Sometimes life’s pressures and stress build up all at once. Bottling up these feelings can make matters worse, leaving you physically and emotionally drained and depressed. It can be awkward and uncomfortable to share your feelings with others, especially those close to you---that’s when counseling can help.

Everyone experiences difficult times and talking to a professional can help. Sharing your feelings with someone trustworthy, caring, and trained in mental health can help you find a solution to the problem.

There are several counseling agencies in the Houston area. When choosing an agency, be sure to ask about the cost and whether or not you need your parents’ permission to get counseling. You can also talk to your school counselor, clergy member, or an adult you trust, or call TeenLine, 713-529-TEEN, to talk to other teens who are trained to help.


Warning Signs

If you or someone close to you is experiencing one or more of the following warning signs, counseling can help.

• Sudden changes in mood or behavior
• Depression---feeling unhappy for a long period of time
• Anxiety---strong feelings of fear or nervousness
• Losing your temper over small things
• Dropping grades/ withdrawal from friends, family, activities

Bo's Place
713-942-8339
Offers a comprehensive and innovative direct service program for children who have lost a parent or sibling.

Chicano Family Center
713-923-2316
Provides enrichment programs for teens as well as social services and counseling targeted to Hispanics.

DePelchin Children's Center
713-730-2335
Counseling available for a wide range of issues including school problems and relationship conflicts.

Innovative Alternatives, Inc.
713-222-2525
Clear Lake Area
281-282-6023
Counseling services for individuals and families. Mediation services including conflict resolution, peer mediation, gang mediation, and victim/offender mediation.

Lutheran Social Services
713-521-0110
Counseling services are available for teens and families.

Montrose Counseling Center
713-529-0037
Services include mental health, substance abuse treatment, and case management to gay men, lesbians, and individuals with HIV.

Multicultural Education and Counseling through the Arts
713-802-9370
Alternative education arts program in the performing and visual arts to multicultural youth in the inner city.

SHAPE Community Center
713-521-0641
Counseling is available for teens either individually, in groups, or in family sessions.

Wesley Community Center, Inc.
713-223-8131
Provides counseling, tutoring, leadership development, arts and crafts, recreation programs, and a youth volunteer program.