Therapy for Teens

The teenage years can be tough: for them and for you.

Adolescence is a critical period of growth, self discovery and vulnerability. Therapy can offer support for the unique challenges they face. Adolescents may often grapple with body image, self esteem, academic pressures, peer relationships, and the influence of social media. These things can amplify feelings of inadequacy or anxiety. Additionally they may encounter life changes, family dynamics, or trauma that can impact emotional well-being.

Maybe you’re noticing:

  • Excessive sadness or hopelessness, withdrawn behavior or loss of interest in activities.

  • Increase in risky behaviors such as drugs or alcohol use or reckless actions.

  • Declining academic performance, difficulty with concentrations or skipping school.

  • Anger or aggressive behaviors

  • Talk of hopelessness or suicide, self harming behaviors (cutting, burning, ect)

Therapy can be an essential resource during this time.

My approach to working with teens

I work to provide a safe, non judgmental space where teens can explore their thoughts and emotions and develop healthy coping skills. I work to help navigate identity formation and manage stress during this stage of development. Therapy can help create the foundations for healthier relationships in adulthood. Building rapport is key with adolescents, along with other approaches I use such as expressive therapies, and evidence based practices such as cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapy.

What we’ll work on

Therapy can help your teen:

  • Improve self-esteem

  • Manage anxiety and depression

  • Reduce impulsivity, aggression, or defiance.

  • Improve communication and conflict resolution

  • Teach healthy decision- making and problem- solving skills

I’m here to support your teen as they grow into new phases of life.

FAQS

Common questions about therapy for teens

  • Parents play an essential role in supporting their teen’s therapeutic journey. Typically, parents are involved during the initial assessment to provide valuable insights. Beyond this, parents may meet separately with me to receive guidance and strategies on how to best support their teen at home.

    Depending on the teen’s needs and family dynamics, therapy may also involve parents directly in sessions, which can help enhance communication and foster a supportive environment.

  • In therapy, confidentiality is a key principal and what you share with your therapist is kept private.

  • It can be tough if your teen isn’t open to therapy, but there are ways to encourage them. Offer choices to give them a sense of control, be honest about how therapy can help, and consider scheduling a parent consultation to gain support and learn effective ways to approach the conversation with your teen