COUNSELLING FOR YOUTH
Serving the Fraser Valley & Online BC-Wide
What is a Youth Counsellor?
A youth counsellor is a trained expert who gives guidance and support to young people dealing with different challenges. Therapists work with teens to help them handle the complexities of life, like stress from school, conflicts at home, or emotional struggles.
They make a safe and confidential space for young people to talk openly about their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Using effective communication and understanding, they help with solving problems, making decisions, and learning how to cope with difficult situations.
The role of a counsellor for teenagers is important. They help promote mental health, build resilience, and empower young individuals to overcome challenges and create a positive foundation for their future.
Youth Addictions Counsellor
A youth addictions counsellor is a professional who specializes in helping young people struggling with substance abuse or addiction. They can play a vital role in supporting adolescents as they face the challenges of overcoming addictive behaviours. Young people tend to try new things and take risks and using substances can seem exciting.
The Canadian Mental Health Association in BC estimates that “8,000 youth between the ages of 15 and 24 meet the criteria for a substance use disorder”. Youth will use alcohol and drugs for a variety of reasons, some of which may be:
Peer pressure and fitting in with friends or groups
To escape problems such as trauma, mental health disorders, issues with school, or feeling insecure
To feel more grown up
As a rebellion against parents or authority figures
The youth addictions counsellor works with individuals to understand the root causes of their substance use, offering guidance and coping strategies to break the cycle of addiction. Through counselling sessions, they provide a safe and non-judgmental space for young individuals to share their experiences and feelings. The aim is to empower the youth to explore their relationship with using substances, make positive choices, develop healthier habits, and build a foundation for a substance-free future.
The work of a therapist for young adults is crucial in addressing the unique needs of young people dealing with addiction, promoting recovery, and fostering a path towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. We have significant experience in supporting individuals in BC navigating the road of substance use recovery as well as for families supporting an individual through that experience.
Parents can look for a pattern of changes in behaviour, appearance or attitudes. If you notice changes, you can try talking to your teenager. You can also enlist the help of a counsellor for teenagers.
Specialized Training as a Youth Concurrent Disorders Therapist
Ariel Dumais has worked as a Youth Concurrent Disorders Therapist for a local Health Authority supporting youth in community. He is familiar working with teens experiencing a combination of emotional or psychological problems, including addictions, happening at the same time. For instance a young adult experiencing an alcohol addiction and depression or anxiety.
Mental health and substance abuse are often interconnected issues that can coexist, as youth who are experiencing mental health challenges may be more susceptible to substance misuse as a means of coping or self-medicating. Addressing both aspects concurrently through comprehensive health care treatment is essential for fostering long-term recovery and overall well-being.
If you feel your teenager may be experiencing multiple issues, working with a clinical counsellor trained for this combination will be important.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Youth and young adult mental health services address adolescent-specific challenges, like identity and peer relationships, using interactive methods. Adult counselling covers a broader spectrum of life experiences, including career and relationships.
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Youth counsellors provide mental health support to young individuals by addressing issues like stress, relationships, and identity, fostering mental well-being.
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For young adults, approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) are effective for addressing diverse mental health challenges. Each individual is unique and different therapy approaches may work well depending on the needs of the youth.
SOLID GROUND WELLNESS
SOLID GROUND WELLNESS
ABOUT US
Our approach integrates a focus on self-care, mindfulness, and cultivating healthy coping mechanisms to support your overall well-being. By fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust and empathy, we can collaboratively explore your experiences, work through challenges, and help you move towards a more fulfilling and authentic life. Book an online counselling session today.
Book COUNSELLING for YOUTH in Chilliwack and Online in BC
To get started, book a free consultation. You can also book an appointment online. We offer online mental health services for youth virtually in British Columbia, and in-person counselling sessions in Chilliwack, BC.
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