Over the years working with teens, I’ve been struck by the complexities of this generation's world and their resiliency and ability to self-advocate when given the resources and opportunity.

The brain’s pathways remodel dramatically during the teenage years. The part of our brain, the prefrontal cortex, that calms us and helps us draw from experiences to make rational decisions isn’t fully developed until we’re 26. Studies now show that this renovation project in our brain starts with the limbic system, heightening the brain’s emotional sensitivity during those years.  Add in the drop in dopamine levels, the happy chemical in our brain, which ultimately is needed to help teens take risks and build autonomy, and you start to understand why teens are so unpredictable.  They have a lot going on!  And that’s just one part of all of the changes.  

My job is to normalize their experience, listen, empathize, problem solve, and help build skills to regulate their emotions.  To let them know they are capable and whole.  I work to create a trusting relationship, as equal partners, in the effort to make sense of whatever has brought them my way.  Together, we work to understand who they are as individuals, how to navigate their ever-changing landscape, and explore who they want to be moving forward.