Adolescents

Our next generation may just be the most powerful.

Being a teenager has always been tough, but being a teenager in 2023 is a whole different type of challenge. Between the issues surrounding constant access to social media (comparisons and bullying), to the isolation that occurred because of the pandemic, to the pressures of getting excellent grades and making big decisions about their futures, its pretty easy to see why so many teens are struggling with their mental health. Add all of that to the expectations that they are supposed to “get along” with their families as they push towards independence and try to figure out who the hell they really are? It’s no wonder that the rates of depression and suicide among adolescents has increased 60% over the past decade, with teen girls and LGBTQ+ teens reporting symptoms of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts at an alarming rate. Our providers who work with adolescents serve as a sounding board in a way that parents can’t and help teens open their eyes to different ways of thinking, different ways of coping and ultimately different ways of experiencing the world around them. Our providers incorporate family therapy modalities when appropriate and necessary to wrap our adolescent clients in the support that they need to see that their lives are worth living.

Issues We Help Teens Work Through:

  1. Mood & Anxiety: Adolescents who are suddenly acting differently or seem more irritable, sad, or anxious than usual- it could be a sign that they are struggling with a mental health concern. Adolescents may experience symptoms of anxiety and depression due to various factors such as academic stress, peer pressure, family problems, and personal issues.

  2. Trauma: Adolescents who have experienced traumatic events such as physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or sexual assault may benefit from therapy to address the associated emotional and behavioral issues.

  3. Behavioral Issues: Adolescents who engage in risky or problematic behaviors such as substance abuse, self-harm, or aggression may benefit from therapy to address the underlying causes and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

  4. Academic Issues: Adolescents who are struggling with academic performance or school-related stress may benefit from therapy to develop effective study habits, time management skills, and stress management techniques.

  5. Family Issues: Adolescents who are experiencing family conflicts, such as divorce, remarriage, or blended family issues, may benefit from therapy to address communication problems and develop coping skills.

  6. Gender and Sexuality Issues: Adolescents who are questioning their gender identity or sexuality may benefit from therapy to explore these issues in a safe and supportive environment. (Please note, all providers at Lotus Counseling Collective believe in providing gender affirming care and a safe space for adolescents of all orientations and gender expressions.)

  7. Social Skills and Communication Issues: Adolescents who struggle with social skills, communication, or forming and maintaining healthy relationships may benefit from therapy to develop social skills and improve their communication.

  8. Emotion Regulation Issues: Adolescents sometimes struggle to regulate their emotions, and start becoming easily overwhelmed, having frequent outbursts of anger or frustration, or experiencing panic attacks, therapy can help them to develop skills to manage their emotions in a healthier way.

…and much more!