Parents and Teens

The teenage years are hard. We all know that. Hard for teens and hard for parents.
Parents, you used to have a little “mini-me” following you around who not only loved spending time with you, but was direct in their needs, wants, and concerns. You used to hear things such as, “Mom, I need to go to the potty.” “Dad, I want to go to the park.” “Today little Johnny pushed me on the playground.”
In those moments you felt important and you felt competent in your ability to help.
Now the teenage years are upon you and it has you second-guessing your overall parenting as hormones increase and communication decreases. Your teen is trying to find a level of autonomy and independence in his/her world.
As a teen, you may feel misunderstood, unheard, and not accepted. Pressures of school, sports, family expectations are abound… or maybe you feel alone, not seen, undervalued… no matter what is happening for you, we are for you.
Therapists listen without judgment, without expectations. We are here for you.
Therapy can support both parents and teens in the following ways: (have this list match format on other pages)
Respond to your teens emotions
Get on your teens literal level
Problem solve when given permission
Understand the purpose of your teen or child’s behavior
Boost Family Connections
Enhance Child’s Self Esteem
Effective and Engaged Family Communication
Support Positive Peer Interactions
Self-Care for Parents and Caregivers
Self-Care for Teens
Social Media Safety
Positive Body Image
Limit Risk Factors for Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Additional ways that parents, teens, and preteens can connect to support is through the EmpowHER Program. (*make EmpowHER Program a hyperlink to the groups and programs page). The EmpowHER Program offers year round support through various groups and programs to all.