The Value of Teen Counseling and Why You Should Seriously Consider It
If you’re a teen, the last thing you probably want to do is go to counseling. As in so many other instances in your life, you may think it’s yet another person telling you what to do. Or, even worse, telling you what you’re doing wrong.
If you are a family member or parent of a teen, the last thing you probably want to do is drag your teen to counseling. Particularly your teen who is resistant to the idea of counseling, doesn’t believe in it, doesn’t have an interest it or doesn’t believe he or she has anything to discuss or explore in teen counseling.
Who wants to deal with that?
Yet, teen counseling doesn’t have to be like that. In fact, a teen counselor who is a great fit would rather work with you to find real solutions. You should seriously consider it. Why?
Here are some of the most important reasons.
Someone Who Will Listen
Like most people, you likely just want someone who will actually listen to you. Perhaps when you think of a counselor, you imagine those who talk and talk. It seems like they would prefer to hear themselves speak, rather than help you.
However, a good counselor knows how to listen. In fact, they are professionally trained to know how to listen. It’s a critical skill that not everyone has (even some therapists!) but that they can develop. Maybe the reason why you’re shying away from counseling or haven’t had it work for you in the past is that you haven’t found the right person who will listen to you.
Getting to Know the Real You
A skilled counselor will also be able to get to know you—the real you. They will be able to do this in an authentic and genuine way that creates a real connection. That’s because they want to help support you to address the issues you’re struggling with.
Aside from being willing to learn from you, the right therapist will also be able to help you to get to know yourself. Not by prying into your private life, but by carefully guiding you to look deeper within yourself and see the aspects of yourself that you may have overlooked.
Respecting Your Wisdom
You’ve probably never heard a therapist, or even many adults, say that they will respect your wisdom. In so many cases, adults discount the lived experiences of teens. Unfortunately, that bias can make it really hard for you to find someone who will not only listen but respect you.
Therapy offers the chance for your true voice to be heard, in a non-judgmental setting. It’s a feeling that can be hard to explain, but you know it when you feel it. There’s just this connection where everything clicks, and it feels like a door has opened up.
Honoring Your Individuality
What makes you an individual is very important. The last thing you want is someone who doesn’t know you’re coming in and saying anything different.
Regardless of your background, an experienced therapist will be able to honor your individuality. In fact, they will be very skilled at taking the life experiences you’ve had and the knowledge you’ve gained to work in your favor. Essentially, unlocking what you already know to help you address your struggles.
It’s All About Understanding
In the end, it’s all about finding someone who both wants to and does understand you. This is what makes any kind of counseling, including teen counseling, so helpful. A compassionate and caring counselor is in your corner. They are willing to hear you and allow you to get whatever bothers you off your chest.
It’s important not to underestimate the value of this experience. You can unburden yourself of your struggles and know that what you discuss with a therapist is meant to help you move forward. And that will prevent those feelings and emotions from coming out in unhealthy ways. Ways that will only harm you in the long run.
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Although the thought of teen counseling can seem bothersome or even intimidating, you shouldn’t quickly dismiss it. With the aid of a skilled, caring, and respectful counselor who understands teens as well as therapy, you have the chance to make this the best thing you ever invested time in.
If you’d like to know a bit more about my personal approach to counseling sessions with teens, feel free to contact me or schedule a consultation.
Teen Counseling in Cincinnati, OH 45040
If you are a teen or a family member of a teen who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, family conflict, ADHD, academic concerns or getting along and connecting with peers, you may benefit from teen counseling at Launch Point Counseling in Mason, OH, north of Cincinnati, OH. To learn more or schedule an intake appointment, please contact Launch Point Counseling.