“It’s not always the tears that measure the pain. Sometimes it’s the smile that we fake.”
– Unknown
Fake smiles last only so long.
It worked for a while, but they’ve caught on to your fake smile. You’re at a point where faking it feels like too much work. Is there an end in sight?
Demands placed on teenagers can sometimes make it impossible for them to escape. The only place you feel you can escape is your bedroom. This choice, however, seems to worry your parents even more.
There are so many demands to produce (work, homework, athletics, theater, etc.), and you must make MAJOR life decisions. “Do I go to college or a trade school? If I choose, WHICH college or trade school is the best fit? Alternatively, do I take a gap year or devote some time to missionary work? Perhaps the military is the best bet, but which branch is better?”
The decisions are crippling, and you feel trapped in this season of demands and decisions. And we didn’t even mention your social life.
“It all feels like too much. How will therapy help anyway?“
As your therapist, I will create a safe and supportive space to explore and express your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. This support involves listening, offering empathy, and validating your VERY REAL experiences.
What are some things we do in therapy? We develop coping skills and strategies to manage challenges effectively, such as talk therapy, skill-building exercises, creative expression, and psychoeducation. (I teach you what is going on in your body and brain to help normalize and give you improved self-compassion and sense of control.)
“So, where do my parents fit in all this?”
I may collaborate with you AND your parents or guardians to create a holistic support system.
The goal is to empower you to navigate your complicated emotions, relationships, and life transitions with greater resilience and confidence.
Let’s not wait to figure out who you are and where you’re going. I’m ready to get started when you are.
Contact me today for a free consultation.