The neuroplasticity of the teenage brain renders it both exceptionally vulnerable and especially capable of learning and change. While it is only 80% of the way to full maturity, the 20% that it lacks is mostly the wiring that connects it all. The frontal lobe, responsible for reasoning, insight, judgment and planning is loosely connected while the amygdala, responsible for emotional regulation, survival instincts and sexual activity is susceptible to rushes of hormones and adrenaline.
As difficult as these years are for teens, their parents are often just as confused, scared and frustrated. Throughout my entire career I have worked with troubled teenagers and their families. Whether they are resistant to therapy, depressed, angry, acting out or even under the supervision of juvenile probation, teens find they can trust me. In the non-judgmental safety of my therapy space, teens realize they can express themselves and begin to open up. Both teens and parents learn to improve their communication and understanding of each other and resolve their issues together. At times I will meet with the teen alone but family sessions and parental cooperation are crucial to progress and healing.
Teens’ emotions can fly out of control in an instant. Mindful meditation has been proven to help teens become more aware of emotional states in their bodies and more able to regulate their emotions. We often meditate in our sessions and I encourage teens to practice meditation at home. Please explore my playlist of meditations for teens.