Adolescents Therapy
I very much enjoy working with adolescents, ages 14-18 years of age. Adolescent therapy can be helpful for teens to explore a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns. The adolescent years are full of challenges, growth, and ongoing transitions, which can be overwhelming and difficult to express throughout developmental stages. As a Child Mental Health Specialist, I have experience working with teenagers for an array of reasons. Adolescents need a safe and comfortable space to express their thoughts and feelings without feeling judged. Counseling can provide this safe and non-judgmental space. I utilize various techniques and modalities that are unique to each adolescents individual needs. Issues and symptoms I help teenagers explore and work though are:
Adjustment in school or home, ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety or Fear, Attachment Issues, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Communication Issues, Depression & Mood, Divorce, Emotional Abuse, Emotional Disturbance, Family of Origin Issues, Family Problems & Conflict, Grief & Loss, Health & Body Image (not eating disorders), Identity Issues, Impulse Control, Life Coaching, Life Changes, Low Self-Esteem, Oppositional Defiance, Peer Relationships, Physical Abuse, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming, Sleep Disturbances, Social Skills & Challenges, Self-harming, and Transitions.
Common Questions:
How long will my adolescent be in therapy?
Therapy is unique to each individual adolescent. The length of therapy will vary for each youth and there is no "set" amount of sessions that is required, it is dependent upon each child or adolescent's journey. A timeline can be discussed at anytime, as well as progress and current therapeutic goals. I do think it is important to understand that counseling is not forever, it a tool to help support teens during a challenging developmental period.
My teenager is depressed- will they have to go on medications?
Therapy can help provide awareness of behaviors and actions, in addition to learning coping skills that can help reduce symptoms of depression. It will be important to consult with a medical provider such as a psychiatrist, doctor, or psychiatric nurse for additional information regarding medications.
My teen refuses to go to therapy; Now What?
I encourage parents to give their teens time to absorb and ask questions about counseling. It's important to recognize that it may be anxiety of the unknown, which is driving teens to refuse talking to a counselor. I have discovered that once teens attend the first therapy session, they realize that it is a safe and comfortable space that is non-judgmental. They often recognize how much they enjoy talking to somebody that is solely there to listen to them, as well as having an objective point of view.
Ages I work with:
Children (6-10)
Adolescents / Teenagers (14-18)
Young adults (19-25ish)