A Note From The Santa Monica Teen Therapist

It’s not uncommon for teenage girls to pick on others who stand out from the crowd. Read on to discover how to put a stop to jealousy. ………………………………………………………………………………………….-Sandra

“I’m a cheerleader and all of my friends act mad at me because I can do cool tricks and flips. They think I’m showing off. I’m really not like that at all. I’ve tried to tell them but they keep ignoring me. What do I do now??”

Recognizing Envy

What you are describing is something called envy. Sometimes, when you have something that someone else wants, they try to take it away from you by putting it down. This is one of the main reasons that gossip magazines are so popular. Everyone wants to hear the dirt on the stars who appear to be living the “dream life”.

You Have Choices

You have a couple of choices here:

* You can just keep doing what you are doing, knowing that you will just have to put up with other girls acting envious.

* You can stop doing all your cool tricks and anything else that makes you stand out.

* You can share what you have by helping those who are interested learn to do some cool tricks of their own.

Building Bridges

I recommend sharing as a way to build a bridge between you and those who wish they had what you have. Of course, there may still be some who won’t accept your gift, but a number of people will realize what a really nice person and real friend you are.

To have good friends you first need to be a good friend. Good friends share what they have. Good friends stick up for each other. Good friends are kind to each other. Good friends encourage each other to be the best they can be.

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems ]]> http://santamonicateentherapist.com/teen-talk-dealing-with-jealous-girls/feed/ 0 http://santamonicateentherapist.com/helping-your-teen-succeed-in-school/ http://santamonicateentherapist.com/helping-your-teen-succeed-in-school/#comments Sun, 08 Aug 2010 15:36:00 +0000 Sandra Dupont, Santa Monica Counselor and Therapist http://santamonicateentherapist.com/?p=840 .

The Los Angeles Teen Therapist

Your child’s success in school is the doorway to endless possibilities for their future. For this reason, I offer the following suggestions. -Sandra

The adolescent years are the time when teens are forming a sense of themselves as capable and self-sufficient. Not every student learns at the same pace or in the same style.

Inquire about your teen’s classes and teachers

At the start of the school year, ask your child what they think of their teachers and get a feeling for how enthused they are feeling about a particular subject in school. This will cue you in to potential areas where you may need to support them.

Know about their assignments what they are learning

Once school is underway check in daily or weekly, depending upon the self-motivation of your particular child, by asking about what their are learning and their assignments. By doing this, you stay on top of their need for assistance, rather than finding out after they have fallen behind. What you are listening for are any feelings of overwhelm, that you might indicate the need for you to step in and offer support.

Handling obstacles to academic success

If early on, your teen starts expressing feelings of helplessness, or hopelessness about a particular class or classes, this could mean a couple of things.

1. They need some assistance beyond the time spent in class to actually digest the new information, and thus a tutor may prove helpful.
2. They may have a learning style or learning disability that needs to be better understood, like ADD, dyslexia, or a sensory processing disorder. There are s tests as well as treatment that are designed to help overcome these challenges.
3. They may be struggling emotionally with depression, bullying, low self-esteem or even substance abuse. These are all situations that would benefit from a consultation and/or treatment with a trained mental health professional.

The value of the educational process

The process of education goes beyond the actual subjects they are studying. The Middle  and High School experience offers students the opportunity to learn social skills, personal responsibility, respect for authority, how to manage their time, what areas interest them, as well as how to gather and absorb information, a skill that will definitely come in handy in their future. Therefore, it is essential that parents support their child in having a positive and successful school experience.

Teach a man to fish and you feed him for life

Instead of only focusing on the outcome, like graduation and college, parents can better serve their child by walking beside their child along the way. This does not mean that you step in and do their work for them! This only reinforces a sense of dependency upon you. Your job as a parent is to prepare your child for the world, and encourage your to become a student of life.

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

Teen Support Group

Ages 15-18

(Starting Friday September 3rd)

Come Laugh and Learn Together!

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1421 Santa Monica Bl., Suite 108, Santa Monica

Fridays from 6pm – 7pm

$100 per person / month

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Strengthen Your Relationship Skills

This support group will offer participants the opportunity to address common phase of life adolescent issues. The Talking Circle is the method that will be used, to allow teenagers to discuss topics of their choice in non-confrontational manner.

Discover Your Authentic Expression

Being in a group of like minded individuals can help to put life and it’s challenges into perspective. This group is designed for sensitive and creative individuals who are looking to increase their their confidence in social situations.

Make New Friends

There comes a time in life when it is helpful to put aside competition and comparisons, and come together in community.

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**Note: group is limited to 8 participants and I will be interviewing clients prior to their joining the group.

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

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More Details…

The Talking Circle is a common method used to run a teen support and discussion group. This allows teenagers to discuss topics of their choice in a non-confrontational manner. Group members are usually seated in a circle and make comments on the topics of discussion following a small number of rules.

“Talking Circle” Rules

1. Only the person holding the talking stick may speak.
2. The goal is to listen as you would like to be listened to when you are speaking.
3. The “talking stick” is passed around until everyone who wants to has spoken.

General Format

Everybody is seated circle so that they can see ever group member’s face, including those on either side of them. Each person is given the opportunity to speak, with the speaker holding the talking stick. Members are asked to speak loudly enough for everyone in the circle can hear them.

No Interrupting

Participants are asked to not interrupt the speakers, though this “rule” may be broken by a request if the topic is very stimulating. (In this case, it is the facilitator’s decision to allow or disallow the interruption.) As the speaker completes their turn, they pass the stick to their neighbor, who may speak, or simply pass the stick on.

Use of “I” Statements

Discussion continues until the stick has been passed around the whole circle once in silence. Privacy is a key element to all talking circles,  and gossiping about others is not allowed. Members will be encouraged to use “I” statements to take personal ownership for their thoughts and feelings and thus communicate more directly. This can enhance each members’ capacity for intimacy through increasing the quality of their communication.

Participation is Voluntary

No one is forced to participate in group discussions, however, everyone will be encouraged. Members will be invited to listen beneath the words, and attempt to pick up the feelings that the words are expressing. Active participation in the group discussions will allow the participants to learn from each other, as well as discover that they are not alone in their feelings,

The Goal

The goal of this type of teen support group is to facilitate teens in maximizing their social skills and self-awareness, and discover their authentic expression. All potential members are usually interviewed prior to joining, to verify that the group is a fit for them.

Creating a Safe Space

The main ground rule is that everything discussed in group is held in confidence so as to create a safe space for members to feel free to open up. The groups I  lead are open, meaning that members may be added as other members decide to leave. Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be unquestionably unacceptable. Any casual discussions of drugs or alcohol will also be discouraged. Use of walkmans, cell phones or other electronic devices will not be permitted in the group.

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

A Note From The Santa Monica Teen Therapist

Are you starting at a new school this fall? Read on for tips on how to cope. ..- Sandra.

“I am starting high school next month and I’m a little nervous! Can you give me any tips?”

I can appreciate that fear may be one of the feelings you have on starting high school. But sometimes those jittery feelings in your stomach can also mean excitement.

New Opportunities

Going to a new school can mean new beginnings. If there was anything challenging for you about your previous school, you have a chance to make some changes.

Re-Invent yourself

Have you ever noticed when some people come back from their summer vacation, they may look or act differently? Everyone grows through their experiences. How have you grown in the last school year? What would you like to do differently this school year?

Set New Goals

Do you want to be a better student? Do you want to try a new sport? Would you like to meet some new people? This is an opportunity to set some new goals you would like to accomplish.

Re-evaluate Your Friendships

Sometimes, your friends go along with you to your new school. Sometimes, you need to make new friends. Think about what you liked about the friends you had last year and look for similar qualities in the people at your new school. But if you experienced a lot of drama with your friends last year, you may want to thing about choosing new friends.

Ask for Support

If you find that after the first couple of weeks you are still feeling uncomfortable, ask for support! Express your feelings to your parents. Speak to a teacher you feel you can trust. Talk to a friend. You don’t have to go through this alone. Changes are not always easy. Sharing with someone about what you are going through begins the process of finding solutions to help you feel better.

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

It can be really frustrating when your parents have expectations that do not fit your dreams and plans. Read on for ideas on how to encourage their support. -Sandra.

“My parents support me in school and things they value. I dream of being a singer/songwriter. How can I get them to support me in my dreams?“

Parents Want to Protect Their Children

In an attempt to protect their children from disappointment, parents often try steer them towards careers they are more familiar and comfortable with. It sounds like your parents have some strong ideas about what it means to be and actor or singer. It might be helpful to sit down with them and ask about their concerns.

Respectful Communication Goes a Long Way

As you know, the entertainment industry is highly competitive. The hours that are required to be successful in that profession can can take away time from school, friendships and other social activities. Your parents may be concerned that you will miss out on the experience of adolescence by focusing on being in the entertainment industry. If you are respectful in listening to them, you may find that they may be more open to hearing your request for acting lessons.

Find a Middle Ground

Expressing your interests in a mature manner will probably go further than sulking or storming around the house. See if there is a middle ground that you and your parents can agree on. For example, perhaps they would be open to your taking an acting class as long as you to maintain a certain GPA, and/or participate in an activity of their choosing.

In my experience, joining the singing and theatre groups at school is a good way to prove that you are serious about your passion for performing. As time goes by, your parents may discover that you have the talent and commitment to go the distance with your acting/singing career.

In the meantime, there is value in your participating in a variety of experiences and meeting different types of people, as the information could ultimately come in handy in any acting role that you might someday be asked to play.

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

Worried About your Teen?.

I specialize in:

Supporting Teens and Their Parents

In the adolescent years, teens solidify their sense of self and negotiate the winding path to becoming young adults. During this time, it is vital that parents understand their teen’s behavior rather than merely react to it. I help parents get the whole picture of what’s going on in their child’s mind, including the neurological changes that occur during adolescence.

Schedule a FREE Parent Consultation, and begin the process of healing your child’s pain, and creating a better future for your family.

Sensitive and Artistic Individuals

Some teens are academically oriented, and can thrive in the classroom. But others perceive life through colors, sound, images and movement. Sensitive and artistic teenagers sometimes find themselves struggling to fit in with their peers. Rather than labeling a teen’s behavior, I use my relationship with teens and their parents to model alternative responses and ways of thinking about the situation.

Along with 50 minute individual adolescent sessions, I offer weekly Teen Support Groups.

Diverse Multi-Cultural Clientele

It’s not uncommon for parents, particularly those born in another culture, to find their teenager’s behavior confusing and even disturbing. While respecting the belief systems of each family, I help parents bridge the cultural (and generational) divide by gaining an understanding of how their reaction influences their child’s behavior.

To improve your parent-child relationship during the challenges of adolescence, I offer a private 7-week Effective Parenting of Teenagers class series, which includes personalized parent coaching.

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I can help with any Adolescent Phase of Life Issues, including:

• Anxiety
• Bullying
• Depression
• Impulse control
• Low self esteem
• Substance abuse
• Learning challenges
• Acculturation difficulties
• Self-destructive behavior
• Parent-child relationship problems

I am a special kind of therapist. I help teens approach life’s challenges with confidence and success. I help parents to understand the issues teens face today, that they may support their child in successfully navigating the adolescent years. .

Qualifications:

• Masters Degree in Education
• Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor
• Advanced training in Adolescent Psychology and Mental Development
• 7 years experience as a practicing counselor for teens and their families
• Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Child Specialization Studies
• Advanced training in assimilation into American culture, treatment of drug abuse, insecure-attachment issues, personality disorders, anger management and child custody mediation

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One family’s story:

“We came to Sandra Dupont with concerns about our teenager whose risky behavior was escalating. It became apparent that we needed help, as my husband and I were not equipped to resolve the situation alone.

Sandra was an incredible resource in our time of need. She was very responsive and proved to be extremely knowledgeable about families in crisis. She helped us coordinate a plan of action that brought our family to a healthier place.

Without Sandra’s assistance we would not be where we are today. We are forever thankful to Sandra and are so fortunate to have had her knowledge and assistance. ” .

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For more information, please visit my website:

www.SandraDupontMFT.com

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Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Providing service for: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

In your relationship with your teenager, it is important to be open to hearing their point of view. Be willing to admit when they are making a good point, and try to find a compromise. – Sandra

Have you  noticed how passionate an adolescent can get when expressing their opinion? It can be really frustrating for them when they don’t feel heard. Even within families who get along well most of the time, there can be occasional disagreements.

Helpful Guidelines:

First, it is essential to really listen while they are talking, instead of formulating your response in your head. Secondly, try to stick to topic you are discussing and not jump around by bringing up past hurts or misunderstandings.

The foundation of any respectful argument involves avoiding: raising your voice, swearing, name calling, or pointing your finger in their face. You never want to use threats or taunts, which will only escalate the tension between you. A healthy relationship is based on honesty and trust, so you also don’t want to exaggerate to make a point.

Creating a Safety Phrase of Gesture

You should never be placed in a position where you fear an argument could get physical. Laying a hand on anyone in anger is not okay. Therefore, it is wise to agree upon a safety phrase or gesture that indicates it might be helpful to take a “time out” from an argument which has gotten too heated.

Be Willing to Apologize

You be a role model for your teen by being willing to apologize if you realize you are wrong. These recommendations will obviously work best if you and your child can both agree to use them. Remember, you are teaching your teen that it’s easier to hear and be heard when their opinion is expressed thoughtfully and respectfully.

Yes, it is possible for you to express your feelings without alienating your teen! The goal is to model to your child that it’s okay to agree to disagree…

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

Do you feel your male friends treat you like one of the guys?  Girls, read on to learn how to get them to treat you with more respect………………………….-Sandra…

“My guy friends at school treat me like one of the guys. They’re always making fun of me and stealing my hair bow. What should I do to get them to treat me with respect?”

Teasing Is A Form Of Play

I know that it can be aggravating when guy friends tease you, but did you know that teasing is a very common form of play among guys? If you observe groups of guys who are friends, whether they be young or old, you will often hear them teasing each other. The fact that they are teasing you probably means that they like you.

Girls Mature Faster Than Guys

At a certain age, being treated with respect becomes very important to a girl. Adolescence is a time when girls and guys start practicing more grown up behavior. During this time, however, girls tend to mature a faster than their male friends. Thus, they may still treat you like one of the guys, instead of the way you would prefer.

Set Boundaries

If the teasing is getting to be too much for you, you may want to consider setting boundaries. This means that you politely excuse yourself from situations where you don’t feel comfortable. Essentially, you are giving them a clear message that their behavior is not okay with you.

Communicate How You Feel

Only you can decide what types of behavior you are willing to tolerate. The good new is that as guys get older, you will discover that your male friends will put more effort into trying to please you. The key is to communicate your feelings in a polite and open manner.

Choose Your Friends Wisely

Girls and guys often see the world differently. It is important to remember that during adolescence, you are learning about each other through your interactions. Patience, kindness, and forgiveness go a long way towards building a bridge between you. At the same time, you have a right to decide how you want to be treated, and its up to you to choose your friends wisely.

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

A Note From the Santa Monica Teen Therapist

Although no longer children, teenagers are also not yet independent adults… and sometimes the road to adulthood can be a rocky one.………………………- Sandra

An Adolescent Phase of Life Coach can support teenagers in navigating the teen years, on their way to becoming young adults.

Benefits of Working with a Teen Life Coach Include:

•    Understanding and Changing Self-defeating Behaviors

•    Discovering One’s Authentic Self-expression

•    Enhancing Family Relationships

•    Mastering Social Interactions

•    Clarifying Dreams and Goals

•    Improving Grades

Signs and Symptoms

Some children begin to show symptoms of mental or emotional problems during adolescence.  If not addressed these symptoms can follow them into adulthood, leaving them emotionally immature and unable to choose healthy relationships.

The Stigma of Therapy

Some parents are hesitant to take their child to a therapist to address these emotional issues, afraid that they will be labeled problem kids or learning disabled. Seeking the assistance of an Adolescent Phase of Life Coach can offer families another opportunity to remedy these problems.

Life Coaching versus Therapy

Coaching can be a fun and uplifting experience for teenagers. In contrast to therapy, where the therapist is seen as the expert, coaching is a collaborative effort between coach and client. The focus is on helping the teen create a vision of the life they would like, and supporting them in their journey towards that goal.

Creating a Sanctuary for Teens

My training as a Teen Therapist has paved the way for developing more creative and positive ways for working with teens and their families. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space for teens to explore their obstacles, ask their questions and express their feelings.

“It Takes a Whole Village to Raise a Child”

Unfortunately, parents sometimes get caught up in their own life’s challenges, and may not have the time or energy to be as available to their child as they would wish. It has been said that “It takes a whole village to raise a child.” It is helpful to know that there are caring professionals available, should you want or need them.

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

Coming Soon

A Free Downloadable E-book

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

It is always fun to get together with friends and chat about things, even other people, but crossing the line to gossiping can be dangerous.,,,,,,,-Sandra

“My best friend loves to gossip about other people, and I am afraid that she is gossiping about me. What should I do?”

Gossiping can mean a few things:

• Your friend could be feeling envious or jealous of someone, and is trying to feel better about herself by saying negative things about someone.
• Your friend may be trying to feel more popular, and is using gossip to gather other people around her.
• Your friend may be angry with someone, but instead of handling her hurt feelings directly with that person, she is venting her upset feelings publicly.
• She may see some behavior in that other person that she thinks is wrong and is trying to make that person change by letting everyone know what they have done.

Since she is your best friend, your opinion is probably very important to her. Have you considered sharing with her your feelings and concerns about gossiping in general and creating a discussion?

If it seems like she is open to the discussion, you could even go so far as to express your fear that she may talk about you to others. You can then invite her to tell you directly about anything she thinks is getting in the way of your friendship and promise to do the same for her.

She is doing what she is doing for a reason. However, she may not understand why she is doing it and your conversation could be a safe place where she can explore her feelings. Together, you could discover better options for handling these situations besides gossiping.

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

“I don’t feel like I am pretty or healthy. What can I do to change that?”

Pretty is as Pretty Does

Do you know anyone who looks beautiful from the outside, but are really not nice people? Have you noticed others who are not beauty queens, but you love being with them?

Society’s Standards

Its not uncommon for young women to compare themselves to the airbrushed images of today’s fashion models. The media is full of photos of girls who appear to look flawless.

Its an Illusion

Without make-up, perfect lighting and good camera angles, the girls you see on television and on billboards do not look the same as they do in an advertisement. They get pimples and have bad hair days like everyone else.

Working with What you Have

Everyone is born with a unique look. The size and shape of one’s facial features as well as one’s body shape is usually a combination of genetics. Thus everyone needs to learn how to work with what they’ve got.

Health is Beautiful

Have you noticed that people who eat fresh fruit and vegetables, and drink plenty of water seem to have good skin? People who exercise regularly seem to have nice muscle tone and fit well in their clothes.

Accepting Yourself

Before you decide to change, you need to ask yourself a couple of questions. Who are you changing for? Who are you comparing yourself to? What do you like about yourself? What can you realistically change?

Loving Yourself

If you decide to make some changes, make sure they come from a place of loving yourself… for your physical appearance is just a small part of who you really are. (And hopefully, the people you choose to surround yourself with are wise enough to know this)

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Providing service for: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

“I’m scared of puberty, I just don’t feel right about it. What should I do?”

I can appreciate that you may be feeling a bit scared. Puberty is a journey into the unknown, filled with new experiences and new feelings.

A Time of Innocence

Childhood is known as a time of innocence and play. It is also a time of being taken care of by adults. Oftentimes, being a child means that you have little to no responsibilities. Becoming an adolescent requires that you put aside some of your play to start learning the skills that you will need as you get older.

A Time of Body Changes

Puberty is a natural part of life which every person goes through. During this time, your body changes, as it prepares itself for reproduction and ultimately the creation of a family. It is not uncommon to experience some feelings of awkwardness, as you get used to looking and feeling different than you used to.

Turning to People you Trust

In trying to understand what you might be frightened of, I imagine that the body changes may play a large part in your concern. This is where mothers, older siblings and aunts can come in handy. They have already been there, and can guide and support you in the things you need to learn. You might also want to consult with a nurse at your school to learn more specifics about what to expect.

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Providing service for: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

A Note From The Santa Monica Teen Therapist

Even best friends sometimes say things without thinking about how their words may affect you.……………………………………………………………………………………….- Sandra…

“I started playing basketball on a team a year ago. One day, me and my BFF were shooting baskets and she told me she was better than me at playing basketball. That may be true, but what she said hurt my feeling! What should I do?”

I can appreciate that what your friend said about her being better than you, at a sport you are trying to compete in, did not feel nice. Since you are BFFs, I think it could be helpful to let her know how you feel.

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Words Have Impact

The problem isn’t that she thinks she is better than you at shooting baskets. You, yourself, said she is really good. The problem is that she didn’t seem to understand how her words affected you.

The Meaning of Words

The question I have for you is what did her words mean to you? Did they mean that she doesn’t care about you in the way you thought she did? Do they mean that she is somehow no longer your equal? To be able to communicate what you feel, it is important for you to understand what you are feeling.

Self Acceptance

Adolescence is a time in life when teens are trying to figure out who they are. By comparing yourself to others, you find out what you are good at, and where you may have to work harder. Your friend may have simply been trying to feel good about herself.

Uncomfortable Feelings

Adolescence is also a time of feeling vulnerable and a little insecure. Which is why teens are very sensitive to things that are said by their friends. This may be why it feels really uncomfortable to talk to her right now.

Expectations

Something else to consider is that there are often expectations that go along with being best friends. I would guess that one of these expectations is that a best friend would cheer you on, and believe in you. It can be shocking and disappointing when your friend says something less than positive or encouraging.

Repairing Relationships

Communicating how you feel in a kind and respectful manner can go a long way towards repairing this relationship. Your friend may not have meant any harm, and may even believe that you are better than her in other areas. Perhaps this situation could be an opportunity to strengthen your relationship, by discussing what it actually means to each of you to be each others best friend.

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Providing service for: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems