Compassionate Care for Teens
Guiding Teens Through the Challenges of Growing Up in a Digital Age
Support for Teens
Being a teenager today is more complicated than ever. With the rise of the internet and social media, teens are exposed to pressures that many parents didn’t face growing up. From online comparison to constant connectivity, today’s teens are navigating a world that can feel overwhelming—and often isolating.
In response to these pressures, many teens turn to unhealthy coping strategies such as alcohol, drugs, food, or excessive screen time. Since the pandemic, we’ve also seen a significant rise in mental health concerns among youth. Issues around self-image, identity, self-acceptance, and fitting in continue to be major challenges during this critical stage of development.
While hormonal changes are a normal part of adolescence, it’s important to pay attention when your teen seems persistently down, withdrawn, or disconnected from the things they used to enjoy. These could be signs that they’re struggling with more than just typical growing pains.
At Side Road Psychotherapy, we understand how hard this can be—for teens and their families. We offer individual therapy for adolescents in a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express themselves, explore what’s going on beneath the surface, and begin to develop healthier ways of coping. Sessions are available both in-person and virtually, right here in Burlington, Ontario.
Our goal is to help teens build resilience, develop a stronger sense of self, and feel more confident in navigating the complexities of life.
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.
Teen ADHD Therapy & Support in Georgetown
No waitlists, weekend appointments available.
I offer teen therapy sessions online (video or phone call) or in-person in Georgetown, ON.
Each therapy session typically lasts 60 minutes.
A free 15-minute consultation is also available.
