Helping teens turn growing pains into personal growth

At Wishing Well Therapy, we specialize in guiding children and adolescents (ages 5-18) through the challenges that surface between elementary school, middle school and early adulthood. Our Princeton-based boutique practice has long served children, teens, young adults, and parents, pairing warm, individualized care with evidence-based methods — all in a supportive, judgment-free space. 

Child therapy provides a supportive, developmentally appropriate space for children to express emotions, build coping skills, and strengthen emotional regulation. Therapy may include play-based interventions, creative expression, and age-appropriate talk therapy, while also supporting parents in understanding and responding to their child’s needs.

Child Therapy

Child therapy may help if your child is experiencing:

·       Anxiety, worries, or fears

·       Sadness, withdrawal, or low mood

·       Difficulty with emotional regulation or big reactions

·       Behavioral challenges at home or school

·       Social difficulties or low confidence

·       Transitions, stress, or changes within the family

·       Challenges with separation, routines, or sleep

Our approach to child therapy includes:

·       Developmentally appropriate, child-centered treatment

·       Play-based and creative therapeutic techniques

·       Teaching emotional awareness and coping skills

·       Supporting self-esteem and social-emotional growth

·       Collaboration with parents to support progress outside of sessions

Why adolescent-focused therapy matters

The teenage years are a perfect storm of brain development, academic pressure, social media, family expectations, and identity exploration. Left unaddressed, that storm can fuel:

Anxiety or panic attacks

Depression and mood swings

Social isolation or bullying trauma

Perfectionism and academic burnout

Low self-esteem or body-image issues

Self-harm or risky behaviors

Family conflict and communication breakdowns

Early, strengths-based intervention helps teens build lifelong resilience instead of merely “getting through” high-school hallways.

Our treatment approach

What we do How it helps teens

Collaborative goal-setting – We involve the teen (and, when appropriate, parents/guardians) in defining clear, realistic therapy goals. Fosters ownership and motivation.

Evidence-based modalities – Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, mindfulness, and creative/expressive techniques. Gives practical tools to regulate emotions, challenge negative thoughts, and improve problem-solving. 

Strengths-orientation – We highlight what already works well in your teen’s life, then build on it. Cultivates self-confidence and a growth mindset.

Family integration – Parent coaching sessions and joint family meetings as needed. Strengthens communication outside the therapy room.

Trauma-informed lens – Safety, choice, collaboration, trustworthiness, and empowerment guide every session. Creates a secure space for honest disclosure and healing.

Our diverse team of licensed clinicians brings specialized training in adolescent mental health and a genuine passion for empowering young people.