Adolescent Counseling
Overview
At RECLAIM Psychological Services, we believe counseling can be very beneficial to teens and adolescents. Therapy can help them identify areas of stress or frustration, as well as recognize and utilize areas of strength. We can help provide coping skills to help teens and adolescents achieve emotional and mental health.
It will be important for family, especially parents/guardians, to have some involvement in a teen or adolescent's treatment. Depending on what is going on, counseling may focus on meeting with the individual, or primarily with the child and caregivers, or it may be most helpful to primarily meet with parents/guardians.
Common Problems
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ADHD
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Suicidal Thoughts
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LGBTQIA+ Concerns
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Academic Problems Related to Behavior or Learning Problems
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Attention and Learning Issues
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Mood Disorders
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Parenting Difficulties and Skill Building
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Social Skills
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Relationship Issues
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Behavioral Problems
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Family Issues
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School Issues
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Bullying
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Questions of Identity
What to Expect
Good treatment starts with a thorough assessment. The first session of therapy involves a thorough assessment of the presenting concerns and treatment goals. This often includes talking with your teen, as well as guardians. It also gives the teen and guardians the opportunity to determine if the therapist feel like the right fit. We then shift our focus to working on the agreed-upon goals. Subsequently, we solidify progress made in treatment and work towards ensuring long-term change.
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Assessment Phase:
Early on in treatment, the clinician will typically meet with both the teen and parents/guardians. Guardians and teens may complete assessment measures, and it may help for us to connect with your doctor, psychiatrist, or others involved in the teen's treatment.
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Treatment Phase:
Typical treatment varies in length and will be tailored to your specific needs. When treatment begins we will focus on addressing the concerns that brought your teen into treatment. Once initial concerns have been addressed, therapy is likely to focus on underlying factors that may have contributed to the presenting concerns. With the realities of scheduling with school, summer, and activities, we will discuss how to balance meeting your mental health goals with the other life responsibilities and commitments. We use evidence-based practices, and value creating a space in which your teen feels safe and comfortable.
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Maintenance Phase:
After you have met your goals, it may be important to check-in from time to time. As teens develop, it is often helpful to check in periodically as they achieve go through life transitions. Many adolescents find it helpful to have a safe place to return to as various life events occur.