Therapy for Teens & Older Kids (10–17) in Austin & Across Texas
School pressure. Overthinking. Feeling “too much” or “not enough.”
Life feels big right now
Maybe your teen is trying to keep up with school, friends, and family expectations — but underneath, they’re anxious, exhausted, or shutting down. They might be perfectionistic, sensitive, or overthinking every move. Or they might not be talking much at all, and you’re left wondering what’s really going on.
I work with thoughtful, sensitive, and driven teens and older kids who want a space where they can be real without fear of judgment.
What therapy looks like here
I’m not the “sit and lecture” kind of therapist. With teens, I:
Listen more than I talk (and ask questions that make them think)
Collaborate so they feel ownership in the process
Respect their privacy while keeping parents in the loop on what matters for safety and progress
Common reasons families reach out
School stress, perfectionism, and burnout
Anxiety in social or academic situations
Struggles with identity or self-worth
Trouble expressing emotions or asking for help
Tension in family relationships
Feeling “different” or misunderstood
For parents
We start with a family consult so you can share concerns, history, and goals.
Between sessions, I may check in with updates or suggestions for support at home. You’ll know what’s important while your teen still has space to share openly in therapy.
Therapy can be transformative for kids and teens, it was for me. Know that you are making an investment in your child’s future that can have long-lasting impacts.
Why choose me
I’m Tyler Ricks (she/her) — a Black, psychodynamic therapist serving teens and older kids in Austin and online across Texas. I understand what it’s like to feel pressure from all sides, and I create a space where they can take off the mask, even if it’s just for an hour.
I use a psychodynamic, relational approach — which means I’m paying attention to the patterns shaping your teen’s emotions, relationships, and sense of self. We’re not just managing symptoms; we’re helping them understand themselves better and feel more confident in who they are.
Request a Free Consult
If your teen is feeling stuck, anxious, or burned out, therapy can help them find their footing.
This is a 10-15 minute phone call where we’ll talk about what you’re looking for, what I offer, and whether it feels aligned to move forward. No pressure, no commitment — just a space to connect.