Helping teens figure out what’s going on — and what might help
Adolescence comes with a lot of change. Sometimes it’s clear what’s making things harder. Other times, a teen may seem more stressed, withdrawn, irritable, overwhelmed, or just not quite like themselves.
Therapy can help teens make sense of what’s happening, understand themselves better, and find ways to handle stress, relationships, school, family, and other parts of their lives. Our therapists work collaboratively with teens, offering support, perspective, and practical tools without assuming there’s one right way forward.
Get matched with a therapist(opens in new tab) through a free 15-minute therapist matching call with our intake team. We’ll talk about what your teen may need and help you find a therapist who may be a good fit.
What teens may want help with
- Managing stress, anxiety, or strong emotions
- Navigating relationships with family, friends, and peers
- School pressure, motivation, or changing routines
- Self-criticism, perfectionism, or confidence
- Identity, values, and decisions about what matters to them
- Developing coping strategies that actually fit their life
Frequently asked questions about individual teen counseling
Q. What should I know about consent for teen counseling?
Consent requirements can vary depending on a teen’s age and the teen’s and family’s legal circumstances. In some situations, we may need to review custody or parenting documents before beginning treatment. Illinois law also allows some minors to consent to outpatient counseling under certain circumstances.
Our intake team can help determine what information or documentation we need for your situation.
Q. Can I attend my teen's intake consultation?
Depending on your teen’s age, circumstances, and consent requirements, a parent or caregiver may join for part of the appointment to provide background information and complete any applicable consent requirements. The therapist may also meet one-on-one with your teen.
When a parent or caregiver is involved, the therapist will talk with you and your teen about what involvement may be helpful and appropriate as treatment continues.
Q. What kind of communication can I expect about my teen’s treatment?
We want teens to have enough privacy to feel safe participating honestly in therapy while also helping parents and caregivers understand how they can support treatment.
At the beginning of counseling, your teen’s therapist will talk with you and your teen about confidentiality, what information may be shared, and how parents or caregivers may be involved. If you have questions or concerns that can’t appropriately be addressed within your teen’s individual therapy, we may recommend additional support or another form of therapy.
Q. How do I get started with teen counseling?
Get matched with a therapist(opens in new tab) through a free 15-minute therapist matching call with our intake team. We’ll learn a little about what your teen may need, answer questions about availability and next steps, and help you find a therapist who may be a good fit.