Our counselors offer counseling for teens in Birmingham, AL

My go-to approaches for helping teenagers are cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I find these approaches beneficial because they help the client understand their emotions, thoughts, and behavioral patterns and learn effective skills to better manage (regulate) and cope (tolerate) their emotions. It also provides a direct approach that is clinician-led, instead of client-directed.

Depending on the issue that the teen is struggling with (anger management, depression, and/or anxiety), I feel it is important that the teen understands the purpose of the emotions and how to effectively communicate their needs. We would also work on ways to cope with difficult feelings. I generally use scenarios that help them to see the situation from the outside to make healthier choices.

I know a teen is making meaningful progress in counseling when they are able to learn from past actions and make healthier choices. Also, gaining feedback from their support system about progress made outside of therapy is helpful.

Teens can supplement their time in counseling by reviewing the workbook, completing homework assignments, and practicing the skills outside of therapy.

To prepare for their first counseling session, a teen can come in with a positive outlook and willingness to participate in therapy. I encourage them to ask questions because this may be their first time in counseling. I find that a lot of teenagers are apprehensive because this is their parents' choice to do therapy and not always their choice.