therapy for adolescents
Therapy offers adolescents a supportive, nonjudgmental space where they can talk openly, make sense of their experiences, and develop tools to navigate challenges. I work collaboratively with each teen to understand what they are experiencing, build on their strengths, and develop practical strategies that feel meaningful and relevant to their lives.
Adolescence can be a time of significant emotional, social, and personal change. Teens are navigating friendships, family relationships, school, identity, and increasing independence—all while learning how to understand and manage their emotions.
Areas i support
Anxiety, fears, and excessive worry
(Complex)Trauma and difficult life experiences
Emotional regulation and coping skills
Anger and frustration
Changes in family or home life
School-related stress and challenges
Self-esteem and confidence
Difficulties with friendships and relationships
Life transitions and adjustment
Processing difficult emotions and experiences
A Collaborative Approach
Building trust and creating a space where adolescents feel safe, heard, and accepted is central to therapy. I take a collaborative, trauma-informed approach that recognizes how past experiences, including difficult or overwhelming events, can shape emotions, behaviors, relationships, and how teens see themselves and the world around them.
Together, we work to better understand these experiences, strengthen coping skills, and build on each teen’s existing strengths. When appropriate, parents and caregivers are involved in supporting progress while respecting the adolescent’s growing independence and need for privacy.
What does therapy with a adolescent look like?
Every adolescent is different, and therapy is tailored to their individual needs, experiences, and goals. Sessions may include open conversation, exploring emotions and relationships, creative arts and practical strategies for managing stress and difficult feelings.
For teens who have experienced trauma, therapy may also include EMDR to help process difficult experiences when clinically appropriate and when they feel ready. Throughout the process, the focus is on building trust, strengthening emotional awareness, and developing coping skills at a pace that feels safe and manageable for each adolescent.