Counselling Teens

Healthy minds in teens = resilient, confident young adults

The teen years is a period of intense growth, not only physically but emotionally and intellectually. It’s understandable it’s a time of confusion and upheaval for many families.

“I feel like I’m walking on egg shells” is one of the most common reflections by parents living with teens.  One minute you’re being hugged and thanked for being supportive and the next minute you are given the cold shoulder.

Despite their volatility, they’re our children.  And keeping a watchful eye on their mental health is paramount.

• What’s happening to my teen?

  This is a stage when teens develop their identity, sense of self and work towards becoming independent young adults.

  Here’s a snapshot of the immense changes occurring;

  Physical changes

  Puberty, increases in height and weight, and changes in hormones.

  Brain rewires

  During adolescence the brain goes through rapid development in its shape, size and how it works.

  The very structures and connections in the brain that help to manage emotions are changing, making teens especially vulnerable to stress and anxiety.

  This rewiring of the teen brain is a key reason for increased moodiness, poor decision making, and risk-taking actions (that may get out of hand).

  Cognitive style

  Gradual shifts in thinking from a concrete “black and white” understanding of the world to a more abstract view where “shades of grey” become more understood by your adolescent.

  Emotional & psychological changes

  Young people gradually gain independence and less reliant on their parents for day to day activities.  If things are going well they develop increased confidence and closer relationships with peers.

  Social milestones arise

  There are a lot of changes that a young person needs to navigate. They need to finishing school, deciding on a career, gain work and financial freedom, possibly move out of the family home, and they may enter into a intimate relationship.

  Navigating electronic & social media

  Learning to self-manage social media.  A 2017 survey conducted with 14-24-year-olds in the UK, found that Snapchat, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram all contributed to increased feelings of depression, anxiety, poor body image and loneliness. (Royal Society of Public Health)

  It’s a mindfield!

  With all these changes it’s not surprising that teens are more vulnerable to developing a mental health issue.  Anxiety and depression rates are high for this group which suggests they aren’t coping.

• Knowing when your teen needs to see a psychologist?

  Teens can internalise their problems rather than talk about them.  So it can be difficult to know when they are in trouble.

  The challenge for teens & parents is being able to distinguish between normal emotional changes with unhealthy changes that may benefit from professional care.   

  If you notice any of the following signs, you need to speak to your teenager about seeing your GP for guidance.

  • Displays anger or aggression that are out of the ordinary, outbursts and mood swings.

  • They seem flat and socially withdrawn (including from the family)

  • Changes in sleep patterns – finding it harder to fall asleep or is sleeping too much may be a sign of something causing anxiety.

  • Inactivity and disinterest in activities that used to give them pleasure – such as sports and hobbies.

  • Eating problems – eating patterns and appetite can change around emotions.

  • Frequent health problems like headaches, upset stomach are often symptoms of anxiety

  • School grades – a drop in grades is a key indicator that they’re feeling distracted or upset.

  You know your child better than anyone.  Persistent unhappiness or moodiness is not normal for anyone even a teenager. 

• How does Westhealth Psychology help your teen?

  We recognise this is a confusing and stressful time for parents and teens. 

  Our approach to teen therapy is positive and much like a coach with the aim of “feeling better”.

  We have learnt is that for treatment to be effective with teens, and indeed for any age group, that it is essential for a good rapport or therapeutic relationship to be established.

  For this reason, our psychologists make every effort understanding the issue and building trust through a safe, supportive and non-judgemental environment. 

  We tailor your teen’s treatment on scientifically proven therapies, teaching them practical coping skills so they can regulate their emotions and thrive.

  We work collaboratively with parents and families so your teen is supported at home and school.

• How long before my child feels better?

  We all wish for the fastest way possible to happiness for our child, but this really depends on many factors. Some problems resolve quickly in just a few sessions, whereas more complicated problems require a longer time frame.

  Usually, we would expect to see significant gains within 8 to 12 sessions.

• How do we begin?

  If you have been referred by a doctor to one of our psychologists, contact us for an initial appointment (50 minutes).

  If you are not sure which clinical psychologist would best suit your child’s issue please contact us to discuss.

• How do I get my reluctant teen to see the psychologist?

  It’s normal for some teens to feel nervous about seeing a psychologist. They don’t know what to expect and may feel unsure or threatened about the process.   

  They’re often worried about what the psychologist or others might think of them, and may be fearful that the psychologist may tell their parents about risky or illegal behaviours.

  If this is the case, please reassure your teen that the clinical psychologist helps teenagers to feel better by giving them the tools to cope with their problem in a safe and non-judgemental environment.

  You may want to say – “Give it a go for a few sessions.”

• What do I do if my teenager won’t see a psychologist?

  If your teen is completely refusing help, please make an appointment with us. We can help by exploring with you  coping skills to assist in the care of your teen.  We can discuss ways to help your teen begin to talk about their issues, and eventually, the teen may agree to see a psychologist.