Seeking help from a psychologist is rarely at the top of a teenager’s priorities. Adolescents often struggle to recognize when they might need professional support, even if they are experiencing psychological symptoms. During this critical stage, parents play a vital role in noticing signs of emotional or mental distress and guiding their child toward appropriate care.
Many parents ask during initial consultations whether their child’s challenges are typical adolescent fluctuations or something requiring attention. If there is uncertainty, consulting a professional is always a good step. Addressing psychological concerns early can prevent more serious emotional, mental, or relational difficulties later in life.
For both younger and older adolescents, the assessment phase involves psychodiagnostic evaluations, similar to those conducted with younger children (see Child Therapy). However, in adolescent therapy, one of the initial sessions includes both the adolescent and their parents together. As teenagers increasingly engage with the world outside the home, they gain new resources but also face vulnerabilities in more areas. While they may outwardly dismiss parental input, research consistently shows that parental love and emotional support remain crucial—whether or not teenagers openly acknowledge it.
In my adolescent therapy work, regular consultations with parents are an integral part of the process. This collaborative approach ensures that the adolescent receives support not only in therapy but also within their family environment.
FonteKert Budapest
H-1163 Budapest, Bodnár u. 48/A
bernadett@raposa.hu
+36 30 120 0430