TOP-RATED TEEN COUNSELING | DENVER, COLORADO

Absolutely! While some parents might worry that 13 is "too young" for therapy, the truth is that counseling can be helpful at any age.

For 13-year-olds in particular, therapy can be incredibly beneficial. This age marks the beginning of many significant physical, emotional, and social changes. Therapy can offer a safe space for young teens to navigate these changes, develop coping skills, and feel supported. It's not just for crisis situations—therapy can help with everyday challenges, self-discovery, and personal growth.

While every teen is unique, here are a few signs that counseling might be helpful.

• Significant changes in behavior, sleep patterns, or eating habits

• Withdrawing from family, friends, or activities they once enjoyed

• Struggling with academic performance or showing a sudden disinterest in school

• Excessive worry, sadness, or irritability

• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or mentioning self-harm

• Substance abuse or other risky behaviors

• Signs of eating disorders, like skipping meals or over-exercising

Remember, you don't need to wait for a crisis. If you're concerned about your teen's well-being or they express interest in talking to someone, it's a good time to consider counseling.

Choosing the right therapist is key. Here are some tips to keep in mind when researching Denver teen therapists:

• Look for specialists: Seek therapists who specialize in adolescent counseling.

• Check credentials: Ensure the therapist is licensed and has experience with your teen's specific concerns.

• Consider your teen's preferences: Some teens might prefer a therapist of a specific gender or background.

• Evaluate the approach: Look for therapists who use evidence-based techniques and can explain their methods clearly.

• Trust your instincts: The therapist should be someone both you and your teen feel comfortable with.

• Location and logistics: Consider convenience factors like office location or availability of virtual sessions.

I offer free, no-pressure consultations to help you and your teen determine if we're the right fit for each other. Schedule yours today.

Parent involvement in teen counseling can vary based on the teen's needs and preferences. Here's how I typically approach it:

• Initial involvement: Parents are usually involved in the initial assessment to provide background information and discuss concerns.

• Ongoing communication: I keep parents informed about general progress while respecting the teen's privacy.

• Family sessions: I may recommend family therapy sessions from time to time to improve communication and resolve conflicts.

While you'll always be kept in the loop, my main priority is creating a supportive, trusting therapeutic relationship with your teen. It's important that they have a safe space to express themselves as they get older and start to gain more independence.