THERAPY FOR FAMILY WITH TEENS IN TORONTO, ONTARIO
Helping your teen manage big emotions and start feeling stable and empowered.
Teenager life can kinda suck sometimes.
And as their parent, you have a front-row seat.
Now they are a teen, their worries are more complicated than just a bruised elbow, an “early” bedtime, or not getting to eat that second piece of chocolate cake.
Angry, Moody, Overwhelmed.
Is Your Teen Going Through Any of The Following Challenges?
Maybe some of the following sound familiar…
They have a short temper or snap at you or others in your family
They have extreme changes in mood
They engage in dangerous or risky behavior like reckless driving, binge drinking, or unsafe sex
They seem to feel shame or failure - often comparing themselves to peers
They feel like no one understands them or what they are going through
Teenagers and parents alike can feel tossed about by the stormy seas of adolescence, often feeling lost and adrift. But even on their “worst” days when they’re angsty, irritated, or shutting you out completely, you love them unconditionally. Don’t give up on them.
And guess what? There's always time to help your teen access the resources they need. Things can always get better.
Therapy for Teens Can Help Your Teen Live A Content Life
It’s possible for your teen to get to a better place. What if your teen could…
Experience a sense of calm.
Develop better abilities to manage what life throws their way.
Acquire skills to communicate even when feeling big emotions.
Express how they feel and what they need.
Maintain focus and keep up in school.
Stay engaged in the real world - not just on their phone.
Let go of perfectionism.
Reasons you may come to see me.
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Co-Parenting
Divorce and separation bring emotional and logistical challenges that can feel overwhelming for both parents and youth. Co-parenting often adds a layer of stress as you try to balance communication, differing parenting styles, and your teen’s well-being. You might worry about how the separation is affecting them or feel unsure how to navigate your own emotions while staying present for them. I work with families to manage the stress of separation, improve co-parenting dynamics, and provide teens with the emotional support they need during this transition. Together, we’ll create a path forward that prioritizes healing, stability, and connection.
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Emotional Dysregulation
The “terrible twos” seem to have stretched into their teens, and tantrums have turned into week-long emotional battles. As a parent, you may feel lost trying to understand their emotional outbursts—especially when there seems to be “no reason” for this behaviour. No amount of boundary-setting, punishment, or quality time seems to make a difference. A therapist who understands the needs of emotionally sensitive youth can help your family identify patterns of disruption and dysregulation. Together, we’ll develop concrete tools for co-regulation and emotional resilience, helping your teen navigate their feelings and your family find balance again.
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Family Conflict
Every family has its struggles, but constant arguments, tension, and misunderstandings can leave everyone feeling frustrated and on edge. Whether it’s clashing personalities, differing values, or recurring disagreements, the conflict is exhausting and leaves you wondering if things can ever feel calm again. I help families unpack the patterns fuelling the conflict and build the skills needed for healthier communication, stronger boundaries, and deeper understanding and mutual respect.
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LGBTQ Youth
Your teen came out to you, or you suspect they might identify as part of the LGBTQ2SIAA community… now what? You may feel worried, confused, or even a little upset, and you’re struggling to understand their experiences. Parenting a teen who identifies under the LGBTQ umbrella requires knowledge, skills, and an open heart. You want to maintain a strong, loving relationship with them, but you’re not sure how to bridge the gap. Everything you say may seem to be wrong. I can help you navigate these uncertainties, fostering understanding, trust, and connection while supporting your teen’s identity and wellbeing.
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Neurodivergent Families
Parenting a neurodivergent teen can feel overwhelming at times. You’re navigating big emotions, sensory sensitivities, or struggles with routines while trying to provide the support they need. Maybe you’re neurodivergent yourself and balancing their needs with your own is taking a toll, or you’re trying to learn what accommodations truly help. I support paretns and teens to create understanding, build effective communication, and develop practical tools to support the unique dynamics of a neurodivergent household.
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"Risk-Taking" Behaviour
Is your teen pushing boundaries with dangerous choices—substance abuse, constantly skipping school, unsafe relationships, or other high-risk behaviours? You’re scared for their safety, unsure how to reach them, and worried about what this means for their future. Teens engage in risk-taking for many reasons, from emotional pain to seeking control, and it can feel impossible to know how to intervene. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of these behaviours and equip both you and your teen with tools for making safer, healthier choices that respects their developmental need for experimentation, while forging a sense of trust between you.
