Teen Therapy

Being a teenager is hard, and parenting a teen can be just as complex.

Is your teen struggling with perfectionism, mood swings, or irritability? Falling behind in school, or avoiding school altogether? Excessively using technology? Skipping out on social events because they’re stuck behind a screen? Sleeping all day and awake all night? Family tensions running high and creating stress rather than strength? These observable symptoms can signify underlying emotional challenges that warrant closer examination and support.

  • Focuses on addressing the emotional, behavioural, and psychological needs of teenagers.

  • Recognizes the unique developmental needs of teenagers and tailors treatment to their specific needs, cognitive ability, and emotional maturity.

  • Provides a safe and nurturing space for open and honest dialogue needed for healing.

What is Teen Therapy?

What to Expect

Children Ages 12-17

  • Typically the first session includes all parental figures to assist in building a complete assessment picture.

  • Treatment plan will be created, complete with on-going follow up and parental support sessions strongly encouraged, especially in the case of child preferring to meet with therapist independently. Weekly to bi-weekly sessions are recommended in this early phase to ensure momentum is built.

  • Once a child is 12 years of age they are required to sign a confidentiality agreement and are in control of their participation in therapy.

  • Parental participation and collaboration with their child during therapy sessions is always encouraged, however in this age bracket, flow of communication will depend on the will of the child.

  • It is paramount that the child feels safe disclosing information confidentially to their therapist. In the event that information disclosed indicates any risk of suicide or safety, this confidentiality is suspended and parents/ other agencies can be brought into the discussion to ensure the child’s well-being and safety are safeguarded.

  • Sessions are typically 50 minutes in length (this allows for 10 minutes at the end of the hour for therapists to write their notes and plan for your next session).

  • Launching into adulthood is an exciting time-period, but can also feel overwhelming. We can help you with this new phase of life and build a path forward.

  • Adolescents 18 years of age and up are welcome to book an appointment directly with our clinic.

  • Adolescents 18 years of age and up are required to sign a confidentiality agreement in advance of their participation in therapy.

  • Parental involvement is not a requirement in this age bracket. In family situations where it is viable, we hold a holistic view stance and believe strong collaboration between parents and adolescents can create strength during the therapeutic process.

  • We will welcome parents into the therapeutic process based upon the wishes of our client.

  • It is recommended that in the beginning of the therapeutic process rapport and trust are built, this momentum is built through scheduling visits on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.

  • Sessions are typically 50 minutes in length (this allows for 10 minutes at the end of the hour for therapists to write their notes and plan for your next session).

Adolescents Ages 18+

  • Strengthen emotional intelligence and provide outlet to receive formative emotional support.

  • Improve social skills and peer integration.

  • Support teen in managing academic pressures, improving study habits, and advocating for needs.

  • Equip the family with tools to handle future challenges constructively, including skills of validation and listening.

  • Foster emotional regulation and coping tools.

  • Building self-confidence and assisting teens in cultivating positive self-image, values, and clear sense of identity.

Goals of Therapy

Common Issues Addressed in Teen Therapy

  • Tension in family dynamics

  • Sleep hygiene (insomnia, over-sleeping)

  • Poor social skills

  • School avoidance

  • Perfectionism

  • Self-esteem issues

  • Emotional regulation

  • Behaviour issues

  • Suicidal thinking or self-harm

  • Social anxiety

  • Persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, lack of motivation

  • Stress relating to academic performance, social pressures, or future uncertainties

  • Difficulties with friendships, romantic relationships, or family dynamics

  • Defiance and aggression, or risky behaviours such as substance abuse or delinquency