Adolescent Therapy

This is when depression and anxiety often start.

Does your teen not talk to you anymore?

It seems like they only spend time on their phone. It’s a miracle if they even come out of their room for meals.

Can you tell that something is wrong, even if they don’t tell you?

Their grades are slipping. You ask if homework is done, and they say “yes,” but clearly it’s not.

Is sleep a challenge?

They are up all night on electronics and wake up super late every day.

Are they spending more time alone?

They have stopped hanging out with friends and quit doing things they used to enjoy.

Is this typical teenage angst or a more serious issue?

Normal sadness after a breakup of a relationship versus depression…

Worry about grades and the future versus an anxiety disorder…

Perfectionism and “quirky” behavior versus an obsessive compulsive disorder…

Typical testing limits and talking back versus a significant break in your relationship…

You aren’t in this alone.

I can help distinguish between “normal” teen behavior and a bigger issue that needs to be addressed.

Regardless of the severity, it is always helpful to have extra support for you and your teen.

Your teen will learn to manage the many pressures of being a teen… with a focus on making positive choices, dealing with big emotions, and improving connections with family and friends.

Here’s what we’ll do…

I use creative activities, art, music, and play games in sessions. I’ve found that it is often easier for teens to talk when they are doing something else at the same time.

It can hurt that your teen will talk to me about things first before telling you… especially when all you want is for them to talk to you and let you help them.

I get it. Just remember, though: Part of growing up is separating from parents and increasing independence.

I can be the bridge between you and your child.

If your teen tells me something that is potentially harmful, such as using drugs, suicidal thoughts, or other dangerous activities, I will work with your teen to share it with you.

If it is typical teenage stuff that does not put them at risk, I preserve their privacy and work with them on making positive choices and being able to manage the situation. This is important for their development.

I’ve found that if the teen doesn’t have some level of privacy in sessions with me, they won’t be as open (or talk at all), which is not helpful for them or for you.

Let’s work together for your teen’s success.

Some teens are ready to come in… maybe even having asked you specifically to make a therapy appointment. Other teens may take longer to open up, especially if it was not their choice to come in.

Whatever the case, I work hard to build a strong relationship with each teen, and we go at their pace.

Getting help now can improve your teen’s future and the likelihood that they will be able to be successful.

Call me today for a consultation: (954) 417-6545