Working with teens
(and parents)...

Being a teenager is hard and messy and awesome. You are on the brink of  adulthood, but still under someone else's roof. You understand sarcasm and witty humor (and usually have a GREAT sense of humor), but also feel like no one understands you. You dream about upcoming years but also carry the burden of today's world and technology. You are so sick of everyone blaming everything on phones, but also feel tied to social media.

In the words of Dr, Lisa Damour, "Adolecence is a demanding develpmental stage. One of the best gifts you can give a teen is to be a steady presence and lead with curiosity and empathy." 

Therapy can offer a space to process the feelings, obstacles, impulses, ups and downs that visit every teenager's life. In other words, you get to come into my office just as you are.. witty, amazing, annoyed, frustarted, no manners required, just showing up is enough. 

Some  teenagers come to therapy easily, others need a  push. Both are okay. Whether you are eager to explore emotions or feel forced into sessions, I can offer acceptance, honesty, and my heart-centered presence. In other words, I won't be fake or tell you to turn off your phone. Instead, we will engage in honest conversations and consider all you encounter, from your teenage perspective, not mine. I invite any teenager to come have a conversation with me and see if I can maybe offer a decent place to work out some stuff. 

Parents, trusting someone with your teenager is hard. Teenagers need to trust in the confidentiality of their therapist, yet parents need to trust in the safety of their child. Holding both is possible. Through clear communication and transparent policies, teens, therapists, and parents can work together towards common goals. Through an eclectic personalized treatment plan (using modalities such as DBT, ACT, EMDR, motivational interviewing, somatic awarenss, mindfulness and expressive arts) I am confident your child will find their way back to their best self.