Our counselors offer counseling for teens in Maitland, FL

My go-to approach for teen counseling is solution-focused brief therapy. Depending on the teen, I may use creative methods such as art and games. I prefer solution-focused brief therapy because, with solution-focused brief therapy, teens are asked to draw on their past successes, strengths, and resources to create their desired future. I appreciate the respect this method has for clients — that it is non-judgmental and compassionate. I have also seen the effectiveness of a positive approach to teen counseling. Working with parents is also an important part of any counseling with a teenager.

In teen counseling with solution-focused brief therapy, I help you develop tools and skills based on your current strengths that you can use moving forward. These tools and skills may help you change harmful behaviors, achieve your life goals, and manage difficult situations.

I know a client is making meaningful progress in teen counseling when they see themselves as capable, strong, and wise. A client also is making meaningful progress when they can see a way toward their goals. Most of all, I know a client is making meaningful progress in individual therapy when they are experiencing hope and optimism.

Clients can supplement their time in teen counseling by keeping an eye out for when their problems are less present or gone altogether. The client can then identify what is different about these times, and do more of what is already working. My favorite homework is that which we create/decide on together.

To prepare for your first teen counseling session, parents should be sure to have the informed consent signed by both parents and provide the therapist a copy of any custody agreement if there is one. Teens and parents can reflect on this: From the time you set up this visit to today, what have you noticed that’s already slightly improving? If you have done therapy before, what worked best for you? Teens and parents can also think about your goals for therapy. What would you like to be different in your/your teen's life as a result of the therapy? Don't forget to bring a list of your/your teen's current medications.