Therapy For Teens (13 - 17)

Adolescence can be a turbulent time of self-discovery, as individuals lay the building blocks for their future careers, relationships, and independence. Along with traversing normal developmental milestones, teens may face traumatic events that make this time a rocky trajectory. Early intervention is paramount, as teens can learn indispensable skills in problem-solving, emotional regulation, and communication to help them build resilience for life's stressors as they transition into adulthood.

I acknowledge the importance of engaging with teens in age-appropriate ways where their pace feels respected, yet they feel challenged to grow. I will incorporate a person-centered approach into your teen's care (this can range from art to music to writing, to taking a walk, to other expressive avenues that resonate with them based on their needs) to foster rapport while supporting growth.  Whether your teen is navigating peer, family, academic, or career stressors, disordered eating or body image issues, phobias, or a history of trauma, I am here to equip them with the skills to help them thrive.

Common issues faced by teens that I can help: 

Neurodivergent teens often feel "different" due to confusion over navigating implicit social rules.  Societal pressure often contributes to a phenomenon known as "masking," which leads to demand avoidance and burnout, where the mind is overtaxed from working so hard to fit in that it leads to chronic exhaustion. Confidence issues and shame are often byproducts of this struggle. 

I believe neurodivergence should be celebrated, not "fixed." We do not treat neurodivergence; rather, we listen and make accommodations to best support the individual's nervous system. There is no pressure to make eye contact or talk, and taking movements is welcome. We make lighting and other sensory adjustments as needed, and they are welcome to express themselves in ways that feel authentic to them. 

In sessions, we will work together to create a plan that helps neurodivergent teens find a pace that works for them while helping them navigate social, academic, or other issues they may be facing. We will consider and adapt learning styles and preferences, and may use drawing, writing, role play, or other tools to support problem-solving and confidence building.

During adolescence, teens may explore their identity by changing their behaviors, interests, social circles, and style. Many experience gender dysphoria.  With a judgment-free, curious stance, I use an integrative approach to help them complete a values assessment and adjust their behaviors to live a purposeful life while problem-solving obstacles that preclude them from being their authentic selves.

Many teens face behavioral and emotional challenges when parents separate, divorce, or introduce new siblings into the family. They may have changed schools and are navigating new peer environments. By strengthening their toolbox of coping skills, communication skills, and confidence, I help them navigate new challenges more easily. 

The advent of social media has exposed us to an unprecedented amount of images and, at times, harmful messaging. This incentivizes teens to compare themselves to others and develop behaviors and thoughts that harm their confidence and health. By blending concepts of intuitive eating, mindfulness, and addressing potential underlying trauma as a contributing factor, I strive to help teens learn self-acceptance, body neutrality/positivity, and freedom from harmful messaging. 

Academic and social pressures, isolation, feeling "different, and developmental changes make adolescence an overwhelming time. Through DBT skills, teens will identify values and concrete coping skills to tolerate difficult feelings, thereby restoring their lives to harmony and balance.