Is your teen feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally withdrawn? Did they just finish a challenging school year that involved exam stress, social issues, or even bullying? Summer offers the perfect opportunity to reset. It’s a time when teens in Ottawa can begin therapy without the added pressures of school.
At Family-Therapy, we provide compassionate, evidence-based counselling for youth in Ottawa. Our experienced teen therapists create a safe, welcoming space where your child can express themselves, work through anxiety, and build the tools they need to feel more confident and in control, all without judgment or pressure.
Why Start Teen Therapy Over the Summer Break?
Summer break offers a natural window for reflection and emotional growth. Without the structure and stress of daily classes, exams, and social comparison, your teens have space to focus on their mental health.
Therapy during this time allows them to build practical coping strategies that will help manage anxiety and stress more effectively. It also strengthens emotional resilience, so they’re better prepared for the emotional and academic demands of the new school year. Our therapists also support teens in developing healthy communication habits and building self- esteem, essential life skills that benefit them now and in the future.
Whether your teen is experiencing mood swings, isolation, school refusal, social anxiety, or low self-worth, beginning counselling during the summer can be a crucial first step toward long-term wellness.
What to Expect from Teen Counselling in Ottawa
We understand that therapy can feel intimidating, especially for youth who may be hesitant to talk about their feelings. That’s why our approach is always youth-centered, respectful, and age-appropriate.
In our teen counselling sessions, teens are encouraged to speak openly in a private and supportive environment. Our therapists help them build emotional awareness, manage anxiety, and process intense emotions such as fear, frustration, or sadness. Teens also explore identity, friendships, stress triggers, and personal values. Together, we work to establish meaningful goals, whether that’s regaining motivation, managing school-related anxiety, or improving relationships with family and peers.
It’s important to know that no mental health diagnosis is needed to begin. Many teens simply benefit from having a trusted space to talk and feel understood.
Signs Your Teen May Be Struggling with Anxiety
Anxiety can sometimes show up in unexpected ways and may be dismissed as typical “teen behaviour.” But parents are often the first to notice subtle changes in mood, behaviour, or health that indicate something deeper.
Some common signs of anxiety in teens include:
- Persistent worry or fear, especially related to school, friendships, health, or the future
- Avoiding new situations, challenges, or previously enjoyed activities
- Overreacting to small issues, often expecting the worst outcomes
- Mood swings, irritability, or becoming easily overwhelmed
- Difficulty falling asleep or getting out of bed in the morning
- Nervous habits like skin picking, hair pulling, or chewing on fingers
- Refusal to attend school or social events
- Complaints of physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or nausea without a medical explanation
- Reports of a racing heart, sweating, or shortness of breath
- A noticeable decline in grades or school performance
- Trouble concentrating, remembering tasks, or finishing assignments
- Frequently losing or misplacing important items
If you recognize any of these patterns, it might be time to explore whether therapy can help your teen build the tools they need to feel better.
Support for Parents and Caregivers
We know that when teens are struggling, parents often feel overwhelmed too. That’s why we offer support not only for youth but for their caregivers as well.
With your teen’s consent, we provide regular updates and check-ins to help you stay informed and supported in your role. We also offer separate therapy sessions. for parents who want help navigating difficult family dynamics, communication issues, or parenting stress.
Sometimes, simply encouraging your teen to speak with a therapist can be a powerful first step. You might explain that therapy isn’t about being “broken” — it’s about learning how to feel stronger, more confident, and more in control of anxiety and self-doubt.
If you’re unsure how to approach mental health conversations at home, you may find our article on The Youth Mental Health Crisis – What Parents and Teens Need to Know helpful. It offers practical guidance for navigating this growing concern and supporting your teen’s emotional development.
Serving Teens and Families Across Ottawa
Family-Therapy is located in Ottawa’s west end at 4019 Carling Ave #202, Ottawa, ON K2K 2A3. We proudly support teens and families from across:
- Nepean
- Kanata
- Stittsville
- Orleans
- Gloucester
- and surrounding areas
We also offer virtual counselling sessions for teens anywhere in Ontario. This option is ideal for families living outside Ottawa or for teens who feel more comfortable receiving support from home.
Now Accepting New Teen Clients for Summer 2025
If your teens is showing signs of emotional distress, anxiety, or withdrawal, this summer is the best time to take action. Early intervention can set them on a path toward greater emotional regulation and confidence before school starts again.
Not sure if your teen will feel comfortable with therapy? We offer free 20-minute phone consultations to answer your questions and help you decide if our approach is the right fit.
We provide both in-person and virtual teen therapy options in Ottawa, along with flexible summer appointment times to accommodate family schedules.
Call us at (613) 287-3799 or visit family-therapy.ca to book a session or learn more.
Let’s make this summer a turning point, a time when your teen begins to feel calm, confident, and supported.
