Building Confidence: 3 Empowering Tips for Teenagers to Embrace Who They Are
Building confidence as a teenager can feel incredibly difficult—especially in a world filled with social media pressures, academic stress, and ever-changing identities. Many teens silently battle self-doubt, comparing themselves to others and questioning if they’re “good enough.” But confidence isn’t about being perfect—it’s about learning to accept and trust who you are. As a teen […]
How Can You Talk to Your Teen About Sensitive New Topics?
As teens grow, they become curious about the world and encounter a variety of sensitive new topics. Whether it’s relationships, mental health, or social issues, these conversations can feel daunting for both parents and teens. It’s common for parents to worry about saying the wrong thing or unintentionally pushing their teen away. However, avoiding these […]
Do You Have a Failure to Launch?
If you’re finding it hard to take the next big step—despite knowing it’s time—you might be experiencing a “failure to launch.” Life transitions can be tough, especially for young adults navigating the journey into full independence. Whether it’s moving out, starting a career, or finding your own path, feeling stuck or unsure is more common […]
How to Connect With Your Teen During the Holiday Break
As your teen grows and gains more independence, connecting with them during the holiday break may look different than it did in the past. With many teens focused on socializing with friends, technology, and their own interests, it can be easy to feel distant from them. However, this season also presents a unique opportunity to […]
How Does Social Media Impact Teen Mental Health?
In today’s world, social media has become an integral part of teenage life. From Instagram and TikTok to Snapchat and YouTube, teens are more connected online than ever before. While social media provides a space for self-expression and connection, it can also be a source of stress, anxiety, and pressure. Understanding how to navigate social […]
My Teen is Struggling with Perfectionism! What Can I Do?
Perfectionism can be a challenging and often misunderstood issue for teens. As parents, we want the best for our children, but sometimes, the drive for excellence can turn into an unhealthy obsession with flawlessness. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression as teens strive to meet impossibly high standards—often at the expense of […]
Back to School Perfectionism and Anxiety: How to Manage the New School Year
As the new school year approaches, excitement and anticipation often mix with feelings of anxiety and pressure. For many students, the start of school brings up concerns about meeting expectations, achieving perfect grades, and fitting in socially. These worries can spiral into perfectionism and anxiety, creating an overwhelming sense of dread rather than the joy […]
Steps to Self-Love as an LGBTQ Person
In a world where acceptance and understanding can still feel like rare commodities, the journey toward self-love is especially important for LGBTQ individuals. There is a lot to celebrate in the LGBTQ community, including priceless contributions to human rights, science and technology, and the arts. This journey is not just about feeling good about oneself; […]
Do you have Travel Anxiety? 3 Ways to Manage Your Anxiety When Traveling
Traveling can be an exhilarating experience filled with the promise of new adventures, cultures, and memories. However, for many people, the thought of stepping out of their comfort zone and into the unknown can trigger a deep sense of anxiety. As an anxiety counselor in Woodland Hills, I often hear about the frustration of travel […]
3 Healthy & Flexible Boundaries To Have With Your Teen During The Summer Break
Summer break is a time that many teenagers eagerly anticipate—months without school, in which long daylight hours provide plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation. However, the summer can present a unique set of challenges for parents. Without the structure of school, teens might push limits and test the patience of even the most understanding […]
