TEENS:

Adolescents have a unique set of needs and vulnerabilities.  Many teens feel conflicted about maintaining their privacy versus seeking support from their parents when problems arise.  During adolescence, emotions are intense and there can be risky behavior.  Teens can be easily angered and have confusion about their identify, relationships with others, and struggle with pressures from peers and school.  Teens often rely on social media outlets for information and to gain an understanding of themselves and their world.  Screens and texting cannot take the place of human communication and relationships.  Having a caring, nonjudgemental therapist to listen and help solve problems can be very beneficial at this time of life.

YOUNG ADULTS:

Growing from a teenager in high school to young adulthood can feel daunting.  The  20’s and 30’s are a time of fast paced change and opportunities along with confusion and insecurity. Young adults are wrestling with many internal pressures, emotional challenges, and social struggles. Whether one is engaging in the college process, a job search, or choosing a different path entirely, there are obstacles to surpass, relationship struggles, and a desire to develop a healthy work/life balance. During these years, it is easy to feel disconnected, lonely and anxious.  It is a good time to speak to a therapist if you feel depressed, confused or trapped by your decisions.

Common issues facing teenagers and young adults:

• Low self-esteem
• Body image concerns
• Sexuality
• Substance use
• Social media/screen addiction
• Low motivation
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Relationship issues
• Family issues
• Diffiuclty fitting in
• Executive functioning diffiuclties
• School issues
• LGBTQ+ struggles
•  Employment stressors

THERAPY STYLE:
I use an eclectic, active, problem-solving approach drawing from cognitive-behavioral and family systems philosophies.  I incorporate insight-oriented therapy that addresses specific problems and with  goals that we establish together. I am a warm and caring person who seeks to establish a comfortable relationship with the clients and families with whom I work. When working with adolescents, I work in  collaboration with parents, schools and pediatricians.

THERAPY SESSIONS:
With younger teens, I use games and structured art projects. I create original materials, including:  books, contracts, charts and behavior plans individualized for each client’s unique treatment goals.  This collaborative approach leads to happier, more effective relationships. I address social skill weaknesses and problematic behaviors and/or anxieties and bring about behavioral changes.

I treat the whole person, incorporating how the environmental impacts of home, school, and family  affects successful functioning. I empower my clients to feel more effective in their world and more comfortable with their unique strengths and vulnerabilities.

OUTSIDE OF SESSIONS:
Depending on the presenting issue assignments may occur outside the office such as writing in a journal, practicing  skills, or a book to read at home.