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Signs That it is Time to Seek Professional Help

when to Seek Professional Help
Table of Contents

When is it Time?

Teen mental illness is a serious problem. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 20% of adolescents in the United States experience a mental illness each year. This means that one in five teens will experience a mental illness at some point in their lives.

If you are concerned about your teen’s mental health, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can help your teen to understand their mental illness and develop coping mechanisms. They can also provide support and guidance to your teen and their family.

This article will discuss the signs that it is time to seek professional help for teen mental illness. It will also provide information on how to find a therapist or counselor who is experienced in working with teens. The article will include a list of resources for parents and teens who are looking for help finding a therapist.

Signs that It is Time to Seek Professional Help

There are a number of signs that it may be time to seek professional help for teen mental illness. These signs include:

  • Changes in behavior. This could include changes in sleep patterns, eating habits, or school performance.
  • Changes in mood. This could include persistent sadness, hopelessness, irritability, or anger.
  • Withdrawal from friends and family.
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
  • Increased substance use.

If you notice any of these signs in your teen, it is important to talk to them about your concerns. You can also talk to your teen’s doctor or a mental health professional.

How to Find a Therapist or Counselor

There are a number of ways to find a therapist or counselor who is experienced in working with teens. You can ask your teen’s doctor for a referral, or you can search online for therapists in your area.

When you are looking for a therapist or counselor, it is important to find someone who is a good fit for your teen. You should ask about the therapist’s experience working with teens, their treatment approach, and their fees.

Additional Tips for Finding a Therapist or Counselor

  • Ask your teen what they are looking for in a therapist. What kind of therapy do they think would be helpful? What are their preferences in terms of gender, age, or ethnicity of the therapist?
  • Consider your teen’s insurance coverage. Some therapists are covered by insurance, while others are not. If your teen’s insurance does cover therapy, you will need to find a therapist who is in your insurance network.
  • Interview potential therapists. Once you have found a few potential therapists, schedule an interview with each one. This will give you a chance to ask questions and get to know each therapist.
  • Make sure you feel comfortable with the therapist. This is important, as you will be working with this therapist on a regular basis. If you do not feel comfortable with them, it is not a good fit.

Resources for Parents and Teens

There are a number of resources available to help parents and teens who are looking for help finding a therapist. These resources include:

Concerned About Your Teen

If you are concerned about your teen’s mental health, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can help your teen to understand their mental illness and develop coping mechanisms. They can also provide support and guidance to your teen and their family.

There are a number of resources available to help parents and teens who are looking for help finding a therapist. Please reach out for help if you need it.

Here are some additional tips for finding a therapist or counselor:

  • Ask your teen what they are looking for in a therapist.
  • Consider your teen’s insurance coverage.
  • Interview potential therapists.
  • Make sure you feel comfortable with the therapist.

Remember, you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you and your teen. Seek professional help today to learn more about our programs and how we can assist. Hillside Horizon for Teens is dedicated to helping teenagers with mental health to reclaim their lives. Let us walk this path of healing with you.

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Katherina M Hillside

Katherine Mendoza

Licensed Vocational Nurse LVN

I began my professional journey in the United States Navy as a Nuclear Engineer where I developed a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and service. Driven by a desire to continue making a meaningful impact, I transitioned into nursing, focusing on providing compassionate care to those in need. Over time, my passion for supporting others led to specialize in mental health, recognizing the vital role it plays in overall well-being. At Hillside Horizon for Teens, I dedicate myself to helping adolescents navigate life’s challenges and build healthier futures. My commitment to fostering growth, resilience, and healing continues to be the cornerstone of my career.

Aaron 1 Hillside Horizon

Aaron Earnest

Admissions Manager

Aaron has been working in the mental health field for over 13 years and has a passion for helping people. Previously he worked with adults for a long time and then realized he may have a greater impact with teens and made the switch a little while ago. He understands the importance of being families first voice they hear at Hillsidie Horizon and takes that role very seriously. Driven by his own issues as a kid, Aaron understands the importance of getting help and how tough the decision can be for families.

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Justin Collins

Program Director

Justin is a seasoned mental health professional with over 15 years of experience empowering adolescents through innovative behavioral health and sports programs. He began his career in Los Angeles as a CIF coach for underprivileged youth, helping lead his team to a CIF football runner-up title. In Murrieta, he took on leadership roles at Oak Grove/Jack Weaver, where he oversaw STRTP and Advanced Autism School Day Programs, managed 20+ staff, and trained teams as a certified CPI instructor. He later held key roles in the Palm Springs Unified School District. Now serving as Program Director at Hillside Horizon, Justin is known for his visionary leadership, commitment to quality care, and passion for transforming young lives.

Victor Hillside Horizon

Victor Hamaker

Program Director

With a strong commitment to supporting individuals with special needs, and at risk youth, I have built a career dedicated to advocacy and behavioral health. My journey began as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in group homes and for the local school district for both adults and adolescents with special needs, behavioral challenges, and at-risk youth. I then transitioned into behavioral health, serving as a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) at Hillside Horizon, where I worked closely with at-risk youth and individuals with complex behavioral needs. I later advanced to Lead BHT and then Operations Manager. Currently, as the Program Director at Hillside Horizon, I oversee program development, staff training, and client care, ensuring high-quality services for individuals with behavioral and developmental challenges. Additionally, I support the local school district as a special needs advocate, working to enhance resources and support for students and families.

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Jessica Flores

Director of Outreach

Driven from my own personal experience, I have found purpose in what I do in the Behavioral Health field. I started working in the industry over ten years ago as a driver and a tech. I have worked multiple roles and understand the complexities of all levels of care and positions. I continued my education and completed my Alcohol and Drug Counseling Certification from Saddleback College and received my bachelor’s degree in Community Advocacy and Social Policy from Arizona State University last May. I am currently the Director of Outreach at Hillside Horizon for Teens. From answering questions about the program to connecting families with resources, I enjoy being apart of our clients journey to healing!

Dr. Arlene Waldron

Clinical Director PsyD, LMFT

Dr. Arlene Waldron is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and our Clinical Director with over fifteen years of experience serving adolescents, children, and families. She holds a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) and has led residential, school-based, and community mental health programs with a strong focus on quality care and program development. Dr. Waldron works closely with multidisciplinary teams and community partners to deliver trauma-informed, effective services. A fluent Spanish speaker and motivational leader, Dr. Waldron is deeply committed to the growth and well-being of individuals and families. She believes strong programs create meaningful change and leads Hillside Horizon’s Clinical program with a focus on excellence, accountability, and compassionate care.