What to Expect When Your Teen Enters Therapy

When your teen or adolescent enters therapy for mental health, it can be a confusing and challenging experience for both the adolescent and their family. It can also be a highly beneficial experience, as teens and adolescents can learn coping skills and gain insight into their feelings and experiences. The following blogpost will discuss what to expect when your teen or adolescent enters therapy for mental health, including what types of therapies they may encounter and the potential benefits of therapeutic intervention.
Types of Therapy for Teens
To begin, it is important to understand the different types of therapy available. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify, understand, and change their thought and behavior patterns to increase their quality of life. CBT is often used to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorder. Other therapies available include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Each of these therapies can be used to address different mental health issues in teens and adolescents.
What Teen Therapists Do In Session
When your teen or adolescent enters therapy for mental health, it is important to understand that the process can be both difficult and rewarding. The therapist will likely ask your teen or adolescent to discuss their experiences and feelings in a non-judgmental environment. They may also ask questions to gain a better understanding of their mental health and identify any potential triggers. Through this process, the therapist will work with your teen or adolescent to develop a personalized plan to help them cope with mental health issues.
The therapist may also assign homework, such as journaling or other activities, to help your teen or adolescent practice the skills they are learning in therapy. Additionally, the therapist may provide education about mental health and how to cope with it. For example, they may discuss how to better manage emotions, build self-esteem, or identify and manage stress.
Benefits of Teen Therapy
In general, therapy for mental health in teens and adolescents can be beneficial in a number of ways. It can help them gain insight into their feelings and experiences and develop coping skills to manage difficult emotions. It can also provide an opportunity for teens and adolescents to express themselves and explore any issues they may be facing. Finally, therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment where teens and adolescents can learn to trust themselves and others.
Therapy for mental health in teens and adolescents can be a difficult process, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. If you are considering therapy for your teen or adolescent, it is important to understand the potential benefits and the different types of therapy available. With the right therapist and a commitment to the process, teens and adolescents can learn to cope with mental health issues and develop the skills they need to lead a healthier, happier life.
If your teen or someone you know could benefit from teen therapy contact us today so we can connect them with one of our Atlanta therapists!