Why Nutrition Matters

The biological changes children go through during adolescence can often result in depression, mood swings and other unpredictable emotions. The body, including the brain, is growing so quickly at this age.

Even though your teenager may be constantly walking with food, it is very possible they may still be malnourished. Today’s average American diet often lacks the proper vitamins and nutrition for the brain to develop and function properly. This is particularly important for developing minds and bodies.

At Happy Brain Counseling, we believe that often depression and mood swings begin in a malnourished body and brain. For this reason, our counseling always includes a nutritional element.

We coordinate with a professional, licensed nutritionist and we offer a number of resources to help our clients learn more about taking care of their bodies.

In Addition to Proper Nutrition

We also recognize that today’s children and teens live in a very complicated world. Social media can bring unwanted and sometimes unsafe influences into your child’s life and into your home. The desire to fit-in, to excel, to “be cool,” can create enormous pressure on young persons.

Often children and teens don’t have the tools to deal with complicated situation and dynamics in which they find themselves. When that happens, they might not know how to ask for help. They might not even know they need it.

If you notice something “different” about the way your child is behaving, then professional counseling might be a good idea. An experienced counselor can guide a conversation. Here are some of the issues we commonly address at Happy Brain Counseling.

Issues Commonly Addressed

Anxiety

Some teenagers experience intense anxiety. They could be nervous about interactions with certain groups or persons or about answering questions in a classroom. They might also live with a constant worry that bad things will happen. A certain amount of angst is common for most teenagers. However, if what their feeling is creating problems for them, therapy can help.

School Performance

Therapy can help teens navigate a variety of school-related issues, like bullies, failing grades, cliques, difficult teacher relationships. Professional counseling can help provide the tools that could lead to a successful high school experience.

Depression

Depression often begins during adolescence. If left unaddressed, it can continue into adulthood, causing issues with work, relationships and  intimacy. If your teenager seems irritable or withdrawn, professional counseling may be able to help.

Behavior Problems

If your child or teen has experienced recurring suspensions, curfew violations or aggressive behavior, you may need a professional help. These could be the signs of a more serious problem like a skill deficit, or a potential health issue.

Stress

Stress can take a serious toll in a teenager’s life. Therapy can provide a child or teen with life skills they can use to manage stress today, and the rest of their life.

Self-Esteem

Teens with self-esteem issues can be at a greater risk for substance abuse and academic failure. Teen counseling can help to boost a teen’s self esteem.

Grief

Therapy can be helpful for teens dealing with grief. Because they deal with grief a little differently, the loss of a family member of loved one can be particularly difficult during the teen years.

Trauma

Traumatic events like assault, near-death experience, abandonment, can be life-changing for a teen. Therapy can help teens work through traumatic issues, thereby minimizing the impact on a young life.

Affirmations for Children: