Teen Therapy
“I want to know what’s going on with my teen.”
She’s crying again… the fifth time today. Looking continually at her phone, she texts and cries again and again. When I ask her what’s wrong, all I get is: “Nothing, mom.”
Today, she told me she has always felt like a “he.” Now she wants to change her (his) name. How do I support her (or him) in this? Is this just a phase or something else?
The school diagnosed him with “giftedness.” He is so smart and logical! But I know he’s having trouble handling stress from peers and has even talked about wanting to die.
She sent pictures of herself to a boy! The entire school has them now! She won’t leave her room. I took her to the doctor, and she suggested therapy. But how will that help her?
Everyone is confused and unsure of what to do. The behaviors and anger or anxiety have built up, and nothing has changed or made a difference that we did.
Here’s why therapy is so important for teens…
Teens need a place to release.
Trying to be an individual in a complex social environment with their peers is overwhelming and scary for teens. Therapy provides a safe space for them to express and discuss the meanings of their emotions, thoughts, and needs.
Teens need a place to feel supported.
A place to discuss all the problems they have down to the emotions that complicate their daily interactions. Talking to a person who will, beyond a doubt, keep confidence and privacy as they work through the challenges they face with peers, relationships, identity, and beliefs.
Teens need privacy as they face their challenges.
Privacy is an essential factor in therapy, and knowing they can discuss all the thoughts and feelings without fear of hurting someone’s feelings or getting into trouble. There are privacy laws that apply to teens as well, and instances where privacy is violated. If there is a concern about safety or harm, I will assist with these concerns as a mandated reporter and a licensed professional.
Otherwise, we do not share the individual sessions unless they give permission.
We’ll explore the problems together…
… and identify the challenges as you view them, and as your teen views them.
Meeting weekly, we will uncover the emotions, thoughts, and beliefs that are part of the challenges you face and support, identify, and make the changes needed to bring balance and happiness back to you and the family.
We investigate the source of the problems using some personality or thoughts or behavior assessments. As we move through the therapy process, we integrate skills building using movies, books, and worksheets to understand and make the positive changes they wish to make. We build rapport and a relationship based on trust and mutual respect.
Parents are an important part of the therapy process for teens – not by being in each session, but by working with their teens to change their lives.
Family sessions are an integral part of the therapy and discussed ahead of time. Often, I recommend parents’ involvement to help foster changes, provide insight, and discuss difficult topics together.
Let’s get started!
No time like the present to begin the positive process of change and healing.
Contact me and enjoy a free 15-minute consultation where we can discuss the possibilities: (941) 564-7987.