Online Therapy for Teens: Tips from a Missouri Teen Therapist

Choosing the right therapist for your teenager is a significant decision. Ensuring they have a positive experience with therapy is crucial for their mental health journey. At Aspire Counseling, we offer counseling near Blue Springs, MO, and also maintain a counseling office in Mid Missouri. However, our clinicians also specialize in online teen counseling throughout the state. Therefore, we understand the pros and cons of online therapy for teenagers. 

As a parent myself, I know how challenging, stressful, and honestly time-consuming it can be to try to choose the right therapist for your child. It’s not as simple as just searching for “best therapist for teenager near me” and going through the first result Google spits out. Searching for a therapist for your child feels heavy. It’s a big decision. You want to make sure they get the support they need. You’d like it to fit into your schedule, your budget, and your life style. And it’s hard to make all of those happen. Many therapists have a waiting list. That great health insurance you thought you had feels almost useless when you start looking into the options. And your teen seems to have a completely different idea of what they’re looking for compared to what you’re looking for in a therapist. 

You’ve considered online therapy. It sounds like a good idea. But does it work? Or more importantly, will it work for your teenager? Let’s drive in and answer some of the common questions parents and teens have about online teen counseling.

Is online therapy as effective as in person counseling?

The simple answer here is that yes, research shows that teenagers often find online therapy just as effective as in-person counseling. The digital age has transformed the way we connect with each other, and for many adolescents, virtual meetings are just a part of their daily life. This familiarity with online interactions can make online therapy a natural and effective choice.

Teenagers have diverse personalities and preferences, so the effectiveness of online therapy might depend on the individual. Some teens find it more effective than in-person therapy. Many teenagers feel comfortable and secure meeting with a therapist from the cozy confines of their own room. For them, opening up about their struggles becomes a little less daunting. Many therapists have had remarkable conversations with teens while they pet their cats. I know I’ve personally also had great conversations with teens when I’ve observed something interesting in their room like a poster or knick-knack that we’ve talked about. Also, when I’ve talked about a skill like grounding we’ve been able to use objects in their room as tools. This has been good for helping them generalize the skills they learn in therapy to practice throughout the week. Overall, this type of therapy session can create an informal and relaxed atmosphere that encourages teens to share more openly.

On the other hand, some adolescents may open up more when they're physically present in a therapist's office. The experience of being in a dedicated therapeutic space might help them concentrate and engage better during sessions. In-person therapy allows the therapist to pick up on non-verbal cues that might be missed in virtual sessions. It's important to remember that the effectiveness of therapy often hinges on the therapist's ability to build trust and rapport with the teen. The therapeutic relationship is crucial, regardless of whether the sessions are in person or online.

Therefore, the choice between online and in-person therapy depends on your teenager's comfort, individual preferences, and the therapeutic relationship. So, if you’re wondering, “What therapy is best for adolescents?” The truth is that both modalities can be effective. It's often a matter of personal choice.

What is the best option for online therapy for teens?

The best option for online therapy often depends on the specific needs and preferences of your teenager. It's not a one-size-fits-all scenario, but an individual approach that really meets your son or daughter where they are in that moment. And, there are a few factors that influence that.

Finding a teen therapist who has the expertise your child needs

Not all therapists are equally qualified to treat your teenager, even if they have the same degree or type of licence. The ideal choice is to find a therapist who specializes in the particular issue your son or daughter is grappling with.

For example, if your child is part of the LGBTQ+ community, it might be beneficial to connect with a therapist experienced in working with LGBTQ+ youth. For example, if they have recently come out as trans, they may prefer to meet with a therapist who identifies as trans. There aren’t a ton of trans therapists in Missouri (although more are getting licensed recently), so searching for “teen counseling near me” unfortunately won’t yield many results for clinicians with lived trans experience in many parts of Missouri. So, if this is important to your teen it may mean seeing a trans therapist online. However, finding a trans therapist might create a deeper sense of understanding and connection for your teenager and they may be able to open up and be honest in counseling more quickly.

Similarly, if your teenager is dealing with specific mental health concerns like OCD, it's crucial to look for a therapist with specific training and experience in treating that condition. In some cases, it can even do more harm than good to not see a specialist. I would put mental health conditions like OCD, PTSD, self harm and disordered eating all in that category. You should prioritize therapists who are well-versed in evidence-based treatments for their specific issues. It ensures that the therapy aligns with the latest research and treatment guidelines.

It’s Essential to Find a Teen Therapist Your Child Connects With

Additionally, the therapist your teenager chooses should be someone they feel comfortable and secure with. Trust is the foundation of effective therapy. While your teenager may not necessarily consider their therapist "cool," they should have faith in their therapist's competence and confidentiality. They should feel that the therapist truly comprehends their experiences and struggles, creating a safe and empathetic environment for healing.

Consistently Matters in Teen Counseling Online

Consistency in therapy is also a significant factor, especially for teenagers. Adolescents thrive on predictability and structure, and the therapeutic process is no exception. It's advisable to opt for a therapist who can commit to a consistent schedule of sessions. This helps teenagers build trust, express themselves more openly, and experience the full benefits of therapy.

When considering online therapy, it's crucial to choose a therapist who is committed to long-term care. Many commercial online therapy platforms, I often refer to these as "big box" platforms, may suffer from high therapist turnover. Think of online therapy platforms like Better Help or Talkspace. Unfortunately, this therapist turnover can disrupt the continuity of care, making it harder for teenagers to build a stable, trusting relationship with their therapist. When it comes to online therapy for teenagers, look for quality over quantity and aim for a consistent therapeutic experience.

The best option for teen counseling online ultimately combines expertise, a strong therapeutic relationship, and a commitment to consistency. Your teenager's mental health journey is unique, and the therapy should be tailored to meet their specific needs and circumstances.

What are the disadvantages of teletherapy?

While online therapy offers many advantages, it's also important to consider the potential disadvantages, especially when it comes to teenagers.

Technical Issues: 

Teletherapy relies on a stable internet connection and compatible devices. Technical glitches, such as poor video quality, audio problems, or internet outages, can disrupt the therapy session. Teenagers may find this frustrating, potentially impacting the effectiveness of the session.

Privacy Concerns: 

Many teenagers value their privacy, and some may feel uncomfortable discussing personal issues at home, especially if they share their living space with family members or roommates. Privacy can be a significant concern during online therapy. As a parent, it’s important that you do whatever you can to promote your teenager’s privacy. Can you assure them you’ll be in another part of the house? Maybe play some music right outside the door to reduce the chance you’d overhear them talking? Encourage them to use airpods to reassure them you can’t hear their therapist at least? I can’t emphasize enough how important it is that they feel safe and assured of their privacy for therapy to truly work.

Distractions:

Home environments can be full of distractions. Whether it's younger siblings, pets, or the allure of video games, teenagers might struggle to maintain focus during online therapy. Distractions can impede the progress of the session. As a parent, you can help minimize this by considering the space your teenager will meet with their therapist ahead of time and encouraging them to make any changes needed to minimize distractions. For example, encouraging them to put away homework. Or maybe it means engaging younger siblings in an activity in another part of the house during the teenager’s therapy session.

Limited Non-Verbal Cues: 

In traditional, in-person therapy, therapists rely on various non-verbal cues to gauge a teenager's emotional state. These cues might include body language, facial expressions, and other physical signals. With telehealth sessions, we honestly have almost better read of facial expressions. However, some body language can get lost in regards to how someone sits or that sort of thing.

Emergency Situations: 

In rare but critical emergency situations, in-person therapy offers immediate and direct assistance. Online therapy might involve some delays in responding to urgent crises. As a general rule of thumb, the therapist will want to know where your teenager is physically located during sessions in case they were to need to call for emergency services. However, there would be a delay as compared to if the teen were in the office.

While these disadvantages are worth considering, it's important to note that many teenagers adapt well to online therapy and find it just as effective as traditional in-person sessions. Some even prefer the flexibility and comfort that online therapy provides. Ultimately, the choice between online and in-person therapy should be based on the individual needs and preferences of the teenager and their family.

Tips for Parents to Help Your Teenager Get the Most Out of Online Therapy Sessions

As a parent, your support plays a pivotal role in ensuring that your teenager benefits fully from online therapy. Here are some valuable tips to help you navigate this journey:

Open Communication: Foster an open and non-judgmental atmosphere at home. Encourage your teenager to share their thoughts and feelings about online therapy. Listening to their experiences can help you address any concerns or questions they may have.

Technology Setup: Ensure that your teenager has a quiet, private space for their online therapy sessions, free from distractions. Double-check that their device is charged and that they have a stable internet connection.

Respect Privacy: Acknowledge and respect your teen's privacy. Avoid probing or insisting on knowing everything about their sessions unless they choose to share.

Consistency is Key: Maintain a consistent schedule for therapy sessions. This helps establish a routine and allows your teenager to prepare both mentally and emotionally for each session.

Positive Reinforcement: Acknowledge your teenager's courage and commitment to their well-being by participating in therapy. Celebrate their progress and accomplishments.

Open to Feedback: Always be open to feedback from your teenager regarding their online therapy experience. Adjustments and improvements can be made when you're receptive to their input.

By following these tips, you can help your teenager make the most of their online therapy sessions and provide essential support on their path to better mental health.

What type of therapy is best for adolescents?

When it comes to therapy for adolescents, it's important to consider the specific needs of this age group. Here are some effective types of evidence based therapy commonly used with teenagers at Aspire Counseling:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

CBT is widely recognized as one of the most effective therapies for adolescents. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT equips teenagers with valuable skills to manage stress, anxiety, and depression. It's a structured, goal-oriented approach that can be particularly beneficial for teens dealing with these issues.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT is an evidence-based therapy that combines traditional cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness and acceptance strategies. It's particularly helpful for teenagers struggling with emotional regulation, self-harm, and impulsive behaviors.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

TF-CBT is tailored for teenagers who have experienced trauma. It helps them process traumatic experiences and develop coping skills. This therapy is often used for teens who have faced abuse, neglect, or other traumatic events.

Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy is a specific type of cognitive-behavioral therapy often used to treat anxiety disorders, including phobias, panic disorder, and social anxiety. It works by gradually exposing individuals to the situations or objects they fear in a controlled and safe manner. For adolescents dealing with anxiety, exposure therapy can be a transformative approach. It helps them confront their fears, reduce avoidance behaviors, and develop healthier coping strategies. Adolescents can learn to face their anxiety triggers with greater confidence, ultimately reducing their overall anxiety levels. Exposure therapy empowers them to regain control over their lives and make progress in their mental health journey.

Family Therapy Sessions

Many teenagers' struggles are interconnected with family dynamics. Family therapy involves the entire family in the therapeutic process to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and create a more supportive environment for the teenager.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

EMDR is an effective therapy for teenagers dealing with trauma or PTSD. It involves a structured eight-phase approach that focuses on processing distressing memories.

The best type of therapy for adolescents depends on their specific needs and challenges. A professional therapist will assess the teenager's situation and tailor the approach accordingly. Additionally, the teenager's comfort and trust in the therapist are crucial for the success of any therapy.

Which Type of Therapy is Best Suited for Children and Adolescents with Trauma:

Treating trauma & PTSD in children and adolescents requires a specialized approach. There are several research-validated types of therapy that have shown great promise in helping children & teenagers cope with and recover from traumatic experiences. At Aspire Counseling, our child & teen therapists prioritize evidence-based counseling practices, tailoring them to the individual needs and values of our clients and their families. Here are some of the evidence based trauma therapy options for children and adolescents dealing with trauma that the child and adolescent trauma therapists at Aspire Counseling offer:

Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP): 

For younger children, Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) is a valuable tool. This therapy focuses on the parent-child relationship and aims to repair the effects of trauma by involving the caregiver in the treatment. CPP is especially useful when the child has experienced early childhood trauma or when the parent-child attachment is disrupted. We currently have one trauma therapist in our Lee’s Summit counseling office certified in this trauma therapy method and it is best used for children ages 0-5 who have experienced trauma or disrupted attachment.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT): 

TF-CBT is a widely recognized and highly effective form of therapy for children aged 5-18 who have experienced trauma. This structured approach helps children and their families understand and manage the emotional and psychological impact of trauma. It often involves education, skill-building, and processing traumatic memories. We currently have a TF-CBT therapist at each of our locations.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): 

EMDR is another evidence-based approach suitable for more mature adolescents. This therapy involves reprocessing distressing memories, reducing their lingering influence, and helping individuals develop more adaptive coping mechanisms. We currently have several EMDR therapists and are able to offer EMDR online as well as in both of our office locations.

In general, it's preferable to conduct teen trauma interventions in person, where therapists can provide better support and emotional connection. However, online counseling can be a viable option in certain situations, such as when in-person therapy isn't accessible, or when the adolescent prefers the comfort of their own space for therapy sessions.

Who is Not Suitable for Online Counseling

Are you wondering who should not use online therapy and if your teen might fit into that category? Online counseling can be an incredibly effective option for many teenagers dealing with various mental health issues. However, it's essential to acknowledge that it might not be the right choice for everyone. Here are some circumstances where online counseling might not be suitable for teenagers:

Concerns About Privacy

Some teenagers might not feel like they have adequate privacy to engage in online counseling. This concern can be valid, especially if they share living spaces with family members who are not aware of their counseling sessions or if they're worried about the confidentiality of their online meetings.

Past Negative Experiences with Online Counseling

Teenagers who have tried online counseling before and reported that it didn't work for them may not be the best candidates for this format. It's essential to consider their previous experiences and whether they believe online counseling is a suitable option for them. So, if your teenager tried online counseling before and is insisting, “I hate therapy online,” it’s likely going to be easier to get to engage in therapy if you allow them to try seeing a new therapist in person.

Strong Preference for In-Person Sessions

If a teenager insists on having in-person therapy, their preferences should be taken into account. They should have a say in the therapy process, as their comfort and engagement with the therapeutic approach are vital for the success of counseling.

High Risk or Suicidal Thoughts

For teenagers with highly concerning mental health issues, such as being at risk for self-harm or suicide, in-person counseling might be a more appropriate choice. These cases often require immediate intervention and closer monitoring, which is better facilitated through traditional, face-to-face counseling.

In the end, the decision about whether to participate in online teen counseling or in-person sessions should be made collaboratively, involving the teenager, their parents, and the teen therapist. An open discussion taking into account the teenager's comfort, safety, and therapeutic needs will lead to the most suitable decision for their unique situation.

Will my insurance cover online therapy sessions for my teen?

Many parents considering online therapy for their teenagers wonder whether their insurance will cover these sessions. 

First, it's important to note that Aspire Counseling operates as an out-of-network provider for insurance companies. We've made this choice to prioritize the flexibility and autonomy of our clients in making their treatment decisions, ensuring the focus remains on providing the absolute best care for their teenagers.

We understand that reimbursement for therapy sessions is important to many of our client. To help, we've implemented a billing system through Mentaya. This system allows us to automatically submit out-of-network claims on behalf of our clients for potential reimbursement, for a small fee, if they choose to use this option. We're delighted to report that many of our clients have started to receive partial reimbursements for their session fees, which can significantly ease the financial aspects of therapy.

However, we encourage all parents to proactively contact their insurance provider to inquire about coverage for online therapy sessions. The landscape of insurance reimbursement for online therapy has evolved considerably, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously, only a few insurance companies provided coverage for online sessions, but this has changed. Many insurers have adapted to the new reality and expanded their coverage to include online counseling services.

It's essential to keep in mind that insurance policies can vary significantly. While some plans now include online therapy in their coverage, others might not. Checking with your insurance provider about the specific details of your plan and the extent of online therapy coverage is crucial. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that best suits your teenager's therapy needs while taking advantage of any available insurance benefits.

A Note Directly to Teens Starting Therapy

You’re at a phase in your life where there is so much pressure on you. Pressure to do well in school. To start making decisions about your future. You’re starting to figure some things out about who you are and what you want in life. And some of your decisions may be different from what your parents would choose for you. Then, things are coming up with your family and friends that are stressful. The bottom line is, there’s a lot going on. And maybe you or your parents have noticed some signs you need therapy.

I became a therapist after a family therapist made a huge impact in my own life when I was a teenager. I wasn’t sure if she could help me at first. But I knew something had to change for me. And the truth is, she changed my life. Then, I’ve spent my career now watching therapy help other teens make lasting change in their own lives.

Online counseling can be really effective. So can in person counseling. The more important thing really is just that you find someone who understands what you’re going through and who you trust. So, whether you’ve asked to go to counseling or your parents are making you, please be involved in the process of finding someone who feels like a good fit. Some days, you’ll feel really motivated to come to session and work. Some days, you’ll dread going because you know you’ll have to work on the things you’ve been avoiding. And other days, you’ll feel somewhat better and wonder, “Should I go to therapy if I feel fine today?” But if you’ve found someone who you can trust, someone who specializes in the right things and you show up consistently over time you’ll slowly see improvement. And that’s what matters. You deserve that support. You deserve to reach your goals.

Begin Teen Counseling near Blue Springs in Person or Online in Missouri

Now that we've navigated through the nuances of online therapy for teenagers, you're better equipped to make an informed decision for your teen's well-being. Whether you're seeking counseling near Blue Springs, MO, or elsewhere in the state, Aspire Counseling is here to support you.

We understand that choosing the right therapist for your teenager is a significant decision. It's crucial to ensure that they have a positive and productive experience with therapy, so they can truly benefit from it. We offer counseling services at our office in Blue Springs, MO, and Mid Missouri, but we also specialize in online teen counseling, making us well-versed in the pros and cons of both options.

To embark on this journey, we encourage you to reach out to us. You can give our office a call at 573-328-2288 and speak with our dedicated client care coordinator. They can guide you through the process, helping you find the best therapist for your teenager, whether it's in-person counseling or online sessions. We understand that each teenager is unique, and we're here to match them with the right Aspire Counseling therapist who can address their specific needs and concerns.

If calling isn't the most convenient option for you, feel free to fill out our online form, and we will reach out to you. At Aspire Counseling, we believe in empowering teens and their families to navigate life's challenges and build a brighter, more fulfilling future. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards a healthier, happier life for your teenager. We're here to help, in-person or online, whichever suits your needs best.

About the Author

Jessica Tappana, MSW, LCSW, is the founder and director of Aspire Counseling, as Missouri Counseling practice focused on providing evidenced based mental health counseling. She's been dedicated to helping teens through therapy throughout her career, and in 2020, she embarked on a new journey by introducing online therapy for teenagers. While she calls Columbia, MO home, she actively engages with the Kansas City area, working closely with our Lee's Summit teen therapists. Her unwavering commitment revolves around providing evidence-based treatments, specializing in addressing issues like trauma and anxiety. Jessica firmly believes that psychotherapy has the power to create remarkable transformations in the lives of teens. Under her guidance, Aspire Counseling has played a pivotal role in enhancing the mental well-being of young individuals.

The insights shared in this article are for informational purposes. They are not a replacement for professional mental health guidance. If you, or someone you know, is facing mental health challenges, it's crucial to reach out to a qualified mental health provider for the support and care you need.