Blog post written by,
Ara Mascarenas, M.S - Registered Intern for Mental health Counselor Licensure
The teenage years are one of the most challenging stages in one’s development. In my
experience as a psychotherapist, I’ve noticed that many teens want to succeed, have good self-
esteem, and manage their relationships effectively. It’s not uncommon for my clients to request
tools to navigate difficult situations at home, school, or with their peers. Research shows that
adolescence is a critical link between childhood and adulthood, characterized by significant
physical, psychological, and social transitions (Population Reference Bureau, 2023).
During adolescence, there are multiple factors that can affect mental health. The more risk
factors an adolescent is exposed to, the greater the potential impact on their mental health. For
instance, exposure to adversity, peer pressure to conform, and identity exploration can
contribute to stress during adolescence. Additionally, media influence and gender norms can
widen the gap between adolescents' perceptions or aspirations for the future and their lived
reality. Furthermore, the quality of their home life and relationships with peers can also
determine mental health. Risks such as violence, bullying, harsh parenting, and socioeconomic
problems are also known to affect mental health.
However, the part of their brain that oversees decision-making, planning, flexible thinking,
impulse control, and time management is not yet developed. In fact, the Prefrontal Cortex does
not stop developing until age thirty. Teens are put in this unique spot where they are expected
to act like adults and have skills that have simply not been developed yet. Fortunately, there is still hope for teenagers struggling with mental health. By making connections, building resilience, fostering self-esteem, and learning ways to properly navigate social situations, teen mental health outcomes can improve.
As a therapist, I am committed to promote a therapeutic group for teenage girls focusing on
self-esteem, body image, relationships, and social media. This group will provide a protective
and supportive environment that is crucial for the social and emotional development of
adolescents. It will encourage connection while learning healthy habits such as maintaining
good friendships, communicating efficiently, navigating media platforms, and interpersonal
skills.
If you’d like to receive more information about the group, please reach out to Ara Mascarenas at
954.850.6633 or email info@homeforbalance.com.
Ara Mascarenas, M.S
I am interested in working with children, adolescents, and their families. I am good at establishing a positive therapeutic relationship with clients who are currently struggling with anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues. For more information about working with me and to get a FREE 30-minute phone consult, please call at 954.850.6633 or email me at aramascarenasmhc@gmail.com.
Services available in English/Spanish and Online.
References
The importance of adolescence. PRB. (n.d.). https://www.prb.org/resources/the-importance-of-
adolescence