Youth Counseling

“Problems are not stop signs, they are guidelines.” – Robert Schuller

Some young people need help dealing with school stress like homework, test anxiety, bullying, or peer pressure. Others need help to discuss their feelings about family issues, particularly if there’s a major transition like a move, death of loved one, or serious illness. Therapy can help youth develop problem-solving skills and also teach them the value of seeking help.

Goals for therapy may be specific (reduced anger outbursts, improved relations with friends or family) or more general (decrease anxiety, increase self-esteem/self-confidence). The length of psychotherapy depends on the complexity and severity of problems. Counseling sessions may involve just the child/adolescent, and other times sessions will include the youth, parents, legal guardians, or other significant family members. I believe when you work with a child or adolescent, you work with the whole family. Thus, regular parent communication is encouraged. Before a minor begins therapy, ALL legal guardians (including divorced or separated parents) must give their consent to treatment.

I use a collaborative approach to help children and their families with the ability to cope with stressful situations and to find ways to address emotional and behavioral issues. I currently provide counseling services to youth ages 8 through 18. I have afternoon and early evening aappointment slots available to accommodate school schedules.

Signs that young person may benefit from seeing a psychologist:

Behavioral problems such as excessive anger, acting out, significant irritability
Significant drop in grades, particularly if the young person normally maintains high grades
Development of or an increase in physical complaints, such as headaches or stomachaches, despite a normal physical exam by their doctor
Problems in transitions following a move or relocation
Episodes of sadness, tearfulness, or depression
Social withdrawal or isolation
Being the victim of bullying or bullying other children
Decreased interest in previously enjoyed activities
Learning or attention problems (such as ADHD)
Sudden changes in appetite, particularly in adolescents
Excessive school absenteeism or tardiness
Management of a serious, acute, or chronic illness
Bereavement issues