Teen Therapy in Montgomery Co., MD

Therapy provides a safe, confidential space to discuss challenges like school stress, family conflicts, or friendship issues. It helps you develop coping skills, improve communication, and better understand your emotions. Many teens use therapy to navigate big decisions, process unresolved problems, or build self-confidence.

The initial session focuses on building rapport. Your therapist will ask questions about your life (hobbies, relationships, school) to understand your needs and goals. They’ll explain confidentiality rules and outline a treatment plan tailored to your situation. You’ll also discuss how often sessions will occur (typically weekly or biweekly).

Your conversations are private unless there’s a safety risk (self-harm, harm to others). Therapists prioritize trust and will clarify confidentiality boundaries upfront. If you consent, parents may be involved in family sessions, but individual discussions stay between you and your therapist.

Family dynamics are often addressed, but your autonomy is respected. With your agreement, therapists may collaborate with parents to improve communication or relationships. Sessions can include joint family meetings or separate check-ins based on your comfort level.

Common approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to reframe negative thoughts, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for emotion regulation, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for anxiety reduction, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for self-acceptance and value-based action, and mindfulness techniques to reduce stress. Creative methods like art or music therapy may also help express feelings nonverbally.

Duration varies based on your goals and progress. Some teens see improvement in 6–12 sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. Therapists track progress and adjust plans as needed, focusing on building skills for lasting change.

It’s okay to request a different therapist if the connection feels off. A good fit is crucial, and we encourage you to find someone you trust.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are well-researched and evidence-based treatments for adolescent anxiety disorders. Therapy helps teens identify and challenge anxious thoughts, develop coping strategies, develop mindfulness, and gradually face feared situations.

While therapy is often the first line of treatment, some teens benefit from a combination of therapy and medication, including Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) particularly for moderate to severe anxiety. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) are all evidence-based treatments for mild to moderate depression. Studies show that therapy reduces depressive symptoms by addressing behavioral patterns and improving emotional regulation. For more severe cases, combination therapy (with antidepressant medication) yields the highest remission rates (up to 80%). 

Yes. Many forms of therapy, including humanistic/existential, mindfulness, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and family therapy, are evidence-based and sustained benefits at follow-up. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is recommended for teens with self-harm, suicidal ideation, or intense emotional dysregulation, as it teaches mindfulness and distress tolerance. A trusting, supportive relationship is essential; many therapists use integrative approaches.