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Starting Therapy: What Teens Can Expect From Therapy Sessions

Congratulations! You did it. You are on your way to starting therapy. Now, as a teenager that can feel a little bit scary when you are first starting out, especially if you have not had a good therapy experience in the past. Perhaps you are feeling a little embarrassed about having to return to therapy. You might be somebody who has never gone to therapy before. You may only know what they show on TV and in movies. 

To learn more about what to expect when it comes to therapy for teens and how to make the most of your journey, check out this blog for helpful tips and insights.

Starting Therapy: Finding a Therapist!

When looking for a therapist, it is important for you to consider a few key factors to ensure that you find the right fit. Begin by thinking about what you hope to achieve through starting therapy. Are you looking for help with anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, or something else? Knowing your goals can help you find a therapist who specializes in those areas.

Next, consider the therapist’s qualifications and experience. Look for someone who is licensed and has experience working with teenagers. It is also helpful to read reviews or ask for recommendations from friends or trusted sources.

Another important factor is the therapist’s approach and style. Some therapists are more conversational, while others might use specific techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Think about what style you might be most comfortable with.

Finally, it is common practice to have an initial meeting with a therapist to see if you feel comfortable with them. It is important to feel safe and understood, so trust your instincts. If it does not feel like a good fit, it is okay to keep looking until you find someone who meets your needs. 

Related: Tips For Finding The Right Therapist For You

What Happens At The First Therapy Session

When starting therapy, your first session is called a client assessment. This is where the therapist gets to know you, your experiences, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. They will ask you a lot of questions about your life, such as your family, school, relationships, and interests. They might also ask about your sleep patterns, appetite, and any thoughts or feelings that have been troubling you. This helps them understand your needs and how they can best support you.

When it comes to therapy for teens, it is completely normal to feel a bit nervous but remember, this session is all about finding out if the therapist is a good fit for you. You have the right to share as much or as little as you are comfortable with. The more open you are, the better they can help you, but it is okay to take your time.

Therapists usually ask about your goals for therapy during the first session. This helps them understand what you want to achieve and makes sure that you are both on the same page. Setting clear goals also lets you take an active role in your therapy, making each session more focused and helpful.

This first session is also your chance to see if the therapist is a good fit for you. It is like a first date— Just because you are on a first date with somebody, does not automatically mean that you must now spend your entire life with them. If you do not vibe with the therapist or do not feel that mutual respect and trust, it is okay to keep looking. If you are unsure, it is okay to stay curious and hang in there for a few sessions. However, if you know it does not feel right for you, do not force it!

Confidentiality Rules For Therapy Sessions

Confidentiality means that what you talk about in therapy stays between you and your therapist. This is important because it helps you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

In Ontario, therapists are required to break confidentiality if they believe you are at risk of harming yourself or others, or if they suspect abuse or neglect. This means they might need to inform your parents or legal guardians in certain situations. It is important to know that these rules are in place to keep you safe. If you have any concerns about confidentiality, do not hesitate to ask your therapist. They can explain how these rules apply to your specific situation and help you feel more comfortable about the process.

Therapy For Teens: Creating A Treatment Plan

After your first appointment, you and your therapist will create a treatment plan. This plan guides your therapy and helps you both stay on track. It’s a way to check in on your progress:

  • Is the therapy working?
  • Are you feeling better or worse?
  • Has something new come up that needs attention?

The treatment plan is like a roadmap, making sure you and your therapist are working towards the same goals and adjusting them as needed. Having clear, written goals can be very helpful in achieving them, and it shows your progress over time.

Remember, the treatment plan is a guide, not a rulebook. You can still talk about anything that comes up in your life, even if it’s not on the plan. Therapists understand that life happens and things change, so they are flexible and ready to help you with whatever you need. For example, if you got a bad grade on a test and it’s really upsetting you, you can bring that up in your session. 

Even if the treatment plan says you are going to talk about something else, like your relationship with your mom, most therapists will not insist on sticking to the plan if something more urgent comes up. However, if you find yourself bringing up a new crisis every week, it might be a sign that there is a lot of chaos in your life. In that case, your therapist might suggest focusing on how to manage and reduce some of that chaos first, so that you can get to the deeper level stuff that have the bigger impact. 

It could also mean that dealing with different crises each week is a way to avoid addressing the main issue you are seeking help for. This is something your therapist can help you recognize and work through. The treatment plan is also a chance for you to check if your therapist is meeting your needs. Communication is key— therapists are not mind readers, so let them know how you are feeling and if there is anything you need to change.

How Therapy Works

In therapy, you will talk about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and confidential space. Your therapist will help you identify any negative patterns and develop strategies to manage them. The first few sessions might feel a bit awkward, but that is normal. Over time, you will build a trusting relationship with your therapist, making it easier to open up and work through your challenges.

Therapy sessions are tailored to your needs, so you might engage in different activities like talking, writing, or even drawing to express yourself. Your therapist will use various techniques to help you understand your emotions and develop healthier ways to cope with stress. It is a collaborative process, meaning you and your therapist will work together to find the best solutions for you. Learn more about psychotherapy, the different types, and how it works.

Remember, starting therapy is the beginning of a journey, and progress can take time. It is important to be patient with yourself and stay committed to the process. Celebrate your small victories along the way, and do not hesitate to share any concerns or changes in your feelings with your therapist. They are there to support you and help you navigate through your mental health journey. You’ve got this!

Are you interested in starting therapy? Connect with a Rebound Total Health therapist who can work with you to help you through challenges. For news and educational information, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Related: Social Media Addiction And Teens – How To Manage It

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