In the age of digitalization, the landscape of mental health services has experienced considerable transformation, with online therapy emerging as a pivotal tool. For teenagers, who are already digital natives, this form of therapy appears to be a natural fit. However, choosing the right online therapist for a teenager is akin to traversing a labyrinth. The process requires meticulous analysis, and in a bid to assist parents in this endeavor, we present a set of questions that can serve as a guide to ensure optimal outcomes from online therapy for their teens.

Let's begin with understanding the essence of online therapy. It refers to professional mental health services delivered via digital platforms, ranging from video-chat sessions, text messaging, to mobile applications. The therapy may follow cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or other therapeutic approaches. The convenience and accessibility of online therapy make it an attractive option, especially for teenagers who often grapple with time management or feel more comfortable communicating via technological platforms.

The first question to ask a prospective online therapist would be about their educational qualifications and licensure. It is fundamental to ensure they have a master's or doctoral degree in psychology or a related field, and hold a valid license to practice – a credential that denotes the therapist's adherence to the stringent standards of the profession.

Next, inquire about their specialized experience in working with teenagers and their specific issues. Teenagers are not just miniature adults – they have unique developmental, emotional, and social needs. A therapist versed in adolescent psychology can navigate these nuances adeptly. The experience handling issues like bullying, peer pressure, academic stress, identity crises, or substance abuse can be advantageous.

Another critical inquiry should be about the therapeutic approach they employ and why they think it'd be suitable for your child. Research suggests that certain approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy and family therapy work particularly well with teenagers. However, the 'one-size-fits-all' approach is a misnomer in therapy. Therefore, the therapist should provide a rationale behind their preferred approach depending upon your child's needs.

It is also pertinent to discuss how they plan to maintain privacy and confidentiality in an online setting. With digital platforms, the risk of data breaches can escalate, making it essential to learn about the security measures the therapist has in place. In addition to technological safeguards, the therapist should be clear about the boundaries of confidentiality – when they might have to break it for safety concerns.

Asking about their method of tracking progress may provide insights into their commitment to evidence-based practice. Therapy is not just about providing a venting space; it should help initiate tangible changes in the teen's life. The therapist should be able to discuss their method for setting goals, assessing progress, and adjusting the therapeutic course based on data and feedback.

Lastl, it may be beneficial to explore their stance on parental involvement. Involving parents in therapy can be a delicate balancing act – ensuring open communication without infringing on the teenager's privacy. It would be interesting to know how they plan to navigate this.

In Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Theory, he proposed that people with high trait anxiety – a stable personality characteristic – are more likely to experience state anxiety in stressful situations. Adolescence, with its myriad of challenges, can indeed induce such stress, making therapy an essential resource. But not all therapy is created equal, especially in the novel realm of online therapy services. By asking insightful questions, parents can guide their teens towards effective therapeutic intervention, contributing positively to their journey through the tumultuous teen years.

To conclude, remember that every teen is unique, and the choice of a therapist should be tailored to their individual needs. Selecting the right therapist could be the first step towards a healthier and happier life for your child. The questions outlined above can serve as signposts on this crucial journey, guiding you to make an informed choice. Remember, it is more critical to ask the right questions than to know all the answers. In the words of physicist Werner Heisenberg, "What we observe is not nature itself, but nature exposed to our method of questioning."