Talking Tweens & Teens Series

The goal of this workshop is to offer adult caregivers relevant information and practical skills that can reduce some of the tension (and frustration) that can impact conversations about important topics.

This workshop will help caregivers to learn how to discuss rules and expectations around topics like social media, substance use, and sexual activity can be stressful for everyone involved. 

And, hopefully, the tweens and teens will feel less stressed-out during those tough conversations, too.

 The Workshop is broken down into 3 main parts:

1. Adolescent Development: The physical, emotional, and mental developments that occur during adolescence. This can help adults adjust their communication approach and expectations to better suit the age of the child

2. Communication Skills: Review generally effective communication skills, learn neutral ways to approach difficult topics (e.g., substance use, sexual activities, rule-breaking) that often lead to disagreements between adolescents and their adult caregivers, along with some de-escalation strategies to reduce tension and manage your emotions if you notice they’re getting in the way

3. Seeking Supports: When (and why) to get outside support from the school and/or community 

No.

This is a generalized workshop created for those interacting with adolescents ages 12-18. 

We will touch on the ways in which learning and processing disorders, such as ADHD, and mental health disorders including depression and anxiety, can have an impact on adolescent engagement overall. 

However, this workshop is not designed to discuss these topics in-depth or with the consideration they need and deserve.

Please request a specialized workshop for you specific situation. 

The Workshop includes handouts that cover the topics discussed with extra space to record your own notes. 

Also, a glossary of terms and examples of difficult topics with suggestions for what to say (and not say), so you can practice on your own will be provided. 

These suggestions can be used just as they are, or adjusted to match your natural style of speaking. 

 This workshop is for informational and educational purposes only. 

It is intended to be a safe space to discuss generally sensitive topics that impact adolescents and their caregivers. It is not intended to be a support group, or a therapeutic setting. 

To protect your confidentiality, and the privacy of others (especially the kids) we ask that questions relate to the workshop material, and that any personal or identifying details be omitted. 

 Erika Stewart Wheelhouse, MA, LMHC is a licensed therapist and Education Advocate in Massachusetts. 

This workshop draws information and skills from Erika’s 15 years of experience working with adolescents and their families, backed by evidence-based research. 

In addition to her work as a mental health advocate, educator, and author, Erika sees individual clients with a focus on treating trauma, anxiety, and depression.