Children Tweens & Teens

Children and adolescents do not always have the words to explain what they are feeling. Changes in mood, behavior, sleep, school performance, friendships or family relationships may be signs that additional support could help.

Therapy provides a safe, supportive space for children, tweens and teens to express themselves, develop coping skills, improve emotional regulation and work through the challenges they are facing. Depending on age and individual needs, treatment may include talk therapy, behavioral strategies, skill building, creative approaches and collaboration with parents or caregivers.

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When a child or teen may benefit from therapy

Young people often show distress differently than adults. Changes in mood, behavior, sleep, school performance, friendships or family relationships may signal that additional support could help.

Some common signs include:

Withdrawing from friends, family or activities
Frequent worry, sadness, anger or emotional outbursts
Changes in school performance or motivation
Difficulty sleeping or changes in usual routines
Problems with friendships or family relationships
Trouble coping with loss, trauma or major life changes

Therapy provides a supportive place to understand what is happening and develop healthier ways of coping.

children, teens and tween for group and individual therapy in a safe confidential environment

What happens during therapy sessions

Therapy looks different depending on a young person’s age, personality, concerns and goals. Younger children may communicate through activities, play and creative approaches, while tweens and teens may use more conversation, skill-building and problem-solving.

Parents or caregivers may be involved when appropriate. The clinician will discuss what involvement makes sense while also creating a space where the young person can develop trust and participate openly in treatment.

Tracy E. Hill, Ph.D. & Associates LLC counseling for children, tweens and teens

Common concerns youth face

Our clinicians work with children, tweens and teens experiencing a wide range of emotional, behavioral and life concerns, including:

Anxiety and excessive worry
Depression and low mood
ADHD and executive-functioning challenges
Anger and emotional regulation
Social pressures and fitting in
Trauma and stressful experiences
Grief and loss
Family conflict and changes at home
Friendship and relationship difficulties
School stress and academic concerns
Self-esteem and identity concerns
Social skills and communication
Major life transitions

Treatment is individualized for your child because no two children or families are exactly alike.

academic issues, social concerns, fitting in, lgbtq questioning, depression and anxiety

How to talk to your child about starting therapy

Forcing the conversation usually does not build enthusiasm for therapy. Instead, explain what you have noticed without judgment and let your child know that counseling is intended to provide support—not punishment.

When possible, give older children and teens some input in the process. Asking what they would want from a counselor or what would make therapy feel more comfortable can help them become more involved.

If your child is reluctant to attend, a parent or caregiver consultation may be a useful first step.

Therapy approaches for your child

Treatment is selected according to the young person’s age, needs and goals. Depending on the clinician and presenting concerns, therapy may incorporate cognitive-behavioral strategies, behavioral interventions, emotional-regulation skills, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, family work and other evidence-based approaches.

The goal is not to force every child into one treatment model, but to choose approaches that make sense for the individual child and family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at info@centerstreetcenter.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Do you accept insurance for children and teenagers?

We accept many major insurance plans, including Medicaid in locations where our clinicians are credentialed. Coverage varies by plan, clinician and service, so please contact us to verify benefits before scheduling.

What ages do you work with?

Our clinicians work with children, tweens and teens, although age ranges vary by clinician. Contact us and we can help match your child with an appropriate provider.

Is virtual therapy available?

Yes, telehealth may be available depending on the young person’s age (12 and up), clinical needs, location and clinician. In-person therapy may be recommended when it is a better fit.

How long does teen therapy usually take?

There is no standard number of sessions. Treatment length depends on the concerns being addressed, the young person’s goals, progress and individual circumstances.

What if my teenager refuses to go to therapy?

Reluctance is common. Parents or caregivers may consider beginning with a family session to discuss concerns and ways to introduce counseling in a supportive manner.

Is therapy confidential for children?

Privacy is an important part of developing trust in therapy. Confidentiality and parent or caregiver involvement depend on the young person’s age, circumstances and applicable legal and safety requirements. Your clinician will explain these boundaries at the beginning of treatment.