Is This Just Teenage Stuff—Or Something More?

Most parents reach out when they’ve noticed a shift in their teen: changes in mood, behavior, or just a sense that something’s off.
And the first question they ask is:

“Is this normal teenage stuff, or should I be worried?”

It’s not always easy to tell.
Adolescence is a rollercoaster—emotionally, socially, and developmentally. Your teen is trying to figure out who they are, where they fit, and how to handle all the stress life throws at them. But sometimes what seems like a rough patch is something more.

Red Flags to Watch For

• A major change in mood or appetite

• Withdrawing from friends or isolating (not tied to new activities or school year)

• Frequent stress, worry, or panic

• Persistent headaches or stomach aches

• Grief or loss (death, divorce, big move)

• Trouble at school (discipline, failing grades)

• Bullying (as target or aggressor)

• Angry outbursts or destructive behavior

• Losing interest in things they used to enjoy

• Major changes in sleep habits

• Talking about self-harm or suicidal thoughts

If you’ve noticed one or more of these, it may be time to get support.

Helping Teens Thrive: 6 Skills That Make a Real Difference

Big emotions. School stress. Friend drama. Self-doubt.
Teens carry a lot—and often don’t have the tools to cope with it all. That’s where therapy comes in.

I use an approach called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—but don’t worry about the name. It’s just a way to help teens understand their thoughts and emotions without being ruled by them—and to take small steps toward the life they want.

Here’s how it works (in plain language):

1. Making Space for Big Feelings

Instead of pushing emotions down or pretending they don’t exist, teens learn to notice and name them—without letting them take over.
🟢 “It’s okay to feel nervous before a test. That doesn’t mean I can’t do it.”

2. Not Believing Every Thought

Teens often get stuck in self-criticism or worst-case scenarios. We practice stepping back from those thoughts instead of buying into them.
🟢 “Just because I thought I failed doesn’t mean I did.”

3. Being More Present

It’s easy to spiral into “what ifs” or regrets. ACT teaches teens to stay grounded and focus on what’s right in front of them.
🟢 “I’m choosing to stay in this moment, not worry about what people might think.”

4. Remembering They’re More Than Their Emotions

ACT helps teens understand that emotions come and go—but they are still whole, worthy, and enough.
🟢 “I feel anxious today, but that’s not all of who I am.”

5. Finding What Matters

We explore their values—what kind of person they want to be, what they care about—and use those values to guide choices.
🟢 “Being a kind friend matters to me, so I’m going to reach out, even if I feel nervous.”

6. Taking Action (Even When It’s Hard)

Instead of waiting to feel confident, motivated, or “ready,” teens learn to take small, brave steps toward their goals.
🟢 “Trying out scares me—but it matters to me, so I’m doing it anyway.”

Helping Your Teen Build Confidence and Resilience

Therapy isn’t about “fixing” your teen. It’s about helping them understand themselves, build confidence, and learn how to navigate tough moments without shutting down or giving up.

That kind of growth starts with trust—and that’s why the relationship between therapist and client matters so much.
If your teen doesn’t feel safe, seen, or understood, therapy won’t work the way it’s meant to.

That’s why I offer a free 30-minute consultation. It’s a chance for you—and your teen—to get a feel for who I am, how I work, and whether this feels like a good fit. No pressure. Just a conversation to see if we’re the right match.

If you’re wondering what the next step could look like, I’d be glad to talk it through with you. Click below to set up a free 30-minute consultation or a session.