Most parents would agree that the school year is typically a very stressful time for children and teenagers. Not to mention the emotional toll it can place on parents having to manage and juggle it all. Balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and your child’s social life can often feel overwhelming for the entire family unit.
Although summer can be a wonderful time to decompress, one thing in particular I have noticed over the years is that the summer presents a wonderful opportunity to address any particular issue your child is experiencing. I find that children and adolescents are often more focused and engaged due to the limited number of distractions during the summer months. Beginning therapy in the summer to address areas of concern also presents a great opportunity to prepare your child for the upcoming school year.
Some parents may not be fully aware of some of the social issues or academic pressures their child may be experiencing during the school year. Providing your child the opportunity to confide in a therapist can help them work through resolving inner conflicts they may be experiencing. Children and teenagers sometimes do not feel comfortable discussing certain things with their parents that they are struggling with. One of my main goals when working with children and adolescences is to foster and improve channels of communication within the family system.
I recognize that every child and adolescent is unique and use an individualized approach to treatment. I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative one, and will work with you to create an action plan that specifically addresses your particular needs. It is my goal to provide a safe, secure, and confidential environment where your family can share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or blame.
Dr. Scott Koenig, Psy.D.