Treating Adolescent Concerns

Adolescence can be a confusing time for teenagers and their parents. Increased irritability and a determination to keep information from parents are typical. So how do parents know when a teenager may actually need professional help? At Chestnut Hill, we understand your teenager's need for privacy. We also understand the concerns of parents especially in light of the risky and harmful behaviors that we often see in teenagers. At Chestnut Hill, a professional who specializes in adolescent concerns will evaluate whether or not there is a need for assistance.

• First, one of our adolescent therapy specialists meets with you and your adolescent. Parents are asked to share their concerns with the therapist, and the adolescent is interviewed privately so personal concerns and special circumstances can be acknowledged. Relevant medical and educational information will also be gathered. At the end of this meeting the therapist will provide feedback to the adolescent and family regarding whether or not treatment is recommended.
• Next, the therapist works closely with the parents and the adolescent to design and implement the best treatment program tailored to the teenager's individual needs. This program will target those areas of greatest concern to the parent and the teenager and may include individual therapy and family therapy.
• If a substantial mood disorder is diagnosed, including adolescent depression, the therapist will inform the family about additional treatment options which may include a referral to one of our medical providers for medication. This decision is always made with parents and teenagers as active participants in the process. Your therapist also welcomes active participation by your adolescent's physician in whose judgment you have come to trust.

As a result of treatment, parents can generally expect to understand how to meet his/her child's specific needs more effectively. Family communication is likely to improve. And most reassuringly, an adolescent will usually like him or herself a whole lot better. Adolescence can be a complicated and difficult time, but it also can be a time of tremendous social, emotional, and intellectual growth.

Adolescents are constantly making choices that impact on their futures. If an adolescent is troubled and without professional help, he or she can make decisions that result in problematic, sometimes disastrous, consequences. Let us help a teenager take positive control of his or her life.