Growing up isn’t easy. For many kids and teens, it can feel like they’re constantly being asked to manage more than they know how to handle—whether that’s the stress of school, friendship struggles, family changes, or just trying to make sense of who they are.

My work with young people focuses on helping them feel heard, supported, and better equipped to navigate the challenges in front of them. Together, we create a space where they can be themselves, figure things out at their own pace, and learn tools that actually work for them.

Common Reasons Families Reach Out

Many kids and teens come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or misunderstood. These are some of the most common challenges we work on together:

• School challenges – things like procrastination, missing assignments, difficulty concentrating, or feeling constantly behind even when they’re trying hard

• Friendship struggles – not knowing how to join in, feeling left out of group chats or social events, or having friendships that feel confusing, one-sided, or draining

• Family transitions – such as adjusting to a parent’s new partner, living in two households, or changes in routine that feel destabilizing

• Anxiety and stress – racing thoughts before bed, avoiding certain situations or people, panic about school performance, or feeling tense and on edge much of the time

• Self-criticism and low self-esteem – calling themselves “stupid” or “lazy,” comparing themselves to others, or struggling to name their own strengths

Each young person’s experience is different, but therapy can help them make sense of what they’re feeling and learn ways to cope that actually fit who they are.

A Flexible, Creative Approach

Not every young person wants to sit on a couch and talk—and that’s okay. Therapy can include creative approaches like drawing, using metaphors, movement, mindfulness, or even just having a calm space to think things through out loud. I adapt my approach based on what works best for them.

My priority is creating a space where your child or teen feels safe enough to show up as themselves, explore what’s going on, and grow at a pace that’s right for them.

What Progress Can Look Like

Therapy isn’t about fixing your teenager—it’s about helping them feel more confident, connected, and capable. Here are some signs that things might be shifting in a positive direction:

• They’re able to name what they’re feeling (even just a little more clearly)

• They’re trying new ways to cope with stress or big emotions

• They recover more quickly from overwhelm or meltdowns

• They start setting small boundaries with friends or family

• They show more self-compassion when they make mistakes

• They seem more willing to talk, ask for help, or advocate for themselves

Progress can be slow and subtle at first, but these small steps often lay the groundwork for lasting change. Therapy is a process, and I walk alongside your child or teen with patience, curiosity, and deep respect for who they are.