You Feel Like Your Teen Is Struggling, But What Do You Do?
Is your teen exhibiting worrisome behaviors?
Maybe they are acting completely out of the norm, and you can’t figure out why.
Has there been a sudden drop in grades, a loss of interest in activities they once loved, or has withdrawn from everything altogether.
Are you worried about your teen’s safety because of thoughts of suicide, preferring to be alone, or hearing voices, but unsure of how to find adequate adolescent counseling?
You are exhausted, worried, and feeling guilt and shame that things have gotten to this point, not knowing where to turn or who to talk to.
Many Parents Have No Idea Where To Find The Help Their Child Deserves
In working with young people, I find they are trying to figure out who they are and where they belong among their peers and in society as a whole. It can be a time riddled with insecurity, transitions, and self-exploration. During this period, adolescents tell me they can feel isolated and misunderstood as they work through their problems. I listen to the adolescents express the demands of today’s world and how they can struggle to feel successful or even adequate to those around them.
I also hear the parental concerns and increased conflicts at home when a teen falls behind or demonstrate changes in mood and behavior. Often the teens I work with are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety due to the many pressures they are experiencing. These issues may lead to isolation, acting out behaviors or self-harm gestures. It is difficult for parents to know how to manage these problems and often time efforts to intervene may seem to worsen symptoms.
I'm here to offer my support and expertise.
Therapy can be incredibly effective in helping teens learn to process through current life stressors, learn helpful coping skills and strategies, and begin to express themselves in healthier ways. Being a parent is hard, regardless of your unique situation, and it is an admirable thing to seek help for your family.
What If My Teen Doesn’t Open Up?
I have specific experience and training in working with adolescents and use evidence-based approaches to work through the distinct stressors and problems that your teen is facing. Prior to beginning the hard work, I will build rapport with your teen; working to foster a safe, warm, and secure environment where they can find comfort in the process of therapy.
Whether this is your teen’s first attempt at therapy, or they have tried various therapists without luck, the progression of therapy will happen at a pace that your teen feels is right for them. You have done your part in providing a nurturing environment for your teen at home, and I will mirror that in addition to having an element of privacy for your teen to thrive in therapy.
What To Expect
In the first session, I will meet with the parent/s and teen for the first part of session to gain insight and information into what is going on. From there, the sessions will belong to only your teen. I understand it is difficult not to know what is going on in session, but I want to ensure you that their safety is my priority.
I am a mandated reporter, meaning if your teenager presents serious and imminent threat to themselves or others, I am required by law to notify you and appropriate authorities. The rapport and trust built in session does not take precedence to your child’s safety.
What if I want to be part of the therapy process?
I understand wanting to be involved in your child’s process of growth and healing. I am happy to discuss the option of family sessions in addition to your child’s individual therapy. I have found that having the sacred space of therapy for your teen is beneficial in allowing them to open up and share in a way that feels right for them. If you feel your family would also benefit from family therapy, I am happy to set that up as well.
I’m not sure my teen will agree to therapy.
I offer free consultations that can be done via phone. It is equally important to allow your teen the space to decline a therapist due to a lack of fit. If this is the case, please let ne know and I am happy to provide additional referrals.
Take the Next Step
If you think we might be a good fit, or would like to chat more before being scheduled, simply contact me. I’ve been successful helping teens who are dealing with:
- Depression/Mood Disorders
- Anxiety
- Grief and Loss
- Suicidal Ideation
- Self Injury Behavior
- Traumatic Experiences
- Post-hospitalization Transition
- LBGTQ+ Support
- Stress
- Blended Family/Divorce of parents
- Difficulties with communication and relationships