The transition from childhood to adolescence can be a difficult one. Adolescence is a time of intense developmental change that can lead to teens (and their parents) feeling overwhelmed, confused, anxious and alone. We see you. Adolescence can also be a time that teens may seek out support to address struggles with identity or self worth, romantic relationships, addressing negative thinking, and goal-setting. From learning about healthy relationships and decision-making to improving self-esteem and meeting their goals , our trained providers can partner with you and your teen to navigate the challenges, and opportunities, of this unique developmental stage.
“You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think,” – Christopher Robin: fictional character, an English boy whose adventures with Winnie-the-Pooh, were cheerful, compassionate, adventurous, fun-loving, imaginative, and helpful. Despite being a child, he is much wiser and more mature than many of the other characters, and is someone Pooh and the others look up to.
For teens the signs and symptoms of these struggles can look like:
- Extreme fatigue or excessive sleeping
- Changes in friend group
- Excessive worry or intense periods of sadness
- Self destructive behaviors including; self-harm, excessive risk taking, or abuse of drugs/alcohol
- *Recurring thoughts of suicide or obsession with death/dying
- Truancy or dramatic changes in academic performance
*If you think your teen is in crisis, please take it seriously and talk to them right away. You also can turn to these resources for 24/7 help:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 or text CONNECT to 741741. You also can contact them through their website.
- Trevor Lifeline for LGBTQ community: 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678. You can also contact them through their website.
These toll-free lines are staffed by people who are trained to help. The calls are confidential. If necessary, call 911 or go to the emergency room for immediate help
Common reasons for seeking teen/adolescent therapy:
- School Problems, including academic stress
- Life transitions such as moving, changing schools, divorce, or loss
- Behavioral challenges such as; defiance, difficulties with anger or conduct, or acts of aggression
- Emotional challenges like anxiety, depression, or difficulties with self-regulation
- Relationship struggles with peers or family members
- Relationship struggles with peers, family members, or romantic partners
- Low self-esteem, bullying, or social isolation
- Stress stemming from racial or social injustice
- A need to discuss sexuality, sexual orientation, or gender identity