Adolescence is a confusing time. It’s when teens start to figure out who they are, what they believe, and where they fit in. It’s also when their brains are developing in ways that affect their behavior, emotions, and decision-making.
For parents and caregivers, their child’s teen years can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. But with the right approach, you can help guide your teen through these challenging years.
Understanding the Changes They’re Facing
Teens are not just “little adults.” Their brains are still developing, especially the parts responsible for impulse control, decision-making, and emotions. The prefrontal cortex, which helps with planning and reasoning, isn’t fully mature until the mid-20s. Teens may act impulsively, struggle with big decisions, and react emotionally in ways that seem out of proportion.
In addition to brain development, adolescence is a time when teens experience bodily changes, hormonal shifts, and a growing sense of independence. These changes can cause confusion and stress, both for teens and for the adults in their lives.
Facilitating Open Communication
Building a foundation of open communication is one of the most important ways you can support your teen. This doesn’t mean interrogating them every time they walk in the door, but it does mean making it clear that you’re a safe person to talk to when they need guidance.
Start by listening (and reading between the lines) to what your teen is saying without interrupting or offering solutions right away. Teens often need to express themselves, even if they aren’t asking for advice. By simply being present and attentive, you’ll create a space where they feel heard and understood.
Setting Boundaries with Consistency
While it’s important to give your teen some independence, boundaries are still necessary. Teens need structure and rules to help them navigate their growing freedom. The key is consistency.
Establish clear expectations around areas like curfew, grades, chores around the house, and how they treat others. It’s also essential to follow through on consequences. If you say there will be a consequence for breaking a rule, make sure it happens. This teaches responsibility and respect.
Encouraging Healthy Friendships
Teenagers are heavily influenced by their peers. Friendships can provide both support and stress, so it’s important to help your teen navigate these relationships. Remind them that healthy relationships are those that make them feel good about themselves, not those that pressure them into bad behaviors.
If you notice your teen struggling with a toxic friendship, you can open the door to a nonjudgemental conversation about it. If the friendship is indeed harmful, support them without making them feel forced to cut ties.
Supporting Mental Health
Adolescence is also a time when mental health challenges can emerge. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common, and teens may not always have the tools to manage their emotions.
As a parent, it’s important to recognize the signs of mental health struggles, such as changes in mood, withdrawal from activities, or changes in sleep and eating patterns. If you suspect your teen is struggling, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapy can offer a space for your teen to explore their feelings and learn coping strategies.
It’s also helpful to model healthy coping mechanisms yourself. Show your teen how you manage stress, prioritize self-care, and reach out for support when needed. They learn a lot from watching you, so demonstrating emotional resilience can have a lasting impact.
Final Thoughts
Helping your teen through adolescence is not always easy—but with patience, you can support them as they grow into confident, independent young adults. Look at the teen years as a time of growth and discovery! By staying connected and present, you can help them navigate this stage of their life.
Teen Counseling in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Online Arizona
If your teen could benefit from meeting with a therapist please reach out. Our team of therapists work with teens struggling with anxiety, relationships, depression, and with teens who just need some extra support. We are happy to offer services from our Phoenix, AZ-based practice and Scottsdale. Your teen can also meet with a therapist online anywhere in the state of Arizona. You can start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:
- Contact Crossroads Counseling
- Meet with a teen therapist
- Get help for your teen
Our offices are located throughout the valley with counseling centers located in Phoenix, Anthem, and Scottsdale. Call us at 623-680-3486,text 623-688-5115, or email info@crossroadsfcc.com. We offer a complimentary 20-minute phone consultation to answer your questions and better understand how we can help you. Contact us to learn more about the variety of mental health services that Crossroads Counseling offers.
