Adolescent therapy

Maybe anxiety has gotten louder. School feels overwhelming, an unanswered text leads to hours of second-guessing, or something on social media sends them down a spiral of comparison. Maybe a teen who used to be engaged and motivated seems more withdrawn, irritable, or just not quite like themselves. Or maybe everything looks fine from the outside, but underneath they're struggling with self-doubt and pressure.

Sometimes teens don't know exactly why they're struggling, and figuring that out can be where therapy begins.

I work with teens experiencing anxiety, depression, and challenges related to:

• School stress, perfectionism, and procrastination
• Friendships, dating, and social pressure
• Self-esteem, body image, and comparison
• Family relationships, boundaries, and independence
• Managing emotions and navigating life transitions

I begin by getting to know the teen beyond whatever brought them to therapy: their personality, interests, relationships, sense of humor, and what matters to them. I prioritize building genuine trust, making room for everyday conversation and humor alongside more difficult experiences.

As the relationship develops, our work focuses on helping teens understand their emotions, recognize patterns, and make sense of why certain situations affect them the way they do. I combine this insight-oriented approach with evidence-based strategies, drawing on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and practical skills to help teens manage emotions and navigate challenges more effectively.

Privacy gives teens the freedom to talk honestly about the hard, uncomfortable, and personal parts of their lives. It also creates space to develop their own voice, think critically through problems, and build confidence in their ability to make safe, informed decisions.

For parents, respecting that privacy also means trusting the therapeutic process. I work with teens and parents from the outset to establish clear expectations around confidentiality, communication, and parent involvement, tailored to the teen's age and family circumstances.