Teen Therapy

Recognizing the need for therapy in teenagers can sometimes be difficult because adolescence is a period of significant change. However, there are several signs that may indicate a need for professional support. These include notable changes in mood or behavior, withdrawal from friends and family, declining academic performance or interest, expressed feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, changes in eating or sleeping patterns, and any self-harm behaviors. If you notice any of these signs in your teenager, exploring therapy is a great option.

Parents should expect teen therapy sessions to provide a confidential space for their child to work through personal issues with the guidance of a therapist. Initially, a BeWELL therapist might meet with the parents to gain a broader understanding of the teen’s background and the family dynamic, but the core sessions are typically one-on-one with the teenager. Therapists may occasionally involve parents in sessions or provide guidance on how to support their child’s journey at home, but it is important for parents to respect the therapeutic space and process for their child.

Building trust with a teen client involves creating a non-judgmental and empathetic space where they feel seen and heard. Therapists often use a variety of approaches tailored to the individual needs of the teenager, such as actively listening, validating their feelings, sharing effective coping strategies and skills, and showing respect and care for their experiences.

Consistency, confidentiality, and demonstrating an understanding of the unique challenges teenagers face are key elements in fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship. While parents may be a part of a few sessions, the main goal of a BeWELL therapist is to create a judgment free environment where adolescents can speak freely and openly without fear.

Teen therapy can address a wide range of issues adolescents may experience. Common topics include managing anxiety and depression, navigating social pressures and bullying, coping with family dynamics and conflicts, friendships, exploring identity and self-esteem issues, dealing with academic stress, and recovering from trauma or loss. BeWELL therapists tailor the approach to each teenager’s specific needs, providing targeted and evidence based strategies to navigate and support these challenges effectively.

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of teen therapy. This means that whatever is discussed in therapy sessions is kept private between the therapist and the teenager, with a few exceptions related to safety (such as when there’s a risk of harm to the teenager or others). Therapists typically explain these confidentiality parameters to both parents and teens at the first session. This confidentiality is essential for building trust and encourages open and honest communication within the therapeutic space. However, therapists may provide parents with general updates on progress and ways to support their teenager, without disclosing specific details shared in confidence.