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4.

Teens
Therapy

A teenager smiling after attending therapy

Being a teenager can be extremely confusing and challenging at the best of times - especially as "Australians are experiencing a surge of psychological distress, with loneliness rising sharply among young people during the pandemic”. But when you are dealing with relationship challenges, including with food, your weight or appearance, in addition to interpersonal difficulties with your family or friends, it can seem hopeless at times.

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But help is available. I know how hard it can be - I suffered from anorexia and bulimia when I was an adolescent. Through working with my therapist, I was able to move past my issues and develop healthy relationships - both with myself and with food.

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If you are a teenager or know a teen in need of help, I would be happy to speak and see what sort of plan we can work up to provide support during this difficult time.​

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There can be all sorts of signs of challenges for teenagers that might be helped by speaking to a therapist. These include behavioural changes with friends, family, school or work, frequent mood shifts, lack of focus, tiredness, sweating, dramatic changes in weight and many more.

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However, teenagers can often face fear, stigma, embarrassment and shame when it comes to addressing these problems. This is why my approach is non-judgmental and completely confidential; it should not be difficult to take the first step, however intimidating it might be seen.

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Even if you are struggling with major life changes, such as dating, you might be able to overcome your difficulties through therapy.

 

Get in touch below for a private conversation where we can explore how I can help.

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Contact
Jessica is one of those people that you can really connect with. I have tried so many counsellors but not one of them helped me out. Jessica has a deeply caring and understanding nature that makes her stand out from the rest of the counsellors.

Client Testimonial

How can therapy help teens overcome their issues?

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Therapy can help you break through some of the toughest barriers you face during adolescence, and can support you in:

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  • Improving family dynamics: Family therapy, a form of relationship therapy, can help address dysfunctional family patterns that may contribute to or exacerbate a teen's addiction. It can improve communication, resolve conflicts, and create a more supportive home environment.

  • Addressing co-occurring mental health issues: Many teens with addiction also struggle with mental health disorders. Relationship therapy can help identify and treat these underlying issues, which often play a role in substance abuse.

  • Developing healthier coping mechanisms: Therapy can teach teens alternative ways to deal with stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges that may have led to substance use.

  • Building a support network: Group therapy sessions allow teens to connect with peers facing similar struggles, providing mutual support and reducing feelings of isolation.

  • Enhancing communication skills: Relationship therapy helps teens learn to express their needs and emotions more effectively, which can reduce the likelihood of turning to substances as a form of self-medication.

  • Addressing trauma: For teens who have experienced trauma, specialized therapies like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) can help process these experiences and reduce the risk of using substances as a coping mechanism.

  • Improving self-esteem: Therapy can help teens build a stronger sense of self-worth, which is crucial for resisting peer pressure and making healthier choices.

  • Repairing damaged relationships: Addiction often strains relationships with family and friends. Therapy can help rebuild these connections, providing crucial support for recovery.

  • Developing future-oriented thinking: Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) can help teens focus on their goals and aspirations, motivating them to overcome addiction.

  • Providing a safe space: Therapy offers a non-judgmental environment where teens can openly discuss their struggles with addiction and related issues.

  • Tailoring treatment: Relationship therapy can be customized to address the specific needs of each teen, considering factors like the type of substance used, family dynamics, and co-occurring disorders.

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By providing a safe, supportive environment to discuss these issues, relationship therapy can help teenagers develop healthier attitudes towards dating and relationships, setting them up for more positive experiences both now and in the future

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