School Counselor Wisdom

A gratitude practice has been shown to boost mood, reduce stress, and improve a sense of well-being. What are you grateful for today? Doesn’t need to be huge things - can just be something you appreciated! Scroll for my list.

Making rules is something a parent needs to do. A teen needs boundaries as they learn what's ok and what's not ok. BUT ... if they don't understand WHY you've put the rule in place, they are much less likely to follow it. So, make it make sense. Explain your rationale to them. Even if they don't agree, they are more likely to follow the rule. Or, they will engage you in conversation about it and maybe you'll compromise. Good luck!

My husband (long-time coach) and I (psychologist) have partnered to bring you a course on supporting teen athlete mental health. Link in bio!!

Starting high school is a big deal! And even if your teen wants to play it off, it’s important to know that it still is huge transition. Knowing this can help you keep your cool and be patient with them if they aren’t their best self in the mornings before school or when they get home from school. A lot of teens don’t yet have the emotional vocabulary to fully describe their experience and they are using all of their energy to figure out high school, make friends, and get used to this new routine.