Teen Therapy: Support for Adolescents and Their Families 

Helping Teens Navigate Life’s Challenges with Confidence and Resilience

What Is Teen Therapy? 

Teen therapy provides a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for adolescents to explore emotions, cope with challenges, and develop healthy skills for resilience. Adolescence brings rapid physical, emotional, and social changes, and therapy offers guidance and support to navigate this important stage of life. 

Teens may seek therapy for reasons such as: 

  • Anxiety, depression, or other mood or behavioral challenges 

  • Stress from school, peer pressure, or extracurricular demands 

  • Family conflicts or parent-teen communication issues 

  • Identity exploration, including LGBTQIA+ sexual orientation or gender identity 

  • Coping with trauma, loss, or major life transitions 

  • Bullying, cyberbullying, or social isolation 

  • Concerning behaviors such as excessive gaming or excessive social media use 

Therapeutic Interventions for Teens 

Our therapists use developmentally sensitive approaches, including: 

  • Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores unconscious patterns and early experiences that shape current struggles. 

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS): Supports teens in recognizing and working compassionately with different “parts” of themselves, building self-awareness and balance. 

  • Family Systems Therapy: Improves communication and reduces conflict within families. 

  • Mindfulness and Stress-Reduction Techniques: Practical tools for anxiety, focus, and overwhelm. 

  • Creative and Experiential Approaches: Art, journaling, or role-play to express and process emotions. 

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps teens identify and change negative thought patterns. 

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Teaches mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and communication skills. 

  • Psychoeducation and Skills Training: Guidance on managing screen time, handling peer pressure, and building healthy habits. 

Why Parents Seek Therapy for Their Teens 

Parents often seek therapy when they notice behavioral or emotional changes that feel hard to manage alone. These may include: 

  • Persistent anxiety, depression, or mood swings 

  • Changes in sleep, appetite, or academic performance 

  • Tension and conflict within the family 

  • Difficulty with peer relationships or bullying 

  • Concerning behaviors around screen time, gaming, or social media 

  • Struggles with trauma, grief, or transitions 

  • Identity exploration and navigating cultural or racial challenges 

Therapy equips parents with strategies to support their teen, strengthen communication, and create a more harmonious home environment. 

Two people sitting in chairs having a conversation, with a speech bubble between them.

Inclusive and Culturally Sensitive Therapy 

At PBA Psychology, we are committed to inclusive, affirming care for all adolescents. We provide specialized support for: 

  • LGBTQIA+ teens navigating gender identity or sexual orientation 

  • BIPOC youth facing racial, cultural, or identity-related stressors 

  • Neurodivergent teens managing ADHD, autism spectrum differences, or related challenges 

  • Teens from diverse family structures, socioeconomic backgrounds, and religious communities 

Therapy is tailored to meet your teen where they are, creating a safe, affirming environment for growth, healing, and self-discovery. 

 

Benefits of Teen Therapy 

Engaging in therapy offers lasting benefits that strengthen emotional well-being: 

  • Develop healthy coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and depression 

  • Increase emotional awareness and resilience 

  • Strengthen communication with family, peers, and teachers 

  • Support LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC teens in navigating identity challenges 

  • Boost confidence, self-esteem, and academic balance 

  • Build lifelong skills to manage emotions and relationships 

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Take the Next Step Together

WE CAN HELP.
REACH OUT TODAY.

Direct Email: info@pbapsychology.com
Phone: 310.271.2275

BEVERLY HILLS LOCATION

9350 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 212
Beverly Hills, CA 90212

DOWNTOWN LA LOCATION

714 W. Olympic Blvd, Suite 926
Los Angeles, CA 90015

A Note for Parents 

Parents play an essential role in teen therapy. 

  • Confidentiality: Teens need privacy to feel safe in therapy, but therapists may share progress updates and safety concerns with parents. 

  • Involvement: Some sessions may include parents to improve family communication and resolve conflict. 

  • Family Benefits: Therapy often reduces household tension, strengthens understanding, and fosters healthier family dynamics. 

Take the First Step 

If your teen is struggling with mental health, identity, family conflict, or social pressures—or if you’re a parent seeking guidance—therapy can provide the tools and support needed to help your teen thrive. 

Teen Therapy FAQ for Parents 

How long does therapy last? 
It varies depending on your teen’s goals. Some benefit from short-term therapy focused on specific challenges, while others grow from ongoing support. 

Will I know what my teen talks about in therapy? 
Sessions are confidential, but therapists provide progress updates and involve parents when needed—especially for safety concerns or family issues. 

How do I encourage my teen to try therapy? 
Frame therapy as support, not punishment. Emphasize that it’s a safe space for them, and sometimes just attending the first session helps them feel more open. 

Do parents participate in sessions? 
Yes, when helpful. Therapists may invite parents in to strengthen communication, resolve conflict, or provide strategies for home. 

Is therapy effective for teens? 
Yes. Research shows therapy reduces anxiety, depression, and stress while improving coping skills, confidence, and family relationships.