SARA L. MANEWITH, AM, DIRECTOR, RESPONSE FOR TEENS

Many people think about seeking therapy for a long time.  They may be unsure about what the process will be like, concerned about others’ judgements, or just apprehensive of the unknown.  Making the decision to seek therapy is a big one!  Congratulations on taking that step.

Once that decision has been made, the next question is, How do I find a therapist?  There are many good resources to help answer this question.

• Many schools have therapists or counselors available to talk with, or who can help you find other counseling resources.  Any student can go directly to them.  If you don’t know who the school counselor is, you might ask a trusted teacher, the principal or vice principal.
• Some people might talk directly with their mother or father but if you can’t, maybe there is another adult you know:  your doctor; a rabbi, pastor, or minister; even a trusted friend of the family, or an aunt or uncle.
• You could also look at your local community center (like a YMCA) or hospital.

It’s important to know that minors (people under the age of 18) are allowed to have confidential therapy without the knowledge or permission of their parent or guardian.  A therapist can talk with you about how this works.  There are also many places that charge very little, or nothing so that therapy can be affordable for anyone.

JCFS Response for Teens has trained therapists that are specialists in working with people ages 12 – 24, and really understand the issues young people may be dealing with.  Many of them have training in working with LGBTQ+ people.  If you’d like to schedule an appointment with a therapist, please call 1.855.ASK.JCFS or email ask@jcfs.org.

If you feel like you are in crisis, please call or text the 24-hour emergency helpline (phone 800.273.8255 or text HOME to 741741).

You can also find additional information on what to expect when you start therapy from Mental Health America.