How does therapy for teens work? 

Adolescence is a time of increasing independence, and we want teens to have a safe, confidential space to feel heard and know that treatment is focused on their needs and goals. However, involving the family in tweens and teens can sometimes be an incredibly meaningful part of therapy. We strive to involve family members to support teens in their goals, but also hold their confidentiality and, outside of safety concerns, allow them to choose what is and is not shared with others.

My teen/tween is addicted to their phone!

Smart phones, and social media, are an inevitable piece of most teens' lives today. There are pros and cons to this and most certainly times when it can go too far. This is a very common problem and we can help you to create a plan.

I think my teen has social anxiety.

Most teens worry about what others think of them and are somewhat anxious in social situations. However, when it begins to consume your teen's thinking and causes him/her to avoid situations, it might be time to ask for help. We can help you determine if your teen's worry is typical or requires more attention.

All my teen does is argue with me.

Disagreements and arguments are, in part, developmentally normal for teens. However, structural changes and open communication can often help reduce this. Compromise and listening from all family members can reduce the frequency of arguments. However, sometimes this is due to things like anxiety, depression, or feeling overwhelmed. We can help your family determine the cause, and come up with a plan for resolution.

Is my teen anxious?

Anxiety can express itself in many ways. Sometimes, it comes out as anger/irritability, stomachaches, headaches, muscle tension/pain, poor sleep, and more. It can also look like isolation from friends, or avoidance of going to school or typical events. Let us help you learn what anxiety looks like in your family. 

My teen is refusing to go to school!

Teens refuse school for various reasons. Sometimes, it is due to anxiety related to the school environment. School refusal is more common than most parents realize. We specialize in working to increase your teen's attendance and tackle the underlying problems creating this behavior. We work closely with the school, as appropriate, and equip parents with tools to support school attendance.

My teen isolates themselves in their room!

The teen years include many changes, including teens often wanting more independence or separation from their families. However, isolating oneself can also indicate anxiety or depression. If you're concerned about your teen's behavior, we can help you determine the causes and come up with a plan for change. 

I think my teen is self-harming.

Self-harm is a scary, but sometimes common, way that teens may cope with overwhelming emotions. It can include cutting, scratching, burning, or more. We are experienced in assessing, creating a safety plan to reduce harm, and teaching alternative, effective coping skills to address self-harm.

I'm worried my teen may be having suicidal thoughts.

Suicidal thoughts are serious. We have years of experience working with teens with suicidal thoughts. We will assess your teen to determine what steps need to be taken to ensure safety. Where safety is concerned, you will be included in the plan to support your teen. In case of a true emergency, you should always seek professional help by dialing 911 or going to your nearest emergency room.