Anxiety affects many children, adolescents, and young adults. Anxiety can interfear with school work, cause sleep problems and contribute to health problems. Therapy SRQ provides therapy for youth in Sarasota and Venice, FL to treat Anxiety.

Young adult therapy session navigating life transitions in Sarasota FL

Therapy for Young Adults in Sarasota: Navigating Life Transitions

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The transition from teenager to young adult is one of the most challenging developmental stages. Young adults in Sarasota and Venice, FL face unique pressures including college decisions, career uncertainty, relationship changes, and the growing expectation of independence. When these pressures become overwhelming, therapy provides a valuable space for growth and support.

Why Young Adults Struggle

The young adult years, roughly ages 18 to 25, involve enormous changes in identity, responsibility, and social roles. Psychologist Jeffrey Arnett coined the term “emerging adulthood” to describe this distinct developmental period, characterized by identity exploration, instability, self-focus, feeling in-between, and a sense of wide-open possibilities. While that openness can be exciting, it can also feel paralyzing.

Many young adults in Sarasota are navigating the transition from high school to college or the workforce while also dealing with the emotional challenges that come with growing up in a close-knit community. The pressure to have a clear direction — when most people this age are still figuring things out — can create significant anxiety and self-doubt.

Common struggles we see at Therapy SRQ include feelings of being stuck or directionless, overwhelming anxiety about the future, depression related to unmet expectations or major life changes, difficulty managing relationships, low self-esteem or identity confusion, and lingering effects of childhood experiences. Our anxiety therapy in Sarasota and Sarasota depression counseling programs are designed to help young adults work through these challenges.

How Young Adult Therapy Differs from Teen Therapy

While teen therapy in Sarasota often involves significant parental participation, young adult therapy in Sarasota focuses on building independent coping skills and personal agency. Sessions are confidential and center on the young adult’s own goals, values, and aspirations.

At Therapy SRQ, Christine Murawski, LMHC creates a collaborative therapeutic relationship where young adults feel empowered to explore their challenges honestly. The approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, solution-focused techniques, and strengths-based methods tailored to this developmental stage. Unlike therapy approaches designed for older adults, young adult therapy acknowledges that your identity, career path, and relationships are all still actively forming — and that uncertainty is a normal part of the process, not a problem to be fixed.

Topics Commonly Addressed in Young Adult Therapy

Young adult therapy sessions frequently cover managing the transition to independence, building healthy relationships, developing stress management and coping tools, processing experiences from childhood or adolescence, navigating career and educational decisions, understanding and managing ADHD or other ongoing challenges, and strengthening self-identity and confidence.

Many young adults also bring concerns about social comparison and social media’s impact on their self-image. The constant exposure to curated versions of other people’s lives can intensify feelings of inadequacy, especially during a period when you are already questioning your path. Therapy provides a space to examine these pressures honestly and develop a healthier relationship with both yourself and technology.

For young adults who experienced difficult childhoods, this period often brings unresolved issues to the surface. Leaving the family home can trigger grief, anger, or confusion about past experiences. Therapy helps young adults process these feelings so they do not carry them forward into future relationships and life decisions.

The Value of Early Mental Health Investment

Young adults who invest in their mental health during this formative period build a foundation that benefits them for decades. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that 75% of all lifetime mental health conditions begin by age 24, making the young adult years a critical window for intervention. Learning to manage stress, communicate effectively, and process emotions during these years creates habits that support long-term well-being.

Some young adults also find that family therapy in Sarasota, FL helps them redefine their relationship with parents as they move into adulthood. Shifting from a parent-child dynamic to an adult-to-adult relationship is a significant transition for both sides, and therapy can facilitate that process constructively.

Young Adult Therapy in Sarasota and Venice

If you are a young adult in the Sarasota or Venice area, or a parent concerned about your young adult child, Therapy SRQ is here to help. We offer young adult therapy in Sarasota and young adult therapy in Venice at our Sarasota office and Venice office, serving young adults from Lakewood Ranch, Siesta Key, Bradenton, and surrounding communities. Call or text (941) 202-3432 to schedule an appointment.

Understanding teen anxiety - therapy session in Sarasota FL

Understanding Teen Anxiety: When to Seek Help in Sarasota

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Anxiety in teenagers is more than normal worry. For many teens in Sarasota and Venice, FL, anxiety can become overwhelming, affecting their ability to attend school, maintain friendships, and enjoy daily life. Understanding the difference between typical teenage stress and clinical anxiety is the first step toward getting your teen the help they need.

What Teen Anxiety Looks Like

Teens experience anxiety differently than adults. While adults might describe feeling worried, teenagers often show their anxiety through irritability, avoidance behaviors, and physical symptoms. Your teen might complain of headaches or nausea before school, refuse to participate in activities they once enjoyed, or spend increasing amounts of time isolated in their room.

Social anxiety is particularly common among Sarasota-area teens. The pressure of social media, academic performance, and navigating complex peer relationships can trigger anxiety responses that interfere with healthy development. At Therapy SRQ, we see these patterns regularly and have effective strategies to help.

How Therapy Helps Anxious Teens

Our anxiety therapy program in Sarasota uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches tailored specifically for adolescents. Teens learn to identify anxious thought patterns, challenge distorted thinking, and develop practical coping tools they can use in real-world situations.

Christine Murawski, LMHC creates a safe, judgment-free space where teens feel comfortable opening up. Many teens are initially resistant to therapy, but our approach meets them where they are and builds trust gradually.

The Connection Between Anxiety and Other Challenges

Anxiety often coexists with other issues. Teens struggling with anxiety may also show signs of depression, ADHD, or behavioral difficulties. Our Sarasota practice offers depression therapy in Sarasota, ADHD therapy in Sarasota, FL, and behavioral therapy in Sarasota to address these co-occurring challenges. A comprehensive assessment helps identify all contributing factors so therapy can address the full picture.

Family involvement through family therapy in Sarasota is often an important component of teen therapy in Sarasota. Parents learn strategies to support their anxious teen at home without inadvertently reinforcing avoidance patterns.

Does It Actually Work?

Yes. CBT for teen anxiety has some of the strongest research behind it of any therapeutic approach — the APA considers it a first-line treatment. Most teens who stick with it show meaningful improvement. That doesn’t mean it’s instant. Building new thought patterns and facing fears takes time and practice, both in sessions and in daily life.

We’re also realistic with families about what therapy can and can’t do. It’s not about eliminating anxiety entirely — some anxiety is normal and even useful. The goal is helping your teen manage it so it stops running the show.

Getting Started

If your teenager is avoiding things they used to do, struggling at school, or just seems weighed down by worry that won’t quit, earlier is better than later. Anxiety that goes unaddressed tends to get worse and can lead to depression or other complications down the road.

Therapy SRQ serves families at our Sarasota and Venice offices. We also work with families from Osprey and Nokomis, Lakewood Ranch, and other nearby communities. Call or text (941) 202-3432.

What Parents Can Do Right Now

While you’re deciding whether therapy is the right step, there are a few things you can do at home. First, resist the urge to just reassure — saying “don’t worry about it” can actually make anxious teens feel dismissed, even though you mean well. Instead, acknowledge what they’re feeling: “That does sound stressful. What do you think would help?”

Second, watch for avoidance patterns. If your teen is skipping social events, refusing to go to school, or avoiding situations that make them uncomfortable, that avoidance actually feeds the anxiety cycle. The more they avoid, the bigger the fear gets. A therapist can help them learn to face those situations gradually in a way that builds confidence rather than overwhelm.

Third, take care of yourself. Parenting an anxious teen is exhausting, and your own stress level affects the household. It’s okay to need support too — that’s part of why we offer family therapy as part of our approach.

Parent holding toddler hand during separation anxiety moment in Sarasota FL

How to help your toddler when they don’t want you to leave

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As a parent, it can be heartbreaking to see your toddler cling to you and cry when you try to leave them with a caregiver or at daycare. This behavior is known as toddler separation anxiety and it is a normal part of your child’s development. If anxiety persists, anxiety therapy in Sarasota or anxiety therapy in Venice, FL can provide professional support. However, it can be challenging for both you and your child to navigate. In this article, we will discuss what causes toddler separation anxiety, how to help your child cope with it, and provide some tips for parents to ease the transition.

What Causes Toddler Separation Anxiety?

Developmental Milestones

Toddler playing with toysby Paige Cody (https://unsplash.com/@paige_cody)

Separation anxiety typically begins around 8-9 months of age and can last until your child is 2-3 years old. This is a time when your child is becoming more aware of their surroundings and forming attachments to their primary caregivers. They may become anxious when separated from their parents because they rely on them for comfort and security.

Changes in Routine

Toddlers thrive on routine and predictability. When their routine is disrupted, such as starting daycare or having a new caregiver, it can trigger separation anxiety. This is because they are unsure of what to expect and may feel a sense of loss or fear of the unknown.

Parental Anxiety

As a parent, it can be difficult to leave your child when they are upset and crying. However, your child can pick up on your emotions and may become more anxious themselves. It is important for parents to remain calm and reassuring when leaving their child to help ease their anxiety.

How to Help Your Child Cope with Separation Anxiety

Practice Separation

Toddler playing with blocksby Jeremy Bishop (https://unsplash.com/@jeremybishop)

One of the best ways to help your child cope with separation anxiety is to practice separation in a safe and controlled environment. Start by leaving your child with a trusted family member or friend for short periods of time, gradually increasing the time as your child becomes more comfortable. This will help your child learn that you will always come back and that they are safe with other caregivers. A play therapist in Sarasota or play therapist in Venice can guide this process using age-appropriate techniques.

Create a Goodbye Ritual

Establishing a goodbye ritual can help your child feel more secure when you leave. This can be a special hug, kiss, or saying a special phrase. It is important to keep the ritual consistent so your child knows what to expect and can find comfort in the routine.

Provide Comfort Objects

Stuffed animalby Sharon Waldron (https://unsplash.com/@onesmallsquare)

Giving your child a comfort object, such as a stuffed animal or blanket, can provide them with a sense of security when you are not around. This object can serve as a reminder of you and can help ease their anxiety.

Talk to Your Child

It is important to talk to your child about their feelings and validate them. Let them know that it is okay to feel sad or scared when you leave, but reassure them that you will always come back. This can help your child feel heard and understood, and may ease their anxiety.

Tips for Parents to Ease the Transition

Be Consistent

Parent and child holding handsby Quino Al (https://unsplash.com/@quinoal)

Consistency is key when it comes to helping your child cope with separation anxiety. Stick to a routine and try to keep changes to a minimum. This will help your child feel more secure and know what to expect.

Communicate with Caregivers

It is important to communicate with your child’s caregivers about their separation anxiety. Let them know what techniques work best for your child and what to expect. This will help the caregiver understand your child’s needs and provide the best care possible. Family therapy in Sarasota and family therapy in Venice can help parents and caregivers develop consistent strategies.

Be Patient

Separation anxiety can be a difficult phase for both you and your child. It is important to be patient and understanding. Your child may need extra time and reassurance to adjust to new situations. With patience and consistency, your child will learn to cope with separation anxiety.

Take Care of Yourself

Parent taking a breakby Jess Bailey (https://unsplash.com/@jessbaileydesigns)

As a parent, it can be emotionally taxing to deal with your child’s separation anxiety. It is important to take care of yourself and practice self-care. This can include taking breaks, talking to other parents, or seeking support from a therapist. Our behavioral therapy in Sarasota and behavioral therapy in Venice help families build coping skills together. When you are well-rested and emotionally supported, you can better support your child.

When to Seek Professional Help

In most cases, toddler separation anxiety is a normal part of development and can be managed with the tips mentioned above. However, if your child’s anxiety is severe and is interfering with their daily life, it may be time to seek professional help. Signs that your child may need professional support include:

  • Extreme distress when separated from parents
  • Refusal to attend daycare or be left with a caregiver
  • Difficulty sleeping due to separation anxiety
  • Physical symptoms such as stomachaches or headaches when separated from parents

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to talk to your child’s pediatrician or a licensed mental health professional for guidance and support. Contact Therapy SRQ at (941) 202-3432 to schedule a consultation.

Conclusion

Toddler separation anxiety is a normal part of your child’s development and can be challenging for both you and your child. By understanding the causes of separation anxiety and implementing coping strategies, you can help your child navigate this phase and ease their anxiety. Remember to be patient, consistent, and communicate with caregivers to provide the best support for your child. If you have concerns about your child’s separation anxiety, do not hesitate to seek professional help. With love and support, your child will learn to cope with separation anxiety and thrive.

Therapy SRQ serves families at our Sarasota therapy office and Venice therapy office. We also welcome families from Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Palmer Ranch, and Siesta Key.

Teen girl talking to therapist during counseling session in Sarasota FL

Counseling support in Sarasota FL and Venice FL for Middle school girls who feel they don’t belong

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Middle school can be a challenging time for many young girls. As they navigate the transition from childhood to adolescence, they may struggle with feelings of not belonging or fitting in with their peers. This can lead to a range of emotional and behavioral issues that can impact their overall well-being.

Fortunately, there is support available for middle school girls who are struggling with these issues. In Sarasota and Venice, FL, there are counseling services specifically designed to help young girls build healthy peer relationships and develop a sense of belonging. In this article, we will explore the importance of peer relationships for middle school girls and how counseling support can help them navigate this crucial time in their lives.

The Importance of Peer Relationships for Middle School Girls

During middle school, peer relationships become increasingly important for young girls. They begin to rely more on their friends for emotional support and validation, and their social circle expands beyond their family and close relatives.

The Impact of Peer Relationships on Mental Health

Positive peer relationships can have a significant impact on a young girl’s mental health. They provide a sense of belonging, boost self-esteem, and help girls develop important social skills. On the other hand, negative peer relationships can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-worth, and even mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Middle school girlsby David Pennington (https://unsplash.com/@dtpennington)

The Role of Peer Relationships in Identity Development

Middle school is also a time when young girls are developing their sense of self and identity. Peer relationships play a crucial role in this process, as girls often look to their friends for validation and acceptance. When they feel like they don’t fit in or belong, it can have a significant impact on their self-image and self-confidence.

Signs Your Middle School Daughter May Be Struggling with Peer Relationships

It can be challenging for parents to know when their middle school daughter is struggling with peer relationships. Here are some signs to look out for:

  • Withdrawal from social activities and spending more time alone
  • Changes in behavior, such as becoming more aggressive or argumentative
  • Difficulty making or maintaining friendships
  • Low self-esteem and negative self-talk
  • Changes in academic performance
  • Expressing feelings of not belonging or fitting in

If you notice any of these signs in your daughter, it may be a sign that she could benefit from counseling support.

How Counseling Support Can Help

Building Healthy Peer Relationships

Group therapyby Nathan Dumlao (https://unsplash.com/@nate_dumlao)

Counseling support for middle school girls focuses on helping them build healthy peer relationships. Through individual and group therapy sessions, girls can learn important social skills such as communication, conflict resolution, and empathy. They can also explore their own thoughts and feelings about their relationships and learn how to set boundaries and make healthy choices.

Addressing Underlying Issues

Sometimes, feelings of not belonging or fitting in can be a symptom of underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Counseling support can help girls address these issues and develop coping strategies to manage them. By addressing these underlying issues, girls can improve their overall well-being and feel more confident in their relationships.

Providing a Safe Space to Express Themselves

Middle school can be a challenging time for girls, and they may not always feel comfortable talking to their parents or friends about their struggles. Counseling support provides a safe and confidential space for girls to express themselves without fear of judgment. This can be especially beneficial for girls who may feel like they don’t have anyone to talk to about their feelings.

How to Find Counseling Support for Your Middle School Daughter

Counseling supportby taylor hernandez (https://unsplash.com/@taylormae)

If you believe your middle school daughter could benefit from counseling support, there are a few steps you can take to find the right program for her:

  1. Talk to her school counselor or pediatrician for recommendations.
  2. Research counseling services in your area and read reviews from other parents.
  3. Contact Therapy SRQ to learn more about their programs and approach.
  4. Schedule an initial consultation to see if the program is a good fit for your daughter.

Student Support Contacts for Sarasota and Venice, FL

Sarasota Middle Schools:

  1. Sarasota Middle School
  2. Sarasota County Schools Student Services
    • Executive Director: Debra Giacolone
    • Email: Debra Giacolone
    • Administrative Assistant: Laura Ahumada-Aguilar
    • Email: Laura Ahumada-Aguilar
    • Student Services Administrative Assistant: Aimee White
    • Email: Aimee White
    • Phone: 941-927-9000, ext. 34756
    • Fax: 941-361-6157

Venice Middle Schools:

  1. Venice Middle School
    • Phone: (941) 486-2100
    • Address: 1900 Center Road Venice, FL 34292
  2. Student Leadership Academy
    • Phone: (941) 485-5551
    • Address: 200 Field Ave E, Venice, FL, 34285

Conclusion

Middle school can be a challenging time for young girls, but with the right support, they can navigate this crucial time in their lives and develop healthy peer relationships. Counseling support in Sarasota and Venice, FL, offers a safe and supportive environment for girls to build self-esteem, develop social skills, and address underlying issues. We welcome families from Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, and Palmer Ranch. If you believe your middle school daughter could benefit from counseling support, don’t hesitate to reach out and find the right program for her. With the right support, she can thrive and develop a strong sense of belonging and self-worth.

    Child behavioral therapy in Sarasota FL - Therapy SRQ

    Children’s Therapy in Sarasota: A Guide to Promoting Emotional Well-being and Development

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    Introduction:

    childrens therapy in Sarasota FL

    Children’s therapy plays a crucial role in supporting the emotional well-being and development of young individuals. In Sarasota, Florida, families seeking professional assistance for their children can find a range of therapeutic services tailored to address various concerns. This article aims to provide valuable information on children’s therapy in Sarasota, highlighting its benefits, types of therapies available, and reputable resources for further exploration, including Therapy SRQ, a trusted provider of children’s therapy in the area (therapysrq.com).

    Understanding Children’s Therapy:

    Children’s therapy, also known as pediatric therapy, encompasses a range of therapeutic interventions aimed at addressing emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges in children. Therapists at Therapy SRQ utilize evidence-based approaches to promote healthy coping mechanisms, improve communication skills, and enhance overall well-being in young individuals.

    Common Challenges Addressed by Children’s Therapy:

    Children’s therapy can address a wide range of challenges that young individuals may face, including but not limited to:

    a. Anxiety and stress disorders

    b. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

    c. Autism spectrum disorders

    d. Behavioral problems

    e. Depression and mood disorders

    f. Learning disabilities

    g. Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

    Happy children treatment for adhd and depression in Sarasota FL

    Types of Children’s Therapy in Sarasota:

    1. Play Therapy: Play therapy utilizes play as a means of communication to help children express their emotions, resolve conflicts, and develop problem-solving skills. This approach is often effective in younger children who may have difficulty articulating their thoughts and feelings verbally.
    2. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. It helps children develop effective coping strategies and replace negative patterns with healthier alternatives.
    3. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): ABA is a scientifically validated approach used to address behavioral challenges and promote positive behaviors. It involves breaking down complex skills into manageable steps and providing positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors.
    4. Family Therapy: Family therapy involves working with the entire family unit to address and resolve conflicts, improve communication, and enhance family dynamics. It recognizes the significant impact that family relationships have on a child’s well-being.

    Reputable Sources for Children’s Therapy in Sarasota:

    1. Therapy SRQ (therapysrq.com): Therapy SRQ is a trusted provider of children’s therapy in Sarasota, offering a wide range of therapeutic services tailored to meet the specific needs of each child. Their team of dedicated professionals provides evidence-based interventions to support emotional well-being and development.
    2. Sarasota Memorial Health Care System: The Sarasota Memorial Health Care System provides a comprehensive range of pediatric services, including therapy programs, with a team of dedicated professionals.
    3. All Children’s Hospital Johns Hopkins Medicine: As a leading pediatric hospital, All Children’s Hospital offers a range of therapeutic services and resources for children and families in Sarasota.
    4. National Association for Play Therapy (APT): APT is a professional organization that provides resources, research, and directories to locate qualified play therapists in various regions, including Sarasota.

    Conclusion:

    Anxiety treatment for children in Sarasota FL

    Children’s therapy in Sarasota, offered by Therapy SRQ and other reputable sources, provides invaluable support to children and families facing emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. Through evidence-based therapies like play therapy in Sarasota, cognitive-behavioral therapy, applied behavior analysis, and family therapy, children can develop essential coping skills, improve their emotional well-being, and foster positive growth. Therapy SRQ’s dedication to personalized care and their team of experienced professionals make them a trusted resource for children’s therapy in the Sarasota community. Seeking professional assistance from Therapy SRQ and collaborating with reputable institutions can significantly contribute to the overall well-being and development of children in Sarasota.

    In addition to Sarasota, we serve families from Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Palmer Ranch, and Siesta Key. We also offer services at our Venice office, including play therapy in Venice and family therapy in Venice. Contact us at (941) 202-3432.

    Child with behavior problems at school - behavioral therapy in Sarasota and Venice FL

    Behavior problems starting school? Get your child the help they need!

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    Behavior problems in school

    Behavior problems are commonly seen with transitioning back to school. Parents, teachers and students start with an optimistic view on a “fresh start” and a new grade. However, typically within a few weeks, things start to slide. As a result, often we are frustrated that expectations are not met.

    Approximately 1 in 5 children ages 13-18 have or will have behavior problems at school that lead to serious mental illness according to National Alliance on Mental Illness. Consequently, students drop out or get stuck in the juvenile justice system. There is never enough eyes to monitor a child’s well being. As a result, KXAN a NCB affiliated television station in Austin, Texas is exploring potential solutions by developing Save our Students (S.O.S) This healthcare initiative is helping educate teachers, staff, bus drivers and parents understand and take action of mental health concerns with students. S.O.S stresses it is not your job to fix but be aware something is happening and get the child to where they need to get help.

    As parents…how can we help?

    Parents need to model on how to deal with mental health issues. First, you need to develop a language around mental illness to talk to your kids. Next, you must advocate for them to speak up when needed. Similarly, we all need to recognize as adults, we struggle too. It is equally important for parents to ensure they are taking time for their needs. As a result, modeling positive coping skills and problem solving techniques benefit you as well!

    Often times behavioral problems can be the result of underlying mental health disorders. As a result, these problems can have a negative change on the way children learn. It can effect their behavior, emotions, causing distress and struggling to get through the day. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Depression, anxiety and behavior disorders are the most common among adolescents.

    Depression in adolescents

    • Frequent and longer periods of sadness or unexplained crying spells
    • changes in appetite and sleep patterns
    • Irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety
    • Pessimism, indifference
    • Loss of energy, chronically feeling tired
    • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness
    • Not able to concentrate, indecisiveness
    • Inability to find pleasure in usual interests, social withdrawal
    • Physical symptoms of unexplained aches and pains
    • Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

    Anxiety in adolescents

    • Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, frequent nightmares
    • Feeling on edge/Irritable
    • Difficulty concentrating
    • Restlessness
    • Unexplained outbursts
    • Avoiding social interactions with friends
    • Avoiding extracurricular activities
    • Spending more time alone
    • Changes in grades, missed assignments
    • Procrastination or increased difficulty concentrating on academics
    • Increased heartbeat/dizziness
    • Frequently sweating
    • Upset stomach
    • Derealization

    If your child appears to be struggling with symptoms of these common adolescent problems in school, home or daily functioning its important to get help. These problems are treatable and most adolescents can learn to cope and manage their symptoms. Please call Therapy SRQ today at (941) 202-3432 for a free consultation.

    Getting Ahead of the Problem

    The AACAP recommends a professional evaluation when behavioral issues are persistent and affecting multiple areas of a child’s life. But you don’t have to wait until it’s a full-blown crisis. If the school calls are piling up and the strategies you’ve tried at home aren’t making a dent, that’s a clear signal. What we do in our practice is figure out what’s driving the behavior — not just what it looks like on the surface. A child who acts out in school might be anxious, struggling with attention, processing a family change, or dealing with something a teacher wouldn’t know about. Once we understand the root, we can work on it. Behavioral therapy gives kids concrete tools: how to calm down when they’re flooded, how to use words instead of actions, how to handle frustration without melting down. For younger kids, play therapy works with their natural way of processing the world. And we always involve parents — consistency between home and sessions is what makes the difference stick. If your child is struggling as they settle into school, reach out. Call or text (941) 202-3432 to connect with our Sarasota or Venice office.
    Teen mental health and screen time - video games and internet therapy support in Sarasota FL

    “Mental Health, Video Games and the Internet”…

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    teen playing video games
    2 important factors to monitor with your child’s gaming- Time spent and content.

    An interview with NPR reveals President Trump’s commentary about the recent mass shootings in El Paso, Texas. https://www.npr.org/2019/08/05/748247918/president-trump-blames-recent-mass-shootings-on-mental-health-video-games-intern The president specifically called out “Mental Health, Video Games and the Internet” as the leading factors affecting the shooters. So, let’s discuss these factors.

    Firstly, we know the importance of mental health awareness and education. However, how can we ensure that it;s not “in one ear and out the other” for our kids? Take the time to check in with your child. New friends, new projects, new feelings…it’s all there, connect with them! It’s important for youth to have strong relationships with their family and friends. Help your child develop resilience by supporting them to solve problems that arise and let them know they can turn to you for help! Be aware of their internet, social media, gaming and television use. Most importantly, not only the duration but the content. Be a role model by practicing what you preach, ensure you take care of your own mental health and have time for things you enjoy.

    Unfortunately, all too often kids don’t get help soon enough. Mental health problems may go unnoticed or ignored. Parents may not know the warning signs or who to contact. Mental health issues can manifest in many different ways including a decline in grades, problems with friends and sneaky behavior. Mental Health problems can have serious effects on your child’s development and quality of life. Getting help early is so important. If you believe your child could be struggling, please call Therapy SRQ at (941) 202-3432.

    What Should Parents Actually Do?

    Look, the research is clear that screen time itself isn’t inherently evil. The AAP and most child psychologists agree that what kids consume and how it affects their behavior matters more than raw hours. A kid playing Minecraft creatively is in a very different situation than one watching violent content unsupervised for hours.

    That said, there are real red flags. If your child gets unusually angry or aggressive after gaming, has trouble transitioning away from screens, is losing interest in friends or activities they used to enjoy, or their grades are slipping — those are signs the screen time is becoming a problem, not just a pastime.

    Start with the content. Sit down and watch or play with your kid. Know what games they’re playing and who they’re talking to online. Then look at the patterns — is the screen replacing real-world connection, or supplementing it? That distinction matters.

    Getting Support

    If you’ve tried setting boundaries at home and it’s not sticking — or if the behavioral issues seem bigger than just screen time — that’s a good time to bring in help. A therapist can dig into what’s driving the excessive use. Sometimes it’s boredom, sometimes it’s anxiety, sometimes it’s a way to avoid something uncomfortable at school or with friends.

    For younger kids, play therapy gives them a way to process what’s going on without needing to articulate it perfectly. For older kids and teens, behavioral therapy can help them build better habits and self-regulation around technology.

    We see these issues a lot at our Sarasota and Venice offices. If your gut is telling you something’s off with your child’s screen habits, trust it. Parents often second-guess themselves — “maybe all kids do this” — but you know your child. If they’re not themselves, that matters.

    We work with families from throughout the Sarasota area, including Bradenton, Palmer Ranch, and Englewood. Call or text (941) 202-3432 to talk about what’s going on.

    Teen self-harm awareness and support - adolescent therapy in Sarasota and Venice FL

    Self harm or “Cutting” and why does our youth do it?

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    teen cutting
    Red raised marks on this teen’s arm are the result of cutting.

    Self harm or “cutting” appears to be an increasing epidemic in our youth. Working with youth in schools and various settings since 2001, it seems to have taken off. So, why cut? Cutting is used as a way to cope with the discomfort of powerful emotions. For instance, bullying, self-esteem issues, relationship problems are all common stressors that are behind this negative coping mechanism. Perhaps their feelings are so intense that they don’t quite have the coping mechanisms to relieve the emotional pain.

    Lyness D’arcy at Teenhealth.org https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/cutting.html explains that teens can cope better with major life events and overwhelming emotions with the help of a mental health professional. Self harm or “cutting” can become habit forming by the person getting a false sense of relief from cutting. The brain starts to connect the false sense of relief to the cutting behavior. As a result, the behaviors can feel like an addiction. A person may feel that they need to cut to cope with their feelings. When they have difficult feelings, the thoughts go to cutting.

    Identify the trouble that’s triggering the cutting. Cutting is a way of reacting to emotional tension or pain. Try to figure out what feelings or situations are causing you to cut. Is it anger? Pressure to be perfect? Relationship trouble? A painful loss or trauma? Mean criticism or mistreatment? Identify the trouble you’re having, then tell someone about it. Many people have trouble figuring this part out on their own. This is where a mental health professional can be helpful. http://sioutreach.org/

    If you or someone you love have a problem cutting please reach out for help. Admitting you need help can be challenging. Cutting can make you conceal your feelings from the world even more. A feeling of shame is commonly associated with these behaviors. However, many feel a sense of relief after telling a trusted adult. Forms of non-suicidal self injury are not something to dismiss. If you need further help or guidance, please call Therapy SRQ at (941) 202-3432.

    What Parents Should Watch For

    Self-harm isn’t always obvious. Teens who cut are often very good at hiding it. Long sleeves in summer, reluctance to change for gym class, or unexplained scratches they brush off as accidents from the cat — these are things to notice. But more than the physical signs, pay attention to emotional shifts. If your teen seems increasingly distressed, withdraws from the people they usually trust, or seems to carry a heaviness they can’t explain, that’s worth a conversation. One of the hardest things for parents is knowing how to respond. Your instinct might be fear, anger, or even disbelief. All understandable. But what your teen needs to hear is: “I’m not angry. I’m worried. And I want to help you figure this out.” NAMI recommends approaching without shock or judgment — teens who feel shamed are less likely to open up about what they’re going through.

    How Therapy Helps

    In our practice, we work with teens to understand what’s driving the self-harm — the emotions underneath it — and build healthier ways to cope with that pain. It’s not about just stopping the behavior; it’s about giving your teen better tools so they don’t need it. This often involves working with the whole family, because self-harm affects everyone. Family therapy can help parents learn how to support their teen without accidentally making things worse, and individual teen sessions give your child space to process at their own pace. If your teen is self-harming, please don’t wait. Call or text Therapy SRQ at (941) 202-3432. We have offices in Sarasota and Venice. If there’s immediate danger, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline).