Therapy for Teens in Morgantown, WV
Many teens experience mental health difficulties that can often feel isolating, as though no one understands what you are going through. Things like dysfunction in the family, substance use, breakups, bullying, and academic difficulties may make activities that you used to love less enjoyable. Some days, it may even be hard to get out of bed. Other times, you might find yourself replaying embarrassing memories over and over in your head.
You aren’t alone. Many adolescents in West Virginia report experiencing mental health difficulties. 2021 data from National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) indicates that approximately 18,000 West Virginian youth reported symptoms of depression.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you so that you feel seen, heard, and understood.
Confidentiality for Teens and Families
We understand that often teens and families have many questions concerning the confidentiality of what’s discussed in therapy. If a teen feels that they can’t be honest in a session they can’t get the help that they need. However if families are left in the dark, the crucial support that’s needed to ensure healthy outcomes for everyone becomes harder to provide. So how do we address this?
- Teens have a private space to talk. What’s said in session is generally kept private, outside of special circumstances where there’s risk of harm, abuse, or anything that puts your teen or someone else in danger.
- Parents stay involved. You’ll be kept informed about progress, direction, and anything that impacts treatment.
- We follow West Virginia law. In certain situations, like substance use treatment, teens may have additional confidentiality protections. We’ll be clear about that up front.
We set expectations early with both teens and parents so there’s no confusion about the confidentiality of the services provided.
Families and Other Loved Ones
Mental illness and substance use disorders are not just individual problems. They can affect entire families and/or communities of people.
Research from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) suggests that some people may be genetically predisposed to substance use or mental health difficulties. This risk is amplified if a person grew up in a household with others who have a history of substance use or mental health disorders.
That’s why it’s so important to involve family members and loved ones into treatment. Not only does this help us find any familial patterns that could be unhealthy, but it also allows us to educate everyone in the family on how to cope with any challenges that life throws at them in a more healthy manner.
