Our counselors provide therapy for children and teens in Greensboro, NC

Asante: My go-to approach for helping people in teen counseling is CBT. I prefer/enjoy/find the best benefit in meeting where they are because having a good rapport with teenagers is key.

Kate: My go-to approach for helping people in teen counseling is using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and a strengths-based approach. I find the best benefit in focusing on improving emotional regulation, addressing negative thought patterns, and building communication skills because it helps teens better understand how their thoughts and feelings affect their actions. This approach empowers teens to gain control over their emotions and make healthier decisions. I also create a supportive, non-judgmental environment that encourages trust, allowing teens to open up more easily. When appropriate, involving family members can further support the teen's progress.

Asante: I teach the following tools in teen counseling:

• Cognitive reframing
• Positive affirmations
• Exploring relationship patterns
• Self advocacy
• Behavior activation

Kate: I teach the following tools in teen counseling:

• Emotion Regulation: Helps teens recognize and manage their emotions in healthy ways, such as using deep breathing or taking a break to prevent emotional outbursts.
• Cognitive Restructuring: Teaches teens how to identify and challenge negative or distorted thoughts, replacing them with more balanced and realistic perspectives.
• Communication Skills: Focuses on helping teens express their thoughts and feelings effectively, both in personal relationships and in school or social settings.
• Problem-Solving Techniques: Guides teens in breaking down challenges into smaller steps, encouraging them to approach problems logically rather than feeling overwhelmed.
• Mindfulness: Encourages teens to stay present and reduce anxious or negative thinking by practicing techniques like meditation or mindful breathing.
• Coping Strategies: Provides teens with practical tools, such as journaling, exercise, or creative outlets, to help manage stress and emotions in a constructive way.
• Boundary Setting: Helps teens learn how to set and maintain healthy boundaries in relationships, promoting self-respect and respect for others.
• Goal-Setting: Teaches teens how to create and work toward achievable personal, academic, or social goals, boosting motivation and self-confidence.

Asante: I know a client is making meaningful progress in teen counseling when they are effectively processing situations, their GAD7 and PHQ9 scores are decreasing, and their confidence has improved.

Kate: I know a client is making meaningful progress in teen counseling when they begin to demonstrate improved emotional regulation, such as handling stressful situations with greater calm and using coping strategies effectively. Progress is also evident when the teen starts to communicate more openly and assertively, both in therapy and in their relationships with peers, family, or teachers. When they show increased self-awareness, recognize their own negative thought patterns, and actively challenge them, it indicates growth. Additionally, meaningful progress can be seen when the teen sets and works toward personal goals, demonstrating greater confidence and a willingness to take responsibility for their actions. A decrease in avoidance behaviors and an increase in engagement in activities or relationships are also strong indicators of progress.

Asante: Clients can supplement their time in teen counseling with using their support system, healthy coping skills, mindfulness, and grounding techniques.

Kate: Clients can supplement their time in teen counseling with the following activities:

• Journaling: Writing about their thoughts and feelings can help teens process emotions, identify patterns, and reflect on their progress outside of therapy sessions.
• Practicing Communication Skills: Applying assertiveness and active listening techniques in conversations with friends, family, or teachers helps reinforce skills learned in therapy.
• Using Coping Strategies: Engaging in healthy activities like exercise, art, music, or mindfulness exercises can help teens manage stress and emotions in constructive ways.
• Setting Personal Goals: Working on small, achievable goals in areas like school, hobbies, or relationships encourages motivation and helps teens develop a sense of accomplishment.
• Engaging in Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness exercises or meditation can help teens stay present, manage anxiety, and reduce rumination on negative thoughts.
• Improving Sleep and Self-Care: Prioritizing good sleep hygiene and self-care habits like regular exercise and balanced nutrition can improve overall mood and mental health.
• Reflecting on Therapy: Taking time to think about what was discussed in therapy and practicing new techniques can deepen their understanding and reinforce progress.
• Connecting with Supportive Friends and Family: Spending time with people who provide positive reinforcement and support can strengthen emotional resilience and boost confidence.

Asante: To prepare for their first teen counseling session, a teen can journal what has been on their mind and present it to the session.

Kate: To prepare for their first teen counseling session, a teen can think about the challenges they are currently facing, whether they are related to emotions, relationships, school, or personal goals. It may help to write down any specific concerns or situations that have been bothering them recently, as this can give the therapist a clearer picture of what they want to work on. Being open to talking and exploring feelings, even if it feels uncomfortable at first, will help them get the most out of the session. They can also reflect on what they hope to gain from counseling, such as improving communication with family or learning ways to manage stress. Lastly, bringing any questions about the process or what to expect in therapy can make the experience feel more approachable and less intimidating.