Therapy for Teens

It often seems the pressure is coming at our teens from all sides.

>> They need to perform well in school so they can get into a good college.

>> They have to navigate social pressure around dating, partying, and social media.

>> They stress about how they look and pleasing others all the time.

Adolescents today are feeling more stressed out, lonely and disconnected than ever.

That’s why my goal and mission in life is to work myself out of a job!

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We tackle the question of “Why is everything so hard?”

I want to see a world where adolescents love who they are and don’t use phrases like “stressed out” or “lonely” to describe themselves.

In therapy, I help adolescents identify their strengths and learn to accept themselves just as they are now.

Together we navigate difficult feelings and difficult conversations so they learn how to communicate their needs effectively and respectfully.

I will often incorporate family therapy so that we can all work together to help support your struggling teen or enhance the overall family relationship.  

 
Therapist Office Yellow Couch Beach Office

Here are some of the common scenarios I see with the teens who come to my office:

  • Teens who are perfectionistic and buckle under the pressure of managing expectations

  • Teens who might identify as quirky, shy, or introverted and are trying to learn to speak up or assert themselves at home, school, or with peers

  • Teens athletes that are challenged with performance anxiety or feeling pressure from parents/coaches

  • Teens who are sensitive, sweet, and have trouble managing stress

  • Teens who are struggling in a complicated family system- blended or divorced families, parents with addiction issues, or high conflict families

  • Teens who identify as “creative” and have difficulty meeting school performance expectations

  • Teens who feel like the outcast in their family

  • Teens who are questioning their sexuality, how to feel ok in their own skin, and how to talk to family/friends about being different

  • Teens who are struggling to cope—including self-harm tendencies, suicidal ideation, alcohol/drug experimentation, difficulty with online choices

  • Teens that are adopted and would like to explore their identity and complications that sometimes arise during adolescence

Yes, it is possible for every adolescent to overcome these struggles and live the joyful life he/she deserves.

“During my darkest years in middle/high school, Leah provided so much support for me. She was a huge part of my recovery process when I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. She puts maximum effort into making sure all her clients are safe and mentally healthy, in both individual and group therapy. I am eternally grateful to have found such a loving, caring, wonderful therapist.”
— Client, age 18

If you’d like help for your adolescent then click below to schedule a FREE initial phone consultation. Telehealth sessions are available if needed.