Counseling for creative, thoughtful teens in search of identity
High school means high stakes, socially, academically, and at home. You are sorting through who you are and who you want to be in the middle of pressure from family, friends, and maybe even yourself. College decisions loom. You are ready for independence, and you’re also worried about what happens when (if?) you do head out into the world.
As a teen therapist, I have a lot of experience counseling teens who are feeling hopeless, anxious, and depressed. I am able to be present when it feels like things will never get better and help you see the good within you. I also support you as you advocate for what you want and need with parents, friends, and teachers.
Counseling for teens who feel out of place
I resonate most with teens who are creative, thoughtful, and feel like they don't fit in. Usually these feelings of being forever out of place contribute to anxiety and depression. It's hard to feel good about yourself when connecting to others seems out of reach. Together we create a strong and healthy sense of self that allows you to be more comfortable in the world.
How our counseling sessions work
My approach to counseling is flexible and based on your needs. Generally, we decide upon a regular weekly meeting time. After a few sessions, we think together about what works best for you. You may just need a space to talk about what is on your mind. Or maybe you would benefit from identifying coping strategies that fit your personality. We might decide to use art to process and navigate your feelings. Therapy could include all or any of these approaches.
We talk about what is on your mind. I don’t listen passively, but think with you about what may be going on under the surface and what would help.
Depending what you are interested in, I integrate art into our sessions, such as collage, altered books, and drawing prompts. Sand tray (sometimes called sandtray or sandplay therapy) can also be a fun way to see what might be going on under the surface for you in ways that can be surprising.
For more information about my approach, read my post about how I work relationally with teens.
The role of parents in therapy
If you are in your mid-to-late teens, independence and launching into adulthood is key. My contact with your parents would likely be minimal. If you are a bit younger, you are likely beginning the process of becoming your own person. In this case, I may check in with your parents every few months.
Making an appointment
I see teens in person at my downtown Berkeley office, within walking distance of Berkeley High. I also counsel teens virtually in the Bay Area and across California. Use my contact form to schedule a 20-minute complimentary session to see if we’re a good fit.