Adolescence is a stage full of changes: intense emotions, important decisions, and often, challenges in relationships or at school. Facing all of this can be difficult, but there are tools that can help you feel better. One of the most effective is therapy.

The question I’m sure you’ve asked yourself hundreds of times is “what type of therapy is best for a teenager?” Well, the answer is as simple as it is complex. The best psychotherapy is always the one that works. Current studies show that no model is superior to others. Therefore, I believe the most important thing is to use a contextual approach: identify the problem, analyze what has been tried so far, as well as the goals and expectations set for the short and long term. In this way, and by providing a safe environment, we adapt the model to the person, rather than adapting the person to a specific model.

**How does therapy for teenagers work?** Through sessions where you can talk about your problems in a safe, judgment-free space. Therapy offers you a place to explore your thoughts, understand your emotions, and learn practical tools to manage them. It’s more than just talking: it’s an active process in which you work with the therapist to find solutions.

If you’ve ever wondered, **“how do I know if I need therapy?”**, the answer lies in recognizing how you feel. If you’re constantly sad, anxious, struggling at school or with friends, or simply feel like things are overwhelming you, therapy can be a great help. It’s not just about solving problems, but learning to face them in a healthier way.

Personally, I don’t believe everyone should go to therapy just like one goes to the gym, since what works for me may not work for you. We all have our own context and history, which are different and make us unique. **That’s why knowing when a teenager should see a psychologist is complicated, unless certain warning signs appear, such as the following:** If you notice that negative emotions last longer than usual, if you feel overwhelmed, if your relationships are suffering, or simply if you feel like it—since this is something you don’t need to justify to anyone. Going to a psychologist is not a sign of weakness, but a way to take care of your mental and emotional health, just as you would see a doctor if you had a physical ailment.

Among other things, in therapy you can learn **how to improve your mental and emotional health.** A good start is talking about what you feel, asking for help when you need it, and taking care of your physical well-being. Maintaining a healthy sleep routine that fits your needs, exercising, and finding time to relax (there are many ways to relax; for one person it might mean a day lying on the beach, and for another a CrossFit class) are simple ways to improve your mood. Therapy can also provide practical tools to manage stress and intense emotions.