Pre-Teen And Teen

The pre-teenage and teenage years are an essential time for self-discovery, identity formation, individuation and social development. Many pre-teens and teenagers experience confusion, inner turmoil, and conflict as they attempt to cope with peer relationships, school demands, peer pressure, cyberbullying, school bullying and complex family dynamics.

During this transitional period, adolescents may isolate themselves from loved ones, making it challenging for families to connect and communicate. It is common for adolescents to feel misunderstood which may create feelings of loneliness, sadness, anger, isolation, depression and/or anxiety. This developmental period can be stressful and complicated, not only for the teen but for parents as well.

“Self respect, self worth, and self love, all start with self. Stop looking outside of yourself for your value.” -Rob Liano

I have worked with adolescents dealing with a variety of issues. In my experience, the most common presenting problems include:

  • Anxiety/Panic Attacks
  • Depression
  • Trauma/PTSD
  • Attitude/Defiance/Behavioral Issues
  • Family Relationships
  • Peer/Social relationships
  • Intimate Relationships
  • Anger Management
  • LGBTQ
  • Sexuality
  • Self-Esteem
  • Self-Harm
  • School Struggles
  • Body Image

Confidentiality

Adolescent therapy focuses on building self confidence and enhancing the relationship they have with themselves and others. I will meet individually with the adolescent as well as with the parent, guardian and/or family. I do ask that parents and guardians honor and respect their teen’s privacy. It takes courage for clients at any age to open up to a therapist. If everything teenagers disclosed in therapy were shared with parents/guardians, they would be less likely to share and speak to topics and issues that are private and important to them.

Exceptions to Confidentiality

  1. The therapist considers the adolescent to be at high risk for suicide. If this happens, the therapist will break confidentiality and take the needed steps to make sure the pre-teen or teen is safe.
  2. The therapist considers the adolescent to be at risk for homicide. If this occurs, the therapist will break confidentiality and take necessary steps to assure the safety of the potential victim.
  3. The teenager reports child abuse to the therapist. Therapists are mandated reporters and are under a legal obligation to report child abuse to the appropriate authorities. If this occurs, The Department of Child and Family Services will be notified by the therapist and a report will be made.

Get In Touch

Having to search the internet for a therapist is a big decision and can be hard. That’s why I welcome you to call me for a free a 15-minute consultation where we can chat and see if we’re a good fit.