Adolescence can be a very difficult time for teenagers and their families. It is the phase of human development during which issues of independence, identity, and sexuality are confronted. This is no small feat and many teenagers struggle emotionally. Teenagers often become depressed or may develop aggressive or oppositional tendencies. Adolescent psychotherapy provides adolescents a space to discuss their problems outside the scope of their family system. This alone can make a powerful impact because of the adolescent's need for independence.
Adolescent psychotherapy typically includes working with parents. Although I believe meeting with the adolescent alone is a necessary part of adolescent therapy, I have found my work with parents can also make a significant difference in an adolescent's life. When an adolescent develops problems, they are usually not the only person in the family that is impacted by these problems. Parents, siblings, and other family members can have a difficult time adjusting to a child's transition into adulthood. Adolescence is not only felt by the individual, it is felt by the entire family. In my practice as an adolescent psychologist, I have seen adolescent psychotherapy make significant improvements, not just for my adolescent patients, but also for the family as a whole.
In addition to my private practice, I work as a child and adolescent psychologist in Oakland at Westcoast Children's Clinic. My patients range in age from young children to older adolescents who suffer from a wide variety of problems. Many of these kids suffer both academically and emotionally, have had significant traumas, and have experienced great loss.
I understand getting help for your adolescent can feel like a daunting process. I encourage you to call me to set up an initial consultation or to discuss what would be the best form of treatment for your adolescent.
