Teen Therapy

At Olive Branch Therapy Group, we know how hard it can be for both parents and teens to navigate this stage of life. Many parents wonder: Are my child’s emotions normal? Should we be concerned about their behavior? Could therapy help?

We provide specialized counseling for adolescents ages 13–19 to help them manage stress, build resilience, and feel more confident in themselves. Therapy gives teens a safe, supportive space to process what they’re experiencing—without judgment.

The teenage years are exciting, challenging, and often overwhelming.

but with the added pressures of school, social media, identity exploration, and peer relationships. Some of the most common issues we see include:

  • Low self-esteem or lack of confidence
  • Concerns about body image or self-image
  • Difficulty managing stress (sometimes leading to self-harm)
  • Depression and feelings of hopelessness
  • Anxiety, worry, or panic attacks
  • Aggressive behavior or acting out at home/school
  • Struggles with friendships, dating, or family relationships
  • Inability to handle conflict in healthy ways
  • Academic pressure and performance anxiety

If you notice your teen withdrawing, showing big mood changes, or struggling to cope, therapy can help them find tools for managing challenges in healthier ways.

Common Concerns Teens Face

The struggles teens face today often mirror those of adults,

Our Approach to Teen Therapy

Teenagers are not just “smaller adults.” They need approaches that fit their stage of life, personalities, and interests. At Olive Branch Therapy Group, we meet teens where they are—whether they’re naturally talkative or hesitant to open up at first.

Our therapists use a mix of evidence-based approaches and creative strategies to engage adolescents, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps reframe negative thoughts and build healthier coping skills.
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills: Teaches emotion regulation, stress tolerance, and mindfulness.
  • Goal-setting and problem-solving: Builds confidence by showing teens they can take small, meaningful steps forward.
  • Journaling, mindfulness, and meditation: Encourages self-reflection and calm.
  • Creative and expressive outlets: For teens who may not want to “just talk,” we integrate strategies like art, writing, or interactive activities.

Our ultimate goal is to give teens tools they can carry into adulthood—so they not only cope with current struggles, but also feel empowered to handle future challenges with resilience.

Teen Therapy: What to Expect

Every teen’s therapy journey is unique, but here’s what the process often looks like:

Parents are often part of the process—whether through joint sessions, check-ins, or guidance on how to best support their teen’s growth outside of therapy.

Maintenance and relapse prevention

Over time, teens gain more self-awareness, confidence, and healthy ways to manage stress.

Therapists teach coping skills, relaxation techniques, and problem-solving strategies.

reflection and progress

Teens share what they’re facing at school, at home, with friends, or within themselves.

exposure sessions

We explore relevant family history, medical history, and any mental health concerns.

education and planning

FIRST SESSION

The therapist meets with the teen (and often the parent) to learn what’s going on.

Adolescence is a formative time. How teens learn to handle stress, relationships, and emotions can influence their long-term mental health. With therapy, teens can:

  • Build healthier self-esteem and confidence
  • Reduce anxiety and depression symptoms
  • Learn better communication and conflict-resolution skills
  • Develop stronger relationships with peers and family
  • Feel supported, understood, and less alone

Therapy provides the tools to thrive—not just survive—the teenage years.

Why Teen Therapy Matters

Start Teen Therapy in New Jersey

If you’re a parent searching for teen therapy in East Brunswick, Somerville, or online across New Jersey, Olive Branch Therapy Group is here to help. Our experienced therapists specialize in supporting adolescents through the unique challenges of this stage of life.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward helping your teen feel more confident, resilient, and understood.

Book an appointment