Teen Therapy FAQs: What Parents Need to Know

Parenting a teenager comes with many joys—and many challenges. It’s normal to wonder if your teen might benefit from additional support. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions parents ask about teen therapy.

How do I know if my teenager needs therapy?

Teens may benefit from therapy if they show ongoing signs of distress that interfere with daily life—such as changes in sleep, appetite, mood, social withdrawal, or difficulties at school. If your teen seems overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or is avoiding activities they once enjoyed, therapy can provide support.

What can a therapist help my teen with?

Psychologists can help teens navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, social stress, body image concerns, family conflict, or self-esteem issues. Therapy provides coping strategies, emotional support, and a safe space to process experiences.

How is therapy for teens different than therapy for adults?

Teen therapy often integrates talk, creativity, play, and experiential approaches to match developmental needs. While adults may focus on insight and problem-solving, teens often benefit from strategies that blend conversation with activities, skill-building, and real-world practice.

What should I expect at my teen’s first therapy session?

The first session or two is focused on building comfort and trust. The therapist will ask questions to understand your teen’s concerns, strengths, and goals. Parents are often included at the beginning to provide background, and then the therapist spends time one-on-one with the teen.

Do parents attend sessions with their teen?

Parents play an important role in their teen’s therapy. Sometimes parents attend sessions together with their child, sometimes separately, and sometimes the therapist meets with the teen alone. The approach depends on your teen’s age, needs, and therapeutic goals.

At Solasta Psychological Services in Burlington and Waterdown, our therapists are experienced in working with teens and families. We focus on building connection, safety, and strategies that help teens thrive both at home and at school.