At Ridge RTC, we understand that the therapeutic journey is challenging not only for teens but also for their parents and families. Navigating treatment transitions and adolescent therapy activities, maintaining healthy boundaries, and managing anxiety are all part of the process. Here’s a guide to help you support your teen through treatment and transition while taking care of yourself.

Understanding the Therapeutic Journey

The therapeutic journey often involves multiple stages, each presenting unique challenges and emotions for both teens and parents.

Loss and Resistance:

When teens enter treatment, they often feel a sense of loss. They leave their home, friends, and familiar environments, creating resistance to change. However, treatment requires them to be vulnerable, accountable, and open to new ways of thinking.

Acceptance and Connection:

Gradually, teens start accepting treatment and connecting with therapists and peers. They may begin to recognize the value of their work, leading to positive shifts in behavior.

Transition Anxiety:

As teens transition from one treatment stage to another or prepare to leave treatment altogether, anxiety often arises. They may worry about maintaining progress, fitting in at home or school, or losing the support of therapists and peers.

Supporting Your Teen Through Treatment and Transitions

Find the Right Teen Mental Health Resources

Look for treatment programs or therapists that resonate with your teen’s interests and needs. Whether it’s equine therapy, adventure therapy, or a particular therapeutic modality, finding the right fit can make a difference. Family involvement is also crucial, so prioritize programs that encourage family therapy.

Sit with Discomfort

Parents often struggle to accept discomfort, wanting immediate answers or solutions. However, it is crucial to step back and allow your teen to navigate challenges. Let them learn from their mistakes and resist the urge to rescue them immediately.

Practice Assertive Communication

When communicating with your teen, be clear and direct while remaining supportive. For instance, instead of saying, “Don’t you have something to tell me?” say, “I noticed you texted someone on the ‘do not contact’ list. Can you help me understand why?” This approach encourages honesty and helps teens understand the impact of their actions.

Set Boundaries and Expectations

Set clear boundaries and expectations with your teen and follow through. For example, if your teen breaks a rule, be upfront about the consequences while offering them a chance to make amends. Assertive communication and consistency are key.

Acknowledge Progress and Growth

Recognize the positive changes your teen makes during treatment and transition. Encourage them to build on their strengths and offer support without judgment. Celebrate small victories to boost their confidence and motivation.

Apologize When Necessary

If you’ve made a mistake or overreacted, offer a sincere apology without excuses. Avoid using “but” in your apology, as it can invalidate your remorse. For instance, “I’m sorry I said that. It was hurtful, and I want to communicate better in the future.”

Managing Parental Anxiety and Self-Care

Recognize Your Own Discomfort

Parental anxiety is natural during your teen’s therapeutic journey. Acknowledge your discomfort and differentiate between what’s within your control and what isn’t. Focus on supporting your teen while maintaining your well-being.

Engage in Self-Care Activities

Find activities that help you manage stress, whether it’s gardening, painting, or listening to music. Schedule regular breaks from worrying about your teen and prioritize quality time with your partner or other children.

Seek Support and Resources

Join parent support groups, consider individual coaching, or connect with a therapist. Brad Reedy’s Journey of the Heroic Parent and the Beyond Consequences series are excellent resources for understanding the therapeutic journey.

Supporting your teen through treatment involves the entire family. By understanding the therapeutic journey, practicing assertive communication, and prioritizing self-care, parents can provide the best support for their teens while maintaining their well-being.

If you need assistance with finding therapeutic programs for teens, Ridge RTC is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and resources.