Our counselors offer counseling for teens in Lakewood, OH

I find it really helpful to meet teens where they are when engaging in therapy. Collaboration allows them to feel seen, appreciated, and respected, which oftentimes creates a stronger rapport and working relationship. We work together to figure out if they need a more structured or flexible approach. We also will engage guardians, parents, and family, when needed.

I use a lot of DBT and psychodynamic techniques, which allow for structured emotion regulation and communication skills as well as the use of analogy, processing, and art to explore the root of varying struggles. I work with a client to find an approach that feels most comfortable and effective for them to express themselves and work through things.

I know a client is making progress when they are engaging in sessions, advocating for what they need, applying skills outside of sessions, and taking initiative in their processing and treatment. I also know when I get positive reports of effective change from their family.

Clients can always supplement their therapy by applying skills learned in therapy, continuing to reflect on things discussed in therapy, and writing down things that come up to bring into session to process or work through.

A client can best prepare for individual therapy by reflecting on what they are prioritizing or wanting to work on and being open and willing to explore and change. Guardians/parents and teens should have discussed and/or reflected on comfort levels of what can be private between therapist and client versus what the parent wants to be informed about outside of risk concerns.