For T E E N S and P A R E N T S
There’s no way around it: the teenage years can be hard. Both for teens, and for their parents. It can feel confusing, frustrating, isolating, and full of emotional highs and lows. These are normal things for teenagers (and parents!) to feel. Emotional intensity and fluctuations are common during adolescence, as is increased conflict as teens begin the process of individuation (becoming their own separate person). Teens need more privacy, time on their own, and usually prioritize time with friends over family. As parents or caregivers, it is not uncommon to feel bewildered and even triggered by our teenager’s behavior. Seeking support can make all the difference in navigating these years and finding the joy, both in raising teens and being a teenager.
There is so much change happening inside the brains and bodies of teenagers, on a biological and developmental level. It is a moody, all-consuming, and egocentric time in development. Teens often feel misunderstood by their parents/caregivers, who just “don’t get it,” while parents may suddenly feel like their child has become a completely different person. The stress of all this change is only compounded by external factors, like social & academic pressures, the presence of phones and ever-changing technology, financial stress, and an uncertain environmental & geopolitical climate. Phew, it’s A LOT. Not to mention, most of today’s teens were impacted, at one developmental stage or another, by the pandemic. If your teen is struggling, or if you are struggling, as the parent/caregiver of a teenager, counseling can be a great place to start.
Teen counseling provides a supportive environment for adolescents to address a range of challenges, such as emotional difficulties (including anxiety and depression), academic stress, family conflicts, social relationships, major transitions, and neurodivergence. Counseling empowers teens to develop skills and knowledge that will help them navigate their life & circumstances, ultimately strengthening their ability to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and improve relationships.
Counseling for parents of teens can provide insight, knowledge, tools, resources, validation, and support without judgment, ultimately strengthening parenting skills and the relationship with your child.
Benefits of Counseling for Teens:
Coping Skills - Develop strategies for dealing with challenges and difficult situations
Improved Emotional Regulation - Learn to understand and manage emotions effectively
Increased Self-Esteem - Build confidence, self-worth, and self-trust
Improved Communication - Learn to communicate needs and feelings effectively
Stronger Relationships - Develop healthier relationships with family, friends, and peers
Better Mental Health - Reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and overall distress
Resilience - Develop the ability to bounce back from adversity
Support & Resources - Individualized support allows teens to feel seen and heard; may obtain resources, knowledge and referrals as needed
