Teen/ Child Crises
What is a Crisis
A crisis situation involves an element of lack of safety. In mental health, this can include:
Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
Suicide attempts
Sudden or worsening psychosis-like symptoms
(hearing or seeing things, paranoia, disorganized behavior)Abuse or traumatic events
Extreme behavioral issues such as violent outbursts or school refusal
These crises do not affect just one person, but everyone in the person’s life. They can be scary, exhausting, and infuriating. It is not always clear how the crisis got here or how to get out of it. That is where specialized support can help.
When to Seek Immediate Support
If your child is in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. I do not provide emergency response services.
The Teen/Child's Biggest Strength
Adults in crisis often face their struggles alone. Children and teens, however, have a unique advantage: they have their family. This is their biggest strength. Family support is the most powerful part of recovery. Families provide safety, daily structure, emotional connection, and guidance. This is true for all families whether they are biological, blended, adoptive, or chosen. When a young person is in crisis, family involvement is not optional; it is their greatest protective factor
A Family Approach to Crisis
Because of this, I take a family-centered approach to crisis treatment. I always involve parents or caregivers, not because anyone is to blame, but because crises require everyone working together.
Many parents worry they will be judged or blamed. Some fear coming to therapy will feel like being “called to the principal’s office.” That is not what happens here. Crisis therapy is about connection, collaboration, and finding steadiness, not assigning fault.
What I Treat
- Children
- Teenagers
- Trauma Reactions
- Early psychosis / first-episode concerns
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Self-Harm
- High-conflict family dynamics
- Oppositional or explosive behaviors
- Severe anxiety or panic
What to Expect
The first session will be about getting to know the family and what is going on. It will include a safety assessment and a safety plan if necessary. We will discuss how often we will meet and a referral will be made for a psychiatrist if necessary. Early on we will focus on stabilizing the crisis before diving deeper into what is fueling it.
My Credentials
I have experience working both the mental health hospital and PHP/IOP programs. In these settings all of my patients were undergoing crises. I am experienced in safety planning, stabilization, and working with families. I have worked almost exclusively with teens/adolescents throughout my career. I am trained in EMDR therapy for those experiencing trauma responses.
Common Questions From Parents
Is this normal teen behavior or something more serious?
Many crises begin as subtle shifts. Part of my role is helping you distinguish typical developmental changes from situations that need intervention.
What if my teen refuses therapy?
This is extremely common during crisis. I offer parent-only sessions to support stabilization even when a teen won’t attend.
Do you work with psychiatrists or schools?
Yes, collaboration is often essential and I’m happy to coordinate care when appropriate.