The teen years are hard for everyone, it is a time of transition, they experience role confusion; they are not quite an adult but at the same time not a “child”. Teens often have social issues, school issues, depression, anxiety, and are often times misunderstood and feel as if they don’t have a voice.
We can help your teen with all of this through individual therapy allowing them to express their internal struggles and offering a third party’s point of view.
Mood disorders often start during the teen years. And if left untreated, depression can last into adulthood. If your teen seems irritable, sad, and withdrawn, talk to your pediatrician. An accurate diagnosis and early intervention are key components to effective treatment.
While it’s normal for teens to worry sometimes, some teens experience intense anxiety. Whether your teen has difficulty speaking in front of the class or constantly worries bad things are going to happen, therapy could help her learn how to manage her symptoms.
Suspensions from school, repeat curfew violations, and aggressive behavior may be symptoms of more serious problems. A therapist could help uncover potential mental health issues, skill deficits, or social problems that may be driving your teen’s behavior.
Unfortunately, drugs and alcohol can become serious problems for teenagers. A substance abuse counselor can assess your teen’s substance use and help determine the most appropriate course of treatment. Individual therapy, group therapy, detox, or residential treatment may be options depending on the severity of a teen’s problems.
Teenagers can get stressed out. Whether it’s the pressure to perform well on an exam or concerns over what to do after high school, stress can take a serious toll. Therapy can help a teen learn skills to manage stress successfully—and that’s something that will serve them well throughout their lives.
Bullies, failing grades, cliques, and teacher-related issues are just a few of the social-related problems many teens experience. Teens often aren’t sure where to turn for help. Therapy can provide teens with support and give them skills that will help them navigate high school successfully.
Stealing, underage drinking, or fighting are just a few of the reasons teens get into trouble with the law. Sometimes, they’re mandated by probation—or their parents—to receive counseling. Therapy can help a teen learn how to make healthier choices so that further legal issues can be prevented.
While most teens struggle with self-confidence issues at one time or another, some experience serious self-esteem issues. When those issues are left unaddressed, teens are at a higher risk of problems such as substance abuse and academic failure. Therapy can help boost a teen’s self-esteem.
Whether it’s a near-death experience or a sexual assault traumatic events can have a lifelong impact on a teen. Therapy can increase resilience and reduce the impact the traumatic event has on a teen’s life. Early intervention can be the key to helping a teen recover from traumatic events.
Teens deal with grief a little differently than adults and the loss of a loved one can be especially difficult during adolescence. Individual, Family, or Group Therapy can help Teens sort out their feelings and make sense of their loss.
If you are questioning treatment for your teen, err on the side of caution and contact a professional. If your teen is not interested in therapy, don’t worry, many teens are hesitant to talk to someone.
Encourage your teen to try therapy for a few sessions and then, you might allow them to make the decision whether or not they want to continue.
If your teen outright refuses to counsel, you can be the one to talk to a therapist. You may be able to gain new ideas and skills for helping your teen cope better.