Adolescent Therapy
You love your son or daughter beyond measure.
And although you may not see much of them these days, you are pretty sure that they love you, too.
While this “pulling away” from you is a natural part of their development, it can be a serious problem if they are depressed or anxious.
What you don’t see can hurt them.
As your adolescent child probably spends a great deal of time alone in their room, it is quite possible that you could miss the early signs of their sadness and excessive worry.
When you do become aware of their emotional struggles, it is imperative that you get them in front of an experienced therapist who has helped teen clients go from sad and worried to calm and happy.
More stress…
High school students, the one’s that end up in my office, are under intense pressure.
The pressure to excel, earn excellent grades, take some or all Advanced Placement courses, prepare for their ACT and or SAT tests, choose a college, decide on a major…
Or they’re grappling with whether it is even worth it to go to college when they have the option to go into the trades and make as much or more money without the crushing debt.
Finding help…
For much of the past 15 years, I have worked with adolescents as a MISA (Mental Illness Substance Abuse) therapist and as a Program Director for two Chicago-area, in-patient psychiatric units.
I have worked with all sorts of adolescents: those who are calm, angry, hyperactive, need extra motivation, and, of late, many who are anxious.
I have been able to connect with adolescents, because I listened very closely and learned (the hard way) that I should limit my comments until I have earned their trust.
I also make a practice of “leading with respect”; that is, I don’t judge or attempt to persuade them into something they are not currently interested in doing (like, “You should go to college.”).
Speaking of college… While it may be true that earning a degree does offer more career options, it is equally accurate that college is not for everyone for a variety of reasons (ex. the avoidance of debt and the many rewarding careers which do not require a college degree). As a result, I will support and help facilitate whatever you and your child ultimately decide.
I repeat and rephrase what they have me told, so they will know that I am listening closely.
Lastly, I help them understand how their past may be impacting their present and perhaps future.
Reaching out…
Your adolescent child is unique, complex, and has the sort of pressures on them which can lead to excessive worry and sadness.
I have a great deal of experience and a passion for working with teens. I would consider it an honor to hear about your child and discuss whether I would be a good fit for helping them reach their full potential.
Please give me a call at (815) 325-8116 for a free consultation!