Virtual Therapy Group for Rising 9th Graders: Support for Middle-to-High School Transition
Starting high school can be exciting—but also overwhelming. If your teen is navigating the leap from middle school to high school, this virtual therapy group is designed to offer support and equip them with tools to manage the stress, anxiety, and uncertainty that often come with the transition. Led by a licensed teen therapist and former school counselor, this group provides a relaxed, engaging, and supportive virtual space where your teen can connect, build confidence, and develop coping strategies for a successful start to their high school journey.
Group meets on Wednesday nights from 6:00-7:00 PM EST
This Group is for Teens Starting High School Who Want to:
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Feel more confident about what to expect and how to handle the transition
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Improve self-esteem, build stronger friendships, and manage academic pressure
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Learn how to handle emotions and navigate social situations with more ease
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Connect with other teens who really get what they’re going through
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Adjust to new routines, expectations, and responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed
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Build practical coping skills to manage stress, change, and uncertainty
What to Expect :
Commitment: At least 12 weeks
When: Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Cost: $120 per session (*superbills available)
Location: Virtual
Start Date: September 3rd, 2025
Want to learn more? Let’s chat about how this group can support you!
*superbills are receipts you can submit to your insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement.
✺ Frequently Asked Questions ✺
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This online therapy group offers a supportive space for teens to talk about the fears, questions, and challenges they’re facing as they move from middle school to high school. With guidance from a licensed teen therapist and former school counselor, and input from peers, your child will gain insight, tools, and encouragement to help them feel more prepared and less overwhelmed.
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Through structured conversations and evidence-based strategies, this group helps teens learn to manage academic pressure, social anxiety, and emotional stress. They’ll build coping skills, boost confidence, and learn how to handle change in healthier ways.
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Not at all. This group is for any teen who wants extra support during this big change, whether they’re feeling anxious, curious, unmotivated, or just want to connect with others going through the same thing. It's both a proactive and therapeutic space.
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Yes. While this is a group experience, each session encourages personal reflection and gives teens space to explore what they’re going through. The group therapist checks in on individual needs and ensures each teen feels heard and supported, including coordinating with their school counselor and parents as needed.
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Unlike typical orientation programs, this therapy group focuses on emotional readiness, mental health support, and coping strategies. Led by a licensed mental health professional and former school counselor, it’s not just about sharing high school logistics—it’s about giving teens the ongoing support they need to process their feelings and feel more confident as they navigate this big transition.
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Absolutely! While the group runs for at least the first three months of school, it’s designed to provide ongoing support throughout the entire first year of high school. From adjusting to new routines and managing stress, to building relationships and developing a strong sense of identity, this group helps teens navigate the ups and downs of their first year with confidence and resilience.
How This Virtual Therapy Group Supports Teens in the Middle-to-High School Transition
What to Expect in Each Therapy Session:
*Topics will be adjusted based on the group’s needs: Each week, we’ll focus on the most important challenges your teen is facing, whether it’s adjusting to new routines, managing stress, staying organized, or navigating social dynamics. This ensures your teen gets the personalized support and tools they need to stay on top of their responsibilities and feel confident during their transition from middle school to high school.
Welcome + Overview of the High School Transition
Meet the group, set intentions, and get an overview of the key challenges and expectations as your teen moves from middle school to high school.
Time Management & Organization
Learn how to create balanced schedules that include schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and personal/social time. Develop effective time management strategies to reduce stress and stay on top of your responsibilities throughout the school year. Your teen will receive practical tools like planners and checklists to help stay organized, manage their time, and prioritize tasks.
Setting Realistic Goals & Building a Strong High School Foundation
Clarify personal goals for high school success, including academic, social, and extracurricular aspirations. Learn how to prioritize tasks and manage school responsibilities effectively while setting a realistic path for the first year of high school.
Coping with Stress, Overwhelm, & Self-Doubt
Identify the sources of stress, self-doubt, and overwhelm that come with the high school transition. Practice coping strategies to manage anxiety and stay grounded throughout this important period of change.
Managing Social Dynamics & Building Friendships
Explore strategies for navigating new friendships and maintaining healthy social connections. Discuss how to handle peer pressure, strengthen communication skills, and build positive relationships as you settle into high school.
Staying Motivated & Overcoming Procrastination
Learn techniques to overcome procrastination and stay motivated through the transition to high school. Develop effective study habits, set achievable goals, and stay on track as you navigate the challenges of adjusting to new routines and expectations.
Managing Peer + Family Pressure
Discuss how to manage expectations from family, peers, and teachers while staying true to your own values and goals. Learn strategies to cope with the emotional ups and downs of comparisons, social pressures, and dealing with challenges that arise when hearing about others’ experiences during high school.
Navigating Uncertainty and Setbacks & Building Resilience
Explore how to handle challenges, social setbacks, or academic struggles and develop a resilient mindset that helps your teen bounce back stronger. Learn how to stay motivated and keep moving forward, even in the face of uncertainty.
Confidence in Decision-Making
Gain confidence in making decisions about high school courses, extracurriculars, and future goals. Learn to make thoughtful choices while reducing feelings of uncertainty or overwhelm about the changes that come with the high school experience.
Reflection + Personalized Action Planning
Reflect on your growth, celebrate progress, and create a personalized action plan to navigate your high school years with confidence. Set goals for both academic and personal development as you transition into this new chapter of your life.
Secure your spot! Get the tools, guidance, and peer support you need to manage the middle to high school transition process with confidence.
Meet the group therapist, Lane
Hi! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and former Middle & High School Counselor who specializes in anxiety, school stress, life transitions, and more.
View my full profile here.
