Teens, Neurodivergence, Therapy--Oh My!

Teenagers are people too. It may sound somewhat trivial or simplistic, but that's my grounding philosophy when working with adolescents, including those who are neurodivergent. It's crucial to remember that teenagers--despite their often tumultuous behavior and unpredictable moods--are navigating a complex stage of development that's both exciting and challenging. We sometimes lose sight of their humanity, as it's all too easy to perceive teenagers as intimidating or rebellious figures.

Afterall, who among us hasn’t found teenagers somewhat scary at times?

Four young girls of various races and ethnicities sit at a table with burgers and drinks.

Four teenagers of Asian descent, two male and two female, walk down the street together.

A group of young people of various genders and ethnicities stand in front of an orange wall.

Teens are in a unique phase of life characterized by a surge of hormones, which can lead to intense emotions and reactions. During these formative years, they're learning to assert their independence, a process that often involves testing boundaries and questioning authority. This exploration of autonomy is essential for their growth, yet it can be a turbulent journey for both the teens themselves and the adults around them. And that's just what's going on internally. Externally, teens are also managing their own personal lives, academic workloads, and social pressures. All of this while their brains are still developing, particularly the frontal lobe which is responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation.

I bet we can all remember what it was like to feel ready to tackle important problems on our own while not being in control of our scheduling or finances. Many of us can probably also remember the frustration of wanting to be treated as capable individuals while simultaneously feeling the weight of adult expectations and a lack of trust from the adults in our lives. This complex interplay of emotions and experiences can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts between teenagers and the adults who seek to guide them.

Recent circumstances have also dramatically changed how teenagers in 2025 interact with the world. They're the first generation to grow up entirely immersed in the internet, smartphones, and social media. This unprecedented access to technology has fundamentally altered their social dynamics and communication skills. Moreover, they're also the first demographic in generations to hit adolescence during and after a global pandemic, a factor that has significantly shaped their development in some complex ways.

Consider that someone who's 15 years old right now was sent home for online learning at the tender age of 10--a critical period for social and emotional growth. This means they hit many formative milestones surrounded primarily by their families rather than their peers. As a result, we're witnessing a notable increase in online connections and interactions, while face-to-face engagements have diminished to levels not seen in previous generations. This shift has introduced a new layer of complexity to teenage life, as there is now more pressure to present oneself in specific ways online. The ubiquitous nature of social media means that teenagers are constantly aware of the potential for judgment, not only from their friends but also from a broader audience of strangers. This constant scrutiny can create a heightened sense of anxiety and self-consciousness. Imagine what it would be like to feel as though everyone is watching you—a common teenage experience—and then receive tangible feedback in the form of likes, comments, and shares that confirms that, indeed, many are paying attention. This feedback loop can exacerbate feelings of insecurity and the desire for validation, making the teenage years even more challenging.

A young White man in a blue shirt sits at a table with this head in his hand and elbow on the table

A pair of hands is seen placing a coloured square of paper in a pattern in front of them.

A young person with long hair sits in a shadow in a windowsill

Another piece of this complicated puzzle is the increasing awareness and diagnosis of neurodivergence, particularly Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism. This growing recognition has opened up important conversations about mental health and the diverse ways in which individuals experience the world. For many teenagers who are neurodivergent, navigating the social landscape can be particularly daunting, as they may face unique challenges in communication, social interaction, and emotional regulation. The intersection of these experiences with the pressures of modern technology and social media can create a perfect storm of difficulties that require careful consideration and support.

It's essential to approach teenagers with empathy and understanding, recognizing that they're not just navigating their own internal struggles but are also trying to find their place in a world that often seems overwhelming. This acknowledgment is crucial in fostering a supportive environment where teenagers can express their feelings and experiences without fear of judgment. By validating their challenges and providing a safe space for open dialogue, we can help them develop resilience and coping strategies that will serve them well into adulthood.

As someone who's passionate about understanding each person’s unique perspective on the world, I work with individuals to unpack how their experiences shape their current reality. My approach is to meet all of my clients where they're at, recognizing that each journey is distinct and deserving of respect. I aim to create a therapeutic environment that balances collaboration with a directive and solution-focused methodology when necessary. I would describe my style as relaxed and approachable, and I often incorporate humor, art, and hands-on strategies into my sessions. This multifaceted approach not only helps to build rapport but also encourages creativity and self-expression.

If this sounds like a possible fit for you or your teen, I may be a good match for your needs, and I would welcome the opportunity to work together to navigate these complex challenges.