An introduction to adolescent therapy

The period of adolescence is an important developmental stage that sets into motion physical, psychological and social changes. It is important to take into account that young adults are no longer children but are often still dependant on their parents to some degree. Consequently therapy with adolescents needs to be structured in a specific manner.  There are numerous reasons that can bring an adolescent to therapy ranging from personal distress, scholastic problems to behavioural difficulties in social situations. The purpose of this document is to explain a little about starting therapy and how I work. It is also important to specify the boundaries of confidentiality so that adolescents and parents can be clear regarding their respective positions.

The role of the young adult and caregivers in adolescent therapy

First of all it is essential that the adolescent needs to consent to therapy. It is very hard to work with a teenager that feels they are being forced to attend sessions. I recommend that parents should educate adolescents about the process and benefits of therapy and than allow the teenager a chance to make up their own mind. It is a big step for an adolescent to commit to attending therapy. This may hopefully set a precedent for handling stress in a mature fashion. Often this requires support and understanding from parental figures. Additionally there are also fees that the parents must pay for when an adolescent is in therapy. This creates a dual relationship where the primary client is the young adult but the parents are responsible for the fees. An adolescent legally may consent to therapy from the age of 14 without parental permission. However it is ideal if the parent/s can be informed so that they can help facilitate the process.

The first few sessions are used for an assessment and to slowly get to know more about the adolescent. Once the assessment is done the client and therapist will try to decide on some goals and a treatment plan. The process of therapy often requires weekly meetings where important concerns or goals can be discussed. The therapist needs to try and create a safe space where the young adult is able to open up. An adolescent is often treated in a similar fashion to an adult when in therapy. The therapist seldom speaks to the parents unless there is a practical reason for this or it has been requested by the young adult. It is important to note that even when a session with the parent/s is arranged. The adolescent will need to give consent to the therapist to determine what kind of information may be divulged. The parental feedback that is given to parents will often be general and will not include specific details of therapy sessions. It can also often be useful to get a second therapist involved to schedule regular sessions with the caregivers for parental counselling or support.

The length of the therapy process

Each person has different needs and financial concerns that can affect the length of therapy. The end of therapy is often prompted by a reduction in symptoms and hopefully greater comfort throughout every day life. A short course may be 3 months while longer treatments could take a year or several years. The final date for therapy will often be decided in advance as it important that the client can have time to say goodbye to the therapist and think about the meaning of the work that has been done.