for parents of teens
because “I’m fine” isn’t usually the full story
Teenagers are changing constantly: emotionally, physically, socially, and mentally. It can be hard to know what is “normal teen stuff” and what might be a sign that your teen needs more support.
Maybe they keep saying they’re fine, but you can tell something feels different. They might be more withdrawn, anxious, irritable, emotional, shut down, or overwhelmed. Maybe school, friendships, family conflict, identity, or past experiences are starting to feel like too much.
Therapy gives your teen a space that is theirs. A place to talk honestly, sort through what they’re feeling, build coping skills, and feel less alone in what they’re carrying.
Reaching out for therapy does not mean you have failed as a parent. It means you are paying attention. It means you care enough to get your teen support so they have to keep carrying everything on their own.
what support looks like
Therapy works best when your teen feels like they have a space that is truly theirs. That means I protect their privacy while also keeping parents involved in ways that support safety, progress, and care.
I will not share every detail of what your teen says in session. That trust matters. But if I am ever concerned about your teen’s safety or someone else’s safety, I will involve you. Their wellbeing comes first.
Depending on your teen’s age, needs, and comfort level, we may include parent check-ins, family conversations, or collaboration with other providers when helpful.
signs your teen could be struggling
pulling away from friends or family
seeming more anxious, irritable, sad, or shut down
struggling with school, motivation, or focus
having frequent emotional outbursts or mood shifts
avoiding things they used to do
complaining often of stomachaches, headaches, or feeling sick
seeming overwhelmed by friendships, identity, family conflict, or social pressure
saying things like “I’m fine” when they clearly do not seem fine
tips for approaching the topic of therapy
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Find a quiet and comfortable environment where you can have an uninterrupted conversation with your teen. This will allow both of you to focus and express yourselves without distractions.
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Begin by acknowledging your teen’s feelings and concerns about therapy. Let them know that their emotions are valid and that seeking help is a brave and positive step towards personal growth. Reassure them that therapy is a safe space to explore their feelings, learn coping strategies, and develop skills for navigating life's challenges. Let them know that you will be there to support and advocate for them throughout the therapy process.
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Instead of telling your teen why therapy is important, encourage them to share their thoughts and concerns. This allows them to express their own opinions and helps you better understand their perspective. Ensure that they feel genuinely heard and avoid interrupting or dismissing their feelings. Let them know that you are there to support them and that their well-being is important to you.
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Empower your teen by involving them in the decision-making process. Discuss different therapy options together, including setting and frequency of sessions. Encourage them to research and ask questions so they can feel actively engaged in their own mental health journey.
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Once your teen starts therapy, respect their privacy and boundaries. Allow them to share as much or as little about their sessions as they wish. Avoid prying or demanding excessive information from them and limit your contact with their therapist (without them present), as this may undermine the trust they have built with their therapist.
frequently asked questions
how often do you talk to parents?
depending on your teen's age and preferences, occasional check-ins might be part of the process. I believe that young people experience the greatest benefits from therapy when they trust that their personal information remains confidential. to ensure this trust, I establish clear boundaries with both the teen and their family members to find the best approach for communication that respects the client's need for confidentiality.
is therapy covered by insurance?
if your teen is covered under your plan, therapy sessions may be covered, but it depends on the specifics of your policy. I am in network with most major commercial insurance companies.
how do I know if my teen is making progress in therapy?
progress in therapy can look different for everyone, but some signs include a shift in how your teen handles stress, improved communication skills, or a greater sense of self-awareness. they might start to feel more comfortable opening up, and you might notice positive changes in their overall mood or behavior.
what can I do to support my teen while they are in therapy?
the best way to support your teen during therapy is by being open, patient, and non-judgmental. let them know you're there for them and that therapy is a positive step. be mindful of their privacy while offering your support, and help create a calm, stress-free space for them to process their feelings.
what if my teen doesn’t want to go to therapy?
while it's understandable for parents to want their teen to get help, therapy is most successful when the teen feels motivated and ready to work on their challenges. if your teen is reluctant, it can help to explore their concerns. it’s okay for them to feel nervous, but they need to be open to giving it a try for it to really make an impact.
what if my teen sees their school counselor?
if your teen is already seeing a school counselor, that's a great start! school counselors are helpful for short-term issues like stress or peer problems. but if your teen is dealing with deeper issues like anxiety, trauma, or long-term emotional struggles, outside therapy might be a better fit.
therapy outside of school offers more privacy, personalized support, and the ability to dive into ongoing, in-depth work. plus, outside therapy offers more flexible scheduling and longer-term consistency, which can be harder to get from a school counselor. it’s not about replacing their school counselor but adding extra support for deeper work.
do you collaborate with other providers in my teen’s life?
as long as I have your permission as well as your teen’s permission, I’m happy to collaborate with other providers in your teen's life, such as school counselors, teachers, doctors, or other therapists. this helps ensure everyone is on the same page and working together to support your teen's well-being. it's important to create a holistic approach to their care, but I always prioritize confidentiality and will only share information if that you and your teen are comfortable with me sharing and if it's in your teen’s best interest.