Teen and family in supportive therapy session, representing healing and connection through teen and family therapy in Castle Rock Colorado

When Your Teen Needs More Than Just Venting

I help anxious, overwhelmed teens in Castle Rock find their steady within. They need skills, not another conversation. Real neuroscience-based tools that actually work - plus parent support to make it stick.

Colorado CounselorTeen SpecialistParent Support

What You Might Be Seeing

Your teen isn't lazy, broken, or unmotivated. They're overwhelmed. And under-supported.

You May Have Noticed:

They're angry or anxious all the time

And you never know which version you'll get

They're withdrawing from everything

School, friends, family - or all three

They're stuck in constant doomscrolling

Shutdown, self-criticism, or endless phone scrolling

You're walking on eggshells

Nothing you try seems to help, and they just don't seem like themselves anymore

You're Not Imagining Things

Maybe they're engaging in self-harm or have mentioned not wanting to be here. Maybe you're tired of walking on eggshells, and nothing you try seems to help.

You're not alone. This doesn't have to be your new normal.

If your teen is overwhelmed and you're not sure what to do next...

You're in the right place.

My Approach to Teen Therapy

Let's be honest, traditional talk therapy doesn't always cut it for teens. Sitting on a couch rehashing problems once a week might feel safe, but it doesn't always lead to change. At Steady Within, I take a different approach.

I Adore Teens

As part of a blended family with six kids (five of them teenagers), former educator, and now therapist, I've built my life around supporting this age group.

But more importantly, your teen will feel that I see them. I don't talk down to them. I don't sugarcoat things, but I am on their team. And they'll know it.

What Makes This Different:

  • โœ“Neuroscience-informed, skills-based approach
  • โœ“DBT, ACT, and trauma-informed care
  • โœ“Minecraft therapy when appropriate
  • โœ“Parent support and nervous system regulation

Teen & Family Support Services

Comprehensive support for teenagers and families navigating the challenges of adolescence and family dynamics.

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Help Your Teen Feel Better, Faster

This isn't about years of talk. It's about giving your teen tools that actually help them feel and function better, fast.

โœ“Learn to calm their nervous system
โœ“Build emotional regulation skills
โœ“Replace self-doubt with confidence
โœ“Get help for anxiety, depression, self-harm
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Minecraft Therapy (When It Fits)

I use what works - conversation, creative work, even Minecraft as a therapy tool. Each session is customized for your teen's personality and needs.

โœ“Engaging therapy in familiar space
โœ“Non-threatening communication
โœ“Creative problem-solving
โœ“Building skills through play
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Parent Support (The Game-Changer)

Because when teens are struggling, lasting change often starts with the system around them. Your ability to regulate your nervous system is the #1 way you can support your teen.

โœ“Learn nervous system regulation
โœ“Support your teen effectively
โœ“Stop walking on eggshells
โœ“Create lasting family change

Minecraft Therapy: A Unique Approach for Teens

Minecraft Therapy (TherapyCraft) is an innovative therapeutic approach that uses the popular video game Minecraft as a creative, safe space for emotional growth and counseling.

What is Minecraft Therapy?

Minecraft Therapy transforms a familiar video game world into a therapeutic environment. Teens who might struggle with traditional talk therapy often find it easier to open up and engage when in the comfortable, creative space of Minecraft.

โ€ขBuilds trust through shared activity
โ€ขReduces anxiety about therapy
โ€ขAllows creative expression of emotions
โ€ขProvides metaphors for real-life challenges

Benefits of Minecraft Therapy

๐ŸŽฎ Engagement

Teens are more likely to participate when therapy involves something they enjoy

๐Ÿ—๏ธ Problem-Solving

Building in Minecraft develops planning, organization, and coping skills

๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ Communication

Side-by-side gaming reduces pressure and makes talking easier

๐ŸŽจ Creativity

Creative expression helps process emotions in a non-threatening way

Understanding Teen Mental Health

The teenage years bring unique challenges - from academic pressure to social dynamics to identity formation. Professional support can make a significant difference.

Common Teen Challenges

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Academic Pressure: School stress, test anxiety, college preparation, and performance pressure
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Social Challenges: Peer pressure, social anxiety, friendship issues, and social media stress
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Identity & Self-Esteem: Self-image, body image, identity exploration, and confidence building
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Family Relationships: Parent-teen conflict, boundary setting, and communication challenges
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Future Anxiety: College decisions, career planning, and uncertainty about the future

My Background with Teens

With my background in education and extensive experience working with teens and young adults, I understand the unique pressures facing today's teenagers. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where teens can express themselves and develop healthy coping strategies.

โœ“Masters in Education background
โœ“Former teacher experience
โœ“Extensive coaching with young adults
โœ“Understanding of adolescent development

My Approach to Teen & Family Therapy

Family therapy focuses on improving communication, understanding different perspectives, and building stronger, healthier relationships.

Family Therapy Goals

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Improve Communication: Help family members listen to and understand each other better
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Resolve Conflicts: Develop healthy ways to handle disagreements and solve problems
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Strengthen Bonds: Build trust, connection, and positive family dynamics
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Balance Independence & Connection: Support teen autonomy while maintaining family closeness

What to Expect

Initial Assessment

Understanding family dynamics, challenges, and goals

Skill Building

Learning communication techniques and conflict resolution strategies

Practice & Integration

Applying new skills in real-life situations with ongoing support

Maintenance & Growth

Continued support as family dynamics evolve and improve

Ready to Get Started?

Because your teen deserves more than just talking through problems once a week. They deserve therapy that builds emotional strength, real skills, and lasting change.

We'll start with a free 15-minute consultation to talk about your teen's needs and whether we're a good fit.