of focus and attention. I developed an interactive, research-based approach that focuses on the individualized needs of each human I see. My best-fit clients (& most successful) are individuals with ADHD, diagnosed or undiagnosed, dealing with Executive Functioning challenges. Executive Dysfunction can hinder academic and life success. Reach out for a free 15 min. Discovery session.
Seeing my son struggle with ADHD was difficult. As an Education Therapist and Special Educator, I wanted to have alternatives to prescription medication for his lack of focus and attention. I developed an interactive, research-based approach that focuses on the individualized needs of each human I see. My best-fit clients (& most successful) are individuals with ADHD, diagnosed or undiagnosed, dealing with Executive Functioning challenges. Executive Dysfunction can hinder academic and life success. Reach out for a free 15 min. Discovery session.
(757) 798-7965 View (757) 798-7965
Photo of Madison Maynes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA
Madison Maynes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mar Vista, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Using humor, authenticity, and unwavering compassion, I approach healing and recovery from a place of empowered vulnerability. I acknowledge the multitude of complexities that come with the human condition and the various systemic barriers, developmental traumas, and life stressors that can impact an individual and perpetuate suffering. Rooted in advocacy and social justice, I collaborate with clients and creatively explore ways for us to fully embody their strengths and apply them harmoniously to heal emotional wounds that have kept them from fully participating in their lives.
Using humor, authenticity, and unwavering compassion, I approach healing and recovery from a place of empowered vulnerability. I acknowledge the multitude of complexities that come with the human condition and the various systemic barriers, developmental traumas, and life stressors that can impact an individual and perpetuate suffering. Rooted in advocacy and social justice, I collaborate with clients and creatively explore ways for us to fully embody their strengths and apply them harmoniously to heal emotional wounds that have kept them from fully participating in their lives.
(424) 338-4431 View (424) 338-4431

See more therapy options for Mar Vista, Los Angeles

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.