Bazemore Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Empowering Your Teen to Achieve Happiness
Unfiltered: Honest Conversations for Teens
Let’s be honest—our children often hold back about their emotional, physical, or social lives, including important topics like talking about sex and safe sex practices. Even with an open-door policy, they may hesitate to share due to fears of judgment or feeling misunderstood. Therapy offers a safe, confidential space where they can express themselves freely, explore their feelings, and navigate their challenges with support. Encouraging them to seek therapy can be a transformative step toward their overall well-being.
As your child's therapist, I provide a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment that fosters open communication. This supportive space allows teens to engage in meaningful discussions about their experiences, including sex and safe sex practices. I employ tailored, evidence-based techniques and prioritize confidentiality, ensuring that they feel secure in sharing their thoughts and feelings. My commitment to professional growth and a collaborative approach empowers teens to develop essential coping skills, resilience, and a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships.
When to Reach Out: Signs Your Teen May Need Therapy
Teens may exhibit various symptoms and behaviors that indicate a need for therapy, including:
- Persistent Sadness or Irritability: Ongoing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or irritability that last for weeks.
- Withdrawal from Activities: Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, hobbies, or social interactions.
- Changes in Appetite or Sleep: Significant changes in eating habits, weight, or sleep patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleeping.
- Increased Anxiety or Worry: Excessive worrying about everyday situations, leading to physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches.
- Mood Swings: Extreme mood changes that seem out of character or that impact daily functioning.
- Decline in Academic Performance: A noticeable drop in grades, lack of motivation, or trouble concentrating on schoolwork.
- Substance Use: Experimentation with drugs or alcohol, or using substances as a coping mechanism.
- Risky or Reckless Behavior: Engaging in dangerous activities, self-harm, or impulsive decision-making.
- Difficulty with Relationships: Struggles in friendships or family dynamics, including frequent arguments or feelings of isolation.
- Overwhelming Stress: Inability to cope with stress from academics, peer pressure, or family issues.
- Talking About Self-Harm or Suicide: Any mention of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or feelings of worthlessness should be taken seriously and require immediate attention.
- Low Self-Esteem: Persistent negative thoughts about oneself or feelings of inadequacy.
