Adolescent Therapy
in Illinois

Nave Wellness Center offers both online and in-person adolescent therapy to support teens across Illinois as they navigate the challenges of growing up. Our experienced teen therapists provide a safe, non-judgmental space where young people can explore their emotions, build healthier relationships, and develop the skills needed to cope with stress, anxiety, identity concerns, and more. Whether your teen is facing a specific issue or needs someone to talk to, we’re here to help them gain confidence, resilience, and a clearer path forward—wherever they are.

Adolescent Therapy in Illinois

Why Is Teen Therapy Beneficial for Many Adolescents?

Teen therapy is beneficial for many adolescents because it helps them navigate the unique challenges that come with growing up in today’s world. From academic stress and social pressure to identity development and family dynamics, teens often face emotional hurdles that can feel overwhelming. Therapy provides a safe and supportive space where they can express themselves without judgment and work through difficult feelings or experiences. With the guidance of a licensed therapist, adolescents can develop healthy coping strategies that improve their ability to manage stress, build resilience, and communicate more effectively.

Issues We Address in Adolescents

Anger Management

Learning to manage anger is an integral part of emotional development during adolescence. Teens may experience intense emotions and react impulsively when they feel misunderstood or overwhelmed. Therapy provides them with tools to identify the root causes of their anger, express their feelings constructively, and respond to conflict in healthier ways. Through consistent support, they begin to replace destructive habits with more effective communication and coping strategies.

Anxiety & Depression

Anxiety and depression can deeply affect a teen’s daily functioning, academic performance, and relationships. We utilize approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help adolescents accept their emotional experiences without judgment while committing to actions that align with their values. Whether they’re struggling with social anxiety, persistent sadness, or self-harming behaviors, therapy offers a supportive path toward emotional regulation and long-term healing.

Behavioral Issues

Behavioral challenges in teens often signal underlying emotional distress. These issues can range from defiance and truancy to impulsivity or engagement in risky behaviors. For some, concerns like eating disorders may also emerge. Our therapists focus on identifying patterns and teaching new skills that empower adolescents to make better choices and strengthen self-discipline, leading to more positive outcomes at home, school, and in social settings.

Body Image Concerns

In a culture that constantly scrutinizes appearance, many teens struggle with body image concerns that erode their self-worth. Whether it’s due to peer comparison, media influences, or personal insecurities, therapy helps adolescents build a healthier relationship with their bodies. We provide tools and perspectives that support their ability to feel confident, not just in how they look, but in who they are.

Bullying

Bullying—whether in person or online—can deeply affect a teen’s emotional well-being and self-esteem. Therapy provides a safe space where adolescents feel comfortable opening up about their experiences without fear of judgment. We help them process the emotional impact of bullying, rebuild self-confidence, and learn strategies to assert themselves and protect their boundaries.

Family Changes

Divorce, remarriage, relocation, or the birth of a sibling can introduce complex emotional reactions for adolescents. Significant changes in the family structure may create feelings of confusion, insecurity, or even guilt. Therapy offers teens a non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, adjust to new dynamics, and find stability amid shifting circumstances.

Grief and Loss

Adolescents may encounter grief and loss through the death of a loved one, the end of a friendship, or other significant life changes. These experiences can feel isolating and confusing. Therapy supports teens on their healing journey by helping them make sense of their grief, express painful emotions, and rebuild a sense of connection and hope for the future.

Identity Development and Self-Esteem

The adolescent years are crucial for identity development, including exploration of values, beliefs, and social roles. Struggles with low self-esteem, questions about gender identity, or uncertainty about one’s place in the world are common during this time. Therapy creates a space for reflection, encouragement, and personal growth, helping teens build a stronger sense of self and confidence in who they are becoming.

LGBTQ+

For LGBTQ+ teens, therapy can be a place to feel heard and affirmed as they explore their identities in a world that may not always be accepting. Our therapists offer guidance and validation without assumptions, creating a welcoming environment where adolescents can discuss challenges, celebrate their identities, and build resilience in the face of societal pressures.

Life Transitions

Adolescents face a range of life transitions—from starting high school to preparing for college or entering the workforce . These moments of change can stir up anxiety or uncertainty. In a nurturing environment, therapy helps children and young adults adapt to new roles, responsibilities, and expectations, fostering a sense of competence and direction during transitional phases.

Racial Identity

Teens exploring their racial identity may face confusion, discrimination, or cultural disconnection. Therapy provides a space to examine these identity issues with sensitivity and support. We help adolescents develop a positive self-concept, navigate racial or cultural stressors, and feel more secure in their sense of belonging.

Relational Issues

Many teens struggle with relationship dynamics involving family, friends, or romantic partners. Difficulties with communication, trust, or boundaries can cause distress and social withdrawal. Using developmentally appropriate techniques, including play therapy for younger adolescents, we help patients enhance their interpersonal skills and build healthier, more respectful relationships.

Stress at School

The pressure to perform well in school, get into college, or meet others’ expectations can feel overwhelming for many teens. Therapy helps adolescents identify sources of stress, reframe unhelpful thought patterns, and develop time management and self-care strategies that support both emotional well-being and academic success.

Substance Use

Substance use in adolescents is often influenced by peer pressure, emotional distress, or attempts to cope with unresolved trauma. Therapy helps teens explore the underlying reasons for their use and develop healthier ways to manage stress, improve decision-making, and resist negative influences. Early intervention is crucial in preventing long-term harm and facilitating recovery.

Trauma, Abuse, Neglect, and PTSD

Experiences of trauma—whether emotional, physical, or sexual abuse—can leave lasting psychological effects if left unaddressed. We offer trauma-informed therapy tailored to each teen’s needs, using an integrative approach that may include talk therapy, art therapy, and other expressive modalities. Our therapists provide a confidential space to process trauma, including suicidal thoughts, and support the development of safety, trust, and healing.

Benefits of Adolescent Therapy

Adolescent therapy provides young people with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and feel more in control of their emotions and behaviors. With the support of our teen counselors, therapy can lead to meaningful and long-lasting changes that positively impact all areas of a teenager’s life.

Some of the key benefits include:

Improved emotional regulation and ability to manage strong feelings
Greater self-awareness and understanding of personal triggers and patterns
Increased self-compassion and reduced self-criticism
Better communication skills and healthier relationships with family and peers
Guidance to help reduce risky behaviors and make safer choices
Support from our teen counselors, who understand the unique challenges adolescents face
A stronger sense of identity and confidence in navigating the teenage years

Address Your Mental
Health Concerns at Nave
Wellness Center

At Nave Wellness Center, our teen therapists work with adolescents to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Whether your teen is navigating anxiety, family challenges, or identity concerns, we’re here to help them feel understood, build resilience, and grow with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does therapy help teens thrive?

Yes, therapy can be highly effective in helping teens thrive. Through a structured therapy process, adolescents gain tools to manage emotional and behavioral challenges more effectively. Therapy encourages growth, builds confidence, and helps teens better navigate the complexities of school, relationships, and family life.

What is the cost of adolescent therapy in Illinois?

The cost of adolescent therapy in Illinois typically ranges from $100 to $250 per session, depending on the therapist’s experience, session length, and location. You can receive personalized price quotes by following the link to our portal.

Can adolescents have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

Yes, a young person can experience PTSD after exposure to traumatic events such as abuse, accidents, or witnessing violence. Therapy can help adolescents process these experiences, reduce distressing symptoms, and rebuild a sense of safety and stability.

Can we address adolescent problems during family therapy sessions?

Absolutely. Family therapy can be an effective way to address adolescent concerns within a supportive environment. These sessions involve the entire family—parents and teens working together—to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and find a path forward that benefits everyone.

Do you practice the Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach?

Yes, we incorporate the Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach when appropriate. In an inviting space, our therapists help teens explore the aspects of themselves that are connected to emotional struggles or problem behaviors. IFS can be a powerful part of a personalized treatment plan designed to promote internal balance and healing.

Ready to take the next step?

Connect with us to begin your journey toward healing and personal growth.