Finding a Therapist for your Teen in Baltimore

Are you struggling to find a therapist for your teen? Here are some common barriers and ways to help:

Barrier #1: You know your child needs help, but they don’t seem interested

If you know your kid needs therapy, their buy-in is crucial. “Forcing” them to attend therapy doesn’t benefit anyone! They might have a harder time opening up, leading to a lack of progress which results in a loss of your money and time. So, what to do?

First, try to find even a small part of them that is interested in therapy. Maybe a large part of them feels too embarrassed, ashamed, or vulnerable seeking help. Maybe they think they can handle things. But perhaps, there is also a part of them that is curious about the process, or even desperately wanting the help but feel too afraid to begin.

When you talk with them about therapy, avoid language that takes away choice, such as, “You’re going to start therapy.” Instead, lead with curiosity and compassion, and offer choice where you can: “I’ve been noticing you’re having a hard time sleeping and your grades are suffering. We’re trying to help you at home, but we think you might benefit from outside support. Would you like to help me search for a therapist that seems like a good fit for you?”

If they say “no,” that’s okay. You’ve planted the seed. Maybe circle back a few days later — “Hey, I know you aren’t excited about seeing a therapist, but I found a few people who I think you’d like. Here are their websites so you can take a look.”

Hopefully, the time, space, trust, and choices that you give them help them to warm up to the process. They may not, and that’s okay. Unless they are really in crisis, give them a little more time. Maybe suggest they talk to a friend about starting therapy (peers can be a very positive support in this, especially as therapy is becoming less stigmatized). Maybe they even watch TikTok videos about therapy (I personally don’t love social media, but I know there is a lot of good content out there).

Once they are open to the idea, I highly encourage you to involve your teen in the process of selecting a therapist. Have them look at websites or scroll through Psychology Today or Therapy Den profiles to see who they gravitate toward. Involve them in the consultation call so that they can speak with the therapist ahead of time. This also helps to decrease the (understandable and expected) nerves before the first appointment. They can even have their own list of questions for the therapist. These all help to increase their interest and pave the way for a successful therapy journey.

Barrier #2: My child has agreed to therapy, but I can’t find anyone!

This can be stressful, I know! It can be hard to find someone that you like and trust and that has openings. Do not fret, I will help you navigate.

There are a few places you can turn for help. Of course, google gives you therapists in your area. Others include Psychology Today, Therapy Den, and various other online directories. There, you can filter by location, ages worked with, issues (e.g. depression, anxiety, etc.), modalities (e.g. brainspotting, IFS, mindfulness, etc.), and insurance.

Keep in mind — it can be harder to find quality providers with openings in your insurance network. However, many insurance policies offer generous reimbursement rates for therapy. Contact your provider to see what they cover.

Other places to reach out to include your child’s school and pediatrician.

If you keep getting stuck, I also recommend asking a therapist who is full for referrals. Often, we work together and help to support one another. If you were excited about the approach of a therapist but they don’t have space, see if they know other like-minded therapists in the area. They probably can help point you in the right direction!

If you are in the Baltimore, Maryland area, feel free to contact me for services. Or, if I’m not the best fit for your family, you can still reach out and I am happy to send you some referrals.

I hope this helps, and please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions! alli@shinethelightcounseling.com