Adolescent Therapy: Helping Young People Navigate Life’s Most Formative Years
Adolescence is one of the most important and transformative periods in a person’s life. It's a time of rapid growth: physically, emotionally, and psychologically. Teenagers are discovering who they are, what they value, and how they relate to the world around them. But alongside this exciting journey, adolescence can also bring significant emotional challenges. Young people today are dealing with more pressure than ever. These pressures come from school demands, social expectations, family dynamics, and the evolving landscape of identity, gender, and mental health.
Many adolescents struggle to articulate what they feel. They may seem withdrawn, irritable, anxious, or overwhelmed. Parents or caregivers often find themselves unsure of how to help. This is where therapy can play a powerful and supportive role. Adolescent therapy provides a safe, confidential space for young people to express themselves, gain perspective, and develop effective tools for coping with life’s ups and downs.
A Safe and Compassionate Space to Be Heard
As a therapist with extensive experience supporting adolescents, I understand how vulnerable this stage of life can be. That’s why my approach is rooted in empathy, curiosity, and trust. I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including school counselling roles within the NHS, and continue to support adolescents in my private practice.
Every young person is different, and so is the way they experience the world. Some may be struggling with academic pressure, others with friendship issues, family breakdown, low self-worth, or questions about identity. My role as a therapist is not to judge or instruct, but to listen, validate, and work collaboratively with each young person to uncover their strengths and overcome their challenges.
Establishing trust is a vital first step. Many adolescents are understandably cautious when beginning therapy. They may feel unsure about opening up to an adult or worry they’ll be misunderstood. That’s why I take great care in creating a warm and welcoming environment where young people can speak freely, feel respected, and know that their voice matters.
Why Adolescents Come to Therapy: Common Challenges
There is no “right” or “wrong” reason for a young person to seek therapy. For some, it’s about managing a specific issue. For others, it’s about making sense of emotions that feel confusing or overwhelming. Some adolescents may be referred to therapy by their school, GP, or parents, while others may seek it out for themselves. Whatever the path, therapy can be a life-changing step toward self-awareness and emotional wellbeing.
Some of the most common issues adolescents bring to therapy include:
• Anxiety and stress: Feeling overwhelmed by exams, deadlines, or social situations
• Low self-esteem: Struggling with confidence, body image, or a negative internal voice
• Depression and low mood: A sense of sadness, disconnection, or lack of motivation
• School pressures: Coping with academic expectations, bullying, or learning difficulties
• Friendship and social struggles: Navigating group dynamics, isolation, or peer pressure
• Family conflict: Managing arguments, parental separation, or communication breakdown
• Exploration of identity: Questions around gender, sexuality, culture, and belonging
• Trauma and abuse: Processing painful past experiences in a safe, structured environment
• Self-harm and suicidal thoughts: Finding healthier ways to cope with emotional distress
• Life transitions: Adjusting to changes such as moving schools, bereavement, or puberty
Therapy allows adolescents to make sense of what they’re going through without fear of judgment or criticism. It’s a space where they can explore emotions, practice new coping skills, and build resilience for the future.
Therapy Tailored to the Individual
No two adolescents are the same, and neither is the therapy I offer. I work integratively, drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches such as person-centred therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), trauma-informed practice, and creative methods like art, writing, or storytelling. This allows me to tailor the therapeutic process to suit each young person’s personality, needs, and comfort level.
Some young people benefit from structured tools and goal-oriented techniques. Others need space to talk freely, process emotions, and build trust over time. In every case, I work collaboratively with the adolescent and, where appropriate, with parents or guardians to ensure the therapy is supportive, effective, and respectful of confidentiality and autonomy.
Sessions typically take place weekly and last around 50 minutes. For many adolescents, simply knowing they have a regular space where they can be themselves and feel truly heard makes a tremendous difference.
Accessibility and Online Therapy Across the UK
One of the key challenges for families today is finding therapy that is both accessible and flexible. That’s why I offer online therapy sessions for adolescents across the UK, using secure and confidential platforms. Online therapy offers convenience and comfort. Young people can attend from home or school, fitting sessions around their schedule and daily routines.
For some adolescents, the online format actually enhances therapeutic relationships. Being in a familiar environment can help reduce anxiety and encourage more open conversations. I work with families to ensure that the space is private, the connection is reliable, and the young person feels safe and supported throughout the process.
