Teens

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Teenage issues are different today, but in many ways still largely the same as yesteryear. (Photo courtesy of Wiki Commons.)

The teenage years we tend to closely associate with the adolescent years which begin with puberty and end near the end of our growth years.   Between 13 and 19 years of age, teens undergo a great deal of change in their minds, bodies and brains.  Most teens do quite well managing home life, school and often work.  But of course they are learning to be independent adults, coping with peer pressure, dating, grades and many other stresses.  Teens often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as drugs and alcohol or self-injury.  And many find themselves within the grips of anxiety and depression, and have thoughts of suicide.  All of these issues are usually related to external stressors in life that teens don’t have the ego strength and intelligence to combat.  Teens are often very frustrated.  Parents are often at a loss on how to help and need help themselves on how to work through the complexity of issues.  The many issues I have helped families with over the years, which I am happy to help your family with include the following areas:

  • Academic Performance, Truancy and Runaway/Homeless Issues
  • Anxiety and Depression and Emotional Difficulties
  • Self-Injury and Suicidal Ideation
  • Peer Pressure, Bullying, Anger and Defiance
  • Dating, Teen Pregnancy and Sexual/Gender Identity Concerns
  • Alcohol and Drug Usage
  • Family and Sibling Conflict
  • Physical and Sexual Abuse
  • Social Skills Development
  • Eating Disorders