Therapy for teens in Hays, Kansas
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What is therapy for teens?
Therapy for teens is a space where adolescents can talk about what’s really going on—without fear of judgment or pressure to have it all figured out. At New Connections, we use a blend of approaches including talk therapy, expressive arts, play-based methods (yes, even for teens!), and trauma-informed techniques like EMDR and IFS to help teens feel safe and seen.
Teen therapy isn’t about fixing your child. It’s about helping them develop the emotional tools to understand themselves, manage stress, and make choices that support their growth and mental health.
Most common symptoms therapy can support:
- Withdrawal or isolation from family and friends
- Sudden changes in mood, sleep, or appetite
- Anxiety about school, friendships, or the future
- Depression, hopelessness, or lack of motivation
- Emotional outbursts or frequent irritability
- Risky behavior, self-harm, or substance use
- Academic struggles or school avoidance
- Identity questions and self-esteem issues
How do I know if my teen needs therapy?
Ask yourself:
- Has my teen been acting differently in a way that concerns me?
- Are they struggling with friendships, academics, or self-image?
- Do they seem overwhelmed, anxious, or down most of the time?
- Are they pulling away or refusing to talk about what’s going on?
- Do I feel unsure or lost about how to support them right now?
Therapy can help bridge the gap and provide a neutral, safe space for your teen to open up and grow.
How we provide therapy for teens in Hays, Kansas
Our therapists who work with teens are trained in developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed approaches that respect each teen’s individuality. We adapt our sessions to meet them where they are—with flexibility, creativity, and care. Our services may include:
- Talk Therapy & Emotional Coaching: Helping teens name, understand, and manage their emotions.
- Art & Play-Based Techniques: Creative outlets for teens who don’t always want to talk.
- EMDR & Trauma Therapy: To help process difficult past experiences or ongoing stress.
- IFS (Internal Family Systems): Empowering teens to explore their inner world with curiosity, not shame.
- Parent Support: Guidance for caregivers who want to better understand and connect with their teen.
What topics can we talk about in therapy for teens?
- Stress and anxiety about school, relationships, and the future
- Depression, sadness, and emotional overwhelm
- Identity, self-esteem, and confidence
- Social pressures and navigating friendships
- Coping with family conflict or change
- Healing from trauma or bullying
- Setting boundaries and making healthy decisions
How to get support
Get a Personalized Plan
We match your child with the right therapist and create a tailored approach.
Start with a Consultation
A conversation to understand your child’s needs and your goals.
Begin Sessions
Your child attends regular sessions while you get ongoing support, too.
Grow and Move Forward
Our goal isn’t to keep you in therapy forever—it’s to help your child build lasting skills and your family feel confident handling whatever life throws at you on your own.
Therapy for teens in Hays, Kansas
We’re Michelle Holdeman and the team at New Connections Mental Health. Our teen therapists understand how complicated adolescence can be—especially in today’s world. We provide a welcoming, validating space where teens can express themselves, work through emotional struggles, and develop the confidence to navigate life. We’re here to support your teen—and you—every step of the way.
Tips & resources for supporting your teen at home
- Validate your teen’s emotions instead of trying to fix them
- Encourage open conversations, even if they’re uncomfortable
- Set clear but flexible boundaries
- Prioritize sleep and nutrition
- Model emotional regulation and coping skills
- Seek outside help if things feel too overwhelming
Hi! I'm Michelle Holdeman
Licensed therapist and play therapy specialist for families navigating big emotions.
I help overwhelmed parents, sensitive kids, and emotionally intense teens move from daily meltdowns to deeper connection—using play-based, trauma-informed therapy that truly works. At New Connections Mental Health, we create space for healing, growth, and lasting change—one session, one family, one feeling at a time.
At New Connections Mental Health, we believe every child and family deserves access to high-quality therapy and support. That’s why we offer payment options to help make the process as stress-free as possible.
Book your first session
Play Therapy Sessions are typically 45-55 minutes, and range from $75-$150 a session
FAQ
What is the difference between regular therapy and therapy for teens?
Therapy for teens is tailored to the unique emotional, social, and developmental challenges that adolescents face. While regular therapy addresses mental health and emotional well-being more broadly, teen therapy often focuses on identity, peer relationships, academic stress, family dynamics, and emotional regulation during a time of rapid growth and change. It’s also built to engage teens in ways that feel safe, relatable, and age-appropriate.
What age is appropriate to start therapy?
Therapy can begin as early as age 3, with age-appropriate methods like play therapy. For teens, therapy becomes more focused on verbal expression and identity exploration, typically starting around age 12 and up.
What is the best treatment for anxiety in teens?
A combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and somatic tools often works best. We tailor treatment to each teen’s personality, needs, and nervous system.
What type of therapy is best for teens?
Many teens benefit from integrative therapy, which may include talk therapy, creative techniques, trauma-informed approaches (like EMDR), and relational support. The best therapy is the one that meets your teen where they are.
How could therapy help a teenager?
Therapy provides a confidential space to explore emotions, reduce stress, improve communication, and build resilience. It helps teens develop lifelong tools to support their mental and emotional health.