Teen Issues
Teen Issues Counselling
When the teen years tip from difficult into unmanageable, the signs are easier to act on than to explain away.
When the teen years start feeling unmanageable
What teen issues can look like
The teen years bring rapid change, and most teens move through it without serious trouble. But some struggle more visibly: withdrawing from family, reacting to everything with anger, slipping at school, or making impulsive choices with real consequences. Parents often look back afterward and recognize signs they missed at the time or explained away as “just being a teen.”
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How teen counselling builds skills for the whole family
A therapist gives a teen a space outside the family to work through what’s going on, and helps them build the skills for healthier decision-making, especially under peer pressure or strong emotion. Parents are part of the process too, since supporting a struggling teen usually means the whole family understanding what’s happening and how to respond.
You might recognize some of this
You can start where you are.
- Harmful or aggressive behaviours
- Struggling relationships
- Depression or anxiety
- Poor academic performance
- Impulsive decisions made without weighing consequences
- Risky behaviour such as skipping class, cheating, or substance use
- Reckless behaviour such as driving too fast
- Lower self-esteem than peers
This is a description of experiences, not a self-diagnosis checklist.
It may be time to talk to someone
You don't need to be in crisis to deserve support.
Consider reaching out if:
- Your teen's behaviour has changed sharply and stayed changed
- School performance is dropping and effort is not the issue
- You suspect substance use, self-harm, or other risky behaviour
- Conflict at home feels constant or is escalating
- Your teen seems withdrawn, low, or anxious most days
You don't have to decide if it's "just being a teen" before asking someone else to take a look.
Approaches a therapist may draw on
We match the approach to you, not the other way around. Your therapist may draw on one or several, depending on what fits.
Notice the thinking behind impulsive, reactive moments.
Helps teens notice the thought patterns behind impulsive decisions and reactive behaviour, and build steadier alternatives.
Therapists who work this way: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)Bring parents in so the whole household can respond without escalating.
Brings parents into the process so the whole household understands what's happening and how to respond without escalating conflict.
Therapists who work this way: Family Systems TherapyA therapist who fits your situation
Our registered therapists have real experience helping people through what you are facing.
Dr. Cathryn Harris
Registered Psychologist
PhD, C.Psych.
Couples, Families, Individuals
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Dan Watterworth
Registered Psychotherapist
BTh, MDiv, RP
Couples, Families, Individuals
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Gretchen Savery
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
MA, BA, RP (Qualifying)
Families, Individuals
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Hanah Dimitrijevic
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
MA, RP (Qualifying)
Individuals, Families
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Michelle Hodgson
Registered Social Worker
SSW, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Couples, Families, Individuals
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Michelle Pennells
Counsellor and Art Therapist
HBA, DTATI (Thesis Pending)
Families, Individuals
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Common questions
Therapists work with teens on a wide range of struggles, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, behavioural issues, family conflict, and the pressures of decision-making during adolescence.
Adolescence brings rapid physical, emotional, and social change. Catching a struggling pattern early, rather than dismissing it as typical teen behaviour, makes it easier to address before it deepens.
Yes. Therapists often work with both the teen and the parents, helping parents understand what is going on and how to respond in ways that support rather than escalate the situation.
If mood changes, withdrawal, or conflict are persistent and interfering with school, friendships, or family life, it is worth having a professional take a look, even if you are not sure how serious it is.
Care you can lean on
Sessions with our registered therapists are covered by most extended health and workplace benefit plans. Not sure what yours includes? We're happy to help you check before you book.
Sessions typically start at $150 and vary by therapist. Not sure where to begin? Our Intake Specialists can talk through fees, coverage, and which therapist fits what you are facing. Call (905) 319-1488 during business hours.
Ready when you are. We're here to listen.
Browse our registered therapists and reach out when you're ready. We'll usually reply within one business day.