Teenagers are dealing with a barrage of physical and psychological changes. They’re learning who they are. They’re managing new social and interpersonal roles. They’re learning how to be adults, and the process is riddled with pressure.
This is a prime time to introduce a teenager to therapy. But making time for therapy can be challenging and feel like another obligation and stressor. Online counseling for teens is often helpful for easing them through the teen years with grace, growth and strength.
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Is online counseling for teens the best option?
Teenagers must meet a lot of expectations. They spend about 7 hours each day in school, managing their schedules, social relationships and concentration spans.
They may participate in extracurricular activities. They’re learning what they like to do and how to get more of it in their lives. They’re practicing being team players while making a place for themselves in the world. They must balance their development of discipline with an intrinsic motivation to follow their hearts.
Teens are in a transition from the freedom of childhood to the responsibility of adulthood. They’re becoming more accountable for their actions and finding out what it means to make choices for themselves.
Navigating this stage is not straightforward. Teens often feel as though they’re not heard. Parents may try to do their best, but they’re not sure of the best way to handle issues and conversations with their teenagers.
Online counseling for teens is an ideal option to help adolescents during this transitional period. It provides them with a support person who listens to them objectively and allows them to feel seen and heard.
Counselors who work with teens also have experience with the unique concerns of this age group, including issues such as:
• Anger
• Anxiety
• Behavioral concerns
• Academic stress
• Eating disorders
• Interpersonal relationships
• Sexuality questions
• Depression
• Substance abuse
• Self-esteem issues
Teens may be anxious about bringing these concerns to even the most understanding parents. Some of the questions that adolescents have may feel embarrassing.
An online counselor for teens offers the anonymity that may help an adolescent open up. Adolescent patients can develop an ongoing professional relationship with a therapist online. But the distance may be exactly what minors need to feel comfortable talking about their thoughts and feelings. Online therapists do not receive the clients’ personal contact information.
Plus, adolescents are proficient at using technology. Communicating via video chat or text might feel more comfortable for a teenager than holding a long conversation with an adult. Online counseling for teens can be performed on a platform that’s right for the patient.
In many cases, sitting face-to-face with a therapist feels awkward and could increase an adolescent’s anxiety. A teenager might be more likely to begin and continue with therapy when it’s delivered in a format that puts them at ease.
Online teen counseling services
Teenagers may be overwhelmed by expectations, responsibilities, interests and emotions. But they don’t need to go through all of this alone.
Clients don’t need to be diagnosed with a psychological disorder to take advantage of online teen counseling. In fact, many of these services are not diagnostic. The mental health professionals are there to offer support and guidance. They’ll provide insight into the client’s emotions and teach coping skills and strategies to help young people stay balanced amid the upheaval of adolescence.
Some features to look for when you’re researching online counseling services for teens include:
• Licensed, certified and experienced mental health professionals
• Secure, HIPPA-compliant platforms
• Privacy and confidentiality
Online therapists should follow the same guidelines as in-person therapists when it comes to confidentiality. They will not reveal information discussed with their clients to the parents unless they are concerned that the client is at risk of harming themselves or others.
If a teenager is considering harming themselves or someone else, online therapy may not be ideal for them. They may require emergency medical treatment.
Online counseling for teens is intended to provide consistent support throughout a challenging time. Clients can decide when to start and stop sessions and how often to hold them. It’s valuable to know that there is always someone to talk to.
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Findyourtherapy.com
Findyourtherapy.com is an important resource for teenagers who are struggling. They may not know where to begin in their search for connection. They may be hesitant to admit that they’re battling certain questions.
At Findyourtherapy.com, anyone can find information about different types of therapy that relate to their unique concerns. The comprehensive website outlines a variety of therapy methods and options.
It’s an excellent starting point for researching therapy for teens. Findyourtherapy.com offers relatable information that parents and teens can come back to when they’re not sure where to turn. Subscribe here so that you don’t miss out on any of the company’s helpful posts.
TeenCounseling.com
TeenCounseling.com is an online counseling service that’s dedicated to working with adolescents from the ages of 13 to 19. The company, which is part of BetterHelp, offers a network of licensed professionals on an accessible platform. Teenagers can use a smartphone or computer to access their therapist via phone calls, video calls, messaging or live chats.
Communication between teenagers and their parents is important. TeenCounseling.com keeps the parents in the loop. To begin, the parent or guardian fills out a questionnaire that is designed to pair the patient with the best therapist for their needs. After the registration and payment are completed, the parent or guardian uses a link to invite the adolescent to the platform.
Teen counseling often works best when the individual works with the same therapist over time. However, the company understands that it takes time to develop a solid professional relationship. Users are free to change therapists whenever they’d like.
The parent or guardian and teenager will each have access to a private therapy room. There, they can interact with the therapist securely. Parents do not have access to the client’s therapy room. However, they can communicate with the counselor separately if they have any questions or concerns.
Users can text the therapist at any time. They’ll get a notification when the counselor responds. This allows teenagers to send a message with whatever is on their mind at a particular moment. If clients want real-time communication with their therapist, they can schedule live chat, phone or video sessions.
Parents or teens can get started by visiting the TeenCounseling.com website.
An early foundation for strong mental health
It’s never too early to focus on the importance of mental health. The teen years can be particularly challenging emotionally and psychologically.
Adolescents’ physical development is on a fast upswing. Although their brains are also growing and neural pathways are being solidified, they won’t fully mature for more than a decade. It’s a confusing time, and these rapid changes can throw young people for a loop.
The consistent support allows teens to feel confident in their ability to manage their emotions. Setting an early framework for mental health teaches teenagers:
• That it’s acceptable to focus on their own needs
• Coping skills for dealing with difficult times
• Techniques for reducing stress and anxiety
• Strong communication skills
• How to take responsibility for their actions
• Empathy for others and compassion for themselves
Professional mental health support during the teenage years enables young people to move through their lives with enthusiasm and understanding. Living your best life takes practice. Online counseling can be an ongoing source of support.
Final thoughts
Online teen counseling is an ideal way to help adolescents manage their mental health. It’s convenient for busy schedules and takes the pressure off of one-on-one counseling. Many teens prefer the digital format and consistent support. Make sure to use a reputable platform, such as TeenCounseling.com, to get access to licensed and vetted therapists with experience working with this unique age group.
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