Adolescence is a time of rapid change. Emotionally teens are starting to feel a wider range of emotions, and often within a broader range of intensity. Intellectually, they are beginning to embrace abstract thought in a way they previously had not. They are starting to become young adults, which brings with it a new set of challenges in all areas of life. It’s also a time where teens are likely to rely on peers for support and guidance before they reach out to a parents or guardian. This makes it challenging to know exactly what your teen is experiencing, let alone whether it is something that is fleeting or more long-lasting.
Therapy with teens will vary depending on the needs of each adolescent and family. Some of the available treatment options include individual cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), social skills training, mindfulness exercises, family therapy and emotion-focused therapy.
I work from a strength-based approach with children and adolescents, and thus perceive them as being incredibly resilient in the face of adversity. I strive to build upon their inherent strengths and assets. Our work together will be to uncover the thoughts, feelings and behaviors that are maintaining the distress in their lives, and to provide them with a set of tools to cope going forward. As mentioned, adolescents are changing and developing at a rapid pace. My role is to help them reduce the stress that is getting in the way of their positive growth, and to guide them toward a trajectory where they can continue to thrive and excel.
I am grateful for the opportunity to work with teens and families who are working to overcome challenges and improve their lives. It’s a gift to be able to witness a teen’s bravery over the course of therapy as they work towards overcoming obstacles. I’m continually amazed by the resilience and courage displayed by young people facing a stressful life event, and I consider it a privilege to be part of their journey.