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Teen Counseling

counseling services

Breaking the Stigma: Why Counseling Services Are Beneficial for Everyone

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At some point in our lives, we all face difficult situations that can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. These challenges can take many forms, such as relationship issues, financial problems, career uncertainties, or health concerns. In times like these, it’s important to have the right support system in place to help us navigate through the challenges and emerge stronger on the other side. This is where counseling services come in.

Despite the growing awareness and acceptance of mental health issues in recent years, there is still a pervasive stigma surrounding counseling services. Many people view therapy as a sign of weakness or an admission of failure. However, this could not be further from the truth. Seeking counseling services is a courageous and proactive step towards self-improvement and personal growth.

In this article, we will explore the many benefits of counseling services and why everyone can benefit from seeking professional help when needed.

Improved Emotional Well-being Through Counseling Services

Counseling services provide a safe and confidential space where individuals can express their thoughts and feelings freely without fear of judgment or criticism. This can be especially helpful for those who may not have a support system in place or feel uncomfortable discussing their problems with friends or family members.

Talking to a trained therapist can help individuals gain a better understanding of their emotions and how to manage them more effectively. This can lead to improved self-esteem, self-awareness, and a greater sense of overall well-being.

Counseling Services for Stress Reduction

Stress is a common and often unavoidable part of life. However, prolonged stress can have a negative impact on our physical and mental health. Counseling services can help individuals develop coping mechanisms to manage stress more effectively and reduce its impact on their daily lives.

Therapists can teach relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, and other stress-reduction strategies that can help individuals feel more calm and centered in the face of stressors.

Improved Relationships

Relationships are a fundamental part of our lives, whether they are romantic, familial, or platonic. However, conflicts and misunderstandings can arise in any type of relationship, which can lead to feelings of anger, resentment, and loneliness.

Counseling services can provide individuals with the tools and skills they need to improve their relationships with others. Therapists can teach effective communication techniques, conflict resolution strategies, and other skills that can help individuals build stronger, more fulfilling relationships.

Counseling for Career Advancement

Career-related stress is a common issue that many individuals face, especially in today’s fast-paced and competitive work environment. Counseling services can help individuals identify their strengths and weaknesses, set realistic career goals, and develop strategies to achieve them.

Therapists can also provide guidance on how to navigate difficult workplace situations, such as conflicts with colleagues or difficult bosses. This can help individuals feel more confident and empowered in their careers, leading to greater job satisfaction and success.

Improved Physical Health

Mental and physical health are closely interconnected, and poor mental health can have a negative impact on our physical well-being. Counseling services can help individuals identify and manage underlying mental health issues that may be contributing to physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, or digestive problems.

Therapists can also teach individuals how to adopt healthier lifestyle habits, such as exercise, proper nutrition, and stress management techniques, which can improve overall physical health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, counseling services can provide individuals with the support, guidance, and tools they need to navigate life’s challenges and emerge stronger on the other side. Seeking counseling services is not a sign of weakness, but rather a brave and proactive step towards self-improvement and personal growth. We encourage everyone to consider seeking counseling services when facing difficult situations or simply looking to improve their overall well-being. If you are in need of support or have questions about counseling services contact me directly at dro@theteendoc.com or 650-762-9069

teen counseling

Teen Counseling in San Mateo, CA: How TheTeenDoc Can Help Your Teenager

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I don’t know if you remember, but being a teenager can be difficult. As your teenager navigates their way through adolescence, they may encounter a variety of challenges and difficulties that can affect their mental health and wellbeing. As a parent or caregiver, it can be challenging to know how to support your teenager through these challenges, which is where teen counseling with Dr. O TheTeenDoc can help. 

Teen Counseling in San Mateo

At TheTeenDoc, I offer teen counseling services that are designed to provide your teenager with the support and guidance they need to navigate their way through the challenges of adolescence. I am experienced and dedicated to helping teenagers in San Mateo, CA and the surrounding areas, overcome the obstacles they face and develop the skills and strategies they need to lead healthy and fulfilling lives now and in the future.

TheTeenDoc’s Evidence Based Techniques

Through teen counseling with TheTeenDoc, your teenager can work with a licensed counselor to explore their thoughts and feelings, identify the sources of their stress and anxiety, and develop coping mechanisms to help manage these challenges. I use a variety of evidence-based techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and family therapy, to help teenagers develop the skills they need to navigate their way through adolescence and beyond.

Issues Addressed Through Teen Counseling

Some of the issues that I commonly address in teen counseling include anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, academic stress, peer pressure, family conflict, and more. My process is to work collaboratively with teenagers and their families to identify the underlying causes of these issues and develop effective treatment plans that address their unique needs.

Conslusion

If you are concerned about your teenager’s mental health or wellbeing, or if you simply want to provide them with additional support during this challenging time, consider teen counseling with Dr. O TheTeenDoc in San Mateo, CA. I am here to help your teenager develop the skills and strategies they need to lead a happy and healthy life. Contact me today to schedule a consultation.

mental health therapist

Finding the Right Therapist in San Mateo, CA: Your Guide to Getting the Help You Need

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Identify your needs and goals

The first step in finding the right therapist or counselor in San Mateo or any other place is to identify your needs and goals. Take some time to reflect on why you are seeking therapy and what you hope to gain from your therapy sessions. Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you dealing with a major life transition or a traumatic event? Do you want to improve your relationships or build self-confidence? By being clear about your needs and goals, you can narrow down your search and find a therapist who specializes in the areas you need support in.

Consider the type of Counselor and approach

There are many different types of counselors and approaches to therapy. Some therapists may specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy, which focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. Other Counselors may specialize in psychodynamic therapy, which focuses on exploring past experiences and unconscious emotions. Still, other counselors may use humanistic therapy, which emphasizes the importance of self-exploration and personal growth.  There are others that may focus on a certain age group like adolescent or teen therapy.  Research these different types and consider which might be the best fit for you and your needs.

Research potential therapist

Once you have a general idea of the different types of therapist and approaches you are looking for, start researching potential therapist in San Mateo. You can do this by asking for recommendations from friends or family, searching online directories, or contacting your insurance provider for a list of covered providers. Look for therapist who have experience working with the issues you are facing and who use the approach that resonates with you.

Check the credentials and experience of potential Counselors

It’s important to ensure that any potential counselors you are considering is properly licensed and trained. Check their credentials and experience to make sure they have the qualifications and expertise to provide the support you need. You can typically find this information on their website or by contacting their office. Look for counselor who have advanced degrees in counseling or psychology, and who have experience working with clients in a variety of settings.

Schedule a consultation session

Many therapist and counselors offer a free consultation session, either in person, over the phone or virtually. This will help you get to know them and determine if he or she is a good fit for you. Use this opportunity to ask questions and get a sense of their approach and style. Ask about their experience working with clients who have similar needs and goals as you, and how they typically structure their therapy sessions. This can help you determine if they are a good fit and if you feel comfortable working with them.

List of the top 15 questions to ask your potential counselor or therapist

When looking for a potential therapist, it’s important to ask questions that can help you determine if they are the right fit for your needs. Here are the 15 most important questions you should ask:

  1. What is your experience and expertise in treating [specific issue you’re seeking help for]?
  2. What is your approach to therapy? Are you more inclined towards cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, or another approach?
  3. What are your credentials and qualifications? Are you licensed and accredited?
  4. How do you handle confidentiality and privacy?
  5. What is your availability? Do you have flexible scheduling options?
  6. How long is a typical therapy session, and how frequently would we meet?
  7. How do you establish goals and measure progress in therapy?
  8. What is your policy on medication? Do you prescribe medication or work in conjunction with psychiatrists?
  9. Can you provide me with an overview of the estimated duration of therapy for my specific concerns?
  10. How do you handle emergencies or crises outside of regular sessions?
  11. What is your cancellation policy?
  12. What is your fee structure? Do you accept insurance, and if not, do you offer a sliding scale or payment plans?
  13. Can you provide references or testimonials from past clients?
  14. How do you approach cultural or diversity issues in therapy?
  15. Can you explain the boundaries and limitations of the therapeutic relationship?

Remember, finding the right therapist is a personal process, so don’t hesitate to ask any additional questions that may be important to you. It’s crucial to establish a sense of trust and comfort with your therapist, so feel free to discuss any concerns or preferences you may have during the initial conversation.

Conclusion

Finding the right therapist can be a challenging task, but it is an important step towards taking care of your mental health and achieving your personal growth goals. By reflecting on your needs and goals, considering the type of therapist and approach that best suits you, researching potential therapist, checking their credentials and experience, and scheduling a consultation session, you can find the right therapist for you. Remember to prioritize your comfort level and the therapist’s experience in dealing with issues similar to yours. Taking these steps can help ensure that you find a therapist who can provide the support you need to achieve your mental health and personal growth goals. If you have questions or are in need of counseling services in and around San Mateo, California please contact me directly at dro@theteendoc.com or 650-762-9069.

parental alienation

Understanding Parental Alienation and Its Impact on Families

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As parents, we all want what’s best for our children. We want them to be happy, healthy, and to have a positive relationship with both parents. Unfortunately, there are times when parents may intentionally or unintentionally sabotage the relationship between their child and the other parent. This behavior is known as parental alienation and it can have a devastating impact on families.

What is Parental Alienation?

Parental alienation is a process by which one parent manipulates a child’s thoughts and feelings towards the other parent. It can take many forms, such as making negative comments about the other parent, withholding contact or communication, or even lying to the child about the other parent. This behavior can be intentional or unintentional, but the impact on the child and the family can be profound.

The Impact of Parental Alienation on Children

Children who are victims of parental alienation may feel confused, anxious, and torn between their parents. They may feel like they have to choose sides or that they are being forced to reject one parent in order to please the other. This can lead to long-term psychological and emotional issues, such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

The Impact of Parental Alienation on Families

Parental alienation doesn’t just impact the child, it also impacts the entire family. The targeted parent may feel hurt, angry, and powerless to change the situation. The alienating parent may feel justified in their behavior and may refuse to acknowledge the harm they are causing. This can lead to ongoing conflict between the parents, which can further harm the child and create a toxic family environment.

How to Address Parental Alienation

If you suspect that your child is being subjected to parental alienation, it’s important to take action. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Seek professional help: Consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor who can help your family navigate this difficult situation.

  2. Document the behavior: Keep a record of any behavior that you believe is contributing to the parental alienation.

  3. Be proactive: Take steps to maintain your relationship with your child, such as sending cards, letters, or small gifts.

  4. Don’t retaliate: It’s important to remain calm and avoid retaliating against the other parent, as this will only escalate the conflict and harm the child.

In conclusion, parental alienation is a serious issue that can have a long-term impact on families. If you suspect that your child is being subjected to parental alienation, it’s important to take action and seek professional help. By working together, you can help your child maintain a healthy and positive relationship with both parents.  If you are in need of help with parental alienation, divorce counseling or family counseling. please contact Dr. O TheTeenDoc for a free consultation at dro@theteendoc.com or call 650-762-9069.

 

 

 

 

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teens and screens

Teens and Screen Time

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The Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time to about 2 hours and limiting it for children under the age of 2 years old. As a pediatrician that specializes in teens I would have used my knowledge of reading this line to recommend this parameter to your child. However, what we really know of medicine and recommendations is that they don’t work as a blanket statement, they are simply a guide. You have to consider the person in front of you and give them context to truly understand how something like screen time affects a teen. So I would ask you to consider the following situations. 

 

One teen I worked with was doing online school because they were fascinated with stocks. They wanted to be able to do their stock trading while doing school. They had above average grades and were able to make their own income trading stocks. Is this someone I should limit their screen time to about 2 hours when they did both school and their business online. This was an example of me placing this teen in context. 

 

When we get a good history and ask about what is going on for someone and what kind of time they are spending online, we gather more information. Teens who specifically use their phone to distract from emotions or escape their life are at higher risk for having the screen time be detrimental. This is not exactly because of what they are seeing online. If this were the case then the Academy of Pediatrics should just recommend that the images teens see of influencers be diverse in ethnicity, body type and academic pursuits and that they be held accountable for telling the truth. This would allow teens who were scrolling to see someone see a before and after photo of the make-up tutorial without a filter and that would be enough to see that the person was just like them and struggling. Instead, the APA chose to single out the device which can be a helpful tool as it was for the teen who wanted to be a fashion designer and used it to find outfits to copy versus presenting the device as a gateway drug to depression and anxiety. 

 

What I am asking you to do is not consider this some conspiracy to get your teen hooked, but to consider that the phone, ipad or laptop is not the issue. It is a tool. A hammer can break someone’s toe or build a table. I want you to see that it depends on the skill set of the person using the hammer. Teens who would need any limit need it because there is something else going on for them. The phone,  like friends, studying, or weight obsession becomes another way to distract from emotional pain. So when a parent calls me and says, I want you to help me with my teen they spend too much time on their phone. They do not realize they are saying, My teen is so depressed they just scroll through their phone in order to try and forget or escape into another world. There is a big difference. 

 

Teens who feel good about themselves, will find something else to do and those who have emotional health skills will find self-care promoting things to do like go for a walk, be mindful, meditate, or watch something that would increase their emotional well being. But, the phone is like junk food. No one who feels bad about themselves says, I want broccoli. Noooo. They ask for pizza, chips and chocolate. Fat, salt and sugar. Why? There is a dopamine hit with these items. They literally make us feel better like they are a drug. This is the intoxicating effect to someone who doesn’t feel good about themselves before they pick up their phone. 

 

When parents do not understand this, they misread the teens behavior and then make assumptions about the behavior and this unconscious parenting can make the behavior the enemy instead of a symptom or clue to a bigger issue. Please do not misunderstand. Pediatricians do this too. They give you handouts on limiting your teens screen time or how to get your teen off their phone like it is a simple issue and a universal solution. Their limited knowledge in behavioral medicine makes your pediatrician a better source to refer to mental health rather than to solve a mental health problem. The issue is they do not always recognize issues as a mental health problem. This can delay proper treatment and compromise the teen’s ability to function as well as family dynamic. 

 

Early treatment is important, but if a parent or pediatrician makes this symptom of screen time about being a normal teen or oversimplifies the treatment as limiting the screen time to two hours, then the opportunity to understand what is happening for the teen is missed. The parent takes on the position of the authority figure whether it be the pediatrician that says this is just about limiting time or the society that dismisses it as normal rebellious teen behavior. The issue is much more important than that because no teen really wants to feel like they are so depressed and run down that all the energy they have is picking up their phone and letting their thumb move the screen. They too feel worthless and hopeless. They do this to distract from that feeling. They too dislike it so much. The real problem is they do not know what to do because they do not really understand what is happening to them. 

 

Therapy is the answer to this issue. You can try and change it through authoritarian parenting by restricting the time for them in which case they learn to manipulate you to get their “drug” instead of using that energy to get better. So my advice is to look at screen time not as a one size fits all treatment, but a discovery of the teen you live with and be curious as to why they are numbing with a lot of screen time and yes this includes even if their grades are excellent.