Teen Therapy
It is not easy being a teen.
Nikki* was tired of that pit in her stomach every day at school.
She constantly worried about being called on. If she had a project she had to present to the class, her nerves were so bad she ended up in the bathroom puking her guts out.
James* used to stay up half the night playing video games.
Getting up in the morning was impossible, which led to fights with his parents. James was angry that his parents didn’t understand his depression. More than anything, he just wanted a break and for them to be supportive and caring.
It’s also hard parenting a teen.
What happened to the sweet, obedient child you knew for over 13 years?! Parents often take it personally when their teen starts pushing back or exploring who they are. This leads to disruptions in the connection between parents and teens. Both are often frustrated, angry, or worried.
Take James, for example. His parents were upset that James wasn’t doing anything with his life. They were worried about him and all the possibilities he might be closing the door with “typical teen behavior.” They wanted the best for him, but nothing they had done seemed to help.
The teenage years can be a tumultuous time. Their brains and bodies are going through so much change. They’re learning, growing, and figuring out who they are and what they believe.
It’s extremely helpful to have a safe, neutral person that teens and their parents can turn to.
Here’s how we helped Nikki and James…
Nikki learned tools for managing her anxiety.
Within a few sessions, she knew exactly what to do when she started feeling anxious. School became less stressful. Nikki also improved her self-worth and body image. These changes transformed her relationship with herself, which naturally deepened other relationships in her life. She found inner confidence and became excited about her future!
James and his parents worked on their relationship.
James finally felt their love and concern as his parents learned to step past their fear and really listen and communicate from the heart. James’ parents worked to establish family rules and boundaries that supported healthy living – boundaries that James understood and thought were reasonable. As James learned to prioritize his sleep, many of the issues his parents were so stressed about naturally resolved. James started doing better in school, and his depression began to resolve.
Your family’s peace is right around the corner…
If you and your teen are struggling…
And you don’t have the tools or resources to get back on track…
Let me help!
Call today. We can meet and see if we’re a good fit during your free 15-minute consultation: (435) 248-2325.
*The above names and stories are fictionalized composites of real clients I’ve supported.