Teens

Today’s teenagers are under greater stress than almost any previous generation.

Teens face a lot of added peer pressure from social media, less time spent with family and high expectations for both school and their careers. With these pressures, it can be hard for teens to figure out who they want to be and how to navigate the challenges of life. 

How Teens Can Benefit from Counseling

Although teens are on the way to adulthood, their brains are still developing. In addition to school, peer and family stressors, teens are also being given greater responsibility and dealing with the confusion of puberty. Teen counseling can provide support, help them to feel heard and provide tools for making wise decisions. 

Therapists for Teens: What to Expect

Our therapists focus on making teenagers feel heard as they verbally work through what’s happening in their lives in a healthy environment. Because of this, you may feel that counseling topics are sometimes off-base. It’s important to trust the process.  Counselors have to establish trust and rapport, as well as dive beyond the surface, to lead the conversation towards a positive outcome. 

Confidentiality is important for everyone—including teenagers. Privacy allows teens to open up and talk through the issues they’re facing. In confidentiality, they can express their thoughts and feelings without fear of consequences. With professional guidance, they can work towards healthy goals.

Although you will not know all that goes on during your teen’s session, our counselors and therapists are mandatory reporters. If they learn of serious issues like suicidal thoughts, intent to harm themselves or others, or a revelation of physical or sexual abuse, you will be informed. 

Preparing Your Teen for Therapy

Not all teens are open to the idea of counseling. They may initially resist at the suggestion of seeing a therapist. This can be a common reaction as teens are figuring out their identity. Try to meet your teen where they’re at and offer support as you bring up the idea of therapy.

For example, you might provide them with information about counseling and ask if they think they might benefit from the process. Allowing them to make the decision on their own makes it more likely that they will follow through and experience good results. You could also try offering an incentive if they give it a try. Once they sit through a session, they may realize it’s a positive experience and be willing to continue.