top of page
Best Therapist Manhattan

Blog

Therapy for Teens: What Parents Need to Know About Emotional Health in Adolescence

  • Writer: The Team at Upper East Side Psychology
    The Team at Upper East Side Psychology
  • Jun 17
  • 3 min read

Adolescence is a period of tremendous growth—but it can also be emotionally challenging. Teenagers are navigating identity, academic expectations, peer relationships, and a growing need for independence, all while their brains and bodies are still developing. With so much change happening at once, it’s natural for teens to experience emotional highs and lows.


As a parent, it’s not always easy to know when your teen’s behavior is typical or when it might be time to seek additional support. At Upper East Side Psychology, we specialize in helping teens build emotional resilience, strengthen self-esteem, and develop healthy coping skills. In this blog, we’ll explore the mental health challenges teens face, signs they may benefit from therapy, and how parents can be part of the solution.


Why Emotional Health Matters in Adolescence


Mental health conditions often begin during the teen years. According to the World Health Organization, half of all mental health disorders begin by age 14—but many go unnoticed and untreated. Emotional struggles in teens may show up as:


  • Irritability or anger

  • Withdrawing from friends or family

  • Changes in sleep or eating patterns

  • Trouble at school or with academics

  • Engaging in risky behavior

  • Frequent physical complaints (e.g., stomachaches)


These behaviors can be a sign that your teen is having difficulty managing emotions—not simply “acting out.”



Common Mental Health Concerns for Teens


Some of the most common mental health issues adolescents face include:


  • Anxiety disorders

  • Depression and mood disorders

  • Eating disorders and body image concerns

  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

  • ADHD and executive functioning challenges

  • Self-harm or suicidal ideation

  • Emotional dysregulation

  • Identity development, including gender or sexuality exploration

  • The impact of peer pressure and social media


These challenges are real and can be overwhelming without the right support.


When to Consider Therapy for Your Teen


Signs your teen may benefit from therapy include:


  • Emotional distress lasting more than two weeks

  • Withdrawal from friends, family, or usual activities

  • Trouble focusing or dropping grades

  • Expressing hopelessness or thoughts of self-harm

  • Excessive perfectionism or anxiety

  • Persistent conflict at home

  • You're feeling overwhelmed as a parent and unsure how to help


Therapy doesn’t have to be a last resort. It can also be a proactive tool that helps teens develop lifelong emotional skills.

 

What Happens in Teen Therapy?


At Upper East Side Psychology, therapy for teens is a safe, confidential space where they can explore what’s going on without fear of judgment. Depending on the teen’s needs, therapy may include:


  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety, depression, or stress

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for emotion regulation and interpersonal skills

  • Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD and phobias

  • Involvement from parents when appropriate


We tailor each therapy plan to the individual teen, offering a collaborative approach that supports growth and communication both in and outside of the therapy room.

 

How Parents Can Support Their Teen’s Mental Health


Your role matters. Some simple but powerful ways to help include:


  • Normalize therapy: Explain that therapy is a tool—not a punishment.

  • Validate emotions: Rather than minimizing, try listening and acknowledging their feelings.

  • Promote balance: Help your teen set realistic goals and manage stress.

  • Encourage screen-time boundaries: Have open conversations about social media and online pressures.

  • Stay connected: Even brief daily check-ins can create trust and emotional safety.


Why Therapy Works


Therapy gives teens:

  • Tools to manage anxiety and emotional overwhelm

  • A place to build confidence and communication skills

  • Support navigating school, social stress, and identity questions

  • A nonjudgmental environment where they feel truly heard


Ready to Support Your Teen?


If your teen is struggling, you’re not alone—and neither are they. At Upper East Side Psychology, we offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy for adolescents both in person in NYC and virtually across New York, Virginia, and PsyPact states.


Book a free 15-minute consultation today and let’s talk about how we can help your teen thrive.



 

Comments

bottom of page