Caring for Adolescents with Experience, Patience, and Respect

My first full-time counseling role was as an adolescent substance use and mental health counselor in a community-based program. I met with around 30 young people each week—both individually and in groups—supporting them through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. That experience shaped my entire approach to working with teens: grounded in respect, relationship-building, and showing up with calm, consistent presence.

Since then, I’ve served as a school counselor for middle and high school students, a youth mentor, a program administrator for youth-focused initiatives, and now as a private practice therapist. I’ve supported teens as they navigate anxiety, grief, identity exploration, academic stress, peer relationships, and major family changes like divorce or the loss of a close loved one.

My approach is rooted in trauma-informed care and draws from motivational interviewing and strengths-based techniques. I prioritize building trust and connection first, helping teens feel safe to speak honestly—without pressure to have everything figured out. From there, we work together on skills, insight, and confidence for whatever life brings next.

At Team Hutch Counseling, I provide virtual counseling that meets teens where they are—with flexibility, compassion, and care.

If you’re the caregiver of an adolescent, or an older teen or young adult looking for support, I invite you to reach out.

Learn more at teamhutchcounseling.com