Working with Teens: What You Can Expect Working With Me

Let’s face it, teens have a lot of stressors at a time in their life when they are developing physically, mentally, and emotionally. They are surrounded by challenges that at times may seem insurmountable. It is at this time when it is particularly important that they are able to receive what current research says they need: an adult who can help them figure out who they are and what they most want, then work collaboratively with them to create and execute a strategy to reach those goals. As a counselor and certified life coach that’s what I do. I help kids mindfully develop strategies to work through stress and to build self-confidence, self-reliance, and awareness of their own strengths and values. Learning to align with our core values enables us to make decisions that will serve our greatest good.

What your teen can expect from working with me…

In weekly, hour-long sessions (virtual or in-person), I help kids evaluate the elements of their life and to identify their core values. What matters most to them? Where are they content? Where could things be better?

I work with them to be able to envision their ideal future to build hope—what would it look and feel like?—then set small, self-directed goals to inch closer to that reality.

Along the way, using mindfulness and positive psychology, we explore the elements that make them who they are—their strengths, values and personality type—and turn their struggles and weaknesses into tools for building their ideal life.

When appropriate family members may also be included in the process so as to create and maintain positive relationships at home. Sometimes as parents it can be difficult to get teens to listen. That’s where I can step in to take that pressure off of you. I can help your teen not only work through personal issues but as a master educator, can also work with them on executive functioning skills so that you can step back and just be a parent.

What results can you expect?

While individual experiences will vary, parents report rapid shifts in their teenager’s communication, motivation, and happiness. Teens say they feel as if they are being heard, and appreciate the opportunity to have someone to talk to that can help them to find clarity where there might be confusion or anxiety.

My complimentary 15-minute phone consultation will help you determine if your teen’s needs and my philosophy and practice are a good fit for your child.

Give your teen and yourself a gift. Provide your teen with the support and guidance they need, while at the same time allowing you to take a step back from the daily challenges by allowing me to hold them accountable while they are learning the skills and strategies to do so for themselves.