Therapists for Teens in Beach Park, IL

Photo of Crystal Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beach Park, IL 60087
Hello, my name is Crystal Williams. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of clinical experience working with various individuals and couples suffering from Anxiety, Stress, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, and Marital/Pre-Marital. I commonly use Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Strength-Based therapies. I believe I am committed to walking along the journey with you. Therefore, you are not alone in your next steps.
Hello, my name is Crystal Williams. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of clinical experience working with various individuals and couples suffering from Anxiety, Stress, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, and Marital/Pre-Marital. I commonly use Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Strength-Based therapies. I believe I am committed to walking along the journey with you. Therefore, you are not alone in your next steps.
(312) 313-8615 View (312) 313-8615
Photo of Jon E Larson, EdD, MS, LCPC, CRC, BCPC, Counselor
Jon E Larson
Counselor, EdD, MS, LCPC, CRC, BCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beach Park, IL 60099
Do you have a hard time being calm and alert? Overloaded with worry, sadness, or anger? Having a hard time focusing, making decisions, or getting along with people? Are you easily distracted, feeling overwhelmed, or experiencing extreme body tension? Do you have low energy, get lousy sleep, or can't shake troubling thoughts? At times, you don't feel like yourself? If any of these describe you, I want to help you.
Do you have a hard time being calm and alert? Overloaded with worry, sadness, or anger? Having a hard time focusing, making decisions, or getting along with people? Are you easily distracted, feeling overwhelmed, or experiencing extreme body tension? Do you have low energy, get lousy sleep, or can't shake troubling thoughts? At times, you don't feel like yourself? If any of these describe you, I want to help you.
(224) 723-1780 View (224) 723-1780
Photo of Sam Lindtner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Lindtner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beach Park, IL 60099  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed and exhausted? Are you snapping at others and struggling to find space to breathe? It’s normal to feel like you’re drowning when you have so many moving pieces in life. Life is constantly throwing stressors at us and maybe you find yourself seeking a new approach. Many of my clients are people struggling with stress and anxiety resulting from never-ending changes. I have extensive experience working with young adults, military service members/families, and people who are seeking therapy for the first time.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and exhausted? Are you snapping at others and struggling to find space to breathe? It’s normal to feel like you’re drowning when you have so many moving pieces in life. Life is constantly throwing stressors at us and maybe you find yourself seeking a new approach. Many of my clients are people struggling with stress and anxiety resulting from never-ending changes. I have extensive experience working with young adults, military service members/families, and people who are seeking therapy for the first time.
(224) 207-4986 View (224) 207-4986

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of undefined - Evolve Youth & Family Counseling LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evolve Youth & Family Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
Hello! My name is Yahaira and I am a bilingual therapist who has been serving clients in Lake County for the past 14 years. I have worked with children, adolescent and their families with varying diagnosis and life issues. I believe it is important as a therapist to recognize that every client is different, and will need an approach specifically adapted to them. My role in the therapeutic process will be to encourage clients to collaborate in regaining hope in their lives, and overcoming difficulties.
Hello! My name is Yahaira and I am a bilingual therapist who has been serving clients in Lake County for the past 14 years. I have worked with children, adolescent and their families with varying diagnosis and life issues. I believe it is important as a therapist to recognize that every client is different, and will need an approach specifically adapted to them. My role in the therapeutic process will be to encourage clients to collaborate in regaining hope in their lives, and overcoming difficulties.
(847) 719-6513 View (847) 719-6513
Photo of Steven Bloomfield, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven Bloomfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
Some of the groups I have led include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Substance Use, Alcohol Use, Career Counseling, and Adolescent Relationship Management.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC) with a Master of Science (MS) in Educational Psychology and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. In addition to my education, I have worked with clients from adolescence through adulthood using both individual and group therapy. I also hold a Certificate in Clinical Hypnosis from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I have had a private practice utilizing Clinical Hypnosis to aid clients in weight management, PTSD, dealing with phobias and smoking cessation.
Some of the groups I have led include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Substance Use, Alcohol Use, Career Counseling, and Adolescent Relationship Management.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC) with a Master of Science (MS) in Educational Psychology and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. In addition to my education, I have worked with clients from adolescence through adulthood using both individual and group therapy. I also hold a Certificate in Clinical Hypnosis from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I have had a private practice utilizing Clinical Hypnosis to aid clients in weight management, PTSD, dealing with phobias and smoking cessation.
(847) 865-9360 View (847) 865-9360
Photo of undefined - Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Jill Kreller, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jill Kreller
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
My areas of speciality include treatment of personality disorders, mood disorders, maladaptive behaviors, anxiety/ depression, working through grief, illness and trauma, LGBTQ concerns, Adolescent Psychology, Couple's therapy and Collaborative Divorce.
I am a therapist with over ten years of experience providing assessment, crisis intervention and psychotherapy to individuals in the community. I assist individuals as they find the best solutions to dealing with mental health concerns, life transitions and accomplishment of goals.I believe that all individuals have within them the skills needed to lead an actualized, fulfilling and meaningful life.I will tailor therapy to your individual characteristics and work with you to find interventions that best suit your needs, goals and skill set.
My areas of speciality include treatment of personality disorders, mood disorders, maladaptive behaviors, anxiety/ depression, working through grief, illness and trauma, LGBTQ concerns, Adolescent Psychology, Couple's therapy and Collaborative Divorce.
I am a therapist with over ten years of experience providing assessment, crisis intervention and psychotherapy to individuals in the community. I assist individuals as they find the best solutions to dealing with mental health concerns, life transitions and accomplishment of goals.I believe that all individuals have within them the skills needed to lead an actualized, fulfilling and meaningful life.I will tailor therapy to your individual characteristics and work with you to find interventions that best suit your needs, goals and skill set.
(847) 978-4500 View (847) 978-4500
Photo of Carla R. Laury, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Carla R. Laury
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
I am a bilingual therapist providing individual, family, group, and couple's counseling in both English and Spanish. I enjoy working with a wide range of ages, and hold a special fondness for the adolescent and young adult population. Years of experience have prepared me for working with adolescent issues, parenting issues, and mood disorders.
I am a bilingual therapist providing individual, family, group, and couple's counseling in both English and Spanish. I enjoy working with a wide range of ages, and hold a special fondness for the adolescent and young adult population. Years of experience have prepared me for working with adolescent issues, parenting issues, and mood disorders.
(847) 973-7317 View (847) 973-7317
Photo of Dustin F Makela, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Dustin F Makela
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lindenhurst, IL 60046
I can strike a balance between my one-on-one work with the teen by coaching and addressing issues with parents.
Research and experience tells us that effective therapy is predicated on a truly meaningful relationship between client and therapist. I am confident that I can provide a time and space where you and/or your child will feel understood, accepted, cared for, and appropriately challenged to change. I work primarily with adolescents and young adults who are struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief and loss, divorce, separated and blended families, life transitions, sexual health and sexual identity, conflicted family relationships, attachment issues, and emotion and behavior management.
I can strike a balance between my one-on-one work with the teen by coaching and addressing issues with parents.
Research and experience tells us that effective therapy is predicated on a truly meaningful relationship between client and therapist. I am confident that I can provide a time and space where you and/or your child will feel understood, accepted, cared for, and appropriately challenged to change. I work primarily with adolescents and young adults who are struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief and loss, divorce, separated and blended families, life transitions, sexual health and sexual identity, conflicted family relationships, attachment issues, and emotion and behavior management.
(847) 457-0283 View (847) 457-0283
Photo of Erin Paul, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Paul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lindenhurst, IL 60046  (Online Only)
I specialize in teen issues, play therapy & treating anxiety/depression.
Choosing to pursue counseling is a brave and oftentimes nerve wracking experience. I make it my goal to put my clients at ease and work with them to create a comfortable and safe place where they can feel free to be their most authentic selves. I take the time to really get to know each individual and together we formulate a plan to uniquely address their therapeutic needs. The beauty of therapy is that it can be what you need it to be. The experience is unique to each individual. My therapeutic style relies of empathy and compassion paired with solid evidence based clinical skills to help my clients achieve lasting change.
I specialize in teen issues, play therapy & treating anxiety/depression.
Choosing to pursue counseling is a brave and oftentimes nerve wracking experience. I make it my goal to put my clients at ease and work with them to create a comfortable and safe place where they can feel free to be their most authentic selves. I take the time to really get to know each individual and together we formulate a plan to uniquely address their therapeutic needs. The beauty of therapy is that it can be what you need it to be. The experience is unique to each individual. My therapeutic style relies of empathy and compassion paired with solid evidence based clinical skills to help my clients achieve lasting change.
(847) 603-2387 View (847) 603-2387
Photo of Dr. Vernice L. Wright, LCPC, NCC, CADC, COPD, CAMS-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Vernice L. Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CADC, COPD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waukegan, IL 60085
I worked with adolescent, adults, and drug courts for the past 15 years.
I have over 25 years of experience in the Mental Health (e.g. mood disorders), Substance Abuse, and counseling profession. I utilize a holistic approach of therapy to the community. Working with individuals of all ages, families, couples, military has always been my passion. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches and interventions to meet individual and family needs. I am strongly suited in Person-Centered therapy with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. The "Truth will set you free" so come to Truth Youth & Family Services, LLC and partner with me in helping you gain mental/emotional freedom to live a productive life.
I worked with adolescent, adults, and drug courts for the past 15 years.
I have over 25 years of experience in the Mental Health (e.g. mood disorders), Substance Abuse, and counseling profession. I utilize a holistic approach of therapy to the community. Working with individuals of all ages, families, couples, military has always been my passion. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches and interventions to meet individual and family needs. I am strongly suited in Person-Centered therapy with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. The "Truth will set you free" so come to Truth Youth & Family Services, LLC and partner with me in helping you gain mental/emotional freedom to live a productive life.
(224) 231-6282 View (224) 231-6282
Photo of undefined - HOPE Child and Family Counseling/Teen & Adult Tx, MA, LCPC, RPT-S, Counselor
HOPE Child and Family Counseling/Teen & Adult Tx
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
The adolescent therapies offered at HOPE address relationship issues, oppositional/defiant behaviors, self-esteem concerns, self-abusive behaviors, eating disorders, adjustment, abuse/neglect, PTSD, negative attitudes, addictions and more; all of which may be creating dysfunction in your teen's life and affecting your teen's overall development.
The counselors at HOPE - Child and Family Counseling/Adolescent and Adult Therapy specialize in therapy to promote emotional healing across the lifespan. We provide an atmosphere of acceptance and hope. Our skills are grounded in interpersonal connections and current interventions in neurobiology, attachment, cognitive-behavioral, trauma, family systems, child/play therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and more. We apply principles that treat the whole person while knowing that the body, mind, and social world can interplay with how we feel, think, and navigate through life. Locations: Roscoe, IL, Gurnee, IL, and Janesville, WI.
The adolescent therapies offered at HOPE address relationship issues, oppositional/defiant behaviors, self-esteem concerns, self-abusive behaviors, eating disorders, adjustment, abuse/neglect, PTSD, negative attitudes, addictions and more; all of which may be creating dysfunction in your teen's life and affecting your teen's overall development.
The counselors at HOPE - Child and Family Counseling/Adolescent and Adult Therapy specialize in therapy to promote emotional healing across the lifespan. We provide an atmosphere of acceptance and hope. Our skills are grounded in interpersonal connections and current interventions in neurobiology, attachment, cognitive-behavioral, trauma, family systems, child/play therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and more. We apply principles that treat the whole person while knowing that the body, mind, and social world can interplay with how we feel, think, and navigate through life. Locations: Roscoe, IL, Gurnee, IL, and Janesville, WI.
(815) 977-8751 View (815) 977-8751
Photo of Michael Wilson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085
My skills and experiences are best suited to working with adolescent males, as well as men and women in a variety of areas such as life transition, grief, motivational/professional development, mentoring and emotional support.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor and a retired Military Veteran. While serving in the military, my experiences of working with other counseling military professionals and their families set the foundation for my future in the counseling profession as a civilian. Since my retirement from the Military, I have worked as a civil servant to the State of Illinois with the Department of Family Services, connecting families and communities to much needed services. My wealth of knowledge in the community mental health field continues to serve the people of my community that I strive diligently to support.
My skills and experiences are best suited to working with adolescent males, as well as men and women in a variety of areas such as life transition, grief, motivational/professional development, mentoring and emotional support.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor and a retired Military Veteran. While serving in the military, my experiences of working with other counseling military professionals and their families set the foundation for my future in the counseling profession as a civilian. Since my retirement from the Military, I have worked as a civil servant to the State of Illinois with the Department of Family Services, connecting families and communities to much needed services. My wealth of knowledge in the community mental health field continues to serve the people of my community that I strive diligently to support.
(847) 649-6029 View (847) 649-6029
Photo of Kelsey Johnson, MSW, LSW
Kelsey Johnson
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Chicago, IL 60086
I enjoy working with kids, teens and young adults, and it is my mission to empower all my clients to express themselves emotionally in a non-judgmental environment. As a clinician I encourage all my clients to be honest and vulnerable by helping them build their confidence and increase their self-awareness. Together, we will achieve these goals and more by utilizing a range of different therapeutic modalities, that includes CBT, mindfulness, person-centered therapy, DBT, and solution focused therapy. Play therapy techniques are also used for those of my younger clients.
I enjoy working with kids, teens and young adults, and it is my mission to empower all my clients to express themselves emotionally in a non-judgmental environment. As a clinician I encourage all my clients to be honest and vulnerable by helping them build their confidence and increase their self-awareness. Together, we will achieve these goals and more by utilizing a range of different therapeutic modalities, that includes CBT, mindfulness, person-centered therapy, DBT, and solution focused therapy. Play therapy techniques are also used for those of my younger clients.
(847) 512-7464 View (847) 512-7464
Photo of Soledad M Melgar, MSW, MA, LSW
Soledad M Melgar
MSW, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085
I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, adults, and families that have emotional distress and mental health issues. I have also worked in the foster care system with the Department of Children and Family Services and the court systems. Tengo más de 30 años de experiencia trabajando con personas, adultos y familias que tienen angustia emocional y problemas de salud mental. También he trabajado en el sistema de cuidado de crianza con el Departamento de Servicios para Niños y Familias y los sistemas judiciales.
I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, adults, and families that have emotional distress and mental health issues. I have also worked in the foster care system with the Department of Children and Family Services and the court systems. Tengo más de 30 años de experiencia trabajando con personas, adultos y familias que tienen angustia emocional y problemas de salud mental. También he trabajado en el sistema de cuidado de crianza con el Departamento de Servicios para Niños y Familias y los sistemas judiciales.
(224) 263-4678 View (224) 263-4678
Photo of Scott E Stolarick, LCPC, CCTP, Counselor
Scott E Stolarick
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
It is my goal to treat every person as the individual they are. Psychotherapy is not a one size fits all experience. I want to take the time to get to know you, and do the best I can to apply a treatment plan that most suits your needs.
It is my goal to treat every person as the individual they are. Psychotherapy is not a one size fits all experience. I want to take the time to get to know you, and do the best I can to apply a treatment plan that most suits your needs.
(847) 264-9471 View (847) 264-9471
Photo of Detrall Dearbone, LCPC, LPC, LSOTP, CADC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Detrall Dearbone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, LSOTP, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
My experience and educational background are directly related and have provided me with a well-rounded background in Therapy. I am a Military veteran with 30 plus years of experience working with patients in psychiatric hospitals, state mental health facilities, Illinois Department of Corrections, and in private practice. I am currently licensed to practice in Illinois, Kansas and Georgia. I also provide Tele-health service to Military members overseas (OCONUS).
My experience and educational background are directly related and have provided me with a well-rounded background in Therapy. I am a Military veteran with 30 plus years of experience working with patients in psychiatric hospitals, state mental health facilities, Illinois Department of Corrections, and in private practice. I am currently licensed to practice in Illinois, Kansas and Georgia. I also provide Tele-health service to Military members overseas (OCONUS).
(708) 462-6361 View (708) 462-6361
Photo of Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry, MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry
MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
(847) 393-4392 View (847) 393-4392
Photo of Jen Machonga, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Machonga
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
I hope to help you on your journey of growth and self-discovery. I enjoy working with clients to reflect on their experiences and find new ways to express themselves, communicate, and cope with life’s challenges. I have experience working with ADHD, anger control, anxiety, communication difficulties, depression, low self-esteem, marital conflict, mood disorders, and trauma. I have previously worked in an outpatient setting and in a medical center providing crisis intervention and evaluation.
I hope to help you on your journey of growth and self-discovery. I enjoy working with clients to reflect on their experiences and find new ways to express themselves, communicate, and cope with life’s challenges. I have experience working with ADHD, anger control, anxiety, communication difficulties, depression, low self-esteem, marital conflict, mood disorders, and trauma. I have previously worked in an outpatient setting and in a medical center providing crisis intervention and evaluation.
(224) 362-0753 View (224) 362-0753
Photo of Jennifer Wagner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031  (Online Only)
I have been providing individual, family, and group therapy for almost 20 years with a diverse population of clients in multiple settings. My professional experience has been with individuals of all ages including children/teens, couples, families, and adults with a range of issues including anxiety, ADHD, life phase transitions, school related difficulties, parenting struggles, self-esteem, and family/relationship issues. My experiences have come from working in a variety of settings including community agencies, inpatient substance abuse treatment, residential treatment, hospitals, military installations, and private practice.
I have been providing individual, family, and group therapy for almost 20 years with a diverse population of clients in multiple settings. My professional experience has been with individuals of all ages including children/teens, couples, families, and adults with a range of issues including anxiety, ADHD, life phase transitions, school related difficulties, parenting struggles, self-esteem, and family/relationship issues. My experiences have come from working in a variety of settings including community agencies, inpatient substance abuse treatment, residential treatment, hospitals, military installations, and private practice.
(224) 205-4453 View (224) 205-4453

See more therapy options for Beach Park

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.