teen therapy in allen, tx

for teens: this space is for you

Being a teenager right now is genuinely hard. You're dealing with school stress, figuring out who you are, navigating complicated relationships, processing family dynamics, and trying to make sense of a world that can feel pretty overwhelming. On top of that, you might be dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or just feeling stuck and not quite yourself.

Therapy isn't just for people in crisis—it's for anyone who wants support. Maybe you're struggling with something specific, or maybe you just need a space that's actually yours, where you can talk through what's on your mind without judgment.

what makes therapy with mack different

You're in control here. I'm not going to talk at you or tell you what to do. This is a collaborative space where we figure things out together. You know yourself better than anyone else—I'm just here to help you make sense of it all.

I actually get it. As a queer therapist and fellow chronically online member of Gen-Z, I understand the unique pressures you're facing. I speak your language, I'll catch your references, and I'm not going to make you explain TikTok trends or why group projects are the worst.

Your privacy matters. What we talk about stays between us (with a few legal exceptions like safety concerns). We'll discuss how and when to involve your parents in a way that feels right for you. Your autonomy is important here.

what we can work on together

  • Identity exploration - sexuality, gender, values, figuring out who you are and what matters to you

  • Anxiety and stress - test anxiety, social anxiety, perfectionism, panic attacks, overthinking

  • Depression - feeling numb, unmotivated, or just not like yourself

  • Relationships - friendships, dating, family conflict, setting boundaries

  • Trauma - processing difficult experiences at your own pace using EMDR or talk therapy

  • School stress - academic pressure, college decisions, balancing everything

  • Life transitions - moving, changing schools, family changes, growing up

  • LGBTQ+ support - coming out, navigating unsupportive environments, finding your community

what to expect in sessions

Sessions are 50 minutes and happen weekly, bi-weekly, or as needed, depending on what works for you. We can meet in-person at my office in Allen, TX, or virtually if that's easier.

The vibe is cozy and low-pressure. You can grab a fidget toy, settle in with a blanket, have some snacks, and just be yourself. We can color or play a game while we talk if that helps you feel more comfortable. Some days we'll have deep conversations, other days we'll just check in about your week. It's all valid.

You don't have to have everything figured out. You don't need to know exactly what to talk about or have the "right" words. We'll start with what feels heavy, confusing, or present that day, and I'll help guide the conversation.

for parents: supporting your teen's mental health

Seeking therapy for your teen is a significant step, and it shows real care and commitment to their wellbeing. Adolescence is a uniquely challenging developmental stage, and getting support during this time can make a meaningful difference.

why therapy for teens?

Teenagers today face pressures that didn't exist even a decade ago—constant social media comparison, academic pressure, identity exploration in an often unwelcoming world, and navigating a society that can feel unsafe and uncertain. Add in the normal challenges of adolescence (brain development, hormonal changes, social dynamics), and it's no wonder so many teens are struggling.

Therapy provides teens with:

  • A safe, confidential space to process their experiences

  • Tools to manage anxiety, depression, and stress

  • Support in developing healthy coping mechanisms

  • Guidance in navigating relationships and identity

  • A trusted adult outside the family system who's on their side

my approach with teen clients

I work collaboratively with teens ages 14-17, treating them as the experts on their own lives. My role is to provide support, validation, and skills—not to "fix" them or tell them what to do.

Therapeutic approaches I use include:

  • Person-centered therapy (following the teen's lead)

  • EMDR for trauma processing

  • CBT and DBT skills for anxiety and emotion regulation

  • Narrative therapy for identity exploration

  • LGBTQIA+ affirming care

  • Trauma-informed practices

your role as a parent

Privacy and trust are foundational to effective therapy. What your teen shares in session stays confidential unless there's a safety concern (risk of harm to self or others, abuse, or neglect). I know this can feel uncomfortable, but it's what allows teens to open up and do meaningful work.

Here's how we'll work together:

  • Initial family meeting to discuss goals, consent, and boundaries

  • Regular check-ins (optional, frequency determined together) to discuss progress

  • Communication about general themes without breaking confidentiality

  • Collaboration on skills and strategies to support your teen at home

  • Parent consultation sessions available as needed

I'm not here to replace your role—I'm here to support both you and your teen through this developmental stage. Some parents like to check-in regularly, while others prefer not to check-in at all. My goal is for you and your teen to feel safe and comfortable with the work we’re doing together.

common questions from parents

"How do I know if my teen needs therapy?" Consider therapy if your teen is experiencing persistent anxiety or sadness, withdrawing from activities they used to enjoy, struggling with school performance, having frequent conflicts at home, experiencing significant life changes, or if they've expressed interest in talking to someone.

"What if my teen doesn't want to go?" It's normal for teens to feel hesitant about therapy. I recommend having an honest conversation about why you think it could help, involving them in choosing a therapist, and framing the first session as just "checking it out" with no pressure to continue. Sometimes teens need to meet me first before deciding.

"Will you tell me everything my teen says?" No. Confidentiality is essential for building trust. However, I will communicate about safety concerns, general progress, and themes we're working on. We'll establish clear agreements about this from the start.

"Do you work with parents too?" While I primarily see teens individually, I offer parent consultation sessions to discuss strategies, answer questions, and ensure we're aligned in supporting your teen's growth.

getting started

Fees: $120 for 50-minute sessions. Limited sliding scale spots available. Insurance acceptance coming this summer.

Location: 1333 W McDermott Dr, Suite 200, Allen, TX 75013
Easily accessible from McKinney, Plano, and Frisco.

Virtual sessions available for all Texas residents.

Ready to take the next step? Reach out through my contact form or email me at hello@therapywithmack.com. I'll respond within 24-48 hours to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation where we can discuss whether therapy with me is a good fit.