Compassionate, Confidential Mental Health Support for Teens and Their Families
The teenage years can be some of the most challenging of a person’s life. Between academic pressure, social dynamics, identity development, and the ever-present pull of social media, today’s adolescents face more stress than ever before. When that stress becomes overwhelming, professional support can make all the difference.
At Olney Counseling Center, our licensed therapists specialize in working with teens and adolescents ages 12–17 throughout Montgomery County, Howard County, and surrounding Maryland communities—including Olney, Gaithersburg, Rockville, Silver Spring, Columbia, and Germantown. We offer a safe, judgment-free space where teens can open up, work through difficulties, and build the skills they need to thrive.
Signs Your Teen May Benefit from Therapy
It’s not always easy to know when a teen is struggling. Some warning signs are obvious; others are easy to dismiss as “just a phase.” If you’re noticing any of the following in your teen, it may be time to reach out for support:
- Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or withdrawal from activities they used to enjoy
- Increased irritability, anger, or mood swings that feel out of proportion
- Declining grades or loss of interest in school
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Pulling away from family and friends
- Expressing feelings of worthlessness or talking about self-harm
- Anxiety that interferes with daily life—school, social situations, or leaving the house
- Risky behaviors, substance use, or dramatic shifts in friend groups
- Difficulty processing a loss, trauma, or major life change
You don’t need to wait for a crisis to seek help. Early support often leads to the best outcomes, and therapy can be beneficial even for teens who are generally doing well but want a space to process their thoughts and emotions.
What We Treat
Our experienced clinicians provide evidence-based teen therapy for a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges, including:
- Anxiety, social anxiety, and panic disorders
- Depression and mood disorders
- ADHD and attention challenges
- Trauma, abuse, and PTSD
- Grief and loss
- Self-harm behaviors
- Eating disorders and body image concerns
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Anger management and emotional regulation
- Bullying—as a target or participant
- Identity and self-esteem concerns
- Stress related to academics or college pressure
- Family conflict and communication issues
- Life transitions (divorce, relocation, loss of a relationship)
- Addiction and substance use
- Teen pregnancy and sexual health concerns
- Social media and technology-related challenges
Our Approach to Teen Therapy
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to adolescent mental health. Our therapists take the time to understand each teen’s unique personality, background, and goals—then build a personalized treatment plan that actually fits.
We use a variety of proven, evidence-based methods tailored to the adolescent experience, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills
- Solution-Focused Therapy
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Art Therapy
- Mindfulness-based approaches
We also work closely with parents and families when appropriate, because a teen’s wellbeing doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Family involvement—at a level that’s comfortable for your teen—can significantly strengthen outcomes.
View our therapist bios to find a clinician who’s the right fit for your teen.
Why Families in Montgomery County Choose Olney Counseling Center
- Serving Montgomery and Howard Counties for over 25 years
- Licensed, experienced therapists who specialize in adolescent mental health
- In-person sessions in Olney, MD and telehealth therapy available statewide
- Confidential, welcoming environment where teens feel heard—not judged
- Flexible scheduling including after-school and evening appointments
- Collaborative approach that can include parent check-ins and family sessions
Frequently Asked Questions About Teen Therapy
What age range do you work with for teen therapy?
Our adolescent therapy services are designed for young people ages 12–17. We also offer child therapy for younger children and individual therapy for adults 18 and older.
What if my teenager doesn’t want to go to therapy?
It’s very common for teens to be resistant at first—especially if they feel therapy is being imposed on them. We recommend framing it as a judgment-free space that belongs to them, not a punishment. Our therapists are skilled at building rapport quickly and making teens feel comfortable from the very first session. Often, reluctant teens become willing participants once they see the space is truly theirs. It can also help to let your teen have some say in choosing their therapist.
Will my teen’s sessions be confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship, and teens need to feel safe sharing openly. We follow all Maryland state laws regarding minor confidentiality. We will discuss with both you and your teen upfront what information is shared with parents, and under what circumstances—such as if there is a safety concern—we would need to involve you.
Do you offer telehealth therapy for teens in Maryland?
Yes. We offer secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth therapy for teens throughout Maryland. Virtual sessions can be especially convenient for busy school schedules and are available from the privacy of home.
Do you accept insurance for teen therapy?
We accept many major insurance plans. Please call our office at 301-570-7500 or email office@olneycounseling.com and we’ll verify your teen’s benefits before the first appointment.
Help Your Teen Find Their Way Forward
You don’t have to figure this out alone—and neither does your teen. At Olney Counseling Center, we’re here to support your whole family with compassion, expertise, and care.
Call 301-570-7500 or email office@olneycounseling.com to schedule a free consultation and find the right therapist for your teen today.
