Articles of Interest
Challenges of “Growing Up”
Beginning in middle school, children begin experiencing extensive change. We watch them physically develop and this is even more apparent in high school. Growth spurts, clothing and hairstyle changes, social changes, friendship changes, interest in dating, and so on.
We need to remember, however, that teenagers (and young adults) are also not finished growing emotionally and mentally. Their brains are not developed and their bodies are raging with growth hormones and other changes. They are still under development or in transition. No child, whether a good student or a challenged student, is exempt. Maybe you notice a change in a kid that used to attend boy scouts in your garage several years ago or was your daughter's best friend for six months in first grade when they discovered they both liked butterflies. Suddenly, this same kid is dressed in high fashion or developed like an adult, or will not look you in the eye and you can't believe that your kid is even the same age, let alone asking to attend a party with this person. You are concerned. So what is a parent to do?
When To See A Therapist
People are usually well versed about going to see a doctor for various physical symptoms. The same is not true for seeking help when the problem is the mind, not the body. Deciding whether to see a psychotherapist can be a new and intimidating experience. This occurs because "seeing a counselor" sometimes carries with it the stigma of some sort of failure or weakness. On the contrary, the decision to seek therapy and reach out to resources carries with it a sign of strength.
Most mental health problems are matters of degree. Fears, aggressive behavior, hyperactivity, and depression can all be normal for certain circumstances. In general, if the behaviors are beginning to interfere with everyday life, it is time to think about seeking professional help.
Some distress signals and situations where therapists can be of help are:
- Feelings of loneliness, isolation, depression and moodiness
- Emotional stress or anxiety
- Child behavior problems
- Unexplained fatigue
- Sleep and eating disturbances
- Excessive alcohol or drug use
- Family conflict or tension
- Divorce or separation
- Illness/death
- Stress of life transitions such as job loss
What Happens In Therapy
Therapy involves a special relationship between people. The therapist receives monetary remuneration in return for a close interpersonal relationship, in which the client's personal needs are paramount. Through a variety of techniques, the client is helped to look at the issues that are of concern. It is a process, and needs a commitment both in time and energy. For children, play therapy is often used. Props, games, art, sand tray and role play are used to act out issues.
Who Should Be Seen
Often, one member of the family exhibits symptoms and prompts the family to seek out a therapist. The desire is to have that person "fixed". Usually, there will be greater success if the entire family becomes involved, since changes in one member affects the other members.
Who To See
There are a variety of professionals who are trained in many therapeutic techniques for dealing with human behavior. A psychiatrist is a physician, who, along with providing therapy, can prescribe medicine. A psychologist, usually a PhD, can provide diagnostic testing, as well as therapy. A Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) are both masters level clinicians who can treat the majority of emotional problems. Intern clinicians are therapists earning their hours toward state board licensure.
Where To go
Many insurance programs dictate who you can see and for how long. This can make it difficult when it comes to choosing. If you have a choice, referrals from friends often work well. Using agencies such as AVCS can be helpful since they are conveniently located, have flexible hours and, most importantly, are affordable (sliding scale fee based on income). At AVCS, our MFT Intern Clinicians see clients of ALL ages: individuals, couples, families and our specialty - children and youth.
Article written by
Rocki Kramer, LCSW
Former AVCS Executive Director
For Additional Articles
Teen Challenges of Growing Up - 2011
View “Teen Tragedies” 12-2009
View “Holiday Stress” 11-2009
View “Handcuffed by Despair” 02-2009
Newsletters
View our 2010 Newsletter
Annual Reports
Referral Sources
So what is available out there for teenagers today? Resources are limited by the economy and the recession. However, there are some services for teens who are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply lost. Most of our school districts provide some school counseling. This on-site, individual therapy is free and convenient, and is tailored directly to the age group. A wonderful starting point for all teens, referrals can then also be made to sliding scale clinics in our community for more extensive work. Groups for teens are also often held at school sites by these same therapeutic professionals. Subjects can range from conflict resolution, anger management, bullying, eating disorders, self-esteem workshops, grief and loss, dealing with divorce, and social skills among many others. Mentoring Programs are also popular at some sites that partner students with one another to form a support system. Parenting classes are an excellent option for parents and guardians to learn how to communicate better with their teens about how to support healthy choices and lifestyles. We need to work hard to put in place a structure that notices when teenagers need help. We need to step up and provide resources to help these kids when they need it.
RESOURCES
Almaden Valley Counseling Service
Sliding scale fee, based upon ability to pay
Telephone#: (408) 997-0200
6529 Crown Blvd. Suite D
San Jose, CA 95120
Y.W.C.A. Counseling Clinic
Sliding scale fee, based upon ability to pay
Telephone#: (408) 295-4011 ext.259
375 S. Third St.
San Jose, CA 95112
ACT for Mental Health
Sliding scale fee, based upon ability to pay
Telephone#: (408) 287-2640
441 Park Ave.
San Jose, CA 95110
TELEPHONE HOTLINES
24-7 Teen Line Telephone#: 1-888-247-7717
Teenage Health Resource Line Telephone#: 1-888-711-8336
California Youth Crisis Hotline Telephone#: 1-800-843-5200
Suicide & Crisis Hotline Telephone#: 1-408-279-3312
How You Can Help
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Contact Us
Almaden Valley
Counseling Center
6529 Crown Blvd., Suite D
San Jose, CA 95120
Phone: (408) 997-0200
Fax: (408) 997-0711
