Therapists for Teens and Adolescents in Cortland, NY
I work with children, teens, and adults who are facing an array of social/emotional difficulties.
I strive to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and comfortable being yourself. I use tools from CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care, while always tailoring our work to what feels most helpful for you. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it's completely normal to feel nervous.
I work with children, teens, and adults who are facing an array of social/emotional difficulties.
I strive to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and comfortable being yourself. I use tools from CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care, while always tailoring our work to what feels most helpful for you. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it's completely normal to feel nervous.
Special interests include child & adolescent counseling, changing families, trauma, grief counseling, caregivers support, life stresses & transitions, first responders support, and therapy for anxiety & depression.
Life can be tricky sometimes leaving us feeling stuck, alone, and confused. Taking the first step toward change can seem overwhelming and scary. I appreciate the strength it takes to even consider the possibility of making a change. I provide counseling support to individuals with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. As a therapist, I offer a safe, supportive, and comfortable environment with an individualized approach to each client to promote personal growth. I encourage recognition and development of inner strengths and self-compassion to facilitate the process of change as well as resolve challenging issues.
Special interests include child & adolescent counseling, changing families, trauma, grief counseling, caregivers support, life stresses & transitions, first responders support, and therapy for anxiety & depression.
Life can be tricky sometimes leaving us feeling stuck, alone, and confused. Taking the first step toward change can seem overwhelming and scary. I appreciate the strength it takes to even consider the possibility of making a change. I provide counseling support to individuals with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. As a therapist, I offer a safe, supportive, and comfortable environment with an individualized approach to each client to promote personal growth. I encourage recognition and development of inner strengths and self-compassion to facilitate the process of change as well as resolve challenging issues.
Do you wake up filled with dread, your heart pounding, stomach in knots, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed? Do you have to drag yourself out of bed? Does it feel like you are struggling to cope, can't say "no" to anyone, and you're not enjoying life the way you wish you could? Sometimes it's so easy to get trapped in the endless cycle of negative thoughts and emotions. Maybe you turn to alcohol and other drugs. It can feel so isolating and discouraging. It seems like nothing you try works out, and it affects your job, your relationships and your self-esteem.
Things can be different. You don't have to live this way.
Do you wake up filled with dread, your heart pounding, stomach in knots, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed? Do you have to drag yourself out of bed? Does it feel like you are struggling to cope, can't say "no" to anyone, and you're not enjoying life the way you wish you could? Sometimes it's so easy to get trapped in the endless cycle of negative thoughts and emotions. Maybe you turn to alcohol and other drugs. It can feel so isolating and discouraging. It seems like nothing you try works out, and it affects your job, your relationships and your self-esteem.
Things can be different. You don't have to live this way.
I have worked with child & adult survivors of domestic and sexual violence at an advocacy agency, with families and adolescents diagnosed with substance use disorders in a residential treatment facility, and adults online/in person at an integrated healthcare setting.
I'm here to support clients who are looking to strengthen their mental health, relationships, and adaptability. We face challenges and stress; whether it is neurobiologically based, interpersonal, a trauma response, or the result of systemic stressors of an unjust society. While I use a variety of approaches and techniques based on client needs, my foundation is person centered. You deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to break down or build back up. I believe my clients have all the answers within them and are capable of great things. My role is to use my education, training, and empathy to help you reach your goals.
I have worked with child & adult survivors of domestic and sexual violence at an advocacy agency, with families and adolescents diagnosed with substance use disorders in a residential treatment facility, and adults online/in person at an integrated healthcare setting.
I'm here to support clients who are looking to strengthen their mental health, relationships, and adaptability. We face challenges and stress; whether it is neurobiologically based, interpersonal, a trauma response, or the result of systemic stressors of an unjust society. While I use a variety of approaches and techniques based on client needs, my foundation is person centered. You deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space to break down or build back up. I believe my clients have all the answers within them and are capable of great things. My role is to use my education, training, and empathy to help you reach your goals.
I work with children, teens, and adults who are facing an array of social/emotional difficulties.
My approach to therapy is warm, supportive, and down-to-earth. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and comfortable being yourself. I use tools from CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care, while always tailoring our work to what feels most helpful for you.
I work with children, teens, and adults who are facing an array of social/emotional difficulties.
My approach to therapy is warm, supportive, and down-to-earth. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and comfortable being yourself. I use tools from CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care, while always tailoring our work to what feels most helpful for you.
As we navigate the issues that brought you to therapy I address the needs and goals that pertain to your particular challenges. My initial interest is to provide an atmosphere of comfort and safety.. Creating a new life story will be the overall theme through open interaction, trust, and hope. Bringing new meaning and purpose may promote changes in daily life yet to be developed through the process of our work together.
As we navigate the issues that brought you to therapy I address the needs and goals that pertain to your particular challenges. My initial interest is to provide an atmosphere of comfort and safety.. Creating a new life story will be the overall theme through open interaction, trust, and hope. Bringing new meaning and purpose may promote changes in daily life yet to be developed through the process of our work together.
Mary Kate Lenihan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Any individual, couple, or family making the decision to embark on therapy has made a brave step toward growth and change. Once rapport and safety is established, giving the self permission to be raw and vulnerable is what I strive for with clients. Feeling safe to explore discomfort and navigating different means of communication is at the heart of my work. The approach of curious exploration and demystification helps the individuals, couples and families that I work with resolve stressors related to anxiety, depression, grief, relational issues, work and academic influences, family dynamics, and LGBTQ issues.
Any individual, couple, or family making the decision to embark on therapy has made a brave step toward growth and change. Once rapport and safety is established, giving the self permission to be raw and vulnerable is what I strive for with clients. Feeling safe to explore discomfort and navigating different means of communication is at the heart of my work. The approach of curious exploration and demystification helps the individuals, couples and families that I work with resolve stressors related to anxiety, depression, grief, relational issues, work and academic influences, family dynamics, and LGBTQ issues.
I am a trauma informed therapist with significant experience in diverse roles in the mental health field. I am passionate about working with Neurodivergent, LGTBQ+, BIPOC and immigrant communities. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, ADHD/ADD and other mood disorders. As a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist, I focus on a culturally competent approach to assess and support my clients throughout their growth and healing journey.
I am a trauma informed therapist with significant experience in diverse roles in the mental health field. I am passionate about working with Neurodivergent, LGTBQ+, BIPOC and immigrant communities. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, ADHD/ADD and other mood disorders. As a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist, I focus on a culturally competent approach to assess and support my clients throughout their growth and healing journey.
After completing my Master's Degree at Syracuse University I broadened my work to include depression, anxiety, adolescents and marriage counseling.
The psychiatrist Scott Peck wrote "Life is difficult. ...but once it is accepted, the fact that life is difficult no longer matters." One of the guiding principles of my work is the reality that life presents challenges to all of us. Those challenges often require us to examine views we have held for many years, and work to gain a new perspective. My experience with clients has shown me that for those who seek to grow and learn more about themselves, their relationships, and their lives, there are always answers.
After completing my Master's Degree at Syracuse University I broadened my work to include depression, anxiety, adolescents and marriage counseling.
The psychiatrist Scott Peck wrote "Life is difficult. ...but once it is accepted, the fact that life is difficult no longer matters." One of the guiding principles of my work is the reality that life presents challenges to all of us. Those challenges often require us to examine views we have held for many years, and work to gain a new perspective. My experience with clients has shown me that for those who seek to grow and learn more about themselves, their relationships, and their lives, there are always answers.
2,500 years ago Socrates said, "The unexamined life is not worth living." He believed a good life requires an understanding of why we think, act, and feel as we do. Since relationship is part of psychotherapy, the personalities and philosophies of life of the client and therapist must be compatible. I am well-suited for clients who are curious about human behavior - their own as well as that of others. Before there were psychologists, the issues of life were addressed by philosophers. Thoroughly examining life includes considering ancient wisdom and spiritual reality as well as psychology (the science of mind and behavior).
2,500 years ago Socrates said, "The unexamined life is not worth living." He believed a good life requires an understanding of why we think, act, and feel as we do. Since relationship is part of psychotherapy, the personalities and philosophies of life of the client and therapist must be compatible. I am well-suited for clients who are curious about human behavior - their own as well as that of others. Before there were psychologists, the issues of life were addressed by philosophers. Thoroughly examining life includes considering ancient wisdom and spiritual reality as well as psychology (the science of mind and behavior).
I work with people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or frustrated by anxiety, OCD, trauma, ADHD, or the ongoing stress of managing chronic illness. Many of my clients are high-functioning on the outside but feel exhausted, self-critical, or trapped in patterns that no longer serve them. They want relief, clarity, and practical tools—but also want therapy to feel purposeful and aligned with their values. Using CBT and ACT, I help clients understand what’s driving their distress, build effective coping skills, and move toward lives that feel more balanced, meaningful, and intentional.
I work with people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or frustrated by anxiety, OCD, trauma, ADHD, or the ongoing stress of managing chronic illness. Many of my clients are high-functioning on the outside but feel exhausted, self-critical, or trapped in patterns that no longer serve them. They want relief, clarity, and practical tools—but also want therapy to feel purposeful and aligned with their values. Using CBT and ACT, I help clients understand what’s driving their distress, build effective coping skills, and move toward lives that feel more balanced, meaningful, and intentional.
On the outside, you manage. You show up. You handle responsibilities.
But inside you feel overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally reactive, or stuck in patterns you don’t fully understand. You might overthink conversations, struggle with mood shifts, avoid difficult situations or rely on old habits just to get through stressful days. You’re not broken. You’re likely doing the best you can with the tools you have. What you may need isn’t more pressure- it’s support, clarity, and space to slow down and understand what’s happening beneath the surface.
On the outside, you manage. You show up. You handle responsibilities.
But inside you feel overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally reactive, or stuck in patterns you don’t fully understand. You might overthink conversations, struggle with mood shifts, avoid difficult situations or rely on old habits just to get through stressful days. You’re not broken. You’re likely doing the best you can with the tools you have. What you may need isn’t more pressure- it’s support, clarity, and space to slow down and understand what’s happening beneath the surface.
I have three decades of experience helping adults and teens manage life challenges.
Welcome!
Engaging in counseling can be exciting, relieving and also initially unsettling. Taking the first step to explore how counseling may benefit you is courageous, an act of self-care. I am glad you are here.
I have been working with diverse individuals from a range of communities (cultural, spiritual and geographical) for over 30 years. Traveling with an individual for any part of their life journey is a sacred opportunity. I appreciate that a strong and effective therapeutic relationship must honor this privilege.
I have three decades of experience helping adults and teens manage life challenges.
Welcome!
Engaging in counseling can be exciting, relieving and also initially unsettling. Taking the first step to explore how counseling may benefit you is courageous, an act of self-care. I am glad you are here.
I have been working with diverse individuals from a range of communities (cultural, spiritual and geographical) for over 30 years. Traveling with an individual for any part of their life journey is a sacred opportunity. I appreciate that a strong and effective therapeutic relationship must honor this privilege.
My professional experience includes working with a wide range of populations, including young children, adolescents, adults, and older adults in both school and community settings.
I have helped clients address concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, behavioral challenges, and substance use issues. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals.
My professional experience includes working with a wide range of populations, including young children, adolescents, adults, and older adults in both school and community settings.
I have helped clients address concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, behavioral challenges, and substance use issues. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals.
I specialize in diagnostic assessment and evidence-based therapy, with expertise in eating disorders, ADHD/ASD, perinatal mental health, trauma, sex and health psychology for individuals managing chronic medical conditions. I have a unique background with extensive medical knowledge in addition to a Bachelor's in Biology from St. Bonaventure University, and a Master's and Doctorate of Clinical Psychology from Medaille College/University. I completed her post-doc at Cornell University in the CAPS department.
I specialize in diagnostic assessment and evidence-based therapy, with expertise in eating disorders, ADHD/ASD, perinatal mental health, trauma, sex and health psychology for individuals managing chronic medical conditions. I have a unique background with extensive medical knowledge in addition to a Bachelor's in Biology from St. Bonaventure University, and a Master's and Doctorate of Clinical Psychology from Medaille College/University. I completed her post-doc at Cornell University in the CAPS department.
I welcome new clients who are interested in making life changes. I individualize my approach to each person and family, drawing from skills learned over the years. My areas of specialty include life change adjustments, interpersonal and family relationships, eating disorders, mood disorders, and anxiety issues. I am also a speaker and educator, clinical consultant, and give workshops and lectures on clinical psychotherapy topics and positive psychology.
I welcome new clients who are interested in making life changes. I individualize my approach to each person and family, drawing from skills learned over the years. My areas of specialty include life change adjustments, interpersonal and family relationships, eating disorders, mood disorders, and anxiety issues. I am also a speaker and educator, clinical consultant, and give workshops and lectures on clinical psychotherapy topics and positive psychology.
In my more than 25 years working as a licensed mental health professional in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I have worked with adolescents and adults struggling with many different issues including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, overwhelming stress and managing the struggles that can come with the myriad of changes that are inevitable throughout our lives (college stress, job pressures, grief and loss, etc.).
My approach is to communicate directly while providing a collaborative, warm, strength-based, non-judgmental experience for my clients. I use a variety of approaches some of which include Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy and Humanistic Therapy to help clients feel better equipped to manage all that life throws at us.
In my more than 25 years working as a licensed mental health professional in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I have worked with adolescents and adults struggling with many different issues including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, overwhelming stress and managing the struggles that can come with the myriad of changes that are inevitable throughout our lives (college stress, job pressures, grief and loss, etc.).
My approach is to communicate directly while providing a collaborative, warm, strength-based, non-judgmental experience for my clients. I use a variety of approaches some of which include Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy and Humanistic Therapy to help clients feel better equipped to manage all that life throws at us.
When working with children or teens, I focus on connecting with your child—often through art and play.
My job is to facilitate the process of change. I am experienced in helping people with problems in personal relationships and at work. Many of my clients are feeling stuck or unsure about something of importance. They may be struggling with parenting, addiction, or feelings of anxiety, irritability, and deep sadness. Some have experienced something tragic that has left them unmoored and are wondering how to rebuild. Often, the people I work with are associated with colleges and universities. My 20+ years of experience in higher education is a resource in my work as a therapist.
When working with children or teens, I focus on connecting with your child—often through art and play.
My job is to facilitate the process of change. I am experienced in helping people with problems in personal relationships and at work. Many of my clients are feeling stuck or unsure about something of importance. They may be struggling with parenting, addiction, or feelings of anxiety, irritability, and deep sadness. Some have experienced something tragic that has left them unmoored and are wondering how to rebuild. Often, the people I work with are associated with colleges and universities. My 20+ years of experience in higher education is a resource in my work as a therapist.
I believe everyone contains the possibility for healing. We have inside the key for what we need to live a happy life. I bring unconditional encouragement and support to help you find a fresh perspective, and help understand more deeply your needs and desires. If you want to move from loneliness to connection, from fear to vulnerability, or from emptiness to fulfillment, we can explore your struggles in an environment of safety and care.
We aim for growth that will bring joy to life. Parts of yourself to be loved and appreciated, and uncomfortable pieces can be explored and understood. Let's take care of your precious inner life.
I believe everyone contains the possibility for healing. We have inside the key for what we need to live a happy life. I bring unconditional encouragement and support to help you find a fresh perspective, and help understand more deeply your needs and desires. If you want to move from loneliness to connection, from fear to vulnerability, or from emptiness to fulfillment, we can explore your struggles in an environment of safety and care.
We aim for growth that will bring joy to life. Parts of yourself to be loved and appreciated, and uncomfortable pieces can be explored and understood. Let's take care of your precious inner life.
My primary therapeutic focus is to help teenagers and adults to develop a stronger sense of self and to develop the coping skills they will need to address issues of anxiety, self esteem and self worth. I use a non-judgmental, trauma informed and holistic approach to help clients develop their ability to self soothe, including using body/movement and grounding techniques. I focus on both personal autonomy and understanding ourselves in relationships, with the goal of moving out of stuck feelings and thoughts to embody a more curious stance of your experiences and the world around you.
My primary therapeutic focus is to help teenagers and adults to develop a stronger sense of self and to develop the coping skills they will need to address issues of anxiety, self esteem and self worth. I use a non-judgmental, trauma informed and holistic approach to help clients develop their ability to self soothe, including using body/movement and grounding techniques. I focus on both personal autonomy and understanding ourselves in relationships, with the goal of moving out of stuck feelings and thoughts to embody a more curious stance of your experiences and the world around you.
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See More Teens Therapists 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.