"Although I'm only fourteen, I know quite well what I want, I know who is right and who is wrong. I have my opinions, my own ideas and principles, and although it may sound pretty mad from an adolescent, I feel more of a person than a child, I feel quite independent of anyone." Anne Frank
Adolescence is a time of transition from childhood to adulthood, in which you increasingly become more and more responsible for yourself and for making your own choices.
Parents do not always support your burgeoning independence and it is not unusual for conflicts to emerge in families.
In particular for internationally educated teenagers, it seems to be an anxiety provoking time. As well as all the regular developmental changes you are probably already an expert on loss, of saying good-bye to friends as you and/or your friends move countries and you start over again.
Much is expected of you and sometimes it is hard to juggle it all.
Counselling can provide a safe space to talk about your biggest fears without judgment, to just be you and figure out what’s wrong and how to move forward with greater ease.
"It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities." J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Teenagers often seek counselling because of:
Alcohol or drug abuse Low self-esteem Anxiety Perfectionism Being Bullied Relationship issues and heartbreak Depression Sexual Identity Fears or panic attacks Sleeping Problems Feeling not good enough Social skills Grief or loss Stress or overwhelm Lack of confidence Video game/media addiction Loneliness Worrying (not being able to stop)
“Just when the caterpillar thought the world was ending, he turned into a butterfly.” Proverb