Our counselors offer counseling for teens in Duluth, GA

My preferred approach to counseling teens combines client-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). In client-centered therapy, I establish a nonjudgmental environment where teens can openly express their thoughts and feelings. This fosters a sense of being heard and understood. CBT techniques are introduced to help teens identify and address any distorted beliefs that lead to distorted thought patterns. This combined approach aims to enhance self-awareness and empower teens to use beliefs to navigate their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors more effectively. I also assist in guiding teens through the exciting and challenging transition into adulthood.

I educate teens about the concept of ego personality and its dynamic flow. By understanding that beliefs significantly influence their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, teens begin to recognize the power of their perspectives on situations and people around them. I emphasize to teens that small changes in their perspectives can lead to significant improvements in their overall quality of life.

I can observe a teen’s progress when they become more confident in their capacity to manage their emotions independently by constructing a healthy belief paradigm. Progressing teens show increased awareness of unhelpful beliefs and develop the ability to choose alternative beliefs that better serve their growth and well-being.

To supplement therapy sessions, I encourage teens to constantly work on challenging and replacing their unhelpful beliefs with more helpful ones. Referencing the structure of the cognitive behavior triangle can aid them in understanding how their perspectives on situations and people directly influence their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I encourage teens to expand their social network and deepen their connections that will help support them in adulthood.

A teen can prepare for their initial therapy session by understanding the counselor's role in creating a secure environment for open and honest expression. Collaborating with the counselor, they work toward improving overall well-being. Teens can reflect on their personal narratives before the session to identify significant themes for discussion. Moreover, doing some research on cognitive behavioral therapy to understand the structure of our thought patterns can be helpful.