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.

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.