Adolescence is a time of rapid change, self-discovery, and unique challenges. Support for teens requires a thoughtful and skilled therapist who can manage the intricacies of this life stage. At Sagebrush Psychotherapy, we specialize in building genuine connections with our teen clients by seeing the world through their eyes, validating their experiences, and creating a fun and friendly environment. We prioritize flexibility and creativity to meet the unique needs of each client.
Why We Specialize in Therapy for Teens
Adolescents are at a pivotal stage in their development, where they form the foundation for their future relationships, careers, and sense of self. We specialize in teens because we recognize the importance of early intervention and guidance during this critical time. By focusing on this age group, we’ve developed a deep understanding of the challenges teens face today—from navigating social media pressures to managing academic and peer demands.
Working with teens requires a unique approach. We engage with teens in a way that feels relatable and respectful, meeting them where they are emotionally and developmentally. Our therapists are skilled at using language and tools that resonate with teens, such as incorporating creative techniques like art to help them express their feelings. We also understand the importance of building trust with teens, creating a space where they feel heard and valued without judgment. Our team stays informed about the latest research and trends impacting teens, ensuring that we provide the most relevant and effective support.
By fostering strong relationships with both teens and their families, we help create an environment of mutual understanding and growth. Whether it’s addressing academic pressures, family dynamics, or mental health challenges, we are dedicated to helping teens build the skills they need to navigate this formative stage of life successfully.
Therapy for Teens
Teen Therapy in Los Angeles: Supporting Mental Health and Growth
Common Issues Teens Are Facing Today
Teenagers today face a unique set of challenges, some that differ from previous generations. These include:
Social Media and Technology Use: Social media has become a central part of teens’ lives, shaping their self-esteem and relationships. Many struggle with the comparison culture fostered by platforms, cyberbullying, and the constant pressure to curate a perfect online image. Additionally, balancing screen time with other activities can be difficult, impacting sleep, academic performance, and real-world social interactions.
Peer Pressure and Relationships: Teens often face intense social pressures, from fitting in with peer groups to navigating the complexities of romantic relationships. Building healthy boundaries, managing conflicts, and understanding consent are critical skills that many teens need support in developing. Our therapists help teens identify and maintain supportive friendships while navigating the sometimes turbulent world of peer dynamics.
Identity Exploration: Adolescence is a time of self-discovery, where teens begin to explore and define their identity, including aspects like gender, sexuality, and personal values. For some, this process can bring about confusion, fear, or feelings of isolation. Our approach fosters a safe space for teens to explore their identity openly and without judgment, helping them feel confident and supported as they grow into their authentic selves.
Behavioral Challenges: Many teens struggle with behavioral issues such as defiance, impulsivity, or difficulty adhering to rules at home or school. These behaviors may stem from underlying emotional struggles or a need for better coping mechanisms. Our therapists work with teens to understand the root causes of these behaviors and develop healthier ways to express themselves and manage challenges.
Substance Use: Experimentation with drugs or alcohol is a common issue among teens, often tied to peer pressure, stress, or attempts to cope with emotional pain. Substance use can quickly escalate into dependency or risky behaviors. We provide non-judgmental support to help teens recognize the impact of substance use, build healthier coping skills, and navigate the challenges of recovery if needed.
Anxiety: Constant worry about academics, social interactions, or the future, often accompanied by physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or trouble sleeping.
Depression: Persistent sadness or hopelessness, paired with a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed and noticeable changes in energy or motivation.
Self-Harm: Engaging in behaviors such as cutting, burning, or other forms of self-injury as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions.
Suicidality: Expressing thoughts of hopelessness, feeling like a burden, or making statements about wanting to end their life, which require immediate attention and support.
Academic and Career Pressure: The demands of school, extracurricular activities, and planning for the future can lead to burnout and stress.
Family Dynamics: Struggles with communication, expectations, or family transitions such as divorce can impact a teen’s emotional well-being.
Our therapists are experienced in addressing these challenges by providing a supportive environment where teens can explore their feelings, build resilience, and develop practical coping strategies. We tailor our approach to each individual’s needs, ensuring that they feel empowered and understood.
Understanding and Addressing School Refusal
School refusal is a growing concern for many parents and educators, and it can significantly impact a teen’s academic progress, social development, and emotional well-being. Unlike occasional resistance to school, school refusal is often a persistent and intense fear or avoidance of attending school. Understanding the root causes and providing the right support can make a substantial difference in helping teens overcome this challenge.
Common Experiences Around School Refusal
Frequent complaints of physical symptoms, such as stomachaches or headaches, especially on school days.
Persistent arguments or meltdowns about attending school.
Avoidance behaviors, such as skipping school or staying home without a clear reason.
Falling behind academically or socially due to missed days.
How Therapy Can Help
At Sagebrush Psychotherapy, we take a compassionate and individualized approach to addressing school refusal. Our therapists work closely with teens and their families to:
Identify Underlying Causes: We explore the root issues contributing to school refusal, whether they stem from anxiety, social challenges, or other factors.
Develop Coping Strategies: Teens learn practical skills to manage anxiety, build resilience, and address specific fears about school.
Improve Communication: We facilitate open dialogue between teens, parents, and educators to create a supportive network.
Gradual Exposure Techniques: For teens with anxiety, we use evidence-based methods to help them re-engage with school in a manageable way.
Family Support: Parents receive guidance on how to support their teen without enabling avoidance behaviors.
Understanding and Addressing Anger and Behavioral Issues in Teens
Adolescence is a time of significant emotional and behavioral changes. For some teens, these changes can manifest as frequent anger outbursts, defiance, or other challenging behaviors. While occasional frustration and boundary-testing are normal parts of development, persistent or extreme behavioral issues may signal underlying concerns that need attention.
Is Your Teen Struggling With...
Frequent Outbursts of Anger? Does your teen lose their temper over minor frustrations, reacting with yelling, slamming doors, or other explosive behaviors? These patterns may indicate underlying emotional challenges that they struggle to manage.
Difficulty Following Rules or Boundaries? Are defiance and constant arguments becoming common at home or school? If your teen frequently disregards limits or engages in oppositional behavior, they may be expressing unmet needs or frustrations.
Impulsive or Risky Behaviors? Has your teen begun acting without considering the consequences, such as engaging in fights, breaking curfews, or other reckless activities? This impulsivity may stem from struggles with emotional regulation.
Struggles with Relationships? Is your teen finding it difficult to maintain healthy connections with friends, teachers, or family members due to their temper or inability to communicate effectively?
Destructive or Aggressive Actions? Has your teen resorted to physical aggression or damaging property during moments of frustration? These behaviors often signal an urgent need for intervention and healthy coping mechanisms.
How Therapy Can Help
We work closely with teens and families to understand and address anger and behavioral challenges. Through a supportive and individualized approach, we help teens:
Recognize the root causes of their anger.
Build skills to regulate emotions and respond constructively to stress.
Improve communication and repair relationships with family and peers.
Develop positive outlets for frustration, such as creative activities, exercise, or mindfulness practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, as a parent, you will be involved in your teen's therapy process, but their confidentiality will also be respected. Parent involvement may include attending sessions focused on family dynamics, learning strategies to support your teen at home, and maintaining open communication with the therapist about general progress. However, teens need a safe and private space to express themselves, so specific details shared in therapy are kept confidential unless there is a safety concern, such as risk of harm to themselves or others. This balance helps build trust between the teen and their therapist while keeping parents informed and engaged.
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What if my teen is refusing to attend therapy?
It’s common for teens to feel hesitant or resistant to therapy, especially if they’re unsure what to expect or feel it’s being forced upon them. Here are some strategies to encourage their participation:Open a Dialogue: Talk to your teen calmly and openly about their concerns. Ask why they’re hesitant and listen without judgment.
Emphasize Benefits: Frame therapy as a safe and supportive space where they can express themselves, not a punishment or something “wrong” with them.
Offer Choice: Involve them in the decision-making process by letting them help choose the therapist or decide between in-person and virtual sessions.
Start Small: Suggest trying a few sessions as a trial, with the option to stop if they don’t find it helpful. Sometimes, just getting started can reduce their resistance.
Normalize Therapy: Share that therapy is common and helpful for many people, including teens, to manage life’s challenges.
Enlist a Trusted Adult: Sometimes teens may be more open to encouragement from someone they trust, like a coach, teacher, or family friend.
If resistance continues, a consultation with the therapist can help you strategize ways to engage your teen or explore alternative options to support them.
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We offer after school sessions to accommodate your child’s schedule. We do not have weekend availability.
We recognize the unique challenges teens face and honor the diversity of their experiences. Whether your teen is navigating emotional struggles, managing stress, or rebuilding confidence in relationships, we are here to meet them where they are with compassion and expertise.
Your teen deserves a life filled with confidence, connection, and the tools to overcome life’s challenges. By addressing their needs through therapy, they can build resilience, self-worth, and meaningful connections with others.
Proudly serving the Los Angeles community and surrounding areas, we offer both in-person and virtual therapy sessions to support your teen’s growth and healing in a way that fits your family’s needs. Let’s work together to help your teen thrive.