Adolescent Therapy & Teen Counselling Online

Understanding Teenage Mental Health

Adolescence can be one of life's most challenging periods, filled with rapid changes, intense emotions, and complex social pressures. If your teenager is struggling with anxiety, depression, identity issues, or behavioural challenges, professional support can make a real difference to their wellbeing and future.

As a BACP registered therapist with specialist experience in adolescent mental health, I provide confidential online therapy sessions tailored specifically for young people aged 13-18. Working from Kent, I support teenagers and their families across the UK through secure video platforms that feel natural to digital-native young people.

The Teenage Brain and Mental Health

Today's teenagers face unprecedented challenges that previous generations never encountered. From social media pressures and academic stress to identity exploration and complex peer relationships, young people need specialised support that understands their unique developmental needs.

The teenage brain is particularly vulnerable, with areas responsible for emotional regulation and decision-making still maturing. This biological reality, combined with hormonal changes and social pressures, can create perfect conditions for mental health difficulties.

When Your Teenager Might Need Professional Support

It can be difficult to distinguish between normal adolescent behaviour and signs that your teenager would benefit from professional help. Generally, if concerning behaviours persist for more than a few weeks and interfere with daily functioning, therapy can be beneficial.

Consider Professional Support If Your Teenager Shows:

• Persistent anxiety that interferes with school attendance or social activities
• Signs of depression including withdrawal, hopelessness, or loss of interest
• Self-harm behaviours or expressions of suicidal thoughts
• Dramatic mood swings beyond typical teenage behaviour patterns
• Anger management difficulties with frequent explosive outbursts
• Eating disorders or concerning changes in eating patterns
• Social isolation and difficulty maintaining friendships
• Academic performance decline despite previous ability
• Risky behaviours including substance use
• Identity confusion or distress about sexual orientation or gender

How I Work with Young People

Teenagers often approach therapy with scepticism, especially if they feel they're being "sent" rather than choosing it themselves. I understand this reluctance and work hard to create an environment where young people feel genuinely heard and respected, not judged or patronised.

My approach emphasises building trust and rapport before diving into deeper therapeutic work. Many teens have never had an adult who listens without trying to fix, advise, or judge their experiences. Sometimes, simply having that space to be authentically themselves can be profoundly healing.

My Approach

I adapt my communication style to match each teenager's preferences. Some prefer direct conversation, others express themselves better through creative exercises or metaphors. The key is finding what works for each individual young person.

Common Issues I Support

Every young person's experience is unique, but these are some of the most common challenges teenagers bring to therapy:

My Therapeutic Approaches

Working with teenagers requires different techniques than adult therapy. I use an integrative approach, drawing from evidence-based methods specifically adapted for adolescent development:

Supporting LGBTQ+ Young People

Adolescence is often when young people begin to understand their sexual orientation and gender identity. For LGBTQ+ teenagers, this natural process can be complicated by family rejection, school bullying, social isolation, and internal confusion.

I provide affirming therapy that celebrates diversity and helps young people develop pride in their authentic identity. Whether your teenager is questioning their identity, coming out to family and friends, or dealing with discrimination, therapy can provide crucial support during this vulnerable time.

Information for Parents and Carers

Confidentiality and Your Role

Teenagers need to know that therapy is their private space to be honest about their experiences. I maintain strict confidentiality with young clients, sharing information with parents only when there are serious safety concerns or when the teenager gives permission.

However, this doesn't mean parents are left completely in the dark. I work with families to find appropriate ways to keep parents informed about general progress whilst respecting the teenager's privacy and growing autonomy.

How You Can Support Your Teen's Therapy

The most important thing you can do is support your teenager's engagement with therapy without pressuring them to share details about sessions. Let them know you're proud of them for seeking help and that you're available if they want to talk.