Author: ROWI

Adolescence is a time of self-discovery and identity formation, and for some teenagers, this process involves exploring their gender identity. As parents, guardians, and allies, it is crucial to provide support and understanding during this challenging journey. By creating a safe and accepting environment, we can empower teens exploring their gender identity to navigate this path with confidence and self-acceptance. In this blog post, we will discuss several ways to support and advocate for teens who are exploring their gender identity.

Seven Ways to Support Teens Exploring Their Gender Identity

1. Educate Yourself About Gender Identity Topics:

The first step in providing meaningful support is to educate yourself about gender identity and related topics. Take the time to understand the nuances of gender identity, transgender experiences, and the challenges faced by gender-questioning teens. Familiarize yourself with appropriate terminology and seek resources such as books, articles, or websites dedicated to LGBTQ+ issues. By gaining knowledge, you will be better equipped to support and advocate for your teen.

2. Foster Open Communication:

Create an environment where your teen feels safe and comfortable expressing their feelings and experiences. Encourage open dialogue by actively listening without judgment. Respect their preferred pronouns and chosen name, and make sure to use them consistently. By validating their identity and experiences, you demonstrate your support and willingness to understand them better.

3. Seek Professional Guidance:

Consider reaching out to professionals who specialize in working with gender-questioning or transgender individuals. Mental health providers, such as therapists or counselors, who have experience in this area can offer valuable support and guidance. They can help both you and your teen navigate the complexities of gender identity and provide tools to cope with challenges that may arise.

4. Connect with Supportive Communities:

Encourage your teen to connect with support groups or communities that cater to gender-questioning or transgender individuals. These communities can provide a sense of belonging, offer support, and foster connections with peers who share similar experiences. Online platforms, local LGBTQ+ organizations, and youth centers may provide safe spaces where your teen can explore their identity and find support.

5. Respect Privacy and Confidentiality:

Respecting your teen’s privacy and confidentiality is crucial. It is essential to maintain their trust by not sharing their personal information without their explicit consent. This includes refraining from discussing their gender identity or journey with others unless given permission. By demonstrating respect for their privacy, you show your commitment to supporting them in a way that respects their autonomy.

6. Advocate for Their Rights:

Be an advocate for your teen within their educational institution, healthcare settings, and broader community. Work with school administrators to ensure inclusive policies and practices are in place, such as gender-neutral restrooms or policies protecting against discrimination. Educate teachers and staff about gender diversity to foster a more inclusive environment. Advocate for gender-affirming healthcare, including access to appropriate medical care if your teen chooses to pursue hormone therapy or other medical interventions.

7. Celebrate and Affirm Their Gender Identity:

Celebrate and affirm your teen’s gender identity by using positive language and reinforcing their self-worth. Recognize and honor their achievements, milestones, and steps they take on their journey. Allow them to explore and express their identity through their choice of clothing, hairstyles, or other forms of self-expression. By affirming their identity, you help boost their self-esteem and foster a strong sense of self.

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Supporting a teenager who is exploring their gender identity is a journey of empathy, understanding, and acceptance. By fostering a safe and open environment, seeking knowledge and professional guidance, connecting with supportive communities, respecting privacy, advocating for their rights, and celebrating their unique identity, you can play a pivotal role in empowering them throughout their self-discovery process. Remember, your unwavering support and affirmation can make a significant and positive impact on their overall well-being and self-acceptance. Together, let us create a world where every teen feels seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are.

How ROWI Can Help

At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we offer evidence-based treatments, as well as a range of therapies and activities to meet the unique needs of each individual with ASD. We believe in providing comprehensive and individualized care to help teens with ASD reach their full potential. To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 800-721-ROWI, and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, and verifying your insurance to get you, your family, and your teen started on your journey to mental wellness.

The Power of Group Therapy for Teens Struggling with Mental Health

Adolescence is a period of significant change and growth, both physically and emotionally. Many teenagers face mental health challenges during this critical phase, often feeling isolated and unsure of where to turn for support. While individual therapy is a valuable option, group therapy has emerged as a particularly effective approach for teens grappling with mental health issues. 

Why group therapy for teens can be a powerful tool for mental well-being

1. Peer Support: Breaking the Isolation

Teenagers often experience a sense of isolation in their struggles, believing that they are alone in their pain. Group therapy creates a supportive environment where adolescents can connect with peers who are facing similar challenges. Sharing their experiences and emotions with others who can relate helps diminish feelings of isolation and offers a sense of belonging. Knowing that they are not alone can be immensely comforting and validating for teens.

2. Normalization: Erasing the Stigma

Adolescents frequently believe that their mental health difficulties are abnormal or unique to them, which can intensify their shame and self-blame. In a group therapy setting, they quickly realize that their struggles are shared by others. The normalization of their experiences reduces self-stigma and promotes self-acceptance. By understanding that their feelings and thoughts are not uncommon, teenagers can gain a broader perspective and develop greater compassion for themselves.

3. Social Skills Development: Learning and Growing Together

The teenage years are a critical period for social and emotional development. Group therapy offers a safe space for teens to practice and develop essential social skills. Engaging with peers in therapy allows adolescents to improve communication, active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution skills. Through interactions within the group, they receive valuable feedback, learn from others’ experiences, and explore different ways of relating to others. These skills extend beyond therapy, contributing to their overall social and emotional growth.

4. Feedback and Perspective: Broadening Horizons

In group therapy, teenagers benefit from receiving feedback and perspectives from both their peers and the therapist. They gain insights into their own behavior and beliefs by hearing how others perceive them. This feedback challenges assumptions, enhances self-awareness, and provides alternative viewpoints that may not have been considered. Exposure to diverse perspectives can serve as powerful catalysts for personal growth and change.

5. Role Modeling and Inspiration: Harnessing the Power of Peers

Within a group therapy setting, teens have the opportunity to witness the progress and successes of their peers. Seeing others overcome challenges and make positive changes can inspire hope and motivate individuals to work towards their own goals. Role modeling is particularly impactful during adolescence, as young people tend to value and learn from the experiences of their peers.

6. Support Beyond Therapy: Building Lasting Connections

Group therapy facilitates the formation of connections and friendships among participants. These relationships extend beyond therapy sessions, offering ongoing support and encouragement. Adolescents find solace in knowing they have a network of peers they can turn to during difficult times, even outside of therapy. These lasting connections become an invaluable source of support on their mental health journey.

Group therapy holds immense potential for teenagers struggling with mental health challenges. By providing peer support, normalizing experiences, fostering social skill development, offering feedback and perspective, inspiring through role modeling, and facilitating lasting connections, group therapy becomes a powerful tool for adolescent well-being. While individual therapy remains a valuable option, the unique benefits of group therapy make it an effective and holistic approach to supporting teenagers on their path to mental wellness.

How ROWI Can Help

Engaging in mental health treatment is another way to support your teen. ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers can help you and your teenager with professional mental health support.  Each of our clients receives a treatment plan that will support them in meeting their goals. Programs are individualized in order to meet each client and family where they are at in the process. To get started with ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, contact us or simply call our Admissions Team at 805-356-3477 and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, verifying your insurance, and get you, your family, and your teen started on your journey to mental wellness.

How Social Skills Training Can Improve Mental Health for Teens with Autism

The teenage years are challenging for many young people, but for those with autism, they can be especially difficult. Teens with autism often struggle with social skills, which can lead to a cycle of mental health challenges. This cycle includes social anxiety, depression and anxiety, withdrawal and isolation, and increased fear and anxiety. Fortunately, social skills training can help break this cycle and improve mental health outcomes for teens with autism.

Social anxiety is a common challenge for teens with autism. They may feel uncomfortable in social situations, find it hard to start or join conversations, or struggle to understand nonverbal cues like facial expressions and body language. This can lead to avoidance of social situations, which can further exacerbate anxiety and depression.

Depression and anxiety are also common challenges for teens with autism. They may feel misunderstood or isolated, which can lead to feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. This can also lead to increased anxiety and fear about social situations, which can further perpetuate the cycle of mental health challenges.

Withdrawal and isolation are common coping strategies for teens with autism who struggle with social skills. They may retreat into themselves, spending more time alone or engaging in solitary activities. This can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression.

Increased fear and anxiety are common outcomes of the cycle of mental health challenges facing teens with autism. They may become more afraid of social situations and interactions, which can lead to further isolation and withdrawal. This can also lead to a decrease in self-esteem and confidence.

The Importance of Social Skills Training for Autistic Teens

However, social skills training can help break this cycle and improve mental health outcomes for teens with autism. By learning social and life skills, they can become more comfortable and confident in social situations, which can lead to improved mental health and overall well-being.

Some of the key skills that can be taught through social skills training include:

• How to use appropriate conversational skills: This includes learning how to initiate and maintain conversations, as well as how to listen and respond appropriately.
• How to appropriately use electronic forms of communication: This includes learning how to use email, text messaging, and social media in appropriate ways.
• How to handle rejection, teasing, bullying, rumors/gossip, and cyberbullying: This includes learning how to respond to negative interactions in a constructive and healthy way.
• How to start, enter and exit conversations between peers: This includes learning how to join conversations, as well as how to gracefully exit them when necessary.
• How to choose appropriate friends: This includes learning how to identify and choose friends who are supportive and positive influences.
• How to appropriately use humor and assess humor feedback: This includes learning how to use humor in appropriate ways, as well as how to interpret and respond to feedback.
• How to organize successful get-togethers with friends: This includes learning how to plan and host social events, as well as how to navigate potential challenges or conflicts.
• How to handle arguments and disagreements with friends and in relationships: This includes learning how to communicate effectively, as well as how to resolve conflicts in a constructive and healthy way.

How ROWI Can Help

ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers offer individualized treatment plans for teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We are proud to offer the UCLA PEERS® Program (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) for Adolescents, a 16-week evidence-based social skills intervention for motivated teens who are interested in making and keeping friends and/or handling conflict and rejection. With ROWI’s support, your teen will be able to make friends and keep friends as we teach them social and life skills. To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 805-356-3477.

By learning these skills, teens with autism can become more confident and successful in social situations, which can lead to improved mental health outcomes. With the right support and resources, they can break the cycle of mental health challenges and build fulfilling and rewarding social relationships.

Supporting Autistic Teens: Tips for Parents and Caregivers

Autism is a neurological condition that affects how an individual perceives the world around them. It can manifest in various ways, making it difficult for people with autism to socialize, communicate, and form relationships with others. Autism signs often present themselves in childhood, but some individuals may not receive a diagnosis until adolescence or even adulthood. In this blog, we’ll discuss how parents can support their autistic teenagers.

Autism Signs in Older Children and Teenagers

In older children and teenagers, autism signs can be more subtle than in younger children. However, they still display certain behaviors that indicate they have autism. These may include:

• Difficulty making eye contact
• Difficulty with nonverbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions
• Difficulty understanding social cues and norms
• Restricted interests and hobbies
• Repetitive behaviors or routines
• Sensory sensitivities, such as being sensitive to light or sound

How to Support an Autistic Teen

Supporting an autistic teen requires patience, understanding, and empathy. Here are some ways parents can support their autistic teenagers:

1. Create a predictable routine: Autistic teens often benefit from having a routine and structure in their daily lives. This could include set meal times, bedtimes, and designated times for activities and hobbies.
2. Encourage independence: While it’s essential to create a routine, it’s also important to encourage independence. Autistic teens may struggle with self-care tasks, such as grooming and hygiene, but gradually teaching them to perform these tasks on their own can build their confidence and independence.
3. Provide clear instructions and expectations: Autistic teens may struggle with understanding social norms and expectations, so it’s essential to provide clear instructions and expectations. Use concrete language and avoid figurative language or sarcasm, as they can be confusing.
4. Allow for downtime: Autistic teens may become overwhelmed by social situations or sensory input, so it’s essential to provide opportunities for downtime. This could be as simple as setting aside a quiet space for them to relax in or encouraging them to take breaks when they feel overwhelmed.
5. Seek support: Parenting an autistic teen can be challenging, so it’s important to seek support from other parents, support groups, or professionals who specialize in autism.

How to Talk to an Autistic Teenager

Communication can be challenging for autistic teens, so it’s important to communicate with them in a way that they understand. Here are some tips for communicating with an autistic teenager:

1. Use clear and direct language: Autistic teens may struggle with understanding sarcasm, idioms, and figurative language. Use clear and direct language when communicating with them.
2. Listen actively: Autistic teens may have difficulty expressing themselves, so it’s important to actively listen to them when they do communicate.
3. Avoid overstimulation: Autistic teens may become overwhelmed by too much sensory input, such as loud noises or bright lights. It’s essential to communicate with them in a calm and quiet environment.

Parenting an autistic teenager can be challenging, but with patience, understanding, and support, it’s possible to create a safe and nurturing environment for your child. By creating a routine, encouraging independence, providing clear instructions, allowing for downtime, and seeking support, you can support your autistic teenager through the challenges they face. 

How ROWI Can Help

ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers specializes in treating a variety of mental health issues, including autism. Our services include therapy, counseling, and support groups for both teens and parents. If you’re struggling to support your autistic teenager, ROWI can provide the support and resources you need to help your autistic teen thrive. To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 805-356-3477, and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, and verifying your insurance to get you, your family, and teen started on your journey to mental wellness.

Treatment Options for Teens with Autism: Effective Therapies and Activities

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social communication, behavior, and sensory processing. The symptoms of autism can vary greatly, and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for it. However, there are effective treatments for autism in teens that can help them improve their social skills, communication, and behavior.

It is essential to find a treatment plan that works for each autistic teen’s unique needs. That is why it is crucial to work with professionals who have experience in treating ASD. At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we specialize in providing comprehensive and evidence-based treatments for teens with ASD. Our goal is to help each teen realize their capabilities and achieve their full potential.

Therapy options for teens with autism vary and can include:

1. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy: ABA therapy is a behavior-based treatment that is used to help autistic teens improve their social skills, communication, and behavior. This therapy involves breaking down complex skills into smaller, more manageable steps, and rewarding the teen for achieving each step.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a talk therapy that focuses on helping autistic teens change negative or unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. This therapy can be helpful in reducing anxiety and improving communication and social skills.
3. Speech and Language Therapy*: Speech and language therapy can help autistic teens improve their ability to communicate verbally and non-verbally. This therapy can also help them understand social cues and develop social skills.
4. Occupational Therapy*: Occupational therapy can help autistic teens improve their ability to perform daily living tasks and develop sensory processing skills. This therapy can also help them with motor skills and coordination.

In addition, there are various therapeutic activities and training programs to support autistic teenagers, including:

1. Social Skills Training: Social skills training is a crucial aspect of treatment for teens with autism. It can involve role-playing, modeling, and group therapy sessions. These activities can help autistic teens learn how to initiate conversations, make friends, and navigate social situations. At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we offer the UCLA PEERS® program, an evidence-based social skills intervention specifically designed for teens with ASD. The program focuses on teaching teens skills such as starting and maintaining conversations, making and keeping friends, and handling peer pressure. The PEERS program has been shown to improve social skills, reduce loneliness, and increase social opportunities for teens with ASD.
2. Art Therapy: Art therapy can be a helpful tool for autistic teens to express themselves and communicate their emotions. This therapy can involve painting, drawing, and other forms of artistic expression.
3. Music Therapy: Music therapy can be a helpful tool for autistic teens to develop communication skills, improve mood, and reduce anxiety. This therapy can involve playing musical instruments, singing, and listening to music.

Ultimately, finding the right combination of therapy and activities for each individual teenager is essential to successful treatment of ASD. 

How ROWI Can Help

At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we offer evidence-based treatments, as well as a range of therapies and activities to meet the unique needs of each individual with ASD. We believe in providing comprehensive and individualized care to help teens with ASD reach their full potential.  To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 805-356-3477, and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, and verifying your insurance to get you, your family, and teen started on your journey to mental wellness.

*While ROWI does not offer Speech and Language Therapy or Occupational Therapy services, we are able to connect families of teens with autism to respected practitioners with those expertises.

Navigating Adolescence with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Insights and Guidance

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It is usually diagnosed in early childhood, but some ASD cases may go undiagnosed until adolescence. As a result, many autistic teenagers face unique challenges during this critical time in their lives. In this blog, we will explore the impact of ASD on adolescence, the behavior of autistic teenagers, and the intersection of puberty and autism.

How Does Autism Affect Adolescence?

Adolescence is a period of rapid physical, emotional, and social development. For autistic teenagers, the transition to adolescence can be particularly challenging because they may struggle with social interaction and communication. This can lead to difficulty forming and maintaining friendships, and feeling isolated from their peers. In addition, autistic teenagers may have trouble understanding social cues, which can lead to misunderstandings and social conflicts.

ASD can also affect the academic performance of autistic teenagers. They may have difficulty with organization, time management, and following instructions. This can lead to poor grades and a lack of motivation to succeed in school. Furthermore, autistic teenagers may experience sensory overload, which can make it difficult to focus in class and complete assignments.

Autistic Teenager Behavior

The behavior of autistic teenagers can vary widely depending on the individual. However, some common behaviors associated with ASD in adolescence include:

• Difficulty with social interaction and communication
• Repetitive behaviors or routines
• Limited interests or preoccupations
• Sensory sensitivities
• Difficulty regulating emotions

Some autistic teenagers may also engage in self-injurious behaviors or have aggressive outbursts. It is important to note that these behaviors are not intentional, but rather a result of the individual’s difficulty with communication and self-regulation.

Parents, caregivers, and teachers can support autistic teenagers by providing a structured and predictable environment. This may include creating a daily routine, using visual schedules, and providing clear instructions. In addition, it is important to provide opportunities for social interaction, such as group activities or clubs, that align with the teenager’s interests.

Puberty and Autism

Puberty is a challenging time for most teenagers, but it can be particularly difficult for those with ASD. Autistic teenagers may struggle with the physical and emotional changes that come with puberty, and may have difficulty understanding and managing their emotions. In addition, the social pressures of adolescence can be overwhelming for autistic teenagers, who may feel even more isolated and misunderstood.

Parents and caregivers can support autistic teenagers through puberty by providing age-appropriate information about bodily changes and sexual health. It may also be helpful to discuss social boundaries and appropriate behavior in relationships. In addition, it is important to provide a safe and supportive environment for teenagers to ask questions and express their feelings.

Autism Spectrum Disorder in Teenagers

Autism spectrum disorder can have a significant impact on adolescence. Autistic teenagers may face challenges with social interaction, communication, and academic performance. However, with the right support and understanding, autistic teenagers can thrive during this critical time in their lives. By providing structure, opportunities for social interaction, and age-appropriate information, parents, caregivers, and teachers can help autistic teenagers navigate adolescence and prepare for adulthood.

How ROWI Can Help

At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we offer evidence-based treatments, as well as a range of therapies and activities to meet the unique needs of each individual with ASD. We believe in providing comprehensive and individualized care to help teens with ASD reach their full potential. To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 805-356-3477, and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, and verifying your insurance to get you, your family, and teen started on your journey to mental wellness.