Teens

The teenage years are defined by change. Not little changes, but BIG changes: new schools, new friends, new emotions, new worries, new fears, and rapid physical growth. Because of this, teenage boys can often feel misunderstood and alone. Whether it’s pertaining to the classroom, athletics, home, or social situations, teenage boys face a particular set of pressures and expectations that can feel unmanageable. In addition to trying to cope with these challenges, he is also trying to figure out who he is as a person and how he fits in. No wonder these are some rough years.

It is developmentally appropriate for teenage boys to become more independent, which means decreasing their dependence on mom and dad. The scales start to become imbalanced and the fights begin to ratchet up. What used to work isn’t working anymore, and how we used to be isn’t how we are now. Suddenly, everyone feels more isolated at home. He won’t talk to you, but you want him to talk to someone. So, now what?

Your child needs someone removed from his day-to-day world who can listen, relate, and empathize with what is important to him and what he is really struggling with. He needs a non-judgmental and non-threatening place where he can share what is really going on. It is difficult for any teenage boy to open up. In fact, boys are usually taught that to be a strong man, you should wall off your emotions, not show vulnerability, and not let things get to you. I am familiar with the difficulties your son may be facing and how confusing this time really is.

As his parent, you want him to start treating his relationships more like an adult, but he’s not an adult yet! As his therapist, I will help guide him during this transition into young adulthood. There will be successes and stumbles along the way, and all the while he will learn about himself and how to participate in healthy relationships across his life. In our sessions, he will learn how to better navigate the steps ahead.