Teen Therapy

Teen psychotherapy differs significantly from both child and adult therapy. A key factor in this difference is the profound changes and transitions that adolescents experience, not only in their brain development but also in their bodies. During this stage, the pre-frontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for rational thinking—is still developing and doesn’t fully mature until the mid-twenties. This helps explain behaviors like impulsivity and challenges with decision-making. In my work with teens and adolescents, I focus on helping them improve their decision-making skills by increasing their awareness of the development of their pre-frontal cortex and recognizing their impulsive tendencies. At the same time, I support them in managing their emotions, which can be influenced by the hormonal changes they experience during this stage of life.

Parent involvement is crucial in teen/adolescent psychotherapy as well, whether through bi-weekly sessions or monthly check-ins. Each session is customized to address the specific needs of the individual client and some adolescents require less and some require more parental involvement. Confidentiality is also a key component of successful therapy, especially when it comes to parents. This will be clearly explained during the initial session to ensure a full understanding of its importance and the boundaries involved. 

I work with a wide range of challenges, with many focusing on: 

• Anxiety- fears/worries  
• Social Anxiety- difficulties making or keeping friends
• Depression
• Anger/aggression at home or at school

Low frustration tolerance

• ADD/ADHD- inability to focus and/or sit still
• Family changes- such as divorce, separation or remarriage
• Peer or relationship difficulties
• Performance anxiety- test taking or athletic worries
• Substance use
• Trauma
• Unknown or recent change or decline in grade