Supporting teenagers through change
Adolescence is a time of significant emotional, physical, and psychological change. While this stage of life can be exciting and full of growth, it can also feel overwhelming, confusing, and challenging. Many young people experience difficulties with stress, anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, identity, relationships, school pressures, family changes, or uncertainty about the future.
I offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where adolescents can talk openly about what they are experiencing. Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my work, allowing young people to feel heard, understood, and accepted at their own pace.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to the individual needs of each young person. Together, we explore the difficulties they may be facing while helping them develop healthier coping strategies, greater self-awareness, and emotional resilience.
HOW I WORK WITH ADOLESCENTS
As an integrative counsellor, CBT practitioner, and art psychotherapist, I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches to support each adolescent in a way that feels comfortable and meaningful for them. Every young person is different, and therapy is adapted to reflect their personality, interests, and emotional needs.
Some adolescents find it easier to express themselves through talking therapy, while others may benefit from more creative or reflective approaches. I may incorporate:
- Art Psychotherapy – using creative expression and imagery to help young people explore thoughts and feelings that can sometimes be difficult to put into words.
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) – helping adolescents understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, while developing practical coping skills for anxiety, stress, low mood, and self-esteem.
- Journalling and Reflective Writing – encouraging self-expression, emotional processing, and greater self-understanding.
- Mindfulness Techniques – supporting emotional regulation, relaxation, grounding, and stress management.
I work in a person-centred and holistic way, encouraging open communication and collaboration throughout the therapeutic process. Sessions are paced according to the young person’s comfort level, creating a calm and supportive environment where they can safely explore their experiences.
AREAS OF SUPPORT
Adolescent counselling can support young people with a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Low mood and depression
- Self-esteem and confidence issues
- School or academic pressures
- Friendship and relationship difficulties
- Emotional regulation
- Family changes or conflict
- Identity and self-discovery
- Body Image
- Self harm/suicide ideation
- Grief and loss
- Social anxiety
- Feeling overwhelmed or uncertain
Therapy can also provide adolescents with valuable tools for personal growth, self-discovery, and emotional wellbeing, helping them feel more confident and supported as they navigate the transition into adulthood.
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS
Supporting Your Teen Through Counselling
It can be difficult as a parent or caregiver to know when a teenager may need additional emotional support. Adolescence often brings changes in mood, behaviour, relationships, and identity, and while many of these changes are a normal part of development, there are times when young people may benefit from the support of counselling.
Some signs that a teenager may benefit from therapy can include:
- Increased anxiety or persistent worry
- Low mood, sadness, or withdrawal
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Difficulty managing emotions or anger
- Loss of confidence or low self-esteem
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- School refusal or declining academic performance
- Friendship or relationship difficulties
- Increased stress or overwhelm
- Self-critical thinking
- Difficulties following family separation, bereavement, or significant life changes
Counselling offers adolescents a safe and confidential space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with the support of a trained professional.
INITIAL INTAKE PROCESS
The therapeutic process begins with an initial intake session involving the parent(s) or caregiver(s). Prior to this meeting, an intake questionnaire is emailed to gather relevant background information and provide an opportunity for parents to share any concerns, observations, and hopes they may have for their child.
This initial session also offers space for parents or caregivers to ask questions about counselling and gain a clearer understanding of how the therapeutic process works. Together, we discuss the young person’s needs, the goals for therapy, and how best to support them moving forward.
Building trust and safety is an important part of adolescent therapy, and I aim to create a collaborative and supportive relationship with both the young person and their caregivers.
CONFIDENTIALITY AND PARENT FEEDBACK SESSIONS
Confidentiality is an essential part of building trust within the therapeutic relationship. Adolescents need to feel safe knowing they can speak openly and honestly during sessions.
At the same time, I understand the importance of keeping parents and caregivers supported and informed. Following the initial intake, parent feedback or review sessions can be arranged when needed. These sessions are conducted either:
- With the adolescent present, or
- With the adolescent’s knowledge and consent
This approach helps maintain trust while encouraging open communication and collaborative support around the young person’s wellbeing.
There are some important exceptions to confidentiality, particularly where there are concerns regarding safety or risk of harm. These limits to confidentiality are discussed clearly at the beginning of the therapeutic process.
