Therapy for Teens

You may be noticing changes in your teen’s behaviour, emotions, or interactions that persist over time and significantly impact their daily life. Here are some signs to look for:

1. Persistent Mood Changes: Sudden and lasting shifts in mood, such as prolonged sadness, irritability, or anger, may indicate underlying emotional issues.

2. Withdrawal or Isolation: If your teen becomes increasingly withdrawn, avoids social interactions, or isolates themselves from family and friends, it could signal a need for support.

3. Academic Decline: A noticeable decline in academic performance or lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed may indicate underlying stress, anxiety, or other challenges.

4. Changes in Sleep or Eating Patterns: Significant changes in sleeping or eating habits, such as insomnia, oversleeping, loss of appetite, or overeating, can be signs of emotional distress.

5. Substance Use: Experimentation or increased use of substances like alcohol or drugs can sometimes be a coping mechanism for underlying issues and may indicate a need for professional help.

6. Physical Symptoms: Unexplained physical complaints like headaches, stomachaches, or frequent illnesses may be manifestations of emotional distress.

If you notice these or other concerning signs and behaviours in your teen, it may be beneficial to consult with a qualified therapist.

• Improved emotional regulation

• Better coping strategies

• Enhanced communication skills

• Increased self-awareness and self-esteem

• Strengthened family relationships

I’m skilled in building rapport and creating a supportive environment to help teens feel comfortable and engaged in the therapeutic process.

In Ontario, therapists strictly adhere to confidentiality guidelines, particularly when working with minors. I ensure confidentiality through legal requirements outlined in the Ontario Child and Family Services Act, informed consent discussions with both teens and legal guardians, and careful consideration of exceptions to confidentiality, such as when there's a risk of harm or legal obligations.

I prioritize trust, creating a safe environment where teens can freely express themselves, while also upholding professional ethics and respecting privacy within legal and ethical boundaries.

You can support your teen by maintaining open communication, respecting boundaries, offering encouragement, ensuring consistency in attending sessions, helping implement learned strategies, and collaborating with the therapist.

By actively participating and providing a supportive environment, parents play a crucial role in their teen's therapeutic journey and overall well-being. We can discuss these strategies in more detail during our meetings to ensure a collaborative approach to your teen's therapy experience.