Counseling for Teenagers
Do you feel lonely even when you are with others?
Do you have trouble sleeping?
Is your schedule so busy you never feel you have downtime to rest?
Are you conflicted by wanting to spend time with friends but struggle with social anxiety when you try?
Do you often feel depressed or unmotivated?
Teenagers Face Many Struggles
Teenagers are in a unique position in that they are facing several life challenges all coinciding at one time. Not only are feelings of confusion and low self-esteem present as teenagers discover who they are, but school and social responsibilities are growing. Additionally, parents often have expectations for their teenager that adds a toll. It is quite common to feel overwhelmed which can lead to lack of motivation and feelings of depression.
These feelings can intensify thoughts of negativity about yourself and others. It can often paint your world gray and it becomes difficult to find joy. Seeing other friends living what appears to be happier lives on social media, can also contribute to negative self-talk about what you are missing out on or not achieving in your own life.
You Can Feel Happier
Remember that these feelings are temporary and can change for the positive. With the right tools to manage challenging thoughts and emotions, life can look very different for adolescents. You can learn to respond differently to others in your life, set healthy boundaries and improve your self-esteem. Oftentimes improving your relationships with others by learning healthier communication techniques can lead to more positive feelings.
Teenager therapy can positively change your behavior, emotions, thinking and beliefs. Counseling offers you the ability and skills to let go of what’s holding you back. Counseling for teenagers can increase confidence and the ability to be assertive with others, therefore increasing the chances of having emotional needs met in a healthy way.
What If I Feel Stuck and Worry Nothing Will Change?
This is a valid and common worry teenagers have when trying counseling for the first time. Being a teenager often means feeling like an outsider and as though no one can possibly understand or relate to what you are experiencing. But please know we have all experienced those feeling before, even myself. With support and help these feelings can be processed and understood from a different perspective. This can help allow you to find peace in your life, rather than worry and tension.
Together we can discuss goals you want to gain through counseling. I will be here as a gentle reminder to offer guidance as you navigate difficult emotions. My role is to point out alternative viewpoints, help you learn to use your wise mind (incorporating both logical and emotional parts of yourself) and guide you towards more a more confident self.
What Will The First Session Be Like?
These sessions are all about you! I offer 50-minute one-on-one sessions where I listen and offer guidance. I want you to share what you feel most comfortable sharing. I have found that although teenagers can feel nervous initially, they quickly look forward to weekly sessions as a safe place to express themselves and work through difficult emotions. Teenagers often bottle up many feelings inside, so having a safe place to externalize those feelings can leave you feeling relieved. Through the process of you telling your story, I can better understand you and ultimately offer the most helpful support.
What do I do next?
It is possible to find the right help for your situation. If you are ready to try counseling and want to see if we would be a good fit, simply contact me for a free 15-minute phone consultation. To connect, click here.
Abbie Smith, M.A., LPC-S currently owns a private practice in Tyler, TX. She serves clients in Tyler, Flint, Bullard, Chandler, Lindale and surrounding areas.
