Adolescents enter counseling for an assortment of reasons. Some come on their own free will, the majority of them come through from the demands of their parent(s). Like adults, adolescents have the same reservations regarding counseling. The therapist normalizing these thoughts and feelings can deepen the therapeutic relationship.

Adolescence can be one of the most challenging times in life. They are experiencing rapid hormonal changes, biological as well as physiological changes too.  Relationships, stress, peer pressure, depression, and anxiety can all be confusing to them. Counseling helps them work through all of these struggles while finding coping mechanisms.

In therapy, the adolescent meets individually with the therapist and is encouraged to express their thoughts, feeling or concerns freely in a relatively consequence free zone.  This process enables the adolescent to change negative behavior, develop self-understanding, compromise with others and accomplish personal growth.

Signs that there may be a bigger problem than what parents can handle include:

• Problems in transitions
• Custody evaluations
• Learning or attention problems
• Decreased interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Being the victim of bullying or bullying others
• A significant drop in grades, particularly if your child normally maintains high grades
• Behavioral problems such as excessive anger, acting out, eating disorders, or bedwetting
• Bereavement issues
• Signs of alcohol, drug, or other substance use
• Mood swings
• Episodes of sadness, tearfulness, or depression
• Management of a serious, acute or chronic illness
• Problems in transitions including separation, divorce, or relocation
• Development of or an increase in physical complaints such as headaches, stomachaches, or not feeling well despite a normal physical exam by a doctor
• Sudden changes in appetite
• Social withdrawal or isolation
• Excessive school absenteeism or tardiness
• Overly aggressive behavior such as biting, kicking, or hitting
• Insomnia or increased sleepiness
• Self harm such as cutting, burning, and picking
• Mood swings such as happy one minute and upset the next
• Sexual, physical or emotional abuse or other traumatic events

For more information on how Brightside Counseling Services can assist you with your counseling needs, please visit our Play Therapy page.