“We need confusing times of epic questioning to discover who we really are.”

Adolescence is a phase of life in which social and emotional changes are often expected. It can be tough to tell if troubling behavioral in your teen is just a part of growing up or something that should be discussed with a mental health professional. If concerns last weeks or months, or interfere with your child’s daily life, therapy may be helpful.

Your child or teen may need help if or she:

• Often feels anxious or worried
• Has frequent tantrums or is intensely irritable much of the time
• Is experiencing changes in sleep patterns or eating habits
• Loses interest in things he or she used to enjoy
• Avoids spending time with friends
• Is struggling in school
• Has low or no energy
• Harms herself/himself (i.e. cutting or burning the skin)
• Engages in risky, destructive behavior
• Has experienced loss of self esteem
• Has displayed excessive secrecy or isolation

Key Tips for Parents:

• Keep communication constant, open, and honest. Let your teen know they are not alone and his/her struggles are not uncommon.
• Be attentive to your teen’s behavior. Severe, dramatic, or abrupt changes can be strong indicators of mental health concerns.
• Understand that mental health disorders are treatable. Arm yourself with information and get your teen help by speaking with a licensed mental health professional.

When an adolescent is struggling with emotional and/or behavioral changes, it not only impacts them, but the entire family. Counseling can not only to help your teen develop a more peaceful, fulfilling, happy life, but it can also offer support your family.

Transitioning from adolescence to young adulthood can be both an exciting and scary time in your life. As a young adult, you may be struggling to adjust to new responsibilities and changes in your relationships. You may feel pressure (internally and externally) to define yourself and your future path in life. These stressors can often lead to feelings of anxiety and/or depression, however therapy can help you navigate emotions and decisions that arise during this period of time.