Support for teens
Counselling for Teens
Balancing increasing autonomy, complex peer relationships, and exploring identity are immensely important challenges that teens face. Having the space to openly talk with someone who isn’t an authority allows teens to learn to have a greater impact on their world, while maintaining and deepening important relationships.
More than any generation before them, today’s youth are facing a world that is constantly changing. It’s hard to imagine what life will look like 5, 10, or 20 years down the line. For many teens, the ability to develop their own identify, genuine connection in relationships, and sense of control and impact on the greater world feels all but compromised.
Laurel provides a patient and supportive atmosphere for youth to explore and examine their values, relationships, and impact they desire to have on the world. Teens are provided with tools and strategies to articulate their thoughts and feelings, and to take self-responsible action in their lives.
Why is it common for parents and teens to argue?
Developmentally speaking, teens are learning to balance their sense of autonomy through increasing responsibility. Teens often prioritize their social relationships, and pushing back on boundaries can create greater conflict with parents and care givers.
Why do teenagers seek counselling?
Common reasons that teens come to counselling include:
-conflict with parents
-conflict with friends
-anxiety
-stress
-pressure to perform (academically, in sports, with friends)
-life transitions like choosing which university to attend
-stress related to social media
-depression
-having a friend who is struggling with thoughts of suicide
-engaging in self harm
How can teens take care of their mental health?
It is important that teens take time to learn what contributes to their overall sense of mental health and wellness. Things like learning to meditate, taking time to hang out with friends, getting a good night’s sleep (8 or more hours), taking time to be creative, being involved with sports, feeling like they are a part of a greater community, journaling, and eating well should all be considered when creating a basic self care plan. For many teens, it can also be important to have an older mentor to speak with about issues that may feel uncomfortable to discuss with parents.
What additional resources are available for teens?
Apps like Headspace or Calm can be downloaded to track mental health.
The Foundry in North Vancouver offers are range of services from counselling, to workshops, to social events to teens.
Bounce Back: “BounceBack® is a free skill-building program designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stress or worry. Delivered online or over the phone with a coach, you will get access to tools that will support you on your path to mental wellness.”
Youth Crisis line is there for youth who are upset, worried about something, or simply want to talk. Call in at: 604-872-3311
As a parent, how can I better support my teen’s mental health?
Take the time to talk with your teen about the importance of mental health. Explain and discuss things like boundaries. Take time to do things like going for walks together, attending yoga, doing baking, or enjoying a board game.
How can I get my teen to go to counselling?
It’s important that teens feel a sense of autonomy in the counselling process. Forcing your teen to go to counselling will not be helpful, as counselling is a highly collaborative process. If your teen refuses to come to counselling, an alternative is booking a parenting session with Laurel to discuss ways that you can support your teen.
Of course, if you have imminent concerns for your teen’s safety, take them to the emergency room or call 911 right away.
Book a counselling session or parenting session for your teen today