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For Teens Only!
We all feel overwhelmed, sad, anxious and alone at times. But adolescence is a particularly challenging time where things are changing very quickly--inside and outside. I have been working with teens in this community for a very long time
and understand the pressures and challenges you are facing socially, in
sports, and at school. And if that's not enough, you have to deal with growing up, your family, and learning about relationships and maybe sexuality.When things become overwhelming to the point that you can't sleep, eat or you don't feel well, you start to mess up or do things even when you try not to, you need to smoke or drink to get through, you really hate yourself and your life, or you simply feel bad and find you just can't figure things out any more, then it's time to get help. If you can talk to your parents, friends or trusted adult, that's great. But sometimes you need more. Talking your problems out with a professional really helps you see things more objectively, get honest and practical advice and the support you need to overcome your challenges. I know that some things are hard to talk about, especially things that are painful, embarrassing and make you anxious. Well don't worry. Whatever it is, I will help you to feel comfortable enough to open up and get the help you need. Most of the teens I see say I'm "cool" and "easy to talk to," "open-minded" and "non-judgemental." They like coming to see me, trust me, and feel I help them a lot. If you want, we can go for a walk, do art, play games, and eat--I have good snacks. If you'd like, I can bring my therapy dog, Sheck--you'll probably like him.I respect and admire kids that come in to work on themselves. I'm not going to tell you what to do, but I will tell you the truth and help you figure out what you want and how to get it. We work together to come up with goals and I help you build the tools and strength to reach them. Sometimes you can get what you need in a session or two, and leave feeling like a weight is lifted off your chest. Some teens need a person they can trust and confide in for a long time. I like doing both. I have patients that stay through college, and some who get the help they need, finish, and then come back at a later stage in their lives.Some kids want their parents to be involved in their therapy and maybe have some sessions to help them communicate with each other and make changes in their families. Most are happy for me not to share details with their parents, but to give them general updates about your progress. Usually parents understand this and are willing agree. But some teens have issues they do not want their parents to be involved in and need total privacy for the therapy to work. The deal is that if you are in trouble and need help, you are entitled to what's called patient privilege, the right to have everything discussed in therapy to remain confidential--with a few exceptions related to your safety and well-being. Either way, if you come in, we will go over these details and make a contract about what is and is not confidential.If you feel like you may need help, I hope you call me. We can make an appointment to meet to see how it works and if you like me. I'm here to help you, so be honest with me. If it turns out you don't want to work with me, I will help you find someone else. The sooner you get started, the faster you can get back on track to becoming the person you hope to be and leading a happier and more successful life. |
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