by Christine Lawler LMFT | Sep 12, 2025
Raising teenagers is one of the most rewarding, and at times most challenging, parts of parenting. Just when you think you’ve figured things out, your child starts speaking a new language filled with sighs, eye-rolls, and “you just don’t get it.” If you’ve ever felt like your teen is pulling away just when you’re trying to pull closer, you’re not alone.
The truth is, adolescence is a natural season of growth and independence. Teens are figuring out who they are, testing limits, and learning to stand on their own two feet. But during this process, communication can become strained. The good news? With the right tools and mindset, parent teenager communication can improve, and you can foster a relationship built on trust, respect, and mutual understanding.
Keep reading to learn more.
(more…)
by Christine Lawler LMFT | Jun 12, 2025
The teenage years are full of challenges- changing bodies, shifting social circles, academic pressures, and growing independence. In the midst of all this change, self confidence plays a powerful role. It’s the foundation that helps teens make healthy choices, form strong relationships, and bounce back from inevitable setbacks.
But what exactly is self confidence, why does it matter so much, and how can we help teens grow it in a healthy way? While no one parents or guides teenagers perfectly, making an effort to nurture their self confidence can be life changing.
Keep reading to learn more.
(more…)
by Christine Lawler LMFT | May 9, 2025
As a parent, few things are more difficult than watching your child struggle or suffer. When your teenager is showing signs of depression, it can feel overwhelming, confusing, and even frightening. You may find yourself questioning if it’s “just a phase,” wondering what you did wrong, or simply just feeling helpless. If you’re reading this because you suspect your teen is depressed, or they’ve already been diagnosed, know that you are not alone, and there is hope.
Keep reading to learn more about teenage depression and how you can help.
(more…)
by Christine Lawler LMFT | Mar 13, 2025
Raising a teenager can feel like navigating an unpredictable storm. One moment, they’re full of enthusiasm and dreams! The next, they withdraw into silence, struggling with the pressures of school, friendships, and self discovery. As a parent, you play a crucial role in shaping your child’s future. The word “success” means different things to different people. Success isn’t just all academic achievements or material wealth- it’s about raising a teenager who is resilient, responsible, confident, and emotionally intelligent.
Keep reading to learn tips on how to raise a successful teenager.
(more…)
by Christine Lawler LMFT | Feb 19, 2025
Being a parent to a teenager can be tricky, and some may have the opinion that a teenage girl is even trickier (but also pretty magical, right?) Self esteem is a fundamental aspect of any persons growth. Self esteem in a teenage girl shapes their mental health, physical health, friendships, and aspirations. According to the CDC, teenage girls are experiencing higher levels of sadness, alcohol use, and violence compared to teenage boys.
Navigating the world of social media, peer expectations, and societal norms can be pretty tough when you don’t even have a fully developed prefrontal lobe yet.
Strengthening self esteem is key to helping teen girls make it through adolescence with confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self-worth. Keep reading to learn more.
(more…)
