Adolescence is an exciting time of growth and new possibilities. However, it can also be a time of serious challenges for both the adolescent and the parents. As adolescents are dealing with the challenges of maturation and the discovery of their identities, parents are working to set limits and keep the adolescent safe.
Conflict is inherent to this stage of life. In such a setting, a therapist – someone who is not a parent or a peer – can be tremendously helpful. Adolescent behavior is impulsive, because the pre-frontal cortex is not fully developed, but the choices made during adolescence can affect a lifetime. If you are concerned about your adolescent, offering counseling as an option communicates your awareness that you see the struggle they are having.
Adolescents can be opposed to the idea of therapy, but when given the chance to see what therapy is like, they are often grateful that their parents gave them the opportunity. Counseling with adolescents involves processing emotions, discussing short and long term goals, and working with the family to make sure everyone’s needs are being addressed in a healthy way.
The great thing in the world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving.