How to Find a Therapist for Your Teenager
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
A therapist for a teenager is a mental health professional trained to support adolescents with emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges. Options include child and adolescent psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and counselors. Parents can find therapists by consulting pediatricians, school counselors, using the AACAP Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Finder, or calling SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 1Call your teen’s pediatrician to discuss your concerns and ask for mental health referrals
- 2Reach out to the school counselor to explore available mental health resources
- 3Contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for confidential treatment referrals
What to say
- “I've noticed you've been feeling down lately, and I want to make sure you have support. Would you be open to talking with someone who can help?”
- “Sometimes everyone needs extra help, and seeing a therapist is a way to get that support. I'm here with you through this.”
- “If you ever feel overwhelmed or hopeless, please tell me or another adult you trust. You're not alone in this.”
What to practice consistently
- Regularly check in with your teen about their feelings in a calm, supportive way
- Encourage open dialogue about mental health without judgment
- Build a relationship with trusted healthcare providers before a crisis occurs
What to avoid
- Ignoring or minimizing warning signs like persistent sadness or withdrawal
- Waiting until a crisis happens to seek professional help
- Pressuring the teen aggressively to talk or attend therapy without their consent
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Assessment by a qualified mental health professional to understand the teen's needs
- Therapy sessions that may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, family therapy, or medication management if prescribed by a psychiatrist
- Collaboration with pediatricians, school counselors, and family members
- Use of specialized directories like the AACAP Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Finder to locate providers
- Confidential and age-appropriate communication tailored to adolescents
- Costs and insurance coverage vary; some providers offer sliding scale fees or accept Medicaid
Related questions
Child and adolescent psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and counselors often specialize in teen mental health.
Maintain open communication, encourage attendance, and collaborate with the therapist as appropriate.
Take them to the nearest emergency department or call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline immediately.
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From around the web
Finding a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist
A tool to locate qualified child and adolescent psychiatrists.
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Mental Health in Adolescents
Overview of mental health issues affecting children and teens.
National Institute of Mental Health
SAMHSA’s National Helpline
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Talking to Your Teen About Mental Health
Guidance on discussing mental health with teenagers.
American Academy of Pediatrics