For Teens & College Students

Trauma

Some young adults have had a rough childhood and as life becomes more demanding, they crumble under the pressure. For others there has been a current trauma, such as rape, molestation, or an emotionally abusive relationship. In either situation, Post Traumatic Stress often clouds the mind, making work, school, and relationships challenging. 

Symptoms can last months to years, however, they are curable:

  • Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event
  • Reliving the traumatic event as if it were happening again (flashbacks)
  • Upsetting dreams about the traumatic event
  • Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds you of the event
  • Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event
  • Avoiding places, activities or people that remind you of the traumatic event
  • Negative feelings about yourself or other people
  • Inability to experience positive emotions
  • Feeling emotionally numb
  • Lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed
  • Hopelessness about the future
  • Memory problems, including not remembering important aspects of the traumatic event
  • Difficulty maintaining close relationships

Symptoms of changes in emotional reactions may include:
  • Irritability, angry outbursts or aggressive behavior
  • Always being on guard for danger
  • Overwhelming guilt or shame
  • Self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much or driving too fast
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Being easily startled or frightened


Stephanie uses a combination of techniques to help teens and young adults process trauma so they can better learn, connect with others, manage their emotions, and feel like their old self again. Some of these techniques include Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Art therapy, and Narrative therapy.

Life Challenges

Adolescence and young adulthood bring exponential changes and challenges.

Teens and college students often suffer from  anxiety, depression, impulsiveness, image issues, and emotional instability, leading to a deterioration of relationships and sense of self. Often times parents try to help, but are limited in their ability due to the nature of this age group. By offering a therapist, young adults are able to have an objective, mentor help guide them through these complex issues.  Using a combination of Art Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems approach, Stephanie can guide your youth to a more stable and healthy way of engaging in the world. 

Attachment

Attachment therapy is suited for a teen and family that desire building and enhancing attachment, self-esteem, trust in others, and joyful engagement. TheraPlay techniques are based on the natural patterns of playful, healthy interaction between parent and child and is personal, physical, and fun.