Between school pressure, social comparison, identity struggles, and a constant stream of expectations, many teens feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of who they are.
As a parent, you might be seeing the signs:
Learn what their feelings are trying to tell them
Develop emotional regulation tools
Practice calming techniques
Strengthen problem-solving and confidence
Feel safe and secure in their relationships
Build connection and trust with you
Teen therapy can help your adolescent make sense of what they’re feeling, build emotional tools for the future, and reconnect with who they are—underneath the anxiety, frustration, or fear.
Express difficult thoughts without fear of judgment
Understand and regulate intense emotions
Navigate social dynamics and identity challenges
Build confidence, resilience, and healthy coping strategies
Strengthen their relationships with family and peers
Abby uses a trauma-informed, attachment-based approach, tailoring each session to your teen’s needs, developmental stage, and personality. For some, this might look like guided conversations. For others, it may include creative expression, mind-body calming tools, or practical skills for managing anxiety and stress.
When to Consider Therapy for Your Teen
Teens don’t always ask for help. Sometimes, what they don’t say speaks the loudest. Here are some signs your teen may benefit from professional support:
Frequent anxiety, panic, or racing thoughts
Low mood, irritability, or emotional numbness
Withdrawing from family, friends, or hobbies
Struggling with school performance or motivation
Body image or self-esteem issues
Exploration of gender, identity, or culture causing distress
Difficulty adjusting to transitions, such as a move or divorce
Past trauma or emotional wounds beginning to surface
A sense that your child just… isn’t themselves anymore
Therapy doesn’t just help in a crisis—it can also be a proactive step in supporting your teen’s growth, insight, and emotional safety.
How Parents Are
Involved in the Process
How Parents Are Involved in the Process
While teen therapy is confidential to build trust, parents are never left out. Abby partners with you throughout the process to ensure healing continues outside the therapy room.
While teen therapy is confidential to build trust, parents are never left out. Abby partners
with you throughout the process to ensure healing continues outside the therapy room.
Understand what’s going on beneath your teen’s behaviour
De-escalate conflict and support regulation
Communicate in ways your teen can hear
Stay connected—even when they’re pushing away
Hold boundaries with warmth and clarity
You don’t have to do this alone. With the right tools and a supportive guide,
you can rebuild trust and navigate this season with more clarity and confidence.
Why Teens Need a Therapist Who Truly Gets It
Abby Heck is a Registered Clinical Social Worker in Calgary, Alberta with specialized training in adolescent mental health, attachment systems, and trauma-responsive care.
She’s worked with countless teens who felt like no one understood them—and watched them rediscover their voice, reconnect with their family, and build emotional strength from the inside out.
Every teen deserves a space where they feel seen. Therapy offers that space—and the skills to carry forward for life.
Teen Therapy in Calgary or Online
Teen Therapy in Calgary or Online
Ready to take the first step?
With gratitude, mutual respect, and reciprocity we honour and acknowledge Moh’kinsstis, and the traditional Treaty 7 territory and oral practices of the Blackfoot confederacy including the Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani Nations, as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina Nations. This territory is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3. We respect all people who share, celebrate, and care for the Treaty 7 territory of southern Alberta and we honour the original caretakers of the land who remind us of the ongoing histories that precede us. We recognize our shared responsibilities going forward to help bring everyone together on this journey of Truth and Reconciliation.