Teen Therapy 101: What Parents Need to Know
As a parent, it’s natural to wonder if your teen’s struggles are just typical teenage moodiness—or something more.
As both a therapist and a mom who has raised three teens to adulthood, I often hear parents asking questions like: “Is my teen just moody because of hormones?” “Is something going on with them?” “Should I be worried?” Maybe you’ve tried to engage by asking about their day, only to get a shrug or a one-word answer. You're not alone—this is incredibly common!
It’s completely natural for teens to pull away from their parents emotionally as they seek more independence. If your teen doesn’t open up to you, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed or that they don’t love or trust you. In fact, it’s often a sign that they’re trying to figure things out on their own, which is a normal and healthy part of adolescence. Seriously, go ahead and drop the guilt. You’re doing great! I am a firm believer that parents are doing their best.
My approach is rooted in partnership. You and I both want what’s best for your teen, and together, we can support their growth and emotional well-being.
Why do teens usually open up during therapy sessions?
As I mention in my bio, I’ve been working with teens for years—and it’s always felt like such a natural fit. For whatever reason, teens tend to feel comfortable with me pretty quickly, which makes it easier for them to open up and really do the work.
Teens may feel more comfortable talking to someone outside the family because it gives them a sense of privacy (teens LOVE the aspect of confidentiality in therapy) and emotional space. A therapist can help them process their thoughts and feelings in a safe, neutral setting—and often, that work helps teens strengthen their relationships at home, too. So many parents have shared that their teens communicate better at home after engaging in therapy!
Teens may worry that their parents will react emotionally, become disappointed, impose consequences, or misunderstand them. They might also fear that parents will try to “fix” things rather than just listen. In contrast, therapists are trained to create a safe, nonjudgmental space and to listen with empathy, which helps teens feel more comfortable opening up.
Parents naturally have hopes, fears, and expectations for their children. Teens may feel pressure to live up to those, making it hard to speak honestly. Therapists don’t carry those expectations, which allows for more open dialogue. As a parent myself, I understand the delicate balance of supporting your teen while knowing when and how to offer a parent’s perspective—especially when they’re ready to hear it.
The teenage years have always been tough—but today’s teens are facing a lot. Some common challenges include:
📱 Social media use and comparison
🔄 Changing or shifting friend groups
🎓 Academic pressure and college prep stress
💔 Break-ups and relationship drama
🧠 Identity exploration and self-esteem struggles
👀 Body image issues
⚖️ Juggling school, extracurriculars, and part-time jobs
🏡 Family changes like divorce, separation, or new siblings
📲 Addiction or overuse of technology/social media
These pressures can take a toll—and sometimes what looks like “just being a teenager” may be a sign of something deeper. When a teen shows symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, it’s a clear sign that they need support—getting help early is critical for their well-being. Knowing when to seek support can make a huge difference.
Here are five critical signs your teen might benefit from talking to a therapist:
1. They’re Withdrawing from Friends or Family
If your teen is suddenly isolating themselves, avoiding social activities, or pulling away from loved ones, it could signal underlying issues like anxiety or depression.
2. Their Moods are Intense or Unpredictable
Frequent emotional outbursts, mood swings, or shutting down emotionally may indicate they need help managing overwhelming feelings.
3. Changes in Sleep, Appetite, or Energy
Noticeable shifts in sleeping patterns, eating habits, or energy levels often accompany emotional distress and should be taken seriously.
4. Signs of Anxiety or Self-Criticism
Teens who are perfectionistic, excessively worried, or harshly self-critical may be struggling with anxiety that they’re not yet ready to talk about.
5. You Just Feel Something’s Off
Parents often sense when something’s wrong even if their teen doesn’t express it. Trust your instincts—therapy can provide a safe space to explore what’s going on.
Therapy is not a last resort—it’s a valuable support.
Having a caring, nonjudgmental adult to talk to can help teens feel understood, build coping skills, and gain confidence. Again, my approach is rooted in partnership. You and I both want what’s best for your teen, and together, we can support their growth and emotional well-being.
If you’re in Carlsbad or anywhere in California, I offer teen therapy both in-person and online. Feel free to book a free 15-minute consultation to see if therapy might be the right step for your teen.
