Therapists for Teens and Adolescents in Cherry Creek, Denver, CO

Photo of Amity Walter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW, CST
Amity Walter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW, CST
6 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
I have been a therapist for 23 years, so I have had thousands of conversations with clients and extensive advanced training. I know change can be challenging so I try to make the process as efficient and painless as possible. I am motivated to help you meet YOUR goals. I always offer you the insights gained from my years of experience as well as my knowledge about what helps us lead a good life. I am practical and down-to-earth in my approach. Relationship skills can be learned, and you can feel better about yourself + your partner when you are relating with love, consideration, kindness, and passion.
I have been a therapist for 23 years, so I have had thousands of conversations with clients and extensive advanced training. I know change can be challenging so I try to make the process as efficient and painless as possible. I am motivated to help you meet YOUR goals. I always offer you the insights gained from my years of experience as well as my knowledge about what helps us lead a good life. I am practical and down-to-earth in my approach. Relationship skills can be learned, and you can feel better about yourself + your partner when you are relating with love, consideration, kindness, and passion.
(720) 730-5311 View (720) 730-5311
Photo of Mikayla Moya, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Mikayla Moya
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
She provides therapy for teens and adults, offering a warm, affirming environment where clients feel safe to explore challenges and build the skills necessary for long-term emotional wellness.
Mikayla is especially experienced in working with individuals navigating anxiety disorders, including OCD, as well as those dealing with PTSD and trauma-related symptoms.
She provides therapy for teens and adults, offering a warm, affirming environment where clients feel safe to explore challenges and build the skills necessary for long-term emotional wellness.
Mikayla is especially experienced in working with individuals navigating anxiety disorders, including OCD, as well as those dealing with PTSD and trauma-related symptoms.
(855) 705-9320 View (855) 705-9320
Photo of Jessica Quick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessica Quick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
6 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
Jess Quick, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker who brings warmth and energy along with a cognitive, humanistic approach to her work. Using a blend of CBT, person-first therapy and humanistic theory, complemented by mindfulness techniques and specialized grief counseling, Jess has worked in a wide variety of treatment settings for over eighteen years to help individuals and couples set, reach, and maintain goals. In addition to her clinical work, Jess has been an Adjunct Professor at Metro State University for the past twelve years focusing on grief and trauma work and education.
Jess Quick, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker who brings warmth and energy along with a cognitive, humanistic approach to her work. Using a blend of CBT, person-first therapy and humanistic theory, complemented by mindfulness techniques and specialized grief counseling, Jess has worked in a wide variety of treatment settings for over eighteen years to help individuals and couples set, reach, and maintain goals. In addition to her clinical work, Jess has been an Adjunct Professor at Metro State University for the past twelve years focusing on grief and trauma work and education.
(315) 707-4110 View (315) 707-4110
Photo of Jenna Gershen, Psychologist, PsyD
Jenna Gershen
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
I also specialize in psychological and neuropsychological assessments for children, adolescents, and adults, including evaluations for ADHD, autism, IQ, and academic functioning.
Life can be difficult at times. Every so often people need a safe environment to express their worries and frustrations. I enjoy working with adults and young adults to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I see a client's full potential and hold onto that vision for them until they can begin to see it for themselves. I will challenge you in various ways to help increase your self-esteem and view yourself in a more positive light.
I also specialize in psychological and neuropsychological assessments for children, adolescents, and adults, including evaluations for ADHD, autism, IQ, and academic functioning.
Life can be difficult at times. Every so often people need a safe environment to express their worries and frustrations. I enjoy working with adults and young adults to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I see a client's full potential and hold onto that vision for them until they can begin to see it for themselves. I will challenge you in various ways to help increase your self-esteem and view yourself in a more positive light.
(720) 790-3926 View (720) 790-3926
Photo of Nicholas Mancini, Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Nicholas Mancini
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
13 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
My areas of expertise are adolescents and adults working on feelings of anxiety, depression, and mood regulation due to traumatic experiences, life stage transitions, and difficulty with primary support systems (family, friends, etc).
I utilize humor, metaphors, and experiential activities to help you develop the ability to engage in the present moment so you can decide whether a behavior is consistent with your values. Through acceptance and mindfulness practices, I identify "how" you think about experiences to help create flexibility in moving toward personal growth and development.
My areas of expertise are adolescents and adults working on feelings of anxiety, depression, and mood regulation due to traumatic experiences, life stage transitions, and difficulty with primary support systems (family, friends, etc).
I utilize humor, metaphors, and experiential activities to help you develop the ability to engage in the present moment so you can decide whether a behavior is consistent with your values. Through acceptance and mindfulness practices, I identify "how" you think about experiences to help create flexibility in moving toward personal growth and development.
(720) 636-9319 View (720) 636-9319
Photo of Amara Lehrburger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amara Lehrburger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families from all backgrounds, cultures, identities and walks of life.
I'm Amara, a licensed clinical social worker, passionate about guiding individuals, couples and families through life's challenges towards healing, transformation and self-discovery. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal relationships, burn out, personal growth and fostering a sense of self worth and confidence. Healing looks different for each of us and I'm here to guide and facilitate your process towards cultivating your intuitive wisdom and resiliency. On this journey, you'll have an opportunity to deepen your self-awareness, acceptance and self-love.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families from all backgrounds, cultures, identities and walks of life.
I'm Amara, a licensed clinical social worker, passionate about guiding individuals, couples and families through life's challenges towards healing, transformation and self-discovery. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal relationships, burn out, personal growth and fostering a sense of self worth and confidence. Healing looks different for each of us and I'm here to guide and facilitate your process towards cultivating your intuitive wisdom and resiliency. On this journey, you'll have an opportunity to deepen your self-awareness, acceptance and self-love.
(720) 358-8591 View (720) 358-8591
Photo of Amy Elizabeth Hoch, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
Amy Elizabeth Hoch
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
3 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
La vida puede ser increíblemente confusa y abrumadora. Buscar apoyo puede ser el primer paso para encontrar paz, calma, claridad y dirección. Mi objetivo como terapeuta es brindarte un espacio cálido, acogedor y abierto. Mi enfoque es trabajar de manera colaborativa contigo para ayudarte a crear una vida y unas relaciones que sean plenas y estén alineadas con tus metas.Trabajo con parejas e individuos en todo lo relacionado con la conexión, la intimidad, el romance, la sexualidad y las relaciones.
La vida puede ser increíblemente confusa y abrumadora. Buscar apoyo puede ser el primer paso para encontrar paz, calma, claridad y dirección. Mi objetivo como terapeuta es brindarte un espacio cálido, acogedor y abierto. Mi enfoque es trabajar de manera colaborativa contigo para ayudarte a crear una vida y unas relaciones que sean plenas y estén alineadas con tus metas.Trabajo con parejas e individuos en todo lo relacionado con la conexión, la intimidad, el romance, la sexualidad y las relaciones.
(720) 445-8655 View (720) 445-8655
Photo of Katie Salazar-Schuckman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Katie Salazar-Schuckman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
5 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
HI! My name is Kathryn, but I like to go by Katie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years now. I have worked with all ages of individuals. My primary passion and specialty is working with women and young adults that have experienced Trauma, anxiety and depression in their lives. I have worked for nonprofit agencies and have contracted with the District attorneys office with advocating individuals that have been a victim of a crime. My personality include empathy and compassion. I will meet you where you are. Through this journey we can discover a comfortable
HI! My name is Kathryn, but I like to go by Katie and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years now. I have worked with all ages of individuals. My primary passion and specialty is working with women and young adults that have experienced Trauma, anxiety and depression in their lives. I have worked for nonprofit agencies and have contracted with the District attorneys office with advocating individuals that have been a victim of a crime. My personality include empathy and compassion. I will meet you where you are. Through this journey we can discover a comfortable
(720) 864-0674 View (720) 864-0674
Photo of Adam G. Walterbach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Adam G. Walterbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
I attended USC for my MSW & started my therapy career working w/children & teens in Los Angeles at an agency.
Many people I work with are thoughtful, capable, and outwardly successful, yet feel stalled in relationships, work, or a sense of direction. You may keep repeating the same conflicts, choices, or emotional loops—often tied to shame, perfectionism, fear of rejection, or avoidance—despite effort and self-awareness. LGBTQ individuals and couples, and working professionals in Denver, often come in wanting more than coping: clarity, traction, and lasting change in intimacy, identity, and purpose. You might look fine on paper, but privately feel disconnected from desire, authenticity, or meaning—and tired of managing it alone.
I attended USC for my MSW & started my therapy career working w/children & teens in Los Angeles at an agency.
Many people I work with are thoughtful, capable, and outwardly successful, yet feel stalled in relationships, work, or a sense of direction. You may keep repeating the same conflicts, choices, or emotional loops—often tied to shame, perfectionism, fear of rejection, or avoidance—despite effort and self-awareness. LGBTQ individuals and couples, and working professionals in Denver, often come in wanting more than coping: clarity, traction, and lasting change in intimacy, identity, and purpose. You might look fine on paper, but privately feel disconnected from desire, authenticity, or meaning—and tired of managing it alone.
(720) 551-5863 View (720) 551-5863
Photo of Ashley Vacante Goodwin, Unlicensed Psychotherapist, MS, EdS, EdD, NCSP
Ashley Vacante Goodwin
Unlicensed Psychotherapist, MS, EdS, EdD, NCSP
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
Finding the right support for your child can be a difficult and overwhelming task. Do you have questions about your student's academic ability or if their needs are being appropriately met in school? Students who have learning differences such as gifted and talented, twice exceptional, dyslexia and other learning disabilities, may not always receive what they need both academically and social emotionally. As a trained and nationally certified school psychologist, I have a thorough understanding of how children process information, barriers to learning, appropriate interventions and supports offered in the schools.
Finding the right support for your child can be a difficult and overwhelming task. Do you have questions about your student's academic ability or if their needs are being appropriately met in school? Students who have learning differences such as gifted and talented, twice exceptional, dyslexia and other learning disabilities, may not always receive what they need both academically and social emotionally. As a trained and nationally certified school psychologist, I have a thorough understanding of how children process information, barriers to learning, appropriate interventions and supports offered in the schools.
(720) 408-6195 x3 View (720) 408-6195 x3
Photo of Sarah Gallop, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Sarah Gallop
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, sad, or like you're quietly carrying more than you let others see? Most of my clients are thoughtful, creative, capable, and deeply feeling— yet struggle with anxiety, grief, loneliness, relationship challenges, or difficult life transitions. Therapy with me is a warm, collaborative space where you can exhale and explore your authentic self. My clients often share that they feel truly seen, safe, and challenged to grow. I’m a strength-based, trauma-informed therapist and will offer practical tools for relief now, while also exploring the deeper patterns shaping your relationships.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, sad, or like you're quietly carrying more than you let others see? Most of my clients are thoughtful, creative, capable, and deeply feeling— yet struggle with anxiety, grief, loneliness, relationship challenges, or difficult life transitions. Therapy with me is a warm, collaborative space where you can exhale and explore your authentic self. My clients often share that they feel truly seen, safe, and challenged to grow. I’m a strength-based, trauma-informed therapist and will offer practical tools for relief now, while also exploring the deeper patterns shaping your relationships.
(303) 225-9687 View (303) 225-9687
Photo of Gabrielle Newman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Gabrielle Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
10 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
If you’re ready to follow through on what you say you’ll do, feel more confident in how you show up professionally and personally, feel more in control of your life instead of constantly feeling overwhelmed/anxious, build healthier relationships, and trust your intuition...you’re in the right place. My approach goes beyond just talking about your patterns, we work to change them. We look at what’s driving your patterns beneath the surface, work with your nervous system so change actually sticks, and help you integrate what you learn into your real, everyday life. So you're actually showing up differently not just thinking about it.
If you’re ready to follow through on what you say you’ll do, feel more confident in how you show up professionally and personally, feel more in control of your life instead of constantly feeling overwhelmed/anxious, build healthier relationships, and trust your intuition...you’re in the right place. My approach goes beyond just talking about your patterns, we work to change them. We look at what’s driving your patterns beneath the surface, work with your nervous system so change actually sticks, and help you integrate what you learn into your real, everyday life. So you're actually showing up differently not just thinking about it.
(720) 782-1226 View (720) 782-1226
Photo of Lisa Marie Bobby - For Love, Happiness, & Success, Psychologist, PhD, LMFT, LP, BCC
For Love, Happiness, & Success
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT, LP, BCC
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
If you're looking for an empowering partner to help you grow, repair your strong bond with your partner, heal your heart after a relationship loss, or get clarity and direction about yourself and your life... we should talk! I'm Dr. Lisa, a psychologist, a marriage and family therapist, and a board-certified coach specializing in growth, love, happiness, and success for individuals and couples. My approach helps you uncover your strengths and values, reveals hidden obstacles, and links new insights to positive action, ensuring that our work together is meaningful, productive, and moves you forward.
If you're looking for an empowering partner to help you grow, repair your strong bond with your partner, heal your heart after a relationship loss, or get clarity and direction about yourself and your life... we should talk! I'm Dr. Lisa, a psychologist, a marriage and family therapist, and a board-certified coach specializing in growth, love, happiness, and success for individuals and couples. My approach helps you uncover your strengths and values, reveals hidden obstacles, and links new insights to positive action, ensuring that our work together is meaningful, productive, and moves you forward.
(720) 606-4539 View (720) 606-4539
Photo of Kim Colna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kim Colna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
Kim Colna, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience providing evidence-based mental health care. She specializes in working with pediatrics and adults supporting clients through a wide range of challenges including anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and other mood and thought disorders. Kim is known for her collaborative and client-centered approach. She tailors treatment to each individual, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), family systems work.
Kim Colna, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience providing evidence-based mental health care. She specializes in working with pediatrics and adults supporting clients through a wide range of challenges including anxiety, OCD, ADHD, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and other mood and thought disorders. Kim is known for her collaborative and client-centered approach. She tailors treatment to each individual, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), family systems work.
(970) 825-1096 View (970) 825-1096
Photo of Camille Sinclair, Psychologist, PhD
Camille Sinclair
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
Welcome! My name is Dr. Sinclair and I am the Founder and Director of Sinclair Psychological Associates. I am both a Clinical and Health Psychologist; meaning, I have expertise in treating clients with psychological and emotional stressors (typically trauma, anxiety, grief and other stress responses); as well as clients with medical conditions negatively impacting their daily lives.
Welcome! My name is Dr. Sinclair and I am the Founder and Director of Sinclair Psychological Associates. I am both a Clinical and Health Psychologist; meaning, I have expertise in treating clients with psychological and emotional stressors (typically trauma, anxiety, grief and other stress responses); as well as clients with medical conditions negatively impacting their daily lives.
(720) 802-2176 View (720) 802-2176
Photo of Dr. Talya Vogel Geller - Dr. Talya Vogel, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Talya Vogel
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples navigating stress, trauma, anxiety, and life transitions.
You’re not broken. You’re human, and being human is complicated. We all develop patterns to protect ourselves, but sometimes those patterns get in the way of connecting to the life we want. Maybe you feel anxious, disconnected, or like the past keeps showing up in unhelpful ways. Therapy can help you make sense of what’s happening, reconnect with what matters, and find a clearer path forward. I offer integrative, evidence-based therapy for trauma, anxiety, identity, relationships, and transitions. With a doctorate from Stanford and over a decade of experience, I help people heal, grow, and build lives that feel more meaningful.
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples navigating stress, trauma, anxiety, and life transitions.
You’re not broken. You’re human, and being human is complicated. We all develop patterns to protect ourselves, but sometimes those patterns get in the way of connecting to the life we want. Maybe you feel anxious, disconnected, or like the past keeps showing up in unhelpful ways. Therapy can help you make sense of what’s happening, reconnect with what matters, and find a clearer path forward. I offer integrative, evidence-based therapy for trauma, anxiety, identity, relationships, and transitions. With a doctorate from Stanford and over a decade of experience, I help people heal, grow, and build lives that feel more meaningful.
(844) 794-6143 View (844) 794-6143
Photo of Laura Love, Licensed Social Worker, LSW, EMDR, MSW
Laura Love
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, EMDR, MSW
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
I work with adults and young adults who are carrying a lot, even if most people wouldn’t guess it. Many of my clients are navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, burnout or that constant feeling of self-doubt and people-pleasing. Some feel stuck and can’t quite name why. Others are in the middle of big life shifts (moving, graduating, changing careers, becoming a parent, separating or divorcing) and realizing that transitions can shake more than just logistics. I’m trained in EMDR, which means we don’t just talk about what happened; we actually work through it. My goal is simple: help you feel more steady and more like you.
I work with adults and young adults who are carrying a lot, even if most people wouldn’t guess it. Many of my clients are navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, burnout or that constant feeling of self-doubt and people-pleasing. Some feel stuck and can’t quite name why. Others are in the middle of big life shifts (moving, graduating, changing careers, becoming a parent, separating or divorcing) and realizing that transitions can shake more than just logistics. I’m trained in EMDR, which means we don’t just talk about what happened; we actually work through it. My goal is simple: help you feel more steady and more like you.
(720) 759-2184 View (720) 759-2184
Photo of Emily McAfee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily McAfee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
4 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80209
I am a therapist committed to helping clients heal from trauma, build self-worth, and foster more authentic connections. My work with individuals is grounded in a deep understanding of sexual, medical, and religious trauma, and I offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to support trauma processing and nervous system healing. I also work extensively with individuals navigating body image, diet culture, and shame, through a Health at Every Size (HAES)-informed lens. I understand the healing power of feeling heard, understood, and validated, and do my best to bring warmth and authenticity into every session.
I am a therapist committed to helping clients heal from trauma, build self-worth, and foster more authentic connections. My work with individuals is grounded in a deep understanding of sexual, medical, and religious trauma, and I offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to support trauma processing and nervous system healing. I also work extensively with individuals navigating body image, diet culture, and shame, through a Health at Every Size (HAES)-informed lens. I understand the healing power of feeling heard, understood, and validated, and do my best to bring warmth and authenticity into every session.
(303) 622-3985 View (303) 622-3985
Photo of Talia Nitka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Talia Nitka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
Navigating a significant life transition? Feeling stuck and struggling to make necessary life changes? Experiencing emptiness or a sense of disconnection? Understanding the root of your anxiety or sadness is crucial for making sense of your emotional struggles—common challenges I often address in my practice. My approach centers on building a strong therapeutic connection, inviting you to safely become more honest with yourself and others. Together, we'll move beyond surface-level symptom management, exploring how unconscious conflicts and past experiences are impacting your life and hindering lasting change.
Navigating a significant life transition? Feeling stuck and struggling to make necessary life changes? Experiencing emptiness or a sense of disconnection? Understanding the root of your anxiety or sadness is crucial for making sense of your emotional struggles—common challenges I often address in my practice. My approach centers on building a strong therapeutic connection, inviting you to safely become more honest with yourself and others. Together, we'll move beyond surface-level symptom management, exploring how unconscious conflicts and past experiences are impacting your life and hindering lasting change.
(720) 580-9695 View (720) 580-9695
Photo of Mia Mohrman, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Mia Mohrman
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
2 Endorsed
Cherry Creek, Denver, CO 80206
I work with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, grief, neurodivergence, low self-esteem, life transitions, and identity exploration.
I believe healing happens in connection, both with ourselves and with others. Many of the people I work with struggle with identity questions, attachment wounds, trauma, or a deep lack of trust in themselves. They often feel stuck in familiar patterns, are hard on themselves, or feel disconnected from who they are and what they want. My approach is grounded in warmth, humor, curiosity, and deep respect for your lived experience. I draw from parts work, existential, humanistic, and somatic approaches to help clients explore their inner worlds, understand their nervous systems, and reconnect with their strengths.
I work with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, grief, neurodivergence, low self-esteem, life transitions, and identity exploration.
I believe healing happens in connection, both with ourselves and with others. Many of the people I work with struggle with identity questions, attachment wounds, trauma, or a deep lack of trust in themselves. They often feel stuck in familiar patterns, are hard on themselves, or feel disconnected from who they are and what they want. My approach is grounded in warmth, humor, curiosity, and deep respect for your lived experience. I draw from parts work, existential, humanistic, and somatic approaches to help clients explore their inner worlds, understand their nervous systems, and reconnect with their strengths.
(720) 463-2561 View (720) 463-2561

See more therapy options for Cherry Creek, Denver

FAQ - Teenage and Adolescent 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.