Engaging teenagers in therapy can be difficult. While some are more than happy to share their story to a trusted adult, establishing that trust with some teenagers can take a lot of time. Additionally, therapy is hard work, and some teenagers can become easily overwhelmed. Mental health apps have become very popular with teenagers and young adults and can be used between therapy sessions to build on specific skills, track progress, or explore coping skills. Although not a replacement for therapy, it is something I have suggested to clients to utilize between sessions or to keep them on track when discontinuing services because treatment goals have been met.

Here are 5 Mental Health Apps I have suggested that clients have found helpful.

1. Forest – Stay focused
   This app has a “video game” feel challenging the user to be productive and stay on task while attempting to plant trees in their forest. If you complete your task without getting distracted, your tree grows! But, if you cannot resist the temptation, your tree dies.
2. CBT Thought Diary
   Retraining our brain is hard work! This app allows the client to check-in and track their mood, thought patterns, and identify thinking traps. There is also an option to keep a detailed diary to reflect on progress.
3. MindShift CBT – Anxiety Relief
   A free evidence-based anxiety app, MindShift supports the client in adjusting their thoughts, but also focuses on mindfulness and guided meditation.
4. Headspace: Meditation & Sleep
   Sleep is so important in the teenage years! This app has a wide range of dreamy audio experiences to choose from that help in relaxation to fall asleep and stay asleep.
5. Calm Harm
   This app provides tasks to the client to help them in resisting the urge to self-harm. The client can also add their own tasks and coping skills into the app. Activity types vary from comfort, distraction, release, and expressing yourself. The client can track their triggers, trends, and progress to help “ride the wave.”

*Please note these apps are used as aids in supporting treatment but do not replace it.

Written by Clinical Counsellor with Wildflowers, Ashley Carlson.