adolescent therapy
Navigating a Transformative and Confusing Stage
A Trust-Based, Autonomy-Building Approach
Teens thrive when they feel seen, respected, and understood. My approach avoids “telling them what to do” and instead focuses on earning trust through connection, curiosity, and presence. Unlike therapy with younger children, adolescent clients take a more active role in their treatment planning and have more say regarding when or how caregivers are involved.
This sense of agency helps build confidence, emotional maturity, and ownership over their mental wellbeing.
Guided by Developmentally Informed Parenting Approaches
My work aligns with “Yes Brain,” “Gentle Parenting,” and “Positive Parenting” models. These frameworks emphasize connection, communication, compassion, and emotional safety.
As defined by Seay et al. (2014):
“Positive parenting is the continual relationship of a parent and child that includes caring, teaching, leading, communicating, and providing for the needs of a child consistently and unconditionally.”
This philosophy remains deeply relevant through the teenage years, when emotional needs become more complex and communication grows more nuanced.
The teenage years can feel alien — full of rapid change, emotional intensity, shifting identities, and, like childhood, very little control. Adolescents need a space where they can explore their thoughts and emotions without pressure, judgment, or demand. Therapy offers a grounding point during a time when so much feels uncertain.
Meeting Teens Exactly Where They Are
Adolescents are a private and sensitive population. Building rapport slowly and authentically is essential. I take time to get to know teens before diving into challenging topics, creating a therapeutic environment where they feel safe enough to express themselves honestly.
I use an eclectic, developmentally appropriate toolbox of interventions, including:
Non-directive and person-centered expressive arts
Interpersonal psychotherapy
Motivational interviewing
Gestalt approaches
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Narrative and trauma-informed interventions
These modalities allow us to gently access thoughts, feelings, reactions, and relational patterns in ways that respect the teen’s pace and boundaries.
Areas of Support
Therapy for adolescents commonly addresses:
Anxiety, stress, and overwhelm
Attention deficit and hyperactivity
Autism spectrum experiences
Neurodivergent-affirming exploration
Conflict and avoidance of social situations
Reducing self-harm behaviors
Depression and emotional heaviness
Building self-esteem and self-worth
Strengthening empathy and communication
Developing healthier coping strategies
Re-authoring and processing traumatic experiences
Each teen’s journey is unique, and we tailor our work to what feels meaningful and useful to them.
Empower Their Voice
After your consultation, consider asking your teen:
Do you think this therapist could eventually earn your trust?
Does Jess seem like someone you’d want to talk to?
What do you imagine working on together?
Would you want to include us (parents/caregivers) in sessions sometimes?
Do you feel like now is the right time to start therapy?
These questions help center your teen’s autonomy and can reveal more insight than you might expect.
investing in your well-being
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An introductory meeting to ensure the teen feels safe, seen, and respected.
Pricing | $0
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A foundational session where we explore your teen’s background, goals, and support needs.
Pricing | $120
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Includes brief caregiver updates when appropriate. Therapy should support your family, not create additional financial stress — let’s discuss comfortable, sustainable options.
Pricing | $80 - $120 (Sliding Scale)
Good Faith Estimate with “No Surprises Act” of 2022.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, including psychotherapy.
Under this law:
Providers must offer an estimate to anyone without insurance or not using insurance.
You may request a Good Faith Estimate before scheduling any service.
If you receive a bill that is $400 or more above your estimate, you have the right to dispute it.
Keep a copy of your estimate for your records.
