Find Teen Therapists and Counseling - Psychology Today

Guide to Adolescent Therapy

• Purpose of Adolescent Therapy: Therapists assist teens in navigating challenges related to emotions, academics, disruptive behaviors, self-esteem, social relationships, family dynamics, identity, and substance use.
• When to Seek Help: Professional intervention is recommended if a teen’s behavior or emotional state begins to disrupt their academic performance or social functioning (e.g., sudden drop in grades or increased social isolation).
• Recommended Therapy Modalities:
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing unhealthy thought patterns.
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Teaches emotion regulation and distress tolerance.
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Focuses on emotional acceptance and psychological flexibility.
  • Interpersonal Therapy: Targets specific interpersonal difficulties.
  • Family Therapy: Used to improve communication and dynamics within the family unit.
• Selecting a Therapist: Key criteria include specialized experience with the adolescent age group, proper licensing and credentials, and the establishment of a comfortable rapport with the teenager.