How do I engage my teen in therapy? Effective approaches to Therapy for Teens
Being a teenager is a complex and multifaceted experience. Whether we're reflecting on our own teenage years, navigating the challenges of adolescence with our current teens, or supporting someone who's raising a teen, many of us have firsthand knowledge of this stage of life.
Teen years are marked by rapid growth, exploration, learning, and forging connections. This whirlwind of change can be overwhelming, not just for the teens themselves, but also for their parents and caregivers.
Given the complexities of adolescence, many parents and caregivers turn to therapy for teens in Olathe, KS to help their teenagers navigate this challenging stage of life. However, getting a teen to fully engage in therapy can be particularly difficult.
While we want to support our teens through this transformative period, finding the right approach to encourage their participation can be a struggle. In this post, I will discuss why it can be challenging to engage a teenager in therapy, why it is important to engage a teenager in therapy, and things parents and caregivers can do to help their teenager engage in therapy.
Understanding the Teenage Brain: How Dopamine and Social Pressures Impact Therapy for Teens Engagement in Olathe, KS
During teenage years our brain is quickly growing and changing. One thing we know about the teenage brain is that there is an increased drive for dopamine (1).
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that affects our emotions, behavior, and movement. It is most associated with feelings of bliss, pleasure, and satisfaction. This heightened drive for dopamine can lead teenagers to seek quick sources of pleasure, sometimes resulting in impulsive or risky behaviors. For example, a teen might have the idea to drive 30 MPH over the speed limit to increase their dopamine quickly and feel excitement and satisfaction.
Because the teen brain is so driven by dopamine levels, they put more value on the positives of this choice (i.e. immediate gratification and excitement) instead of the potential negative consequences of the choice (i.e. getting a ticket or a serious injury).
When we think about attending therapy, we know that dopamine increases take time, effort, and hard work. The teenage brain’s initial viewpoint of this tends to be negative, as it does not fulfill immediate and easy increase of dopamine.
Another element that makes this stage in life challenging is the developmental focus of relationship building. Not only do teenagers tend to be impulsive because of the increased drive for dopamine, but also for social connection.
Peer pressure can lead teens to engage in behaviors they might otherwise avoid, such as skipping class or cheating, just to fit in. Conversely, if there’s a social stigma around therapy or mental health care, it might affect their willingness to participate in family therapy or therapy for teens.
Why Addressing Teen Impulsivity and Addiction Risks Is Crucial for Long-Term Development in Overland Park, KS
Reading about the increased impulsivity and heightened desire for connection in teenagers may be concerning for parents and caregivers. The strong drive for dopamine and the need for social acceptance can sometimes lead to more serious issues than just a speeding ticket or skipping school.
For instance, teenagers are particularly vulnerable to addiction. The immediate dopamine boost from substances like alcohol and drugs can create a dangerous cycle. When the effects wear off, dopamine levels can drop even lower than before, leading to continued substance use.
Adolescence is not just a phase to "grow out of" or "get through." It's a critical developmental stage where new abilities and skills emerge that can shape a person's future. Addressing teen development with a therapist for teens or a family therapist is crucial, as poor decisions during this time can lead to serious consequences or even be life-threatening.
How to Support Your Teen in Therapy: Encouraging Independence and Self-Reflection at our Olathe, KS Counseling Center
It can feel overwhelming to think about how to support your teen and encourage them to engage in therapy. However, there are simple steps you can take to help them navigate this developmental stage more smoothly.
Get Involved in Treatment:
One effective approach is to be involved in their treatment in an appropriate way.
"Appropriate" means finding a balance between being supportive and respecting their growing independence.
Let your teen know you're open to discussing their therapeutic experiences and that mental health care is accepted and normalized in your family.
At the same time, avoid pressuring them to share details if they’re not ready.
Providing them with the right amount of autonomy in their therapy can strengthen your relationship and enhance the benefits they gain from their sessions.
Model Healthy Behaviors
Another way to support your teen and help reduce impulsivity is to model and encourage self-reflection and self-awareness.
These practices can create a valuable space between an impulse and the resulting action.
Activities such as journaling, meditation, goal setting, emotional check-ins, visualization/imagery, and body awareness can help your teen better understand their emotions, behaviors, and motivations.
By modeling these practices yourself, you can influence your teen's willingness to adopt them as well.
Fostering Your Teen's Engagement in Therapy: Balancing Support and Independence
Engaging a teenager in therapy can be a challenging yet essential endeavor. As a parent, you can influence their involvement by adopting a balanced approach—offering support while respecting their autonomy—which can help create a therapeutic environment that feels safe and acceptable to your teen.
Additionally, modeling self-reflection and self-awareness can empower them to develop these valuable skills, further enhancing their engagement in therapy.
At Fortis, my goal is not only to help your teenager navigate this complex stage of life but to support your teen in building a foundation for a healthier and more fulfilling future. Contact our client care team to connect with me as I can help your teenager navigate this complex time through our therapy for teens services and family therapy services.
[1] Siegel, D. J. (2014). Brainstorm: The power and purpose of the teenage brain. Scribe Publications.
About the Author
Ella Nordell-Morris, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ella Nordell-Morris is a dedicated counselor who passionately believes in empowering individuals to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Ella focuses on personalized strategies that address the unique needs of her clients to include anxiety treatment, grief and therapy for teens. Her approach combines evidence-based practices with a deep understanding of emotional well-being, helping people navigate their wellness journeys with confidence and clarity. Through her work at Fortis, Ella inspires others to embrace positive lifestyle changes and cultivate resilience, making a meaningful impact on their overall health and happiness.
Other Therapy Services Provided by Fortis in Leavenworth, Overland Park, Olathe, Ottawa, KS & Throughout Kansas + Missouri
At FORTIS, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments designed to support your journey toward a more fulfilling and balanced life. Our services are customized to address the unique needs of each individual. Understanding that every person's path is different, our counseling offices in Leavenworth, Olathe, Ottawa, Overland Park, KS, and Liberty, MO provide a wide variety of mental health services. Our counseling team is here to help you.
We offer treatments for anxiety, depression, and trauma, including Brainspotting, DBT Therapy, and EMDR. Our expertise extends to couples and marriage therapy, as well as specialized support for children, first responders, veterans, and families. Additionally, we provide Play Therapy, Somatic Experiencing Therapy, Teen Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. Reach out to us today to begin your journey toward healing and personal growth.
