The unmotivated teenager

Does talking to your teenager feel more like battling most days? Do simple requests tend to elicit a reply with attitude and require repeated reminders before they follow through? It is frightening when it seems like your teenager has lost all motivation and they do not see a reason to put effort into academics, interests, relationships or pursuing goals. As a parent, you may find yourself wondering, how did it get to this point?

It’s natural for parents to want to see their children grow into pursuing their academics and interests full of passion and motivation.  It can be hard to see teens lose the desire to do their best and happily explore their utmost potential. Unmotivated teens often shut their parents out as they feel no one can understand them, relate to them, or is willing to listen to them.

Individual and family therapy can allow a safe, neutral place for teenagers and parents to improve upon their communication and listening skills while building positive relationships and boundaries. I believe it is important to take the time necessary in developing a trusting, therapeutic relationship with teens to understand their perspective and assist them in discovering the positive impact that small changes can create. I push teens in exploring their strengths and weaknesses, to identify better ways to communicate with others, and increase their understanding in the consequences of their actions.  The goal is to improve their ability to gain some control of the outcome of their choices.  Over time teenagers are able to see how their actions can gain the outcome they desire through working towards goals that are meaningful to them and benefiting from a more positive parent-child relationship.

Call me today at 402-325-0117 x11 to schedule an appointment, or book an online appointment today!

Kaitlyn Harper
AdultSpan Counseling
1001 S 70th Street #225
Lincoln, NE 68510