THERAPY IN ADOLESCENCE

Supporting a Positive Transition into Adulthood

Adolescence is an exciting, but incredibly challenging time. Teenagers are faced with the task of establishing who they are as individuals, while also trying to find a place where they belong. They're navigating complex emotions, forming new types of peer relationships, and making difficult life decisions. Teens are expected to become more independent and responsible for themselves than they were as children, but without the complete freedom that comes with being an adult. During this transitional period, family relationships often become strained, as parents and teens each adjust to their shifting roles.

The challenges of adolescence can elicit intense and confusing feelings of anger, shame, inadequacy, fear, and sadness. Without a space to process these difficult experiences, teens can be left feeling overwhelmed, alone, misunderstood, trapped, or set apart from those around them. Individual therapy supports teens in working through the full spectrum of challenges they face so that they can go on to thrive in their endeavors as emerging young adults. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe, non-judgmental space where teens can speak openly about difficult experiences and emotions that they may otherwise feel the need to hide from others. Consistent emotional support of this nature – especially at such a pivotal point in a young person’s life – can strengthen their emerging sense of self, foster feelings of safety and well-being, cultivate a capacity to weather emotional highs and lows, and lead to long-lasting changes that will support a positive transition into adulthood.

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If you'd like to hear more about teen therapy or you're ready to get started, please feel free to reach out to me by text, phone or email.