Compassionate Care for Teens
Can you relate? Being a teenager has changed since the invention of the internet and social media. Teens are bombarded with stressors we as parents can’t easily understand. Teens will often resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as alcohol, drugs, food, and screen time to cope with their struggles. Since the pandemic, we have seen an increase in teen mental health issues. Struggling with self-image, identity, self-acceptance, and social acceptance remains a major hurdle for many teens.
Hormonal shifts can explain sudden mood changes, but what can we do when we notice our teens are mostly displaying low mood and self-isolating from family and friends? What if your teen no longer enjoys the things they used to?
At Side Road Psychotherapy, we understand these struggles firsthand. We offer individual counseling and psychotherapy sessions for teens, both in-person and virtually, in Burlington, Ontario. Our goal is to provide a supportive environment where you can explore challenges and find ways to thrive amidst life's complexities.
GET IN TOUCHDoes It Sound Familiar?
- Is your teen struggling with moodiness, irritability and anger?
- Is your teen struggling socially?
- Is your teen struggling in school?
- Is your teen struggling with perfectionism?
- Is your teen struggling with organization, and feelings overwhelmed?
- Is your teen struggling with body image and their relationship with food?
Meet the Therapist
Hi, I am Magdalene Pettit, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at Side Road Psychotherapy.
I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life, from teenagers struggling with ADHD to older populations interested in processing childhood trauma. I have experience working with perfectionism, burnout, ADHD, OCD, anger, toxic relationships, and narcissistic abuse recovery.
I am Neurodivergent, my "disability" makes me incredibly empathetic and understanding of others.
Issues Addressed in Therapy
Self-esteem: Self-esteem refers to how a person values and perceives themselves. Low self-esteem can lead to negative self-talk and a lack of confidence in one's abilities, affecting various aspects of life.
Body Dysphoria: Body dysphoria involves a deep dissatisfaction with one's physical appearance. This can lead to severe emotional distress and unhealthy behaviors as individuals strive to change or hide their bodies.
Peer Relationships: Healthy peer relationships are crucial for social development. Difficulties in this area can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and impact self-worth.
Perfectionism: Perfectionism is the relentless pursuit of flawlessness, often driven by fear of failure. This can result in high stress, anxiety, and burnout due to unrealistic standards.
Anxiety & Depression: Anxiety and depression are common mental health conditions. Anxiety involves excessive worry and fear, while depression is characterized by persistent sadness and a lack of interest in daily activities.
Neurodivergence (OCD/ADHD): Neurodivergence refers to variations in the human brain, such as OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) and ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), which affect how individuals think, feel, and behave.
Family Dynamics: Family dynamics encompass the patterns of interactions between family members. Dysfunctional dynamics can lead to conflict, stress, and emotional distress.
Anger & Irritability: Anger and irritability involve intense feelings of frustration and hostility. When uncontrolled, these emotions can damage relationships and overall well-being.
Trauma & PTSD: Trauma is a response to a deeply distressing event, while PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is a chronic condition where individuals relive traumatic experiences through flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety.
Identity: Identity concerns involve struggles with understanding and accepting oneself, including aspects such as gender, sexual orientation, and cultural identity.
Suicidal Ideation: Suicidal ideation involves thoughts of ending one's life. This serious condition requires immediate attention and intervention to ensure safety and provide support.
Rumination: Rumination is the repetitive and passive focus on distressing situations or feelings. This can exacerbate mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
No Waitlists, No Referrals Needed
I offer teen therapy sessions online (video or phone call) or in-person in Burlington, ON.
Each therapy session typically lasts 60 minutes.
A free 15-minute consultation is also available.
