Individual Therapy for Teens & Adults in Denver
Support for Teens and Adults Navigating Anxiety and Change
Therapy that helps you better understand yourself while building confidence, balance, and healthier ways to cope
When Things Feel Harder Than They Look
Some teens and adults appear capable on the outside.
They get good grades. They show up. They push through.
But internally, anxiety builds. Social situations feel confusing. Transitions feel overwhelming. Sleep becomes inconsistent. Confidence quietly erodes.
Therapy offers a place to slow down and untangle what’s happening beneath the surface.
Who This Is For
Many teens and young adults come to therapy because something about their experience feels harder than it should. They may be feeling overwhelmed by expectations, struggling socially, or beginning to wonder whether autism or ADHD could be part of their story.
Therapy can provide a space to better understand those experiences and begin building tools that make daily life feel more manageable.
Individual therapy may be helpful if you or your teen are experiencing:
- Anxiety that feels constant or paralyzing
- Social isolation or difficulty maintaining friendships
- Transition stress (middle school, high school, college, adulthood)
- Burnout from masking or overcompensating
- Executive functioning challenges
- Sleep difficulties
- Low confidence or increasing avoidance
What Therapy Focuses On
Therapy is always tailored to the person in front of me. We start by talking about what feels most challenging right now and what you would like to see change. From there, we work together to build practical skills that support everyday life.
Sessions may focus on:
- Reducing anxiety and emotional overwhelm
- Building coping and self-regulation skills
- Strengthening perspective-taking and social understanding
- Increasing independence and daily living skills
- Improving communication and flexibility
- Supporting identity development and self-confidence
My Approach to Therapy
Therapy is practical and individualized. I draw from evidence-based approaches, but always adapt them to fit how each person’s brain works.
This may include:
Autism-adapted Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
to help untangle anxious thoughts and build coping skills in ways that feel concrete and manageable.
Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) principles
to strengthen motivation, communication, and meaningful engagement rather than compliance.
Behavioral strategies
that support flexibility, daily routines, sleep, and growing independence.
Perspective-taking skills
to help teens and adults better understand social dynamics without forcing masking or pretending to be someone they’re not.
Parent collaboration
so progress doesn’t stay in the therapy room but carries into home, school, and everyday life.
How We Begin
Schedule a Consultation
We start with a conversation. You can share what you’ve been noticing, the worries, the patterns, the moments that feel harder than they should.
Clarify Goals and Determine Fit
We slow things down and look at the full picture. What’s getting in the way? What feels most important to change? We’ll decide whether therapy is the right next step and outline a path that feels manageable.
Begin Individualized Therapy
Therapy is thoughtful and personalized. We move at a pace that supports growth without overwhelm. Parents stay involved when appropriate, and progress is built steadily, not perfectly, but meaningfully.
Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy
Do you work with autistic teens and young adults?
Yes. I specialize in autism-informed therapy for teens and young adults. Therapy supports anxiety reduction, social understanding, independence, and confidence without encouraging masking.
Is this therapy only for individuals with a diagnosis?
No. A formal diagnosis is not required. Many teens and adults begin therapy because they feel overwhelmed, socially isolated, or stuck — even if they are still exploring whether autism or ADHD may be part of their experience.
Are parents involved in teen therapy?
Parent involvement is often part of the process. I provide consultation and practical strategies so progress extends beyond sessions and into everyday life.
Do you offer telehealth therapy?
Yes. I provide in-person therapy in Denver and telehealth services. Through PSYPACT authorization, telehealth is available in participating states.
How long does therapy typically last?
The length of therapy depends on goals and needs. Some individuals seek short-term support focused on specific skills, while others benefit from longer-term work building independence and emotional regulation.
What makes your therapy different?
My approach is highly individualized, autism-informed, and collaborative. I integrate CBT, behavioral strategies, and developmental interventions while driving goals based on what matters most to the individual.
- Courtney Paisley, PhD
Begin to Untangle What’s Beneath the Surface
When things feel harder than they should, reaching out is a strong first step.