THERAPY FOR TEENS AND THEIR FAMILIES IN FLORIDA, MICHIGAN, AND COLORADO.
A supportive place for growth, self-discovery, and change.
The teenage years can be a time of both exciting and confusing change for both teens and their families. Teens are facing more pressures academically and socially than ever before and oftentimes do not know how to cope with these stressors. Parents with teenagers may feel less connected and in tune with what is going on in their teen’s life and feel unsure of how to help them. Many teens are dealing with anxiety and depression or engaging in self-destructive behaviors to help cope with daily life. The challenges facing teens often lead to communication and relationship breakdowns within the family unit leading to a shift in the dynamic that is confusing for both teens and parents. Parents are often yearning to understand their child but seem to be missing the mark, while teens are desperate to be understood but are feeling misheard and frustrated.
All of these unique challenges can lead to gaps in communication between parents and teens and leave the family unit feeling disconnected and unmoored. The academic stressors placed on teens can lead to anxiety and can have an impact on their performance in school. Add in the pressures placed on them from peers and societal expectations and it’s no wonder we see teens seemingly riding an emotional rollercoaster. This can lead to low self-esteem, with teens navigating questions about their identity, body image, and sense of self.
I’m here to help you navigate these challenges.
How therapy for teens and their families works.
As a result of therapy, teens will develop emotional resilience and begin to embrace a positive sense of self-worth. Academic success will flourish as anxiety and stress decrease and teens will have the self-confidence to pursue their dreams. Through the guidance of family therapy, parents will feel equipped with effective parenting strategies, understanding how to nurture their teens’ emotional growth while fostering a loving and respectful environment. Life after therapy will reveal a thriving family dynamic built on mutual trust and support, where love, support, and understanding are the cornerstones.
My approach is tailored to each teen and their unique family. I believe that therapeutic collaboration between therapist, teen, and parents leads to a more cohesive family unit built on the foundations of mutual understanding and connection. Using the skills training framework of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, I help teens learn concrete skills to help manage their emotions, improve their communication, tolerate stress, and increase balance in their lives. I also work with parents on best ways to support their teens implement newly learned skills and provide parent coaching to help improve communication and work with their teen to address any issues or concerns.
Therapy for teens and families can help you…
Improve communication skills that will empower teens and families to express their thoughts, feelings, and needs openly and respectfully.
Learn strategies to manage emotions effectively, promoting emotional well-being and reducing impulsive reactions.
Gain a clearer sense of self-identity and self-esteem, fostering confidence in teens’ individuality.
Build a stronger family unit, creating a more supportive and cohesive environment at home.
Develop healthier social skills, enhancing teens’ ability to form positive relationships and navigate social situations.
Gain tools for resolving conflicts constructively which leads to healthier resolutions and reduced tension.
FAQS
What others have wondered about teen therapy
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Signs that your teen may need therapy include changes in behavior, academic struggles, social withdrawal, increased irritability, or expressing feelings of sadness or anxiety. Your teen may ask for therapy or you may notice significant changes in their emotions or behaviors. Seeking therapy can provide valuable support and guidance.
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Confidentiality is a critical aspect of therapy for teens. Information shared in sessions is kept confidential unless there are concerns related to safety or potential harm. I will discuss confidentiality and its limits with both the teen and parents at the beginning of the therapeutic process.
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Absolutely! Therapy is not only useful for families and/or individuals experiencing crises or conflict. Families wanting to strengthen their bonds, improve communication, or navigate life transitions can benefit from the support and guidance offered in therapy.
More questions? Check out my FAQs page.