ADOLESCENT THERAPY

Adolescence represents a real transition between childhood and adulthood. Adolescents are mid-way between children, marked by emotional and physical dependence on parents, and adulthood where autonomy is expected. In therapy, this is then marked by a deep desire to be heard intertwined with dependency issues. Adolescence is characterized by a period of physical changes, an identity crisis where the existential questions arise. In this delicate period where the adolescent becomes acutely aware of how he is perceived by his peers and physical transformations come surging, the adolescent might express his discomfort through risky behaviors. The propensity to move on to action is one of the preferred ways to resolve conflict. Some adolescents suffer in silence, isolate themselves, withdraw from others. During adolescence, conflicts are expressed with great tenacity. Some changes in behavior to consider include: withdrawal, isolation, disengagement from others, or on the contrary, over-investment with the group to the detriment of other activities, drop in grades, risky behavior, morbid interests, suicidal thoughts, eating disorder, stealing, running away from home, and any addictive behaviors (alcohol, drugs) which should alert parents or other caretakers.

Treatment approaches vary based on the adolescent, his level of maturity (emotional and intellectual), and the specific situation. In the same way that adolescence is an intermediary point between childhood and adulthood, the approach and the strategies utilized will vary and be a combination of child therapy and adult therapy.

During the first consultation, parents are invited to meet alone in order to better identify the expectations and to explain the therapeutic approach. It is then useful to explain to the adolescent that the psychologist is someone neutral who may be trusted under confidentiality rules. It is also important to emphasize that the adolescent is welcome to meet only once to get a better sense of what therapy involves and whether this is a comfortable process for him. The adolescent must feel confortable with the psychologist for progress to be achieved. Following this initial consultation, the next steps are determined, particularly if the adolescent wishes to engage in therapy. It is essential to the effectiveness of therapy that the adolescent be an active participant and fully engage with the work. During the therapy sessions, the adolescent attends sessions alone. If necessary, intermediary meetings can be arranged with the parents to touch base or discuss specific issues. These meetings are scheduled by request, either by the psychologist, the adolescent, or at the demand of the family. Adolescent psychotherapy is primarily a place in which to let go of pain and suffering. Through the exploration of feelings, the adolescent is able to understand his behavior, gain self awareness, and attribute meaning to his concerns. It is my role to accompany him through this process and help him find his own path.

My work with adolescents includes:

1.    Asking questions and exploring points of confusion in a non-judgmental, warm and caring place. It is a place of freedom where the adolescent can release his pain.

2.    By uncovering his emotions and feelings, he can attribute meaning to his actions and  take some distance from his experience.

3.    A caring presence, therapeutic guidance, and attentive listening allow the adolescent to find his own path and identity.

4.    The therapeutic space is designed to allow him to identify with a trusted adult. The interpersonal relationship is very important.

5.    This framed and limited space helps him contain himself, his feelings, and his behavior.

6.    Therapy with the adolescent takes root in the "here and now", the day-to-day life, the current concerns.

Fields of intervention:

  • Risky behavior
  • Depression, suicidal behaviors
  • Bereavement
  • Addictions (alcohol, drug, video games, internet)
  • Difficulties in school, anxiety 
  • Interpersonal issues (parents, teachers, friends)
  • Sleeping issues (nightmares, insomnia)
  • School Orientation, preparation for examinations
  • Questions around sexuality, gender, identity