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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.
Why Choose Specialised Teen Therapy?
Unlike adult therapy, adolescent counselling recognises that teenagers are still developing emotionally and cognitively. The teenage brain needs specialised approaches that connect with their unique experiences.
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.
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.
Expresses specific plans for suicide or serious self-harm
Shows signs of psychosis or severe mental health deterioration
Engages in dangerous risk-taking behaviours
Threatens violence towards others
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
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.
Online therapy can be particularly appealing to teenagers who are digital natives and often feel more comfortable communicating through screens. Many young people find it easier to open up when they're in their familiar bedroom environment rather than sitting in an unfamiliar office.
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.
Every young person's experience is unique, but these are some of the most common challenges teenagers bring to therapy:
Help with overwhelming worry, social anxiety, panic attacks, and school-related fears that interfere with daily life and relationships.
Support for persistent sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, and feelings of worthlessness or emptiness.
Specialised intervention for young people engaging in self-harm behaviours, with comprehensive safety planning.
Exploring questions about identity, sexual orientation, gender, values, and building healthy self-worth.
Navigate challenging relationships with parents, siblings, and family dynamics that cause stress.
Manage exam anxiety, academic pressure, perfectionism, and finding balance between achievement and wellbeing.
Build social skills, navigate peer pressure, handle bullying, and develop healthy relationships.
Process traumatic events, abuse, loss, or other experiences that impact daily life and emotional wellbeing.
Early intervention for unhealthy relationships with food, body image concerns, and eating disorders.
Affirming therapy for identity exploration, coming out challenges, and building pride in authentic identity.
Learn healthy ways to express anger, frustration, and intense emotions without hurting self or others.
Navigate major changes like moving house, changing schools, parents' separation, or preparing for adulthood.
Working with teenagers requires different techniques than adult therapy. I use an integrative approach, drawing from evidence-based methods specifically adapted for adolescent development:
Helping teenagers identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to emotional distress.
Teaching young people to accept difficult emotions whilst committing to actions aligned with their values.
Building on teenagers' existing strengths and resources, focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
Recognising how traumatic experiences affect adolescent development, with emphasis on safety and empowerment.
Practical mindfulness and grounding techniques that help manage stress, anxiety, and overwhelming emotions.
Using art, writing, music when traditional talk therapy isn't connecting with a young person's style.
Young people need to know that therapy is their private space. I maintain strict confidentiality whilst ensuring parents know their teen is receiving appropriate support.
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.
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.
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.
Worried about your teenager but not sure how to help? I offer consultation calls to discuss your concerns and explore options.
Your teenager doesn't have to struggle alone. Professional support can make a real difference to their mental health and future wellbeing.
