01 Apr
Anxiety, Counselling, Emotions, For Parents, For Teens, Self-Compassion, Uncategorized

When Life Doesn’t Go as Planned…

When life doesn't go as planned

When Life Doesn’t Go as Planned: How to Handle Disappointment and Move on Stronger! 

You studied hard, but that test score? Yikes. You put yourself out there, but that friendship still feels one-sided and draining. Maybe your family rules are keeping you from that weekend hangout, and it sucks! Disappointment stings, no doubt. Here’s a question- how well are you able to shake it off and try again? Because that is where your power lies.

Bouncing back when life doesn’t go as planned isn’t about ignoring the feels (we’re all about being real with feelings in The Happiness Path group). It’s about giving yourself space to feel whatever is coming up, then getting to a place where you can flip the switch. What can you learn? What’s Plan B? What’s the next step I want to take? Every setback is a setup for something better—if you let it be. The real secret? Shifting your attention from what went wrong, to what’s next.

>>> FREE DOWNLOAD: Mental Health Handbook for Teen Girls <<<

So next time life throws a plot twist your way, remember: You are way more resilient than you think. And if you’re willing to try a little help finding your bounce-back magic, THP (The Happiness Path) is your go-to space to build confidence, crush stress, and handle life’s ups and downs.

When life doesn't go as planned

Chantal Côté
Registered Psychologist & Teen Life Coach
Founder of Pyramid Psychology and The Happiness Path

28 Mar
Anxiety, Confidence, Counselling, Emotions, For Parents, For Teens, Relationships, Uncategorized

From Feeling Alone to Connected

From Feeling Alone to Connected: Finding Your Way out of Loneliness

Sam scrolled through her phone for the twelfth time that night. She was watching her friends’ group chat light up with plans she wasn’t invited to. Maybe they don’t actually like me, she thought, her chest tightening. Lately, she’d felt invisible, surrounded by people all the time in the hallways at school and online in chats-  but it was like no one really saw her or cared if she was there. She wanted to reach out, but the fear of being rejected or bothering people kept her silent.

Feeling lonely can be overwhelming. No matter how lonely you feel, please know you’re not alone in this. So many teen girls experience the same thing—wanting deeper friendships but not knowing how to find them. Sometimes, the right people are closer than you think; it just takes the right space to learn how to connect. That’s why THP (The Happiness Path) was created—to bring girls together in a safe, supportive group where real friendships form and teens can start to feel confident to make new friends. After THP, teens can go from feeling alone to connected.

>>> FREE DOWNLOAD: Mental Health Handbook for Teen Girls <<<

In THP, girls like Sam learn how to build confidence in social situations, recognize their worth, and surround themselves with people who truly care. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t belong, THP can help you find the connections and confidence you’ve been looking for. You don’t have to do this alone—your people are out there, and this is your chance to find them.

With gratitude, 


Chantal Côté
Registered Psychologist & Teen Life Coach
Founder of Pyramid Psychology and The Happiness Path

28 Mar
Anxiety, Confidence, Counselling, Emotions, For Parents, parenting teens

Looking Beyond Self Doubt

Looking Beyond Self-Doubt: Helping Your Teen Find Her Brave

Watching your teenage daughter struggle with anxiety can be crushing. You want to protect her, to help her skip all the things that make her feel terrible and anxious. The secret is true confidence isn’t built by avoiding fear- it grows when she faces it, little by little. Whether it’s speaking up in class, making a new friend, or trying something new, every small step outside her comfort zone teaches her that she can handle discomfort—and that’s where real resilience begins to start looking beyond self doubt, helping your teen find her brave!

This process, called exposure, helps rewire the brain. The more she leans into challenges instead of avoiding them, the more she tips the scale of confidence in her favour, giving less power to anxiety. It won’t be easy at first, but the reward is worth it: self-trust, confidence, and the belief that she is stronger than her fears. That’s exactly what we do in THP (The Happiness Path)—helping teen girls take those steps in a supportive environment, surrounded by others doing the same.


>>> FREE DOWNLOAD: Depression & Anxiety Toolkit for Parents Raising Teen Girls <<<

If your daughter struggles with self-doubt or fear, THP can help her find her brave, one step at a time. She doesn’t have to do it alone, and neither do you. Resilience isn’t about never feeling anxious—it’s about learning she has the power to move through it. And when she does? That’s when she realizes she’s capable of more than she ever imagined.

Chantal Côté
Registered Psychologist & Teen Life Coach
Founder of Pyramid Psychology and The Happiness Path

28 Mar
Anxiety, Confidence, Counselling, Emotions, For Parents, For Teens, parenting teens, Relationships, Uncategorized

How to Help Your Teen Become Brave

How to Help Your Teen Become Brave

Did you know your teen daughter is likely having thoughts that they might fail at the important things in life?—whether it’s school, friendships, or future plans. The pressure to succeed and meet expectations can leave them so stressed, anxious, and stuck in self-doubt. While your instinct might be to encourage them to push through or think about it as a necessary part of getting to the next part of their journey, a powerful yet often overlooked tool is learning to pause and be present in the moment- this can help your teen become brave.

The Happiness Path: Teen Coaching to Build Resiliency Against Anxiety & Social Awkwardness  CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS <<<

 

Your Teen Can Become Resilient

Imagine guiding teen girls to tune into their thoughts, emotions, and surroundings, helping them break free from the cycle of replaying past events or constantly stressing over the future. When they practice mindfulness and self-awareness, they gain clarity and confidence. Instead of being consumed by “what ifs” and worst-case scenarios, they can find space between the moment and their response. This grows their power to face challenges with a sense of “I can handle this” and focus. This shift not only eases their anxiety but also empowers them to make choices that align with what matters most to them, rather than just doing what they think they should do.

In our 6-week group program, The Happiness Path (THP), we dedicate week 2 to helping teenagers experience being present and practice in real-time with creative and fun exercises. By strengthening their ability to be present, your daughter can navigate life’s pressures with resilience and intention. They learn that failure isn’t something to fear—it’s part of growth. And more importantly, they begin to see that success isn’t just about meeting expectations but about building a future that feels meaningful and fulfilling to them. And that is how we can help your teen become brave!

Chantal Côté
Registered Psychologist & Teen Life Coach
Founder of Pyramid Psychology and The Happiness Path

28 Mar
Anxiety, Confidence, Counselling, Emotions, For Parents, parenting teens, Uncategorized

Why Your Teen Feels Unmotivated

Why Your Teen Feels Unmotivated

As a kid, Emma was full of energy, excited about soccer practice and hanging out with friends. But lately, she’s been dragging herself through the day—tired, unmotivated, and irritated with her parents over little things. She doesn’t want to, but she feels like she can’t help it.  “She’s just on her phone too much and it’s making her lazy,” her mom thought at first. But then she noticed something: Emma wasn’t sleeping well, she was constantly retreating to her bedroom, and overwhelmed by many tasks. It wasn’t laziness at all—Emma’s “battery” was running low.
>> FREE DOWNLOAD: Mental Health Handbook for Teen Girls <<<

And What a Cell Phone Can Teach Us

Think of your teen like a cell phone. For example, when too many apps are open (stress piling up), storage is almost full (mental overload), or the battery is low (lack of rest and recharge), things start to glitch- this is why your teen feels unmotivated. Likewise, just like a phone, teens function best in the right conditions—time to recharge, space to process emotions, and moments to be present without distractions. While they can’t always control life’s demands, they can make choices that support their well-being, like setting boundaries, taking mindful breaks, and being intentional about self-care.

In The Happiness Path (THP) group for teen girls, we help teen girls recognize what drains their energy and learn how to “charge” in a way that works for them. Through fun, creative exercises, they practice tuning into their needs, understanding their emotions, and creating habits that help them show up as their best selves. Motivation isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about learning to operate in a way that allows them to thrive. Because when they take care of themselves, just like a well-charged phone, they can function at their best.

Chantal Côté
Registered Psychologist & Teen Life Coach
Founder of Pyramid Psychology and The Happiness Path

28 Mar
Anxiety, Confidence, Counselling, Emotions, For Parents, For Teens, parenting teens, Self Image & Body Image, Self-Compassion, Uncategorized

Eliminate Negative Self Talk

How Teens Can Eliminate Negative Self Talk

Why Your Thoughts Aren’t Always True…

Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “People don’t like me,” or “I’m not good enough for my friends”? You’re not alone. Many teen girls struggle with these thoughts, especially when dealing with feelings of anxiety, social pressure, or self-doubt. But here’s the truth—just because you think something doesn’t make it real. What do you see? 

Your brain sees things in a certain way and it can sometimes get stuck in thinking patterns that are harsh. Those thoughts aren’t facts. They’re just stories and patterned thoughts your mind tells you based on fear or past experiences.

>>> FREE DOWNLOAD: Mental Health Handbook for Teen Girls <<<

The good news? You can change the story to eliminate negative self talk. When negative thoughts pop up, try asking yourself: Is this 100% true? Would I say this to a friend? What’s a more realistic way to see this? Shifting your self-talk takes practice, but it’s possible. That’s one thing we we focus on in THP (The Happiness Path)—helping teen girls challenge self-doubt, build confidence, and create strong, supportive friendships. You don’t have to figure it out alone. If you’re ready to start believing in yourself and seeing your worth, you’re in the right place.

Chantal Côté
Registered Psychologist & Teen Life Coach
Founder of Pyramid Psychology and The Happiness Path

10 Mar
Counselling, Emotions, For Parents

The Role of Social Workers

The Role of Social Workers in Counseling: Dispelling Myths and Providing Clarity

When people think of counseling, they often picture psychologists or psychiatrists. However, social workers also play a vital role in providing therapeutic support. Unfortunately, misconceptions about social workers persist. In addition, this leads to confusion about their qualifications, scope of practice, and effectiveness in mental health care. Therefore, this blog post aims to clarify the role of social workers as counseling providers, dispel common myths, and highlight the valuable contributions they make to the field.

Understanding Social Work in Counseling

Social workers are highly trained professionals. As well, they specialize in helping individuals, families, and communities navigate life’s challenges. In fact, many social workers obtain specialized training in mental health and psychotherapy. Additionally, this equips them to provide counseling services in diverse settings. For example: private practices, hospitals, schools, community agencies, and crisis centers.

>>>>>>To download our self soothe kit for teens struggling with self harm: click here <<<<<<<<<<<

Common Myths About Social Workers in Counseling

Myth 1: Social Workers Only Provide Case Management

Reality: While social workers do assist with case management, many are also licensed mental health professionals who provide therapy. In addition, clinical social workers assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions, using evidence-based therapeutic interventions.

Myth 2: Social Workers Lack Proper Training to Provide Therapy

Reality: Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) or registered social workers (RSWs) undergo rigorous training, including a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) and supervised clinical practice. As well, many also receive additional certifications in trauma therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other therapeutic modalities.

the role of social workers

Myth 3: Social Work Is Only for Child Welfare Cases

Reality: Child welfare is a crucial area of social work. However, the profession extends far beyond that. Moreover, social workers provide therapy for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and other mental health concerns. In addition, they also support individuals facing chronic illness, grief, addiction, and life transitions.

Myth 4: Social Workers Cannot Diagnose Mental Health Disorders

Reality: In many regions, licensed clinical social workers are authorized to assess and diagnose mental health conditions, just like psychologists and psychiatrists. Also, they work collaboratively with other professionals to ensure comprehensive care.
>>>>>>To download our self soothe kit for teens struggling with self harm: click here <<<<<<<<<<<

the role of social workers

Why Choose a Social Worker for Counseling?

  1. Holistic Approach – Social workers consider the individual’s environment, relationships, and community factors when addressing mental health concerns. Therefore, this comprehensive perspective ensures well-rounded care.
  2. Affordability & Accessibility – Compared to other mental health professionals, social workers often provide more affordable services and are widely available in community settings.
  3. Emphasis on Advocacy – Similarly, social workers are dedicated to social justice and client empowerment, often advocating for individuals facing systemic barriers to mental health care.
  4. Strong Therapeutic Skills – With specialized training in various therapeutic techniques, social workers offer effective, client-centered counseling tailored to individual needs.
    >>>>>>To download our self soothe kit for teens struggling with self harm: click here <<<<<<<<<<<

Final Thoughts

To conclude, social workers are an integral part of the mental health field. In addition, they offer compassionate, skilled, and effective therapy to those in need. Moreover, by dispelling the myths and understanding their qualifications, we can better appreciate the critical role that social workers play in providing quality mental health care.

the role of social workersLikewise, perhaps consider working with a licensed/ registered social worker like myself. Our expertise, dedication, and holistic approach can make a meaningful difference in the journey toward healing and well-being.
Furthermore, for other blogs written by Chipo- check out How To Tell If Your Teen is Self Harming 

the role of social workersAbout Chipo
Chipo is a Registered Social Worker with a Master’s in Clinical Social Work. She provides compassionate and culturally competent therapy to teens, adults, and families. With advanced training in Trauma-Informed Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness, Chipo helps clients address a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions.
Through a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and intersectional lens, Chipo creates a safe and inclusive environment where each client feels genuinely heard and understood. To book a session with Chipo click here

04 Mar
Anxiety, Emotions, For Parents, Self-Compassion, Uncategorized

When Your Teen Won’t Discuss Self-Harm

Discovering that your teen is self harming can be a really shocking experience. Moreover, you might be thinking: why would they do this to themselves? Or, don’t they see that I love and care for them?
Likewise, as a parent, your first instinct is to want to help your teen and to stop the harmful behavior. But, what happens when your teen won’t discuss self-harm? Firstly, I want to let you know that you are not alone and that this is a very common subject. 

1. Stay Calm and Approach with Compassion When Your Teen Won’t Discuss Self-Harm

Your teen is already dealing with overwhelming emotions. Because of this, the self harm acts as a way to help combat the overwhelming feelings and provide some relief. Therefore, they do not want you to project your negative emotions of fear, sadness, anger, shock, etc onto them. It is far more beneficial to approach from a place of calmness and compassion. So, try to empathize with your teen, and let them know you are there for them.
when your teen won't discuss self-harm

2. Create a Safe Space for Communication

Furthermore, let your teen know that you are not there to judge them. And, they may need time to come to a place where they are feeling ready to open up. So, give them that time to process things. Subsequently, most people can sense when a conversation feels forced, including your teen. Therefore, ensure that when the conversation happens, it is done when your teen feels safe and comfortable.


>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>to download our free self-soothe kit for self harm click here<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

3. Educate Yourself About Self-Harm

Meanwhile, it can help you provide better support when you’re aware of the full scope of what self harming entails, when your teen won’t discuss self-harm. However, it is not usually a suicide attempt, but more about relieving overwhelming emotions. Also, there are lots of books, and information on the internet related to this topic. Besides, we also have other blogs written in order to help educate you. For further reading on this topic related to self harm and why it happens in teens, click here!

4. Offer Alternative Ways to Express Emotions

There are many safer alternatives for relieving overwhelming emotions. Specifically, ice baths or cold showers can provide a similar feeling by shocking the nervous system, making your teen more adaptable to stress over time. Also, you could also suggest punching bags for overwhelming feelings of anger or rage. Additionally, crying or screaming into a pillow might also help. Some meditative options could be painting or drawing, or even something like dancing or lifting weights. Of course, having a session with a therapist or coach is a great place to express feelings and emotions. Essentially, suggest healthier options and see which one works best for your teen.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>to download our free self-soothe kit for self harm click here<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

when your teen won't discuss self- harm

5. Seek Professional Support When Your Teen Won’t Discuss Self-Harm

If your teen refuses to talk or their self-harm continues, consider reaching out to a professional. Such as: therapists, coaches, or support groups. These professionals can provide a safe and neutral environment for them to open up. In addition, let your teen know that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

6. When Your Teen Won’t Discuss Self-Harm, Check-In Without Pressuring

Although your teen doesn’t want to talk, it’s better to still maintain contact with them with check-ins. Such as, a simple “just wanted to see how you were feeling today”. or “is there anything I can do for you?”
or, “is there anything on your mind you’d like to talk about?” could potentially initiate a conversation. 

7. Finally, Take Care of Yourself Too!

Supporting a teen who self-harms can be very tiring emotionally. Therefore, ensure you have a support system for yourself, whether it’s talking to a friend, joining a support group, or seeking professional guidance. Moreover, your well-being is crucial in providing the best care for your teen. Also, it’s better to set a good example for your teen. Similarly by showing that you are able to care for yourself and are coming from a place of peace and wellness and not a place of stress and burn-out.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>to download our free self-soothe kit for self harm click here<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

when your teen won't discuss self-harm

 

Final Thoughts

In summary, don’t lose hope and stay strong throughout this difficult time- even when your teen won’t discuss self-harm. Likewise, continue showing them love, patience, and understanding. Above all, although they may not say it, knowing they have someone who cares and won’t give up on them can mean the world to them. Finally, keep the door open for conversation. Also remind them that they are not alone in their struggles.

About Kari

I am a life coach at Pyramid Psychology. In addition, I have several diplomas applicable to life coaching; including Coaching for Adolescents, Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality. Also, I’ve taken several webinars from Gabor Mate on Trauma/Family Trauma, the Somatic Institute for Women, and have studied extensively about narcissistic personality disorder and histrionic personality disorder. Empowering girls is a passion of mine, Moreover, I am blessed to be able to help and inspire other girls to break societal norms and follow their dreams as well.
To book a session with Kari click here 

22 Feb
Anxiety, Counselling, Emotions, For Parents, Self-Compassion

Why Does Self Harm Happen in Teens?

Self-harm among teenagers is a growing concern that many parents, caregivers, and educators struggle to understand. It can be alarming to discover that a teen is engaging in self-injury, and the immediate reaction is often fear, confusion, or even frustration. Therefore, many parents wonder, why does self harm happen in teens?
In effect, self-harm is not simply about seeking attention—it is a coping mechanism that signals deep emotional distress.

Why Does Self Harm Happen in Teens?

Self-harm, such as cutting, burning, or scratching, is often a response to overwhelming emotions. Additionally, while the reasons behind it can vary from person to person, common factors include:

  1. Emotional Distress & Regulation

Because of emotional distress, many teens use self-harm as a way to cope. So, they may not have the skills to express these feelings in a healthy way, and they turn to self-injury as a means of relief.

>>>>>>To download our self sooth kit for teens struggling with self harm: click here <<<<<<<<<<<

distressed teen

  1. A Sense of Control

In addition, for some- life can feel unpredictable and chaotic. Therefore, engaging in self-harm gives them a sense of control over their pain, especially when they feel powerless in other areas of their lives.

  1. Relief from Numbness

Surprisingly, some teens self-harm not because they feel too much but because they feel too little. Therefore, emotional numbness or dissociation can lead them to self-injury as a way to feel something—even if it is pain.

  1. Expression of Inner Pain

Also, teens who struggle to verbalize their emotions may use self-harm as a way to communicate their distress. Furthermore, it is often a silent cry for help rather than a deliberate attempt to seek attention.

  1. Peer Influence & Social Pressures

With the rise of social media, self-harm can sometimes be normalized within certain online communities. So, teens may be exposed to others engaging in self-injury and feel encouraged to do the same.

self harm group

  1. Underlying Mental Health Concerns

It is important to realize self-harm is often linked to conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or borderline personality disorder. Therefore, addressing these root issues is key to helping a teen move toward healing.

>>>>>>To download our self sooth kit for teens struggling with self harm: click here <<<<<<<<<<<

How Can You Help Your Teen That is Self Harming?

In summary: if you suspect a teen in your life is self-harming, it is specifically crucial to respond with compassion rather than judgment. Here are some ways to support them:

  • Start the conversation – Let them know you are there to listen without pressure or criticism.
  • Encourage professional help – Therapy can provide teens with healthier coping mechanisms and emotional support.
  • Help them develop new skills – Journaling, art, mindfulness, and exercise are all positive outlets for emotional expression.
  • Create a safe environment – Reducing stress and providing reassurance can make a significant difference.

conversation

Seeking Support for Self Harm in Teens

Likewise, if your teen or someone you know is struggling with self-harm, and you’d like to dive further into why does self harm happen in teens- professional support can help them navigate these emotions in a safe and constructive way. Moreover, as a therapist specializing in adolescent mental health, I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space where teens can explore their feelings, develop coping strategies, and begin their journey to healing.

With this in mind, you don’t have to go through this alone. Reach out today to schedule a session and take the first step toward understanding and support.

>>>To download our self sooth kit for teens struggling with self harm: click here <<<<<<<<<<<
For other blogs related to self harm: How to Handle When Your Teen Is Self Harming • Pyramid Psychology

 

About Chipo
Chipo is a Registered Social Worker with a Master’s in Clinical Social Work, providing compassionate and culturally competent therapy to teens, adults, and families. With advanced training in Trauma-Informed Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness, Chipo helps clients address a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions.
Through a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and intersectional lens, Chipo creates a safe and inclusive environment where each client feels genuinely heard and understood. To book a session with Chipo click here

11 Feb
Emotions, For Parents, parenting teens

Helping Your Teen Build Friendships

Helping Your Teen Build Healthy Friendships: The Power of Perspective-Taking

Parenting a teen girl is like navigating a constantly shifting landscape. One of the most valuable skills they can develop during this time is perspective-taking. The ability to see the larger picture beyond their experience.  Being that a teen’s nature is to be egocentric (focused on themselves) your support as a parent to model and ask curious questions goes a long way in helping your teen build friendships.

At this age, friendships and social interactions take center stage in their minds. So when challenges arise—whether it’s a difficult friendship, a social letdown, or a situation where you clearly see the red flags—it’s natural to want to protect them by pointing out the negatives. However, jumping into this often creates backfire. Moreover, your teen daughter might be even more sunk into the drama and the toxic friendship. Shifting the conversation to get curious about what qualities bring happiness and fulfillment can be a powerful tool. Also, it can work towards helping your teen build friendships.

How to Raise Unbreakable Teen Girls: A guide for parents wanting to raise confident, resilient young women in today’s world. CLICK HERE FOR FREE DOWNLOAD <<<

helping your teens build healthy friendships

The Power of Perspective to Help Your Teen Build Friendships

For example, highlighting why a particular friendship may not be serving them might not be beneficial. Instead, you can try inviting your teen into a different kind of reflection:

“Which friends bring you the most joy? Who do you feel good around most of the time?”

This subtle shift encourages them to observe their own emotional responses.  Therefore, it doesn’t focus on perceived external judgment about their friend choices. This also starts to fine tune their listening to their own internal guide for healthy relationships. So it’s no longer about saying, “This friend is bad for you” but rather, “You get to decide what makes a friendship fulfilling.”

Imagine your teen beginning to think:

“Friend A and B are both in my life. However, I feel positive emotions 90% of the time with Friend A, while with Friend B it’s only about 10% of the time. The 10% of frustrating moments with Friend A aren’t a dealbreaker because there’s a lot of good brought into my life. Moreover, if I only feel positive feelings around Friend B a small fraction of the time, maybe that’s not enough to outweigh the negativity.”

This kind of self-driven reflection leads to natural boundary-setting, rather than a parent-imposed rule of who to hang out with.

How to Raise Unbreakable Teen Girls: A guide for parents wanting to raise confident, resilient young women in today’s world. CLICK HERE FOR FREE DOWNLOAD <<<

Building the Muscle of Perspective-Taking

Being there for her in tough moments is invaluable so this is not about trying to see the bright side all the time or looking through rosy coloured glasses. This is about validating and being supporting WHILE helping broaden their lens to empower their growing perspective taking skills. 

Helping your teen daughter develop this mindset requires gentle, consistent practice. In addition, here are a few simple ways to reinforce perspective-taking in daily conversations:

Ask Curious Open-Ended Questions
Instead of focusing on the difficult aspects of relationships most of the time, encourage curiosity:

  • “What was the best part of your day today?”
  • “Who made you laugh the most?”
  • “What’s one moment you really appreciated?How to Raise Unbreakable Teen Girls: A guide for parents wanting to raise confident, resilient young women in today’s world. CLICK HERE FOR FREE DOWNLOAD <<<

helping your teen build healthy friendships

Shift the Narrative from Problems to Patterns

  • If they’re venting about a friendship, you can validate their feelings while guiding them toward a bigger picture:
    • “I can see why that was frustrating. Do you notice this happens a lot in this friendship, or was today just a tough moment?”
    • “Who in your life makes you feel the opposite of this?”

Encourage Reflection, Not Immediate Action

  • Teens don’t always need to act on an issue right away. Sometimes, a simmer to notice the pattern first is the next helpful step. A simple check-in like, “Let’s pay attention to what you notice and how it feels over the next couple of weeks,” can help them process things at their own pace, which can go a long way in helping your teen build friendships.

helping your teen build healthy friendships

Why Perspective-Taking Matters

Developing this skill is about more than just friendships. It’s about emotional regulation, resilience, and self-awareness—all key tools for navigating life’s challenges. The ability to step back and make intentional choices will serve your teen in school, relationships, and eventually, in adulthood.

And the best part? You don’t have to have all the answers.


Just by modeling this approach, validating their experiences, and redirecting the focus toward the relationships and experiences that bring them joy, you’re helping them develop the internal compass they’ll use for years to come.

What’s one small way you could practice perspective-taking today to work towards helping your teen build friendships? We’d love to hear what’s been working for you.

Further Reading

If you liked this blog, be sure to check out our other blogs about communicating with teens such as this one: The Power of Language to Communicate with Teens • Pyramid Psychology

About Chantal

helping your teen build healthy friendships

Hi! My name is Chantal.

I am a registered psychologist and teen coach working with teen girls around the globe (and their parents) to help them build Unbreakable Mindsets.

I was born in Ontario and raised in Alberta. As a result of my family encouraging us to speak French growing up (I didn’t always love it as a teen though!), I am bilingual. I love being close to the mountains and am in awe every time I see the beautiful landscapes. For now my RV is home and I offer virtual sessions.

 

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