In those first therapy sessions with clients, I always start with a simple question: “Tell me about yourself.” But here's the twist – this seemingly straightforward question unravels a whole world of complexity.
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In those first therapy sessions with clients, I always start with a simple question: “Tell me about yourself.” But here's the twist – this seemingly straightforward question unravels a whole world of complexity.
"I can't clean up my toys right now! You're not listening to me!" Those were the fiery words of my 4-year-old after I had insistently asked her to tidy up her toys. Frustration got the best of me, and I responded with a firm, "I'm the parent, YOU listen to ME!" The result? A full-scale meltdown, with flailing arms and sobs. That's when it struck me - my approach wasn't effective at all.
Many Moms find themselves feeling a bit distanced from their daughters as they enter the teenage years, and creating and nurturing emotional closeness is a challenge. The days of bonding while playing Barbies and healing a scraped knee with a kiss are long gone. You might now be greeted with slamming doors or the disappointment of her skipping your cherished pizza movie night for a hangout with friends.
So, why does this emotional gap tend to widen during the teen years?
Amid the rollercoaster of today’s teenage life, it's a tough task for parents to distinguish between normal stress and something more serious. When should you offer an encouraging hug, and when should you seek professional help? Let's explore this.
As a psychologist working closely with teen girls, I’ve had the privilege of joining them on their journey through the beautiful and chaotic stage of adolescence. From friendship breakups and snap chat drama to that first kiss and time when moms’ words lifted spirits or landed like an emotional punch—I get to witness it all.
Our approach to communication and leadership is everything when it comes to raising confident daughters. At the end of the day, our girls watch the way we treat ourselves, the way we carry ourselves, and the way we treat others. Let’s be the best examples we can be.