Adolescents & Young Adults
Adolescence and young adulthood are times of intense growth and change. Young people may seem to be coping well, but often face challenges that affect their emotional, social, and physical well-being. I offer a supportive space where they can explore their experiences and feel understood.
With years of experience working with youth, I bring empathy, optimism, and humor to my practice. I help parents navigate concerns about their child’s development and behavior, especially when it’s unclear whether professional support is needed.
I have specialized training in working with LGBTQIA youth, including those exploring gender identity or sexual orientation, coming out, and coping with bullying or family dynamics. I also support youth whose parents are exploring their own identities or relationships.
Areas I support include:
Every young person deserves a space where they can be themselves and feel supported. I honor each client’s unique journey and offer compassionate guidance along the way.
With years of experience working with youth, I bring empathy, optimism, and humor to my practice. I help parents navigate concerns about their child’s development and behavior, especially when it’s unclear whether professional support is needed.
I have specialized training in working with LGBTQIA youth, including those exploring gender identity or sexual orientation, coming out, and coping with bullying or family dynamics. I also support youth whose parents are exploring their own identities or relationships.
Areas I support include:
- Gender identity and medical transition
- Coming out to family, friends, or at school
- Anxiety, depression, and trauma
- Autism and developmental disabilities
- ADHD and executive functioning
- Behavioral and school-related issues
- Academic stress and life transitions
- Relationship concerns and consent
- Grief and loss
- Internalized and systemic oppression
- Body image and self-esteem
Every young person deserves a space where they can be themselves and feel supported. I honor each client’s unique journey and offer compassionate guidance along the way.
Resources
Online Resources
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) for Teens & Kids
- NAMI is the largest grassroots mental health organization in the United States. It provides education, advocacy, and support for individuals and families affected by mental health conditions. NAMI offers free programs, resources, and community connections to help people better understand mental illness and find pathways to recovery and support. NAMI has local chapters across Washington, including in the Seattle area. These chapters host support groups, educational events, and community outreach programs tailored to local needs. Whether you're a parent seeking guidance, a teen looking for peer support, or someone navigating a mental health diagnosis, your local NAMI chapter can be a valuable resource.
- What We Know Project, Cornell University, “What Does the Scholarly Research Say about the Effect of Gender Transition on Transgender Well-Being?”, 2018.
- Trans Families
- TransFamilies is a nonprofit organization that has been supporting transgender people and their families since 2008. Formerly called Gender Diversity, we are also the force behind the annual conference Gender Odyssey. They run parent support groups, a trans youth leadership program, special topics groups, and youth support groups, with more programs in development. They are all online, available for families everywhere.
- Trans Kids and Teens: Pride, Joy, and Families in Transition by Elijah C. Nealey, PhD
- Supporting Transgender Autistic Youth and Adults - A Guide for Professionals and Families by Finn V. Gratton, LMFT, LPCC
- Gender Identity, Sexuality, and Autism - Voices From Across the Spectrum by Eva Mendes and Meredith Maroney
- Queerly Autistic - The Ultimate Guide for LGBTQIA+ Teens on the Spectrum by Erin Ekins
These resources are provided for educational and supportive purposes only. Senger Counseling does not assume responsibility for the content.
