School

How are you feeling about the pandemic that initially seemed like a dream come true—school out forever, and homeschooling on Zoom meant more time for your PS5? I mean, who wouldn’t think that turning off the camera would make it easy to game all day? Pshhh, what a joke, right? The excitement quickly faded when reality hit, and suddenly those endless Zoom classes became a challenge.

Now, as we’re transitioning back to in-person school, I know it can feel overwhelming. The prospect of seeing classmates face-to-face again, not wearing masks, and navigating all those social dynamics can stir up insecurities. You might find yourself questioning how to reconnect or wondering if things will ever feel “normal” again. As a therapist who works with teens, I completely understand these feelings, and I want you to know that it’s perfectly okay to feel this way.

But here’s the good news: you’re not alone in this. Together, we can find ways to cope with these changes, build confidence, and even share a few laughs along the way. Let’s work together to make sense of this wild ride, because I promise you, there’s light at the end of the tunnel—and maybe even a few power-ups to help you level up in this new school experience!

Social Interaction’s

Are you feeling that paralyzing fear of interacting with others? It’s completely normal, especially after a period of isolation. Navigating social relationships during your teen years can be daunting, whether it's dealing with the relentless harassment from mean kids or feeling overwhelmed in new situations. You might find yourself avoiding people or places just to escape that anxiety, and who can blame you?

For some teens, the fear of speaking in front of others can be crippling, and worries about judgment from peers can make everyday interactions feel like a high-stakes performance. Eating in front of others? That can become a source of anxiety all on its own. Public places can feel like a social media feed on overload, filled with the pressure to conform and the fear of being scrutinized. It can be exhausting to wear a mask just to fit in, especially when the real you feels stifled beneath all that expectation.

Anxiety and Depression

Are you feeling that paralyzing fear of interacting with others? It’s completely normal, especially given the overwhelming number of teenagers grappling with anxiety and depression today. Many of you might be missing the carefree days of childhood play and friendships that felt more genuine. As you transition out of elementary school, it can feel like everything changes—friends drift apart, new dynamics emerge, and the isolation of being a teenager can be suffocating.

You may find yourself feeling alone, especially when it seems like your parents don’t understand your struggles or get frustrated with you for not conforming. For those dealing with issues at home—like substance abuse, yelling, or even domestic abuse—the challenges can feel insurmountable. Watching peers start to date while you feel left out only adds to the weight on your shoulders. And let’s not forget the constant worry of lockdowns at school due to potential threats, which can make even the safest environments feel terrifying. Sneaking out might feel like the only way to escape, but even that can come with its own fears.

Life has thrown a lot at us—fires, mudslides, and the loss of loved ones, all while expectations remain high. Staying in your room may seem like the safest place on earth, but is it really? In our sessions, we can navigate these complex feelings together and work on building the confidence and skills you need to face the world outside. You don’t have to carry this weight alone; let’s explore how you can embrace your authentic self and find a way forward.