Adolescent Therapy Services in Fairfax

According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, one in five children in America has a mental, emotional, behavioral, or developmental disorder. It’s estimated that only 20% of these children will receive treatment from a mental health professional. I am a therapist in Fairfax, Virginia for adolescents, children, teens, individuals and parents. I’m proud to announce I’m accepting clients.

Adolescence is a time of significant transition for most youth. Partly due to hormonal fluctuations, mood changes are common during puberty. If your child has significant behavioral issues or mood swings that negatively impact their self-esteem or relationships with friends and family, it may be time to consider speaking with a therapist. I’d be happy to speak with you or your child. I am a Fairfax therapist specializing in adolescent counseling. 

Recognizing Warning Signs for Teen Talk Therapy

Identifying when a teenager may benefit from talk therapy is crucial. If your child’s behavior is preventing them from fully participating in school and other social activities, therapy can help. Depression in children and adolescents may manifest as irritability or angry outbursts. Social withdrawal, a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, and sudden changes in sleep and appetite are also indicators of a mental health concern. Here are some additional warning signs to watch out for:

1. Persistent Mood Changes: Extreme mood swings, prolonged feelings of sadness, irritability, or anger that impact daily life.
2. Behavioral Changes: Sudden changes in behavior, such as increased aggression, defiance, impulsivity, or risk-taking behaviors.
3. Social Withdrawal: Isolating themselves from friends and family, avoiding social activities they once enjoyed.
4. Academic Struggles: Decline in academic performance, lack of motivation, or difficulty concentrating.
5. Physical Symptoms: Complaints of unexplained physical ailments like headaches or stomach aches, which may be linked to emotional distress.
6. Substance misuse: Experimentation with drugs or alcohol, or using substances as a coping mechanism.
7. Traumatic Events: Difficulty coping with traumatic experiences like loss, divorce, abuse, or other significant life events.
8. Self-Harming Behaviors: Engaging in self-harm, expressing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, or a preoccupation with death.
9. Anxiety and Stress: Overwhelming anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, or excessive worry affecting daily functioning.
10. Eating Disorders: Significant changes in eating patterns or body image concerns that indicate the need for professional support.

If your child makes statements about harming themselves, take it seriously. This is often a cry for help. Self-harming behaviors may be used to cope with overwhelming emotional states. 

Options for Therapeutic Support for Teenagers in Virginia

I am proud to offer the following types of therapy. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

• CBT is a goal-oriented, present-focused therapy that aims to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
• It focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and how they influence each other.
• CBT is structured and often involves homework assignments to practice new skills outside of therapy sessions.

Narrative Therapy:

• Narrative Therapy is a collaborative approach that separates a person from their issues, helping them externalize and re-author their life story.
• It emphasizes the importance of understanding the stories we tell about ourselves and how they shape our identities and actions.
• Narrative Therapy views problems as separate from individuals and seeks to empower individuals to rewrite and create new narratives that align with their values.

Multicultural Therapy:

• Multicultural Therapy recognizes the importance of cultural factors in shaping an individual's worldview and experiences.
• It aims to understand how cultural background, beliefs, and values influence an individual's mental health and well-being.
• Multicultural Therapy emphasizes the need for therapists to be culturally competent, respecting and integrating diverse cultural perspectives into the therapeutic process.

Teen Counseling Services in Fairfax

Taking the first step to start therapy is hard. As an adolescent mental health therapist in Fairfax County, I would be honored to partner with you on the journey. Contact me today for a free consultation to discuss whether I may be a good fit to support your child’s unique needs. In case of an emergency, always prioritize safety. If immediate assistance is needed, contact 911, 988, or proceed to the nearest emergency room without delay.