Growing up is hard. Growing up under pressure is harder.
Telehealth therapy in New York for teens and students dealing with school pressure, anxiety, identity, and the stress of competitive public and private schools.
Is this you?
Every grade, test, or admissions decision feels like it decides your whole future.
You go to a competitive NYC public or private school, and the pressure never really turns off.
Your teen seems anxious, irritable, or shut down, and won't talk to you about it.
Friendships, social media, or fitting in are taking up more space than schoolwork.
You're figuring out who you are, including your identity or sexuality, and want somewhere safe to talk about it.
A hard school experience, a transfer, or time away from home is still following you.
You're a performer or creative balancing rehearsals, school, and everyone's expectations.
How we help
The teen years come with a lot at once: school, friendships, family, identity, and the feeling that everything counts. In New York, add competitive admissions and high-pressure schools, and it can feel like there's no room to just be a kid. Therapy gives teens a space that's theirs, with someone who isn't grading them.
Ilena Robbins, LMSW, has spent her career working with young people. She works with students at NYC's top public and private schools who are coping with that pressure, with LGBTQIA+ youth, and with teens and young adults who have had unique educational histories, including residential schools and the troubled teen industry. She uses CBT, DBT skills, and psychodynamic therapy to help with anxiety, perfectionism, mood, and the stress of always being "on."
In the first sessions, Ilena gets to know your teen and what's been hard, and talks with you about how you'd like to be involved. Family sessions are available when it helps to work on things together. Sessions are by telehealth, so your teen can join from home without another commute.
Who you'll work with
Ilena Robbins
LMSW
Ilena helps adolescents, young adults, LGBTQIA+ clients, NYC students, and performers with performance anxiety, imposter syndrome, and school pressure.
Meet IlenaWhat it costs
Sessions with Ilena are $200 for individual therapy and $275 for family sessions, and she accepts Aetna. If you're paying privately, we send a superbill every month so you can use your out-of-network benefits, and many PPO plans pay back part of each session. Ask us during your free consult.
See fees and how insurance reimbursement works.Frequently asked questions
How involved are parents?
It depends on your teen and what's going on. Parents are usually part of the first conversation, and then most of the work happens one on one with your teen. Family sessions are available when it helps to work on things together.
Will you tell me what my teen talks about?
Teens open up more when they know their sessions are private. Your therapist will share general progress and anything you need to know to support them, and will always tell you right away if there's a safety concern.
Does therapy by video work for teens?
For a lot of teens, yes. Many feel more comfortable talking from their own room. All they need is a private space and a phone or laptop.
My teen doesn't want to go. Should we still try?
That's really common. A free consult is a low-pressure way for your teen to meet the therapist and see if it feels okay. Feeling comfortable with the person matters more than anything else.
What if we need help right now?
If your teen is in crisis or you're worried about their safety, call 911 or call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. It's free and available 24/7.