The Teen years are an impressionable, sensitive, identity-forming, and confusing time.  It can be a drastic time of growth in all areas and an emotionally charged time. Teens are figuring out who they are, their personality and sexuality is forming and/or expressing itself, their bodies and brains are developing and changing, and their ego is becoming stronger and more rigid.  As a parent, you may find yourself getting stuck in power struggles with your teen and/or on the receiving end of their Teen angst or maybe you are just really worried about them. 

 

If your Teen is showing warning signs or requesting to speak to a safe adult, I think it is important to take these signs and requests seriously.  Such warning signs can include but are not limited to the following: 

 

• Changes in sleep and appetite

• A decline in academic performance

• Sudden changes in appearance and behavior

• Irritability

• Emotional outbursts and lability

• Poor anger management

• Isolating behaviors

• Lack of motivation

• Fearfulness

• Acting out behaviors

• Identity crisis

 

Other reasons to seek treatment for your Teen can include a desire to improve communication, learn conflict resolution skills, and to strengthen your relationship.  Lastly and most commonly, I am contacted by parents of Teens who have recently experienced a traumatic event and are seeking trauma treatment.  The presence of trauma in Teen life is a reality, especially as we continue to learn about existing and new emerging traumas that directly impact Teens.  It is important for parents to have awareness of this reality as well as seek professional help for their Teens. 

 

I believe Teens need a private, safe space, and compassionate adult to open up to so they can  talk about their thoughts and feelings.  I also believe in the importance of parents participating in their Teens treatment. I will make time and space for you as the parent to privately express your concerns about your Teen and help you identify solutions.  I also conduct conjoint therapy sessions with you and your Teen when necessary, appropriate, and/or requested.  I will work with your Teen to identify their needs and teach them tools for coping along the way.  I also utilize EMDR with Teens and this can be requested or I will inform you if I believe your Teen can benefit from EMDR treatment (see more here). 

 

*Please contact me to inquire about my availability, as slots are limited.