Therapy for Teenagers
What is it?
Being a teenager is a challenge for all of us. Sometimes, teenagers need a little bit of help to move through this important period of development in a way that sets them up for success in the rest of their life.
Teenagers may struggle with making friends, fitting in, identifying and managing emotional experiences, finding a meaningful and authentic direction for their life, and learning to express what they want and need. Some teenagers may struggle with expectations placed at school, by parents, or by other authority figures. Other teenagers may be trying to understand who they are, what gender identity fits for them, what romantic attractions they may or may not experience, and what groups of friends they want to become a part of.
How does it Impact People and Relationships?
Creating meaningful and genuine relationships with a teenager who is struggling to manage their emotions or is unsure of what direction they want to take with their life is incredibly important. However, teenagers can resist these kinds of relationships or find themselves responding in ways which make these relationships more difficult.
Some teenagers may limit their interactions with peers, family members, teachers, and other important members of their social support systems and may not be able to articulate the reason for their behavior. Many parents report feeling worried about their teenager but don’t feel like they really understand what is going on with them.
How can Therapy Help?
Therapy with teenagers can provide opportunities for teenagers to practice important interpersonal skills such as communicating how they are feeling and self-advocating for what they want or need. Often therapy with teenagers can help them to develop their own authentic understanding of who they are and what they want out of their life and relationships. Teenagers can learn to take reasonable risks in ways that align with their values, can learn the natural give and take of emotionally connected relationships, can refine their ability to take other people’s perspectives, and can get reconnected with their unique form of joy and energy.
