For Pre-Teens & Teens: What to Expect in Therapy

Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here.

Starting therapy might feel a little weird or unfamiliar, and that’s completely okay. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, low mood, school stress, problems with friends, or just feeling overwhelmed, this is a space where you can talk freely and be met with empathy, support, and tools that actually help.

My goal is to help you feel comfortable being yourself, no matter what you’re going through.

Therapy isn’t just talking about feelings (although we do that too). It can include:

• Figuring out what’s going on when you’re feeling anxious, sad, stressed, or frustrated

• Learning tools to calm your mind and body

• Talking through situations that are bothering you—like school stress, family issues, or friend drama

• Getting curious about thoughts and patterns that make life feel harder than it needs to

• Building confidence in who you are and how you handle tough stuff

I use things like games, art, movement, writing, or creative activities to help make therapy more interactive and engaging—especially if talking isn’t your favorite thing.

You get to choose what feels most comfortable for you.

Image title: “So what do we actually do in therapy?” – introductory heading for therapy process section

Sad graphic – representing sadness and emotional expression in therapy

Anxious graphic – reflecting anxiety and stress in preteens and teens

Nervous graphic – acknowledging nervousness and emotional vulnerability

Apathetic graphic – representing emotional disconnection or lack of motivation

What therapy isn't

Therapy isn’t about being “fixed.” You’re not broken.

It’s also not about being grilled with questions or told what to do.

Think of it more like a supportive space where you can:

• Sort through your thoughts

• Learn new ways to deal with hard emotions

• Feel seen, heard, and respected

Will My Parents Know What I Say?

Great question! What we talk about in therapy stays private (it’s called confidentiality), unless you’re in danger or someone else is. If you’re ever unsure, just ask me—I’ll always be upfront about how things work.

Sometimes, we’ll include your parents in certain parts of the process (like big goals or family dynamics), but we’ll always talk about that together first.

If You’re Feeling Nervous…

That’s totally normal. Many people feel unsure before starting therapy.

You don’t have to know exactly what to say. You just have to show up—and we’ll figure the rest out together.

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