Being a teenager in today’s world isn’t easy.
Does your teenager have mental health concerns impacting their academic or athletic performance?
Are they facing a major struggle right now? Maybe they’ve had a conflict with peers or are experiencing bullying. Or perhaps they’re grappling with losing a friend or loved one. Having been a teen not too long ago I am well aware of the obstacles they face. Balancing academic demands, extracurricular activities, and relationships with parents is no easy task. Nowadays, teenagers are confronted with a more intricate and competitive environment than ever before—and they are fully aware of it. The pressure to excel in school, distinguish themselves from their peers, and choose a career path is immense… all while going through hormonal, psychological, and social changes. Social media apps like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok, can contribute to problems such as bullying, low self-esteem, and sleep issues. Navigating challenges with friendships, breakups, and the pressure to fit in can also affect your teens’ mental well-being.
It is common for even high-performing, thriving teens to experience periods of high anxiety, burnout, depression, or unhealthy behaviors. These issues, along with other mental health concerns, can have a significant impact on academic and athletic performance, lead to conflicts with parents, and negatively alter their life trajectory. Adolescents may distance themselves from their families as they try to navigate these challenges independently. However, when they struggle in silence, parents may feel powerless as they watch from the sidelines hoping for the best. Therapy can help give teens the tools and strategies needed to overcome complex emotions and social situations. Much like having a great coach can help improve a teen’s tennis skills, a psychologist guiding your teen can help give them the winning edge to conquer their emotional struggles. My tailored approach also focuses on addressing the unique needs of teens to help them thrive in all aspects of their lives.
If your teen’s mental health is struggling – or if their performance is slipping – therapy with a psychologist can help.
In-Person and Online Therapy for Teens in Connecticut, New York, Florida, and Across the US
Counseling can help teens to…
Want a therapist who “Gets it”?
Teenage years are very important. Many of the teenagers I work with have requested their parents to schedule an appointment with a therapist. They recognize something is wrong and want to learn strategies to level up and improve their quality of life. Other teens may have uncertain feelings about seeking therapy – and I see this as an opportunity to make therapy a positive and useful experience for both the teen and their parents. Despite recognizing the benefits of therapy, teenagers sometimes hesitate due to the fear of being ‘labeled as a problem’ or may assert that nothing is wrong with them. I never label or judge. Individuals can excel in various aspects of their lives while still having areas for improvement. I take a collaborative, supportive problem-solving approach with teens and their parents to get at the root of the challenges they face and come up with solutions. I strive to understand my teen’s perspectives, connect with them, and develop a strong therapeutic rapport. Teen clients have said they found me to be relatable, helpful, and easy to talk to. Therapy can even be fun!
How does the process work?
The beginning of treatment typically involves meeting with one or both parents and their teen in the first session. I will gather history and background information, hear everyone’s perspective, discuss goals and the challenges you are facing, and then begin to build a roadmap forward. Thereafter, weekly therapy appointments are scheduled to begin the therapeutic work. I individualize the therapy process for each of the teens I work with, depending on their parent’s concerns as well as the teens’ overall goals for therapy. The teen years can be challenging, but I will be with you every step of the way!
Do parents need to attend therapy sessions with their teen?
Generally, parents attend sessions when it’s clinically indicated. It’s important for youth to build a strong therapeutic alliance with their therapist – so I maintain a strong confidential therapist relationship with them. I keep parents up to speed with general progress updates or any concerns by phone or text message. Parents are invited to come into the session as needed to discuss any concerns and so that the therapist can help address conflicts or misunderstandings between them and their child. I am always transparent with teens about what I tell their parents – and – parents don’t need to know everything that’s going on in a teen’s life.
Do you support teens with their transitions to college?
Absolutely. I continue working with many of my teens to ensure a smooth transition to college. I am licensed to practice telehealth in over 42 states for that very reason – so long as they are attending college in a state where I am licensed.
I look forward to helping your teen stay on the right track for a bright future. If you are interested in getting your teen some support, call to schedule a complimentary 20-minute consultation.
