Queen’s University Internship
As a mental health counsellor at Queen’s Student Wellness Services during the 2024-2025 academic year, I worked closely with students navigating the transition to adulthood. Many of my clients reflected on the challenges they faced as teenagers, giving me valuable insight into the struggles young people experience—academically, socially, and emotionally.
Ontario Certified Teacher
As an Ontario Certified Teacher with experience working in school boards across the province, I have firsthand insight into the academic pressures, social dynamics, and emotional challenges that teenagers face in educational settings. I understand the complexities of peer relationships and the impact of school-related stress on mental health.
Broad Experience Supporting Teens
I have worked with teenagers in various settings beyond schools, including running summer camps, facilitating after-school programs, supporting teens experiencing family violence in shelters, and working with youth from diverse backgrounds in the immigration and refugee resettlement sector.
Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868
or text CONNECT to 686868
Supporting Teen Mental Health
Here are some of the common challenges I help teenagers navigate in therapy.
Emotional and Mental Health
- Anxiety and excessive worry
- Depression or persistent sadness
- Low self-esteem and self-worth
- Coping with stress and academic pressure
- Emotional regulation and mood swings
Behavioural and Social Challenges
- Anger management and impulse control
- Risk-taking behaviours (substance use, self-harm, etc.)
- Social skills and peer relationships
- Bullying (as a victim or perpetrator)
- Struggles with motivation or engagement in activities
Family and Relationship Issues
- Parent-teen communication and conflict resolution
- Coping with family transitions (divorce, blended families, relocation)
- Sibling rivalry and family dynamics
- Navigating independence while maintaining family connections
Identity and Personal Growth
- Self-discovery and identity formation
- Navigating gender identity or sexual orientation
- Building confidence and resilience
- Developing decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Neurodivergence
Trauma and Life Challenges
- Processing grief and loss
- Healing from past trauma (abuse, neglect, family violence, etc.)
- Adjusting to significant life changes
Academic and Future Planning
- Managing perfectionism and fear of failure
- Study habits, organization, and time management
- Planning for the future (post-secondary education, career exploration)
2SLGBTQIA+ Support for Youth
- Exploring gender identity or sexual orientation
- Navigating coming out
- Coping with bullying, exclusion, or unsupportive environments
- Building confidence, connection, and self-acceptance
Mental Health Resources for Teens
Other Resources for Teenagers
Areas I am Unable to Support
While I strive to support a wide range of clients, my practice is not suited for individuals needing:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Support Requiring Specialized Interventions – I support individuals with ASD who are navigating anxiety, relationships, or life transitions. However, I do not provide therapy for those needing intensive behavioural interventions, communication support, or other specialized developmental therapies.
- Substance Use Disorders as a Primary Concern – I am not an addictions specialist and do not provide primary substance use treatment.
- Acute Crisis or Emergency Support – If you are experiencing a crisis, active suicidal ideation, or psychosis, please contact emergency services or crisis resources.
- Eating Disorders as a Primary Concern – I do not specialize in treating eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia.
- Court-Ordered Therapy or High-Conflict Custody Cases – I do not provide therapy for legal proceedings, custody evaluations, or mandated therapy.
- Personality Disorders or Psychotic Disorders – While I work with individuals navigating relationship challenges and emotional regulation, I do not specialize in treating complex personality disorders requiring crisis intervention (e.g., BPD with frequent crises) or psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia).
If you’re unsure whether we’d be a good fit, I encourage you to reach out. If I’m not the right therapist for you, I’m happy to provide referrals where possible.