Teen Therapy
A space that's actually yours.
Life can be a lot. Whether you're a teen who's been struggling, or a parent who's watching their kid and isn't sure how to help, this page is for both of you.
If you’re a teen
You don't have to explain yourself or have it all figured out. Therapy with me isn't about being fixed or told what to do. It's a space to slow down, talk through what's going on, and start understanding yourself a little better. You set the pace. We go where you want to go.
If you’re a parent
Watching your teen struggle and not knowing how to reach them is really hard.
I work with teens in a way that keeps them genuinely engaged — not because therapy is forced on them, but because it feels like a space they actually want to be in. I'll keep you informed throughout, while protecting your teen's sense of safety in the room.
Signs therapy might help
You don't need a crisis to reach out.
Sometimes it's obvious, sometimes it's just a feeling that something's off. Either way, it's worth paying attention to.
Anxiety or persistent worry
Racing thoughts, fear of failure, social anxiety, or a constant sense of dread that's hard to shake.
Trauma or difficult experiences
Something happened and it's showing up in how you feel, how you relate to others, or how you see yourself.
Low mood or depression
Feeling flat, hopeless, or disconnected from things that used to matter.
Neurodivergence
ADHD, autism, AuDHD, or OCD, and the emotional weight that often comes with navigating a world not always designed for the way their brain works.
Identity or self-worth
Struggling with who you are, where you fit, or a harsh inner voice that won't let up.
Relationship struggles
Conflict with family, difficulty with friendships, or patterns in relationships that keep causing pain.
My Approach with Teens
I draw on a blend of approaches depending on what you need. For those who are trying to make sense of who they are, I use narrative therapy to help explore the stories you've come to believe about yourself and open up new perspectives.
For teens who feel like different parts of them are at war with each other, the part that wants to try and the part that's given up, for example, I draw on Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help them understand those parts with curiosity rather than judgment.
For neurodivergent teens, I bring a genuinely affirming lens. I'm not here to help you mask better; I'm here to help you understand youself and build a life that actually works for your brain.
Narrative therapy
Helping teens explore and rewrite the stories they've come to believe about themselves — separating who they are from the problems they're facing.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Understanding the different "parts" of themselves — why they exist, what they're protecting, and how to relate to them with compassion instead of conflict.
Trauma-informed care
Recognizing how difficult experiences shape the nervous system, behavior, and relationships — and working at a pace that feels safe.
Neurodiversity-affirming
Supporting neurodivergent teens to understand their brain, unmask safely, and build coping strategies that actually fit who they are.
A Note on Confidentiality for Parents
I want to be upfront with you about how confidentiality works in teen therapy, because it's something parents understandably have questions about.
Under Washington State law, teens aged 13 and older have the right to seek and consent to their own outpatient mental health treatment. This means your teen has some say over their care and what gets shared with you. In practice, teens tend to engage more honestly in therapy when they feel that right is respected, so I take it seriously.
I do keep parents informed throughout the process. I share general observations and progress with your teen's awareness, and I use my clinical judgment about what's helpful for you to know. What I keep private is the specific content of sessions, so your teen feels comfortable being open.
There are situations where confidentiality does not apply, and I go over these clearly with both teens and parents at the start of our work together.
Can my teen start therapy without my consent?
Under Washington State law, teens 13 and older can consent to their own outpatient mental health treatment. I always encourage family involvement where it makes sense, but your teen does have that legal right.
Will I know what's discussed in sessions?
I keep the specific content of sessions private so your teen feels safe to be open. I share broader themes and progress with parents throughout, and I will always flag anything I am genuinely concerned about.
How involved should I be in sessions?
That varies by teen and situation. Some teens want parents involved occasionally; others prefer their sessions stay separate. We figure out what works for your family together.
What if I am worried about my teen's safety?
Please reach out directly. Safety is always the priority. If there is any risk of harm, confidentiality does not apply and I will communicate with you and take appropriate steps.