Adolescent Therapy - Dr. Michelle Novotny

Adolescence is a time of tremendous change—physically, emotionally, and socially. Teens today face unprecedented pressures from school, social media, peer relationships, and family expectations. Therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space where teens can explore their feelings, develop coping skills, and build confidence as they navigate this challenging stage of life.

Common Challenges Teens Face

Anxiety & Stress

Academic pressure, social anxiety, performance worry, test anxiety, or generalized worry about the future

Mood Changes & Depression

Persistent sadness, irritability, loss of interest in activities, low energy, or feelings of hopelessness

Identity & Self-Esteem

Questions about identity, gender, sexuality, purpose, or struggles with self-confidence and body image

Social Challenges

Friendship conflicts, peer pressure, bullying, social media stress, or difficulty fitting in

Family Conflict

Arguments with parents, difficulties communicating needs, feeling misunderstood, or navigating family changes

Behavioral Concerns

Acting out, risky behaviors, substance use, self-harm, or difficulty regulating emotions

How Teen Therapy Works

Therapy with adolescents is different from therapy with adults. Teens need a space where they feel understood, respected, and not judged. My approach is collaborative and developmentally appropriate—I meet teens where they are and work with them (not on them) to develop insights and skills.

A Safe, Non-Judgmental Space

Teens need to know their thoughts and feelings are valid. I create an environment where they can be honest about their experiences without fear of being criticized or dismissed.

Building Self-Understanding

We work together to help teens understand their emotions, identify patterns in their thoughts and behaviors, and develop a stronger sense of who they are and what matters to them.

Practical Coping Skills

Teens learn concrete strategies for managing stress, regulating emotions, solving problems, and navigating difficult social situations—skills they can use immediately in their daily lives.

Family Involvement (When Helpful)

With the teen's consent, I may involve parents in some sessions to improve communication, address family dynamics, and help parents support their teen's progress.

What Parents Should Know

Supporting Your Teen Through Therapy

Confidentiality matters: Teens need to trust that what they say stays private (except in cases of safety concerns). This confidentiality is essential for effective therapy.
Progress takes time: Building trust and making change happens gradually. Be patient and supportive of the process.
You're still involved: I'll provide updates on progress and may schedule parent sessions to discuss how you can best support your teen at home.
Therapy isn't punishment: Frame therapy as a positive resource and support, not as a consequence for misbehavior.
Your teen's voice matters: Therapy works best when teens are active participants, not when they're forced to attend.

Common Issues We Address

Academic stress and performance anxiety - Pressure to excel, test anxiety, perfectionism, or fear of failure
Social anxiety and peer relationships - Difficulty making friends, social media pressures, or fear of judgment
Depression and low mood - Persistent sadness, loss of motivation, or feelings of emptiness
Identity exploration - Questions about sexuality, gender identity, values, and future direction
Emotion regulation - Difficulty managing anger, frustration, sadness, or intense feelings
Family conflict - Communication breakdowns, parent-teen tension, or adjusting to family changes
Trauma and difficult experiences - Processing past events that continue to affect wellbeing
Self-esteem and body image - Building confidence and developing a healthier relationship with self

What to Expect in the First Session

The first session is typically with the teen and parent(s) together for part of the time, then individually with the teen. We'll discuss what brings your family to therapy, your teen's goals, and how therapy will work.

I'll explain confidentiality, answer questions, and begin building rapport with your teen. My goal is for everyone—teens and parents—to feel comfortable and confident that therapy can help.

From there, sessions are typically weekly and last 50 minutes. Most of the work happens with the teen individually, though I may schedule occasional parent sessions or family sessions as needed.

Adolescent & Teen Therapy