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Teen Psychology
The teenage years ask a lot of a young person — school pressure, friendships that shift, a body and brain that are changing fast, and the very real work of figuring out who they are. Some of that is ordinary growing up. Sometimes it tips into something heavier, and a teenager needs someone outside the family to talk to.
Our psychologists work with young people from around 12 to 18, at both our Springwood and Browns Plains clinics. We aim to make therapy feel less like being sent somewhere to be fixed, and more like having a space that belongs to them.
What We Support Teens With
- Anxiety — social anxiety, worry that won’t switch off, panic, school-related anxiety
- Low mood and depression — withdrawal, loss of motivation, feeling flat or hopeless
- Emotional regulation — big feelings that arrive fast and are hard to come down from
- Self-esteem and identity — including sexuality and gender identity, in an affirming space
- Friendship and social difficulties — conflict, exclusion, navigating online and offline social worlds
- School stress — perfectionism, exam pressure, motivation, or difficulty getting to school at all
- Family relationships — conflict at home, separation and blended families, feeling misunderstood
- Neurodivergent teens — autistic and ADHD young people, from a strengths-based, neuro-affirming perspective
- Grief and loss, and adjusting after difficult or traumatic experiences
How We Work With Teenagers
Teenagers are usually quite good at telling when they’re being managed rather than listened to. Our approach is collaborative — we’re upfront about what therapy involves, we work on goals the young person actually cares about, and we go at a pace that lets trust build.
Our psychologists draw on evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and DBT-informed skills, adapted for adolescents. Sessions might involve talking, practical skill-building, or working through things more indirectly — whatever fits the young person in front of us.
Where parents fit in
Parents and carers matter enormously, and we’ll usually involve you at the start to understand the fuller picture, and check in as things progress. At the same time, teenagers need to know their sessions are genuinely their own — so we’ll talk openly with both of you at the outset about what stays private and what doesn’t, including the circumstances where we’d need to share something for safety reasons.
If Your Teen Isn’t Keen on the Idea
This is common, and it isn’t a reason to give up on the idea. Some young people come along reluctantly for the first session and settle once they realise they’re not going to be lectured. Others do better when a parent has an initial session alone first, so we can think together about the best way in. Either is completely fine — mention it when you get in touch and we’ll work out an approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages do you see?
Our teen psychology service generally covers ages 12 to 18. For younger children, see our child psychology support, and for those over 18, our adult psychology and counselling team.
Do I need a referral?
No formal referral is required to book. If your GP has provided a Mental Health Care Plan, let us know and we’ll confirm any Medicare rebates that may apply.
Can my teenager attend without me in the room?
Yes — most teenagers see their psychologist on their own for the bulk of the session, which helps them speak freely. We’ll agree the arrangement with both of you early on.
Is telehealth available?
Yes. Some teens find video sessions easier, particularly around exam periods or if getting to the clinic is difficult.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary depending on the clinician and your circumstances. We offer a free intake call to talk through your situation, explain the options and give you clear pricing before you commit to anything.
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Ready to Get Started?
Book a free intake call and we’ll talk through what’s going on, answer your questions, and help you find the right psychologist for your young person.