Being a parent means making hard decisions, like picking a counselor to help your teen's mental health. It's normal to have questions and feel unsure about where to start.

Questions you may have:

1. When should I think about getting mental health treatment for my teen? It can be hard to know when your teen needs mental health treatment. Look out for changes in their behavior, feelings, or how they're doing in school or with friends. If these problems continue and make life difficult, it's time to talk to a counselor.

3. What will happen during the first visit? The first visit is an important step in the treatment process. The counselor will ask questions to understand your child better. They may ask about what they're going through and their medical history. They might also use tests or talk to you and your teen to learn more.

4. Will my teenager need medicine? Medicine isn't always the first step for treating mental health problems in teenagers. Most of the time, therapy or counseling is the main treatment. If you or your teen believe medication could be beneficial, feel free to talk with your counselor about the benefits and risks.

5. What kind of therapy is best for my teen? There are different types of therapy for adolescents, like talk therapy, group therapy, or family therapy. The right kind of therapy depends on what your child needs. Your teen’s counselor will work with you to create a plan that fits your teen's situation.

7. How long will the treatment take? Every teenager is different, so treatment times vary. Some start feeling better in a few months, while others might need more time. The counselor, your teen, and you will figure out the best treatment plan together.

Starting mental health treatment for your teen may seem overwhelming, but with support and guidance, you can help them. If you're in Denton, TX, there are lots of great therapists available for counseling teens.

Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Reach out, ask for help from your community, and stay involved in your teen's progress. Together, you can support their future and emotional well-being.

Check out the author of this page Lexi Patrick, one of our teen therapists.