Therapy for Teens & Preteens
Is your teen facing obstacles that hinder their ability to thrive?
Do you notice your teen constantly struggling with the alarm bells of anxiety going off in their head?Are small and relatively inconsequential concerns turning into full-blown panic for your teen?Do you worry that your teen will never be able to manage their fearful and catastrophic thinking?Are you worried about your teen's challenges in socializing and communicating effectively?
Adolescence is a time of significant growth and transition. With that, it can also bring about heightened levels of worry, anxiety and other mental health issues. It can be challenging to witness your teen struggle with overwhelming thoughts and fears that hinder their daily life and overall well-being.Mental Health and Teens
Teenagers can also face a range of mental health challenges that go beyond just anxiety.
Adolescence is a period of rapid change and self-discovery, and it's no surprise that many teenagers face mental health challenges along this journey. In-Balance Psychotherapy aims to shed light on the common issues that adolescents encounter, such as anxiety, depression, social pressures, and more. Our mission is to provide a wealth of information, resources, and support to empower both teens and their families.
Providing support, understanding and offering guidance on navigating these challenges, can help build resilience for a healthier and more fulfilling future.
Other mental health challenges include:
ADHD (Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder)
Bipolar disorder
Communication difficulties and social isolation
Depression
Eating disorders
Mood swings
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Self-esteem issues
Self-harm tendencies
Social anxiety
Substance abuse
The Impact of Anxiety on Teens
Living with anxiety can have a profound impact on every aspect of a teenager's life. Over-thinking can significantly affect their academic performance, leading to more stress and difficulty concentrating.
In addition to academic challenges, anxiety can also impact their relationships, making it challenging for them to feel comfortable in social situations or fully engage with others.
The constant worry and fear can create barriers to forming meaningful connections. Furthermore, bullying can further exacerbate anxiety, causing distress, emotional harm and a sense of isolation.
Isolation
Feeling on edge
Irritability
Unexplained outbursts
Extreme self consciousness
Drastic change in grades
Anxiety in teens can look like:
Refusing to attend school
Procrastination of homework
Missing assignments
Panic Attacks
Difficulty concentrating
Changes in eating habits
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health issues facing young people.
The pressures of school, social dynamics, and the ever-present influence of social media contribute to an environment where excessive worry can thrive. The world around them can feel like a constant emergency, and it's crucial to address their anxiety with empathy and effective treatment.
What to Expect from Teen Therapy Sessions
Before starting therapy, I will gather important information through paperwork, including your teen's history, presenting symptoms, and treatment goals. I always meet with the parents or caretakers for the first initial session so I can get to know them and see how I can support their teen.
During the initial session with the teen, I will focus on building rapport, instilling confidence in the counseling process, and gaining an in-depth understanding of how anxiety specifically affects them, along with any other mental health concerns.
Throughout our therapy sessions, your teenager will embark on a journey to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their emotional well-being. They'll learn effective strategies to enhance their communication skills, fostering better connections with those around them.
Moreover, these sessions will empower them to build confidence and self-assurance, equipping them with the tools to navigate life's challenges with resilience and a positive outlook. My goal is for your teen to leave each session with increased self-confidence, improved communication abilities, and a sense of personal growth that will positively impact their future endeavors.
