Mental health problems are a growing concern in Canada. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, 1 in 5 people in Canada will experience a mental health problem in their lifetime, and this includes teenagers. In fact, about 20% of adolescents in Canada experience a mental health problem.

There are many different types of mental health disorders that can affect teenagers, including anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, and more. While some teens may be able to cope with these disorders on their own, others may need professional help in the form of counselling or therapy.

If you're wondering whether your teenager would benefit from counselling or therapy, there are some clear signs to look for.

Your teenager may need counselling or therapy if they are:

1. Extreme mood swings that are out of the ordinary

2. Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness

3. Withdrawing from friends and activities they once enjoyed

4. Sudden changes in eating or sleeping habits

5. Acting out in destructive ways, such as through substance abuse or self-harm

6. Unexplained outbursts of anger

7. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

8. Thoughts of death or suicide

If you notice any of these signs in your teen, it’s important to seek professional help.

Why Consider Counseling and Therapy as Treatment Options

Counselling and therapy can provide your teen with the tools they need to cope with their emotions and to make positive changes in their life.

Counselling provides a safe space to express their thoughts and feelings. It can also teach them healthy coping skills and help them to develop a better understanding of themselves.

Therapy can be helpful for teenagers with more severe mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety. In therapy, teenagers can work with a therapist to identify the root cause of their disorder and develop a plan to address it.

How to Find a Qualified Therapist for Your Child

When looking for a qualified therapist for your child, it is important to consider their individual needs and what type of professional would be the best fit. You should also consider the therapist's training and experience in order to make sure they are qualified to help your child.

If your child is dealing with anxiety or depression, you may want to consider a psychiatrist or psychologist. These professionals are trained in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication, while a psychologist cannot.

If your child is struggling with behavioral issues, you may want to consider a counselor or therapist. These professionals are trained in helping people change their behavior. They may use techniques such as talk therapy, behavior modification, or play therapy.

You should also consider the therapist's experience working with children. This is important because they will need to be able to understand and relate to your child. It is also important to make sure the therapist is a good fit for your family.

You can ask your child's doctor for a referral to a mental health professional. You can also search online or look at the phone book. When you contact a therapist, be sure to ask about their training, experience, and credentials.

What Are the Therapies That Can Help Your Child

There are a variety of therapy options available that can help your teen to cope with whatever issues they are facing. These include:

Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Family Therapy
Group Therapy
Arts Therapy
Group Processing
Interpersonal Psychotherapy
Motivational Interviewing

For higher levels of care, you may consider partial hospitalization (PHP) or intensive outpatient. Some doctors may even recommend combinations of programs and therapeutic treatments.

Conclusion

If your teen is experiencing any of the following signs, it may be time to seek counselling and therapy. They can be incredibly beneficial for teens struggling with mental health issues, and can help them get back on track.

At Chettiar Counselling & Associates, we offer teen counselling in Guelph to help parents and teenagers alike. We understand every teenager is unique and will tailor our counselling services to meet the individual needs of each client. We also offer parental counselling to help parents better understand and support their teenager through this challenging time. Let us help you and your teenager navigate this difficult period and come out stronger on the other side. Schedule an appointment with us today!