During adolescence, the quest for stimulation, depth, adventure, a personal identity, and independence from parents becomes exceptionally strong. It’s essential to create an environment that not only accommodates these needs, but also invites thoughtful exploration of how and where they’re being pursued—among peers, online, in families, and in the wider culture. I help teens and parents slow down quick, one-dimensional explanations of a young person’s distress and instead consider a fuller picture, including questions of belonging, identity, and “fitting in,” so that these longings can be met in healthy, sustainable ways.

The need for attention, self-expression, and the release of tension is crucial for teens. It’s important to create the right structure and strategies to help them move from the intense ambivalence of adolescence toward a more grounded capacity to understand and manage strong feelings. In my work, I help teens and parents notice what’s underneath the tension—anxiety, loneliness, shame, questions of identity or belonging—and find ways to express and work through these experiences that are safe, embodied, and sustainable. This kind of support enables teens to navigate and explore this challenging period without having to turn every feeling into a fixed label or drastic solution.

The desire for power during adolescence is distinct, as it reflects a deep, evolutionary need to recognize and demonstrate one’s value in the world. Likewise, the need for affiliation—finding a place to belong among peers, groups, and communities—is essential for navigating life beyond the safety and limitations of childhood. In my work, I help teens and parents look closely at where a young person is seeking power and belonging (online and offline, in friend groups, causes, or identities), and what narratives they are adopting about what it means to “fit.” From there, we look for small, realistic shifts that support more grounded choices, steadier relationships, and a more livable sense of self over time.