Parenting

Parents always worry about their children and particularly adolescent and teenage issues can be more frustrating. You want to distinguish between what is normal adolescent angst and something that might need some extra attention.

Your child may be facing some of these issues:

• Trouble at school
• Feeling socially isolated
• Feeling pressure from peers who are acting out
• Body image issues

Or it may be that your child is being affected by some of the problems that you adults are dealing with.

Your kids are most likely dealing with a whole new set of issues that you yourself are still trying to figure out. The world of facebook relationships, communication through texting, virtual friends. Even though they are growing up with it in a different way, it can still be pretty overwhelming.

As a psychotherapist who has worked extensively with families, I know what skills you need to face these issues without feeling overwhelmed and angry all the time. I can get you back in touch with the strength you already possess and guide you to find positive, not negative strategies that can get you all to a place that feels better. It may feel like it is, but nothing is insurmountable. We can find solutions so that your lives are more enjoyable and your transitions more peaceful.

Meeting with the child or teenager will be important. I have found in my experience with this age group that once they understand that our relationship is one of confidentiality and it is a relaxed, sometimes actually fun, environment, they can open up. I will bring in other family members if need be, to observe family interactions and ways of communication. This may be just what you all need-someone to help you figure out a more loving less tension filled way to talk to each other. And don’t worry — we will laugh along the way.

My office is on New York’s Upper West Side. I’d love to hear from you so that we can discuss how my services can benefit you.