Therapy for Teens
Understanding Therapy for Teens at Fruition Counselling
The teenage years are pivotal, filled with rapid changes and significant challenges. At Fruition Counselling, I provide specialized therapy to support teens through the stresses of growing up, dealing with emotional turmoil, and navigating complex social dynamics.
Therapy for teens focuses on creating a safe and understanding environment where teens can openly discuss their feelings, challenges, and fears.
Tailored Guidance for Every Teen's Journey
Tailored to Teen Needs
Multiple Therapy Modalities
Build Resilience and Self-Understanding
Navigating Teen Challenges with Expert Care
Teens today face a myriad of challenges that can impact their mental health, including academic pressure, social isolation, family changes like divorce or moving, and exposure to violence or bullying.There are three general types of therapy for teens experiencing mental health issues:
Individual Therapy: In these private, one-on-one sessions, a therapist will typically use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help the teen make a connection between their thoughts and feelings, as well as understand how these impact their behaviour.
Family Therapy: In this scenario, the teen would go to therapy with their parent(s) and sometimes even with siblings. This style of therapy can be very beneficial as it allows the family to communicate effectively and respectfully.
Group Therapy: Group therapy can be very effective because it allows teens to see how their peers handle their problems. Most groups have five to seven teens and one leader who will ask questions and guide the conversation. Although I am not offering group therapy at this time, I am happy to refer clients to a group if desired.
These therapy sessions are designed to address these issues by helping teens find effective coping strategies, enhance their self-esteem, and improve their ability to communicate. Whether your teen is dealing with loss, stress, or traumatic experiences, Fruition Counselling offers a supportive space for them to heal and grow.
Expert Guidance Through Adolescence
Therapy at Fruition Counselling offers guidance through the challenges of adolescence. I provide a supportive space for teens to explore emotions, build resilience, and grow in confidence, helping them manage stress and improve relationships effectively.
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FAQs
Look for changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal from social activities, noticeable shifts in mood, academic performance slipping, or changes in sleeping and eating patterns. These can all be indicators that your teen might benefit from professional support.
Therapy can provide your teen with a safe space to express their feelings and work through their problems. It helps them develop coping strategies for stress, improve their communication skills, enhance self-esteem, and generally support their emotional and mental health.
I offer individual therapy, which focuses on personal issues, as well as group therapy that allows teens to interact with peers facing similar challenges, and family therapy to improve communication and dynamics within the family.
Approach the conversation with empathy and without judgment. Explain that therapy is a common and helpful tool for many people, not because they are broken, but because everyone needs help sometimes. Assure them that their feelings are valid and that therapy is a safe place to explore those feelings.
Parental involvement depends on the specific needs of the teen and the type of therapy. While some sessions might involve family therapy, others might be strictly confidential between the teen and myself to build trust and openness. However, I always encourage supportive communication between parents and therapists.
Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of counselling at any age. However, if there are safety concerns, such as risks of harm to self or others, parents may be informed. Otherwise, what is shared in therapy stays between the therapist and the teen, which is crucial for building trust.
The duration of counselLing depends on the teen’s specific needs and goals. Some see improvements in a few months, while others might need longer to work through their issues. Progress is regularly assessed and discussed with the teen and, if appropriate, with the parents.
If your teen is reluctant to attend therapy, discuss their concerns and hesitations. Sometimes understanding that they can have control over the process and that their input is valued can help. We can also arrange a preliminary meeting to help them feel more comfortable about the process.