Therapists for Teens in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Kara Schwartz, Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC, CTP
Kara Schwartz
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC, CTP
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Waitlist for new clients
Right now, you (or your teen) may feel overwhelmed, stuck, and unsure of what's next.
I have experience working with young adults and teenagers across varying levels of care. My approach is person-centered, direct, and tailored specifically to your personal goals. During a therapy session with me, we will embrace concepts like curiosity, humor, compassion, and showing up as our authentic selves (yes, both of us!).
Right now, you (or your teen) may feel overwhelmed, stuck, and unsure of what's next.
I have experience working with young adults and teenagers across varying levels of care. My approach is person-centered, direct, and tailored specifically to your personal goals. During a therapy session with me, we will embrace concepts like curiosity, humor, compassion, and showing up as our authentic selves (yes, both of us!).
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Photo of Jaclyn Sharkey, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CAADC
Jaclyn Sharkey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CAADC
Online Only
Maybe you're a teen, young adult, or part of the LGBTQ+ community seeking a space where you can show up authentically and without judgment.
I work from an attachment-based and relational-cultural lens, helping clients explore how past experiences shape present struggles. I specialize in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I offer a warm, collaborative space where healing is rooted in connection - and where we can even find moments of humor along the way.
Maybe you're a teen, young adult, or part of the LGBTQ+ community seeking a space where you can show up authentically and without judgment.
I work from an attachment-based and relational-cultural lens, helping clients explore how past experiences shape present struggles. I specialize in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I offer a warm, collaborative space where healing is rooted in connection - and where we can even find moments of humor along the way.
(484) 673-7126 View (484) 673-7126
Photo of Jacob C Neff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS
Jacob C Neff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical training and background in the field of adolescent addiction includes working with families to restore the ruptured relationships that typically accompany addiction and to promote the healthy connections that support recovery.
In my work with adolescents, young adults and their parents, I am committed to providing individuals with the tools to realize their potential and separate themselves from the substances, behaviors and attitudes hindering their development and well-being. I provide a collaborative, respectful and empathic therapeutic context for addressing the personal issues and challenges that interfere with healthy functioning and a sense of personal competence. Using a strength-based approach, I specialize in helping young people develop the self-awareness and coping tools necessary for navigating a confusing and complicated time in their lives.
My clinical training and background in the field of adolescent addiction includes working with families to restore the ruptured relationships that typically accompany addiction and to promote the healthy connections that support recovery.
In my work with adolescents, young adults and their parents, I am committed to providing individuals with the tools to realize their potential and separate themselves from the substances, behaviors and attitudes hindering their development and well-being. I provide a collaborative, respectful and empathic therapeutic context for addressing the personal issues and challenges that interfere with healthy functioning and a sense of personal competence. Using a strength-based approach, I specialize in helping young people develop the self-awareness and coping tools necessary for navigating a confusing and complicated time in their lives.
(610) 295-5584 View (610) 295-5584
Photo of Iris Parkinson, MS, LBS, EdD
Iris Parkinson
Verified Verified
Online Only
Whether you’re a teen, a college student, or an adult, I meet you with empathy, strategies, and support.
My ideal client is over 16 and ready to stop carrying emotional burdens alone. They may be high-achieving teens trying to balance school, expectations, and identity, or adults juggling work, family, and personal growth while feeling overwhelmed or stuck. They’ve spent so much time being “strong” for everyone else, but now they’re wondering: When do I get to focus on me? Many of my clients come from underrepresented or marginalized communities, people navigating systemic barriers, cultural expectations, or generational trauma. They often struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and impostor syndrome.
Whether you’re a teen, a college student, or an adult, I meet you with empathy, strategies, and support.
My ideal client is over 16 and ready to stop carrying emotional burdens alone. They may be high-achieving teens trying to balance school, expectations, and identity, or adults juggling work, family, and personal growth while feeling overwhelmed or stuck. They’ve spent so much time being “strong” for everyone else, but now they’re wondering: When do I get to focus on me? Many of my clients come from underrepresented or marginalized communities, people navigating systemic barriers, cultural expectations, or generational trauma. They often struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and impostor syndrome.
(267) 369-1440 View (267) 369-1440
Photo of Alaina O'Neill, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Alaina O'Neill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in providing services for teen and adult populations who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, neurodivergency and trauma that may arise during difficult life transitions.
Hey there! I am Alaina, a master's level therapist pursuing licensure in the state of Pennsylvania. I have a passion for working with individuals to pull on their strengths and support them through the many different transitions that emerge during early adolescence and adulthood. During our work together, I strive to cultivate a space that is safe and curious for you to get to know all of the ways you have shown up for yourself in your life.
I specialize in providing services for teen and adult populations who experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, neurodivergency and trauma that may arise during difficult life transitions.
Hey there! I am Alaina, a master's level therapist pursuing licensure in the state of Pennsylvania. I have a passion for working with individuals to pull on their strengths and support them through the many different transitions that emerge during early adolescence and adulthood. During our work together, I strive to cultivate a space that is safe and curious for you to get to know all of the ways you have shown up for yourself in your life.
(267) 848-9808 View (267) 848-9808
Photo of Philip Grimes - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Philadelphia, Counselor
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(267) 209-6515 View (267) 209-6515
Photo of Courtney Douds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Courtney Douds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
12 Endorsed
Online Only
As a teen coping with my parents’ messy divorce, I turned to self-harm while also journeying through my own sexual self-discovery.
The hard work of learning how to identify and communicate my needs, set boundaries, and let go of parts of my past have led me to a life I love as a therapist, mother, and wife in an open marriage. I use my training in psychoanalysis, EMDR, social work, and my lived experience to help others safely open doors to themselves they might not have the chance to.
As a teen coping with my parents’ messy divorce, I turned to self-harm while also journeying through my own sexual self-discovery.
The hard work of learning how to identify and communicate my needs, set boundaries, and let go of parts of my past have led me to a life I love as a therapist, mother, and wife in an open marriage. I use my training in psychoanalysis, EMDR, social work, and my lived experience to help others safely open doors to themselves they might not have the chance to.
(484) 915-1050 View (484) 915-1050
Photo of Eugene G Devers - Dr E. Devers, Philly Family Life Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DMin, AAMFT, BCCC, ACSW, LCSW
Dr E. Devers, Philly Family Life Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DMin, AAMFT, BCCC, ACSW, LCSW
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Dr Gene Devers has a particular expertise in helping people: * Improve communication, problem solving, & conflict resolution * Navigate stressful life transitions * Repair troubled relationships *Incorporate spiritual & faith beliefs with problem solving actions * Address child & adolescent behavioral or school conflicts * Successfully deal with concerns & changes around addiction recovery * Manage single parenting & step-family challenges * Enhance bariatric surgery.
I focus upon all things relational. We all occasionally find ourselves facing a transition/change, problem, concern, or conflict that we are unable to resolve; despite our determined attempts. I maintain that what we get "stuck-in" is living life and relational; no matter with whom or to what we are relating. If you desire, and are ready to learn how to get "un-stuck", I am prepared to help you create positive lasting changes in your life. I promise to provide you respectful, culturally sensitive, person centered, and solution focused counseling care. I look forward to hearing from you.
Dr Gene Devers has a particular expertise in helping people: * Improve communication, problem solving, & conflict resolution * Navigate stressful life transitions * Repair troubled relationships *Incorporate spiritual & faith beliefs with problem solving actions * Address child & adolescent behavioral or school conflicts * Successfully deal with concerns & changes around addiction recovery * Manage single parenting & step-family challenges * Enhance bariatric surgery.
I focus upon all things relational. We all occasionally find ourselves facing a transition/change, problem, concern, or conflict that we are unable to resolve; despite our determined attempts. I maintain that what we get "stuck-in" is living life and relational; no matter with whom or to what we are relating. If you desire, and are ready to learn how to get "un-stuck", I am prepared to help you create positive lasting changes in your life. I promise to provide you respectful, culturally sensitive, person centered, and solution focused counseling care. I look forward to hearing from you.
(215) 352-3145 View (215) 352-3145
Photo of Sabina Dominga Williamson, Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Sabina Dominga Williamson
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My practice serves adolescent (13+ in NJ and 14+ in PA) and adult clients.
Welcome! Your courage to work towards a better you is commendable. I socially locate as a biracial, bisexual/queer woman and member of the Latine community. With all of my clients, I aim to co-create identity affirming spaces, in which you can feel seen and heard in the ways that feel most important to you. I utilize a trauma-informed lens to help us hold space for what has happened to you, rather than "what is wrong with you." Together, we can collaborate in exploring and understanding the internalized narratives that influence your functioning and well being. We'll meet you where you are, and honor your authentic needs,
My practice serves adolescent (13+ in NJ and 14+ in PA) and adult clients.
Welcome! Your courage to work towards a better you is commendable. I socially locate as a biracial, bisexual/queer woman and member of the Latine community. With all of my clients, I aim to co-create identity affirming spaces, in which you can feel seen and heard in the ways that feel most important to you. I utilize a trauma-informed lens to help us hold space for what has happened to you, rather than "what is wrong with you." Together, we can collaborate in exploring and understanding the internalized narratives that influence your functioning and well being. We'll meet you where you are, and honor your authentic needs,
(551) 296-5377 View (551) 296-5377
Photo of Deborah Hite, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Deborah Hite
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
As a teenager, I was always the girl that my friends came to for advice.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My focus is always putting the client first and walking alongside them in what can sometimes be a difficult journey called life. I am very client-focused. I use a multi-model approach that primarily focuses on client-centered therapy in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy and whatever will be most helpful to my clients.
As a teenager, I was always the girl that my friends came to for advice.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My focus is always putting the client first and walking alongside them in what can sometimes be a difficult journey called life. I am very client-focused. I use a multi-model approach that primarily focuses on client-centered therapy in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy and whatever will be most helpful to my clients.
(267) 754-7209 View (267) 754-7209
Photo of Christine M Prebble, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BSL, NCC
Christine M Prebble
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BSL, NCC
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Behavior Specialist (BSL), and previously a Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) in Pennsylvania with 21 years of professional work experience.
Hey there, I’m Chris and I look forward to meeting you! Are you feeling overwhelmed and it seems like everyone in your life has advice to give but you don't think they truly understand what you are saying or the extent of what you are experiencing? Do you feel unheard and misunderstood? In working with me, I want to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental environment; one, in which, you feel like somebody finally "gets it." I believe in working with you as a teammate (yes, I do love sports); we are in this together. I cannot do the work for you, but I can be in there with you providing encouragement, tips and strategies, and insight.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Behavior Specialist (BSL), and previously a Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) in Pennsylvania with 21 years of professional work experience.
Hey there, I’m Chris and I look forward to meeting you! Are you feeling overwhelmed and it seems like everyone in your life has advice to give but you don't think they truly understand what you are saying or the extent of what you are experiencing? Do you feel unheard and misunderstood? In working with me, I want to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental environment; one, in which, you feel like somebody finally "gets it." I believe in working with you as a teammate (yes, I do love sports); we are in this together. I cannot do the work for you, but I can be in there with you providing encouragement, tips and strategies, and insight.
(484) 443-1384 View (484) 443-1384
Photo of Briana Volpintesta - People First Therapy Group, Marriage & Family Therapist
People First Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Each of our therapists have their own specialties including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, addiction, trauma and EMDR, self-esteem, sexual issues, couples issues, child and adolescent issues, grief, life transitions, and many more!
Accepting New Clients! People First Therapy Group is a nonprofit mental health provider. Our mission is to provide quality therapy in a safe and equitable environment to all who seek services, regardless of ability to pay. We believe that all people, regardless of their socioeconomic status or other identities, deserve high quality mental health care. We have multiple therapists in the group with various specialties. We are located in Philadelphia for in person therapy and service all of PA, NJ and DE with virtual sessions.
Each of our therapists have their own specialties including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, addiction, trauma and EMDR, self-esteem, sexual issues, couples issues, child and adolescent issues, grief, life transitions, and many more!
Accepting New Clients! People First Therapy Group is a nonprofit mental health provider. Our mission is to provide quality therapy in a safe and equitable environment to all who seek services, regardless of ability to pay. We believe that all people, regardless of their socioeconomic status or other identities, deserve high quality mental health care. We have multiple therapists in the group with various specialties. We are located in Philadelphia for in person therapy and service all of PA, NJ and DE with virtual sessions.
(484) 577-2606 View (484) 577-2606
Photo of Daniel Pinsk, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Daniel Pinsk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Philadelphia, PA 19122
I specialize in the following: Queer and Transgender issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Adolescent and Young Adult Issues, Stress Management, Aging, Grief Counseling
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been working in the field since 2017. I have had the opportunity to work with clients one-on-one and in groups, and have been fortunate to work with a diverse range of peoples in a diverse range of settings. I work primarily from a Feminist Psychotherapeutic lens and incorporate multiple modalities as needed.
I specialize in the following: Queer and Transgender issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Adolescent and Young Adult Issues, Stress Management, Aging, Grief Counseling
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been working in the field since 2017. I have had the opportunity to work with clients one-on-one and in groups, and have been fortunate to work with a diverse range of peoples in a diverse range of settings. I work primarily from a Feminist Psychotherapeutic lens and incorporate multiple modalities as needed.
(215) 273-9338 View (215) 273-9338
Photo of Tiffany Brown, Psychologist, PhD, MFT
Tiffany Brown
Psychologist, PhD, MFT
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I provide short and long-term therapy to adolescent to late adulthood clients and couples.
My name is Dr. Brown, and I am a clinical psychologist licensed in PA and CA. I have over a decade of clinical experience and advance training in therapeutic theory and technique. Therapy is a unique opportunity for self-reflection and growth. You may be finding yourself unable to progress in desired ways or grappling with past disappointments and future anxieties. You may also be feeling stagnant in your career and struggling to find and use your voice or having difficulty understanding your emotions, experiences, and relationships. These are the times to seek therapy.
I provide short and long-term therapy to adolescent to late adulthood clients and couples.
My name is Dr. Brown, and I am a clinical psychologist licensed in PA and CA. I have over a decade of clinical experience and advance training in therapeutic theory and technique. Therapy is a unique opportunity for self-reflection and growth. You may be finding yourself unable to progress in desired ways or grappling with past disappointments and future anxieties. You may also be feeling stagnant in your career and struggling to find and use your voice or having difficulty understanding your emotions, experiences, and relationships. These are the times to seek therapy.
(215) 610-3909 View (215) 610-3909
Photo of Katrina Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Katrina Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I began my experience working on a child/ adolescent psychiatric unit and with children in a residential placement program.
Hi, I’m Katrina! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help people who are overwhelmed, stressed, struggling with relationships, or dealing with a life transition or change (experiencing loss, changing jobs, starting college, etc.). I have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults, but happily work with clients of all ages. My counseling style is empathic and encouraging. I believe that in most situations, everyone does the best that they can with what they have – moments that don’t go well tell us where help is needed or what skills we can build to help next time.
I began my experience working on a child/ adolescent psychiatric unit and with children in a residential placement program.
Hi, I’m Katrina! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help people who are overwhelmed, stressed, struggling with relationships, or dealing with a life transition or change (experiencing loss, changing jobs, starting college, etc.). I have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults, but happily work with clients of all ages. My counseling style is empathic and encouraging. I believe that in most situations, everyone does the best that they can with what they have – moments that don’t go well tell us where help is needed or what skills we can build to help next time.
(484) 292-4703 View (484) 292-4703
Photo of Deborah Hite, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Deborah Hite
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
As a teenager, I was always the girl that my friends came to for advice.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My focus is always putting the client first and walking alongside them in what can sometimes be a difficult journey called life. I am very client-focused. I use a multi-model approach that primarily focuses on client-centered therapy in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy and whatever will be most helpful to my clients.
As a teenager, I was always the girl that my friends came to for advice.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My focus is always putting the client first and walking alongside them in what can sometimes be a difficult journey called life. I am very client-focused. I use a multi-model approach that primarily focuses on client-centered therapy in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy and whatever will be most helpful to my clients.
(267) 214-9681 View (267) 214-9681
Photo of Morgan Foster, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Morgan Foster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Each session you can expect a consistent, friendly face who genuinely cares for your teen's wellbeing.
Hello! My name is Morgan Foster and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and received my Masters in Education at Pennsylvania State University in 2020. Additionally, I am Board Certified Music Therapist and received my Bachelor's degree from Temple University in 2016. I currently work as a middle school counselor and I have 8 years of experience in mental health and school counseling combined.
Each session you can expect a consistent, friendly face who genuinely cares for your teen's wellbeing.
Hello! My name is Morgan Foster and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and received my Masters in Education at Pennsylvania State University in 2020. Additionally, I am Board Certified Music Therapist and received my Bachelor's degree from Temple University in 2016. I currently work as a middle school counselor and I have 8 years of experience in mental health and school counseling combined.
(717) 930-2290 View (717) 930-2290
Photo of Crystal Somerville, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Crystal Somerville
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Online Only
Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach substance abuse therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I was born and raised in New Jersey and lived in Pennsylvania for many years. I moved to Virginia in 2013 and now call Lynchburg home. My hobbies include hiking, kayaking, singing, dancing, painting and spending time with family and friends. I have had the amazing opportunity to serve children, adolescents and families for over twenty years in a variety of mental health settings including residential treatment, boot camp, community, outpatient and group settings. I’m an expert witness for the Juvenile and Family court system of VA. I utilize an honest, direct, client-centered approach.
Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach substance abuse therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I was born and raised in New Jersey and lived in Pennsylvania for many years. I moved to Virginia in 2013 and now call Lynchburg home. My hobbies include hiking, kayaking, singing, dancing, painting and spending time with family and friends. I have had the amazing opportunity to serve children, adolescents and families for over twenty years in a variety of mental health settings including residential treatment, boot camp, community, outpatient and group settings. I’m an expert witness for the Juvenile and Family court system of VA. I utilize an honest, direct, client-centered approach.
(617) 379-0496 x915 View (617) 379-0496 x915
Photo of Caroline Christian, Psychologist, LP
Caroline Christian
Psychologist, LP
Online Only
I work primarily with adolescent and adult clients.
Hi! I am a licensed clinical psychologist based out of Pittsburgh. I received my PhD from the University of Louisville, and I am currently in a research-focused psychology role at the University of Pittsburgh. I am passionate about providing evidence-based, high quality therapy in my community.
I work primarily with adolescent and adult clients.
Hi! I am a licensed clinical psychologist based out of Pittsburgh. I received my PhD from the University of Louisville, and I am currently in a research-focused psychology role at the University of Pittsburgh. I am passionate about providing evidence-based, high quality therapy in my community.
(267) 412-3308 View (267) 412-3308
Photo of Victoria DiPinto - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Philadelphia, Counselor
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(484) 312-5789 View (484) 312-5789

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.