Chipo, Clinical Social Worker, Therapist for Teen Girls and Young Women with Pyramid Pyschology. Grief, trauma, changes, relationships

The Secret Ingredient in Therapy That Sparks Transformation at All Ages

The Secret Ingredient in Therapy That Sparks Transformation at All Ages

At the heart of every successful therapeutic journey lies one essential ingredient: The importance of the therapist-client relationship. This isn’t just about how well the therapist and client get along—it’s about building a relationship rooted in trust, empathy, collaboration, and safety. Regardless of a client’s age—whether they’re a child navigating big emotions, a teen wrestling with identity, or an adult working through life’s challenges—the strength of the therapeutic relationship can determine the depth and effectiveness of the work we do together.

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

An eBook with 10 mental health exercises every teen girl needs to know to:

  • Improve focus
  • Boost happy hormones naturally
  • Cope with trick feelings
  • Develop self-compassion

 

Therapeutic alliance, The Secret Ingredient in Therapy That Sparks Transformation for Every Generation, Why a Strong Therapist-Client Bond Supercharges Healing at Any Age

The Healing Power of Connection

What is the Therapeutic Alliance (therapist-client relationship)?

The therapeutic alliance refers to the professional relationship between therapist and client. It includes mutual respect, shared goals, and a sense of partnership. When clients feel seen, heard, and valued, they are more likely to engage deeply, explore vulnerable topics, and take steps toward meaningful change.

 

 

Why It Matters Across All Age Groups

The importance of the therapist-client relationship matters uniquely across the following age groups:

Children need to feel emotionally safe before they can express their inner world. A strong alliance allows them to trust the process and the person guiding them through it. Play, storytelling, and non-verbal communication flourish when children feel connected to their therapist.

Teens often test boundaries and may approach therapy with skepticism. A solid therapeutic relationship reassures them that therapy is a space where they won’t be judged but rather understood. It creates a foundation where they can explore their identity, stressors, and relationships with honesty.

Adults benefit from a collaborative relationship where they feel empowered and supported. Life’s complexities—career, family, identity, mental health—require a space where they can process freely, gain insight, and receive consistent emotional support.

Therapeutic Alliance, Working with The Person not the problem, Hope in therapy, Counselling for teen girls and young women

The Evidence Speaks on the The importance of the therapist-client relationship

Research consistently shows that the therapeutic alliance is one of the most significant predictors of positive treatment outcomes. In fact, some studies suggest that the quality of the alliance is even more important than the type of therapy used. This holds true across different mental health issues, cultural backgrounds, and age groups.

My Approach to Building Connection

In my work at Pyramid Psychology, I prioritize the person before the problem.  I aim to create a space where clients feel respected and empowered. Whether it’s walking alongside a young person as they make sense of their feelings or supporting an adult through major life transitions, my focus is on showing warmth, authenticity, and clinical skill.

No two therapeutic relationships look the same—because no two clients are the same and that is the importance of the therapist-client relationship. I take the time to get to know who you are beyond your challenges, helping you tap into your strengths and take ownership of your growth.

Love,

Chipo

Now Accepting New Clients

If you or someone you care about is looking for support, I am currently accepting new clients at Pyramid Psychology. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your child, or your teen, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth.

Let’s build something meaningful together.

📧 Book a consult call 
📞 587) 803-2968
🌐 Learn about me here

Register Social Worker offering counseling for female identifying teens (11-21 years old)


Chipo, Clinical Social Worker, Therapist for Teen Girls and Young Women with Pyramid Pyschology. Grief, trauma, changes, relationships

Chipo Bvindi, Therapist at 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. As a Black therapist, Chipo brings a nuanced perspective on identity, culture, and systemic issues, offering an approach that deeply respects each person’s experiences. Whether you are a teen discovering yourself, an adult managing stress, or a family working through relationship dynamics, Chipo’s personalized approach aims to meet your unique needs.

Beyond the therapy room, faith, family, and friendships provide Chipo with strength and balance. Chipo finds peace in nature through walking, journaling, and appreciating life’s small moments. When it’s time to relax, Chipo enjoys Korean dramas, city adventures, and reading for pleasure. Sometimes, you’ll find Chipo embracing a playful side through art, dancing, or even building sandcastles—because life is meant to be lived fully!

Ready to take the next step? Book a free consultation today, and let’s work together toward your path to healing and personal growth.

MYTH: social workers only get involved with child welfare cases. TRUTH: social workers bring a holistic experience for teens fighting systemic barriers to mental health. Learn more HERE

What to Say to Support a Struggling Teen Girl

What to Say to Support a Struggling Teen Girl

Finding Peace in the Chaos, Emotional Teen Girl, Anxiety, Depression, Teen Therapy, Therapy for teen girls Emotional Support for Teen Girls: What to Say When They’re Struggling

 

What to say when your teen daughter is struggling? You’ve probably heard the phrase “this too shall pass” before. Maybe someone said it to comfort you once during a tough moment, or maybe you’ve seen it written somewhere and thought, “Yeah, but it doesn’t feel like it right now.” 

When you’re daughter is in the middle of something painful, overwhelming, or uncomfortable, those words can feel distant or even dismissive. But what if she knew something powerful: she already lives this truth every single day.

There’s a quiet strength in realizing that life is always changing and moving—like river water rushing over rocks. We are all part of that river, capable of riding its currents even when they feel strong.

Finding Peace in the Chaos.

 

Supporting Your Teen Through Intense Emotions- Self-Harm Guide For Parents  CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS <<<

Think about the everyday moments that support the truth that “this too shall pass”:

  • The end of sleep becomes the beginning of wakefulness.
  • The end of a fast is the beginning of eating.
  • The end of an inhale is the beginning of an exhale.
  • The end of one thought makes room for silence, and that silence becomes space for another thought.

Your teen is constantly transitioning from one thing to another. These shifts are happening often without even realizing. They can show her that change isn’t something to be feared—it’s something she are already doing. Over and over again. Each day.

So when she’s feeling stuck in a moment—maybe anxiety feels too loud, or sadness feels heavy, or stress has taken over—remind her: this too shall pass. Not in a way that rushes her to feel better, but in a way that lets her breathe and remember her strength. Emotions, like current, ebb and flow. Nothing stays forever, even the hardest moments.

If she’s in it right now and it feels like it won’t end- what to say when your teen daughter is struggling?

Here’s an invitation to share:

First, look at your day so far. Then, think what are 3 endings that have led to new beginnings? (Here are some ideas to get things going!)

  1. The end of your alarm marked the start of your morning.
  2. The end of a dream brought you back to waking life.
  3. The end of brushing your teeth led to your first smile.
  4. The end of hesitation turned into a small brave act.
  5. The end of a class gave you space to breathe.
  6. The end of scrolling turned into presence.
  7. The end of a sigh made way for calm.
  8. The end of silence began a conversation.
  9. The end of frustration opened the door to understanding.
  10. The end of one step moved you closer to where you’re going.

You are far more resilient than you realize. The chaos may swirl around you, but there’s a steady truth underneath it all: change is constant, and you are capable of flowing with it. 

When it feels like too much, anchor into this knowing. Just like the river over rocks—you will move through.

You’ve got this.

With gratitude and love,

Chantal 

Registered Psychologist & Teen Life Coach
Founder of Pyramid Psychology and The Happiness Path Group For Teen Girls

Chantal Côté, Pychologist teen girls, helping with anxiety. Teen group for teen girl. Raising self-esteem and confidence. Mental health support for teen girls. Group to help with anxiety. Emotional Support for Teen Girls: What to Say When They’re Struggling

Friendships Inside Jokes and Feeling Understood

The Magic of The Happiness Path (THP): Friendships, Inside Jokes, and Feeling Understood

There’s something truly special that happens in THP from the very first day. Most teen girls walk in feeling nervous, quiet, and unsure. But as we jump into lighthearted icebreakers, you start to see smiles forming and hear laughter bubbling up. One girl shares something vulnerable, and another nods, realizing she’s not alone. Over the weeks, inside jokes are born, and the group transforms into a place teens genuinely look forward to—whether they’ve had a rough day or an amazing one. With nourishing snacks, warm smiles, and a space where they’re welcomed just as they are, they begin to feel a sense of belonging.

Beyond the conversations and shared moments, THP helps girls build a deeper connection with themselves. During our movement days, they learn to listen to their bodies—not to judge them, but to appreciate them. Instead of seeing their bodies as something to fix, they start to move in ways that feel empowering. They try new things that push them just beyond their comfort zones, and in doing so, they realize they can handle challenges—and that it’s worth it.

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

But if you ask them what they love most about THP, time and time again, they’ll tell you it’s the friendships, inside jokes, and feeling understood. It’s the pookie wookies (the inside jokes and silly moments that only they understand). It’s knowing they have a group of peers who see them, encourage them, and stand by them. In a world that can feel isolating, THP becomes a space where they can launch from to be real, brave, and deeply connected. And that, more than anything, is why we keep doing this work.

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

From Self-Doubt to Self-Discovery

From self-doubt to self-discovery: the happiness path (THP) transformation for teenage girlsFrom Self-Doubt to Self-Discovery: The Happiness Path (THP) Transformation for Teenage Girls

At first, it felt like nothing would change—constant overthinking, second-guessing every move, feeling stuck in jealousy and self-doubt. Maybe emotions felt too big to handle, or anxiety kept getting in the way of what could be fun. The pressure to fit in, to have it all figured out, to be enough—it was exhausting. But what if things could feel different?

Fast forward to today—more self-awareness, more confidence, and decisions that actually feel good. THP girls learn to challenge their self-talk, breathe through the stress, and take small (and REALLY BIG) powerful steps toward what they really want. “I’ve learned that I’m able to push myself out of my comfort zone,” one girl shared. Trying new things, speaking up, setting boundaries, and showing kindness (to themselves and others) isn’t just an idea—it’s actually happening. They’re encouraged to practice being at the edge of their comfort zone, and the results are clear: “I’ve started taking time to settle and breathe and use positive affirmations”. THP truly took her from self-doubt to self-discovery!

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

The biggest shift? They see their own strength. They recognize that they can handle tough emotions, that self-care isn’t selfish, and that growth happens one step at a time. THP isn’t just about feeling better in the moment—it’s about building lifelong roots of confidence and resilience. And for every girl who’s ever doubted herself? This is proof that change is possible.

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

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

From Feeling Alone to Connected

Chantal THP Blog Cover feeling alone Chantal THP Blog Cover 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

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

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

What’s Your Learning Style?

To take the “What’s Your Learning Style” quiz in PDF format, click here

 

Exams, Finals, and Tests: The Ultimate Guide to Supporting Stressed Teens (and Staying Sane)

Exams and tests can feel like monumental events for teens, even though as a parent, you might see them as A STEP in the larger journey of life. Understanding why this phase feels so overwhelming—and how you can support your teen effectively—can help ease their stress and strengthen your connection.

Why do exams feel like a big deal to teens?  What happens in the brain when teens are stressed, and how do we help them navigate these moments? 

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

Why Exams Feel So Big to Teens

During the teenage years, the brain is in a phase of rapid growth and development, particularly in the prefrontal cortex—the part responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and understanding long-term consequences. Because this area isn’t fully developed, it means teens often feel like the stakes are incredibly high in the present moment.

Combine this with heightened emotions, peer pressure, and their own internal expectations, and it’s no wonder exams can feel like a “make or break” moment of their lives. As adults, we know that one test won’t define their future, but for teens, this perspective is harder to grasp fully.

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

What Happens in the Brain During Stress?

When teens experience stress, their brain activates the amygdala, the part responsible for the fight-flight-freeze response. This increases endorphins and cortisol- all those wonderful natural chemicals that prepare them to deal with a threat, which can make them feel anxious, irritable, or even panicked.

In this state, it’s harder to focus, retain information, and think clearly. So understanding this can help you approach their stress with more calm and empathy. 

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

3 Ways to Support Your Teen Through Exam Stress

1. Listen First, Fix Later

As much as you might want to jump in and encourage better study habits, the most impactful thing you can do is listen.

  • Ask questions like, “What’s feeling overwhelming right now?” or “What do you feel is putting the most pressure on you?”
  • Be curious about their expectations and what’s driving their stress.
  • Avoid minimizing their feelings. Instead, validate them by saying, “That does sound like a lot to handle right now.”

By creating space for them to express their worries, you show them that you’re in their corner, which can instantly relieve some of the weight they’re carrying

thinking learning style

  1. Take a Breath (Literally)

Teens don’t just learn from what we say—they absorb our emotional states too. This is called co-regulation. If you’re feeling calm, their nervous system picks up on that and starts to mirror it.

Before you respond to their stress, take a moment to breathe deeply and ground yourself. This simple act helps you model calmness and reinforces a sense of stability for your teen.

 

  1. Validate and Empathize

You may not know exactly what it feels like to be a 15-year-old girl about to write a social studies final today, but you do know what it’s like to feel stressed, overwhelmed, or misunderstood.

  • Acknowledge their feelings without judgment.
  • Maybe try, “I can see why this feels so big to you right now,” or “It makes sense that you’re feeling this way.”

Validation builds trust and shows them that you’re not dismissing their experience, even if you view it differently.

Practical Tips for Supporting Study Habits

Once you’ve connected emotionally, your teen might be more open to exploring with you ways to study effectively. 

Want to know more about your teens, dominant learning style, and how to best study accordingly?  Download our quiz and information on representational systems here. 

Here are a few ideas based on their dominant learning style:

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

Visual Learners

visual learning style

With this learning style teens can benefit from:

  • A clean, organized study space with minimal distractions.
  • Color-coded notes, diagrams, or flashcards.
  • Using mind maps to organize information.

Auditory Learners


With this learning style teens can benefit from:

  • Background music (without lyrics or the same song on repeat) to create a focused atmosphere.
    Reading notes out loud or recording themselves and playing it back.
  • Studying in a space where they can talk through concepts aloud.

Kinesthetic Learners

  • Using colorful pens and tactile materials like sticky notes.
  • Incorporating movement into studying, such as pacing while reviewing notes.
  • Writing and rewriting information to help it stick.

Helping Teens Find What Works

Many teens are still figuring out how they learn best. The traditional education system teaches for the masses, but learning is highly individualized. Encourage your teen to experiment with different methods and environments to discover what feels most effective for them.

For example, instead of long hours of studying, they might benefit from shorter, focused sessions with frequent breaks. Some teens benefit from a body double or studying with friends while others find that super distracting. 

Celebrate small wins, like when they retain information more easily or feel less stressed during a study session.

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

Shifting the Perspective

Exams might feel high-stakes for your teen, but they’re also opportunities for growth. With your support, they can start to see these moments as learning opportunities—not reflections of their worth.

By listening, staying calm, and helping them experiment with tools that work for them, you’re showing them that success isn’t about perfection. It’s about resilience, effort, and having trusted allies by their side.

With so much love,
Chantal

Note taking

 

 

 

 

 

 

To take the “what’s your learning style” quiz in PDF format, click here

Chantal Cote
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. One day I might trade my winter jacket in for a bathing suit and a pair of flip flops, but for now Calgary is home.

I look at mental wellness as part of a Whole System. “After food comes mood” and You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with” are sayings that make a lot of sense to me. Therefore, when I work with teens, I collaborate with them to get a clear picture of how their lifestyle, experiences, and biological makeup influence how they feel every day. I also believe it is so important to mine for their strengths and resources. Bringing those to life for teen girls, results in them becoming their most resilient and confident selves.

I help teen girls who are struggling with their confidence, are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or shut down a lot of the time, and want things to be different. Most certainly the struggle is affecting their self-image, their relationships, and so importantly their mental wellness.

Over the years, I have given myself permission to explore my creative side. I’m also drawn to physical fitness and sport and feel so at home in nature. I work really well with teens who have some creative connections (whether that’s drawing, painting, writing, acting, fashion, playing and making music, etc.). I also get the world of sport and connect well with teens who have an athletic side.

If you’re curious about the specialized areas of training I have:

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
  • Expressive Arts Therapy
  • Compassion Focused Therapy
  • Trauma focused (through the expressive arts, progressive counting, trauma sensitive yoga, and narrative approaches)
  • Grief and Loss
  • Functional Family Therapy
  • Nutrition for Mental Health
  • Attachment based parenting
  • Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
  • HeartMath

Chantal is registered for direct billing with the following insurance providers:

  • Canada Life
  • Manulife
  • Green Shield
  • Blue Cross
  • NIHB
  • Medavie Blue Cross
  • Lethbridge School Division benefits

Other insurance providers may have the option for reimbursement. Please check with your provider.

Screen time blog creative

Screen Time Wisdom

Screen Time Wisdom

Screen Time Wisdom from Teens Who Know Best…..But Might Just Need a Little Help Implementing.

Screen time.

As the parent of a teen girl, those two words might conjure up thoughts nightmares are made of.

  • Phone.
  • No phone.
  • Social media.
  • No social media.
  • Limitations.
  • Restrictions.
  • Overuse.
  • Addictions.
  • Permanent digital footprint.
  • Cyber bullying.

Just to name a few things you might be considering when it comes to your teen and her screen time. 

I, like many, am navigating this world with my teen right now. A world where it seems like technology is master. I’m also a psychologist who’s been working with teens for over 10 years so I’ve gotten to see the many faces of technology. 

Whether you’re thinking about the impact of her online content consumption or the way others behave towards one another online, there’s no doubt It’s a complex issue- 

Where to draw our line as parents? How do we encourage and teach our children (teens) to use technology in reasonable and safe ways? 

For more information from some leading experts talking about these issues try checking out: 

What I want to share with you today is inspired by the teens I’ve worked with over the past 10+ years. Teens of all ages who have questioned, evaluated, and taken action on their screen time choices. 

Lessons from your daughters:

  • Going on regular “tech detoxes”. The teens I’ve worked with have tried a variety of detoxes including reducing their screen time by a small amount each day, choosing a weekly tech free day, and even deleting social media apps altogether for a month.

detox image

  • The benefits of gaming and being online. In-depth reflection and conversation has led some of the teens to realize that their online presence has helped them in many ways. Helping them break through social anxiety, getting really good at a craft or skill, discovering stuff about themselves, and connecting them to a like-minded community. It’s not all bad.
  • Parental guidance. OK this one, they may not have ever admitted saying, but quite a few of the teen girls “appreciate” the guidance and the little nudges to be off their devices and doing other types of things.
  • Technology for mental health. I love when a teen introduces me to an app or an online community that is focused on their wellness. I have had the privilege of being introduced to platforms teen girls actually use to improve their mental health. Apps, such as Finch, CalmHarm, Breeze, Habitica, Mindshift, and many more.
  • What I would tell my younger self (younger sibling). When I ask this question 9 times out of 10,  teens tell me their advice for their younger person would be to wait as long as they can before they start using social media, to avoid platforms that constantly show them videos and pictures they compare themselves to, and to enjoy things outside of screen time.

Pretty wise right!

That being said, you might appreciate the strong pull towards being on your screen, and how habit forming it can be. So even if your teen may already have some great ideas and insights; she will need your support, encouragement, and guidance to turn those wise ideas into wise actions.

Sometimes the most impactful thing we can do is simply start by questioning, evaluating and taking action with our own screen time choices to start that ripple effect. 

Love, 

Chantal

This Article: “Screen Time Wisdom” was written by: Chantal | Pyramid Psychology