Teasa Williams

Our first session will be fairly informal and typically lasts about an hour. During this time, we will get to know each other, begin building rapport, and discuss what brought you to therapy and what you hope to gain from the experience. At the end of the session, we will discuss and schedule future appointments at dates and times that are convenient for you.

Therapy looks different for everyone. Progress usually happens gradually rather than overnight. Over time, you may notice positive changes in how you think, feel, and respond to challenges. You might feel less overwhelmed, more confident expressing your emotions, or better able to manage stress, anxiety, school, friendships, or family situations. Some weeks may feel easier than others, and that is completely normal. A good sign that therapy is working is when you begin using the skills learned in sessions in your everyday life and start feeling more like yourself again.

Therapy often works best when skills discussed in session are practiced between appointments. Homework usually does not look like schoolwork. It may involve simple activities such as journaling emotions, practicing coping skills, tracking moods, improving communication, trying relaxation techniques, or working toward small personal goals. These activities help teens apply what they learn in therapy to everyday life and build confidence outside of sessions. Homework is always tailored to the client’s age, needs, and comfort level, and the goal is progress and self-awareness — not perfection.

In therapy, what a teen shares is generally kept private to help build trust and encourage open communication. Parents/guardians may receive general updates on progress, goals, and ways to support their child, but specific session details are usually kept confidential. Exceptions include concerns involving safety, such as risk of harm to self or others, abuse, neglect, or other situations where I am legally and ethically required to involve parents or appropriate supports.

Therapy is typically considered complete when the client has made meaningful progress toward their goals, feels more confident managing challenges, and is able to use coping skills independently in daily life. The decision is collaborative and based on ongoing conversations between the therapist, adolescent, and parents/guardians when appropriate. We regularly review progress, discuss remaining concerns, and determine together when the client feels ready to reduce or end services while still feeling supported and prepared moving forward.