Embracing Connection: How Group Therapy Can Help You Overcome Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is a common challenge that can significantly impact your quality of life. The fear of judgment, criticism, or embarrassment in social situations can lead to isolation and missed opportunities. While individual therapy can be beneficial, group therapy offers a unique and effective approach to tackling social anxiety. Let's delve into how group therapy can be a powerful tool for overcoming social anxiety.

Understanding Social Anxiety: Social anxiety, also known as social phobia, involves an intense fear of social situations. It often leads to avoiding interactions or enduring them with extreme discomfort. These feelings can prevent you from fully engaging in relationships, work, and social activities.

The Power of Group Therapy: Group therapy involves a therapist-led session with a small group of individuals facing similar challenges. While it might sound intimidating for someone with social anxiety, it offers numerous benefits that can foster personal growth and healing.

1. Safe and Supportive Environment:

Group therapy provides a safe space to share your experiences, fears, and thoughts with others who understand what you're going through. Knowing you're not alone in your struggles can reduce feelings of isolation.

2. Real-Life Exposure:

Group therapy offers a controlled environment to practice social interactions. You can gradually expose yourself to social situations with the support of both the therapist and group members.

3. Skill Building:

Therapists in group sessions often introduce coping strategies, communication techniques, and relaxation exercises. These tools empower you to manage anxiety in real-life scenarios.

4. Observational Learning:

Watching others face their fears and make progress can be inspiring and provide you with a sense of hope. Witnessing their growth can encourage you to challenge yourself as well.

5. Feedback and Perspective:

Group members can offer feedback, different perspectives, and insights that you might not have considered. This can expand your understanding of your anxiety and help you develop effective strategies to manage it.

6. Normalization of Experiences:

Hearing others share their struggles can help normalize your own feelings. This can reduce the shame often associated with social anxiety and make it easier to address your challenges.

7. Building Social Skills:

Regular interactions within the group can improve your social skills over time. As you practice active listening, sharing, and providing feedback, you'll gradually become more comfortable in social settings.

8. Gradual Progress:

Group therapy allows you to progress at your own pace. You can start with minimal participation and gradually increase your involvement as you become more comfortable.

9. Long-Term Support:

The connections you build in group therapy can extend beyond the sessions. These new relationships can provide ongoing support and encouragement as you work to overcome social anxiety.

Group therapy offers a unique and powerful approach to overcoming social anxiety. The combination of a supportive environment, real-life exposure, skill-building, and shared experiences can lead to remarkable personal growth. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, and taking steps to address social anxiety can lead to a more fulfilling and connected life. If you're considering group therapy, consult a mental health professional to determine if it's the right approach for you. Embrace the opportunity to connect, grow, and overcome the challenges that social anxiety presents. 🌟🌈 #SocialAnxiety #GroupTherapy #MentalHealthMatters

Our Therapists Share How to Support New Moms

Becoming a mother for the first (or second, or third, and so on) is a huge adjustment in a woman’s life that ripples into the many different relationships they have. With such a shift in the day-to-day norm, extra support is often appreciated (and necessary!) to help mothers adjust to life with their new babe.

In honor of World Maternal Health month, our therapists put together a list of our top tips to help you support any new mamas (and dads!) in your life.

1) Meals

After coming home from the hospital, many parents find it a struggle to be able to carry on their usual daily cooking or meal prep routines. With a newborn needing feedings every 2 or so hours, meals are often skipped or need to be quick and easy and not take much time to prepare. It is imperative that women take extra care with their diet in the first few weeks postpartum to support their bodies in replenishing minerals that they lost during the birth. Prepping meals, delivering food, or even providing gift cards to restaurant apps like Uber Eats and Doordash can be extremely helpful for new parents who are acclimating to life at home post birth. Evening offering a run to the grocery store can be helpful for picking up fresh and nutritious foods for mom and the rest of the family.

2) Chores

It is imperative that new mothers get adequate rest post birth. Their bodies just went through and amazing process, creating life! Rest is paramount in the first few weeks after a baby is born for the mother, and the dishes in the sink and the over-filled laundry basket have to put on hold. For C-Section births, women are unable to bend down for several weeks, so scrubbing that toilet clean won’t be happening for awhile. Offering to help out with these household chores so mom has time to rest and connect with her new family member is extremely helpful.

3) Connect

Many women feel forgotten about, neglected, and lonely in the early postpartum period. There is a huge build up to when a baby is about to be born- decorating the nursey, throwing a baby shower, shopping for all the baby and pregnancy essentials, and then, POOF! Baby is here and everyone is back to their regularly scheduled programming. Texting (don’t call, they’re busy!) a new mom “Thinking of you, let me know how I can help you” goes a long way. Feeling supported is essential for new moms in their postpartum journey. Staying connected with new moms and being a listening ear can be such a sense of security for a new mom.

Are you a new mom looking for additional support postpartum support? We are here to help. Here at Serene Mind, we have therapists who focus on maternal mental health and postpartum healing. Email us at hello@serenemindpsych.com or give us a call at 813.321.8280 to set up an intake appointment to see if one of our therapists can aid you in your postpartum healing journey.

5 Ways to Parent Like a Pro

Parenting like a pro involves continuously learning, adapting, and prioritizing the well-being and development of your children. Our kids and teens really do need all our love and care. Of course it is hard to remember this among moments of stress and frustration. Times with our kids is very valuable and they learn everything from us.

Here are 5 tips to help you become a more effective and nurturing parent:

1. Be Present and Engaged:

   Spend quality time with your children and be fully present during interactions. Engage in activities that interest them and show genuine interest in their lives. Having fun with your child or teen can set them up for success, not to mention boost their confidence as well.

2. Set Clear Boundaries and Expectations:

   Establish consistent rules and expectations, and communicate them clearly to your children. Consistency helps children feel secure and understand what is expected of them. Kids and teens thrive from consistent and similar expectations. Remember they are learning if the world is safe and this is a keep indicator in regard to safety.

3. Practice Positive Discipline:

   Focus on positive reinforcement and constructive discipline rather than harsh punishments. Encourage good behavior with praise and rewards, and use consequences that teach valuable lessons. Try to redirect and avoid meltdowns as much as possible. Although, if a meltdown does happen be prepared to listen, validate and not fuel the situation.

4. Listen Actively:

   Practice active listening when your child wants to share something with you. Show empathy and validate their feelings, even if you might not agree with them. Kids and teens love validation and empathy. This helps them feel connected and also helps them learn that you are a safe person to go to in case of any dangers presented to them.

5. Be a Role Model:

   Children often learn by observing their parents' behavior. Be a positive role model by demonstrating the values and behaviors you want to instill in them. Our kids and teens need great people in their lives. The great thing is you can be one of these people. Teach them things that you wish you had learned and always be the person you needed at their age.

Being a parent is no easy gig. Everyday is full of new challenges and curve balls. You really have to remember you are doing the best you can with what you have.

Do you feel that you need more parenting support? Our Parenting Group is coming to you this September. It will be online for a total of 8 weeks. Pre-register now by emailing hello@serenemindpsych.com

4 Ways Social Skills Can Help Me Succeed

When we think of our childhood, for many of us moments in social settings stand out. These social situations are the very essence of our memories. Social skills can play a crucial role in your success across various aspects of life. The importance of social skills sometimes is underestimated, but the reality is without social skills success is weary.

Here's how social skills can help you succeed:

1. Improved Communication:

   Effective communication is a cornerstone of success in both personal and professional settings. Social skills training helps you develop active listening, assertiveness, and empathy, enabling you to express yourself more clearly and understand others better. When you can communicate confidently and empathetically, you build stronger connections and foster positive relationships with others.

2. Enhanced Networking:

   Networking plays a vital role in career growth and personal development. By honing your social skills, you can become more comfortable in social settings, making it easier to initiate and maintain conversations with new people. This can lead to valuable connections, mentorship opportunities, and potential collaborations that can boost your success in your chosen field.

3. Conflict Resolution:

   Conflict is inevitable, but how you handle it can make a significant difference in your success. Social skills training equips you with the ability to manage conflicts constructively. You learn how to stay calm in tense situations, express your concerns without hostility, and find solutions that are mutually beneficial. This skill is invaluable in personal relationships and workplace dynamics.

4. Increased Emotional Intelligence:

   Emotional intelligence involves understanding and managing your own emotions as well as recognizing and empathizing with the emotions of others. Social skills training helps you develop emotional intelligence, which is crucial for making sound decisions, building trust, and motivating and inspiring others. It also allows you to handle stress more effectively and maintain a positive outlook in challenging situations.

In summary, social skills training empowers you to communicate effectively, build strong networks, handle conflicts with grace, and understand and manage emotions. All these abilities contribute to your overall success, both in your personal life and in your professional endeavors.

Why do Women Need Support Groups?

In today’s world, women are facing many challenges that effect all aspects of their life. From trying to balance their family, career, self-image, societal expectations, gender bias, and a myriad of other issues women may face in their lifetime. Support groups can help make facing these challenges just a little easier. Having community and others that can relate to your experiences, empathize, and provide support can help tremendously in navigating life’s stressors.

Here are some ways women can benefit from support groups:

Emotional support:

The purpose of a support group is to give people the space to freely express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences; in a judgement free zone. Having the ability to share your feelings with others who can empathize and provide support can give us a great sense of relief and comfort that can translate to experiences in our day to day.

Empowerment and solidarity:

Support groups can provide a safe space for women to come together, share their experiences, and empathize and support one another. Having this space to connect with other women can help us feel validated, seen, and empowered to face the challenges ahead. There is power in numbers and having people you can connect with that you likely wouldn’t have otherwise met can give us perspective and support we didn’t know we needed.

Sharing knowledge:

Support groups don’t only provide emotional support but knowledge and resources to take on challenges. The great thing about talking with other people that have gone through similar things is that we have likely found resources, information, and ways to cope. The exchange of knowledge can be seen through things like strategies to help balance our lives, navigating relationships, or managing mental health struggles. Wisdom and perspective are some of the most valuable things that can help us in life, having support groups with a group of women you can connect with can help further this aspect of our lives.

Community:

Being a woman can be an incredibly isolating. When our society expects us to have a career, partner, children, take care of our looks and health, and have good relationships with friends, it can be hard to juggle it all. We have many times been conditioned to put others before ourselves and this can be isolating. Support groups can give us the space to connect and feel accepted by others. We all crave belonging and community and a group can help make us feel less alone.

Education:

Many support groups are facilitated by therapists, coaches, or enthusiasts on a topic. Either way, there will likely be a goal of educating, this could look like being taught ways to engage in self-care, stress management, or boundary setting. There may also be “homework” such as journaling prompts or other tasks to do for the time between group.

Having the tools to combat our struggles is healing and can help us build our confidence. Support groups can help women throughout all life stages and experiences many of us will face. Finding a group, you can connect with and feel inspired and empowered by can help us in positive ways all around. They do not need to be done in person and there are many you can find that are done online. Your people are out there, and you will find them, when you do, you can only grow as a person.

5 Ways to Positively Communicate

How can positive communication help you? When we can communicate our thoughts and feelings in an effective and positive manner, it can help boost our confidence and make us happier. Positive communication improves all aspects of our life and can open so many doors in our lives from self-esteem to relationships, to jobs and many other areas of our lives. There are many factors that go into effective communication and some you can implement with just little effort and the right tool.

Here are some ways you can improve your positive communication skills:

Empathy:

The first step in positive communication is empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand and share what others feel. Its important to acknowledge where people come from and why they feel or do certain things that are desirable and undesirable. When communicating with someone to encourage them to make a change saying something like “I understand that that this process is stressful” or “I understand that anxiety is common, and you aren’t alone in this”. Encouraging and understanding language can make your positive communication all the more effective and impact outcomes.

Body language:

Open body language is key in positively communicating. If your arms are crossed or your body is turned away from someone it can already feel like you’re on the defensive or aren’t receptive to what they have to say. Positive body language looks like upright and open posture, keeping your body and head faced towards them, nodding your head in understanding, keeping your palms open, and smiling. Implementing positive body language can make the difference in your communication being effective.

Active Listening:

Are you listening to the words coming out of their mouth so you can respond; or are you taking in what they are saying and taking a second to form your thought and how you want to say it? Knowing the difference and actively trying to do the second can be so incredibly helpful in communicating and taking in information. Many times, we just want to react and say what we’re thinking as quickly as possible, but we might miss vital information or nonverbal communication. Maintaining eye contact, slowing down, taking in information, and thinking before we respond can help improve our positive communication skills.

Staying Away from Negative Terms:

Any words that shut down a conversation or would make someone likely feel defensive or bad about themselves or the situation should be avoided as much as possible. Using would like won’t, don’t, can’t, never, all have a negative connotation that comes with them. Along with this trying to you “I” language can help the other person more receptive to what you’re saying. For example, saying “You don’t do xyz for me” say “I really like when you do xyz and it makes me feel appreciated.” Just making the conscious choice to positively change your wording can make the whole difference in how effective your communication is.

Offer Help:

It can be a daunting task to change what you’ve always done and are comfortable with. When asking someone to change what they are doing you might meet some resistance. Their response might be disappointing or frustrating but it’s something you should be prepared for. Offering help or alternatives can be beneficial in making the task of change more palatable and attainable. This is where meeting others with empathy is helpful, understanding where they come from and why they do things we don’t like can aid in finding ways help them change their actions for the better. If your partner or kids aren’t behaving in a desirable way think about why they might be acting like that. Is something going on at work, school, or home? Do they need help with their routine to become more efficient? Are they struggling with their mental health and are lashing out in other way? Try opening up an ongoing discussion with them in a positive, empathetic, and understanding manner and together you can figure out what needs to change in order to make everyone’s life a little better. This sentiment can be applied to pretty much anything with anyone regardless of if it’s in your personal or work life; sometimes we just need a little help and don’t know how to ask for it.

4 Ways to Sharpen Your Social Skills

Social skills are a vibrant part of life. They help us connect and share with each other, they help us grow and learn, not to mention they help us feel heard and understood. Social skills are an incredibly important skill that school do not always teach. Having the ability to socialize brings meaning and value to our life. Some of us are more skilled in this area, some of us could use improvement in this area. Either way, maybe you need a little guidance on how to improve your social skills?

Here are 4 ways to sharpen your social skills:

1. Overcome mental blocks:

   Try and let go of things holding you back mentally. Some of us shy away from conversations or meeting new people due to the fear of being judged. Let go of the “what if” thinking mentality and challenge yourself to be brave.

2. Create a safe mental space for yourself:

   By feeling safe in your own body you can regulate your nervous system. This can help you stay connected and grounded. You can create a safe space through calming techniques, meditations and grounding exercises. Use your senses to bring yourself back into the social space you are in.

3. Approach someone new:

   Go and say hi to a new person. This can be a challenge if we are worried about judgement and do not feel safe. Make it fun, and try an ice breaker to reduce your tension. A great way to do this is by using a joke or laughing to make the conversation flow and reduce your anxiety.

4. Go to a new place:

   Visit a new place and try to venture outside of your comfort zone. Getting out of your routine can help you learn to confront your fears. Start small, go to somewhere new within a proximity of your comfort zone and then branch off from there. This will also make your goal more attainable.

Social skills are such an important, under rated skill. To be successful and live our life to the fullest we need connection and a sense of belonging. Social skills can help us create a sense of community to live life alongside our family, friends and people of the world.

Our Therapists Share 6 Social Skills for a Healthier You

Humans are social beings. We seek connection, unity and inclusiveness. As we grow older it becomes more difficult to connect with others. We become more selective, stricter with social guidelines of whom we could befriend. Socializing can feel like hard work for many of us. What if there was a way that could help us socialize more openly, with confidence and positivity?

Here are 6 ways to help you regain connections and better socialize with others:

1. Be open minded:

   Realize that having an open mind is a key to making new lasting relationships. Going into a new place, event or social setting as if you are ready to make friends and listen to others. This mindset will help you attract the people you want to create new relationships with.

2. Love yourself:

   By loving and knowing who you are you can be more confident. Go into an event knowing what you bring to your relationships and portray this. This confidence can help others be more attracted to your energy, which will also make you appear to be more socially available.

3. Practice what you want to say:

   By rehearsing and reciting how to introduce yourself, you can make yourself less nervous about the event. Having a couple of funny lines or stories is a great way to meet people. We tend to gravitate to stories about dogs, pets, babies and common interests. Come up with a way to gain potential connections by having a couple of lines that you want to say.

4. Find people with common interests

   People like you, want to be friends with you. The key here is you have find them. Having similar interests makes us automatically more likely to connect and be more able to socialize with each other. When we have similarities a group or bond can naturally grow.

5. Know your non-negotiables:

   We all have those pet peeves or values that are deal breakers in any relationship. Go into a socially setting knowing what your non-negotiable are. For some people it is telling the truth, for others it is a specific sense of humor, or possibly even an affinity for dogs. Know what your deal breakers are in a relationship and if you hear them when you are getting to know someone, realize this may be ultimately what breaks the relationship.

6. Go out and practice:

   Try, try and try again. The more you expose yourself to social settings and new people, the more practice you will have in socializing. This will make you better equipped to meet others and help you lower any social anxiety. Take baby steps and slowly but surely put yourself out there. You can do this!

Socializing in this post pandemic era is a struggle. Humana want to feel as a part of a community and culturally some of us seek this more often as well. People have become very used to isolation and are not even aware of how our social skills may have regressed. It is important to be empathetic with yourself, and help yourself get back out there again. Trying to connect, gaining more confidence in your social abilities and finding a great group of friends are all things you can accomplish.

Have you heard about our Serene Mind Social Skills Groups? Coming this fall we will have a social skills group for kids, teens and young adults. Each group will be geared to a different age group. We hope you come socialize with us!

Prioritize Your Mental Health: Do Not Ignore These Signs of Burn Out

Many of us have felt the heaviness of responsibility. Some of us have felt the stress of obligation. Staying up late to finish left over work or to meet a deadline? Checking work emails and accepting calls or texts while off the clock? Agreeing to do more work to cover for a coworker?

Are the projects piling up?

When these types of scenarios pop up, it is easy to think “just this once”, or “I’ll make sure this won’t happen again”. Over time, the weight of these emotions and dynamics can lead to burnout. In a culture filled with constant stimulation, over drive, and expectations, burn out has become increasingly common.

With mindful self-care and boundaries, we can prevent burnout.

What are some signs of burnout?

1) Lack of Motivation-Avoiding and ignoring tasks, difficulty to instill effort

2) Feelings of Defeat and Hopelessness-Feeling like you can’t complete tasks or even show up

3) Performance and productivity decline-Making mistakes, taking constant breaks

4) Change in emotional demeanor-Feeling sad, anxious, angry, or frustrated

5) Concentration challenges-Feeling easily distracted

6) Detachment- Not feeling invested in or caring about the work you do

If you feel you are struggling with burnout, here are some important self-reflection questions to ask yourself:

1) Why do I feel the need or obligation to take on extra work?

2) What are the ramifications of a decline of performance and productivity on my part?

3) What is my body telling me about how I am feeling emotionally with my circumstances?

Take some time to understand and reflect on your situation and ask for additional supports if you need it. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!

How can I heal from burnout?

Recovering from a period of burnout takes time. Instilling effort to recover can often be extremely challenging when you are burnt out and running on an empty tank. Sometimes the best action to take when experiencing burn out is to leave the environment in order to heal, but sometimes you can remain in the same place with a shift of boundaries and expectations.

Here are some simple tips you can add into your day little by little to aid in recovering from burn out:

 Take a break or vacation (if feasible)

 Try to slowly add in some sprinkles of extra self-care throughout your day

 Carve out some time in nature for a walk or quiet time

 Unplug consistently

 Eat away from your desk

 Don’t check emails/turn off your phone after business hours

 Eat nourishing meals & stay hydrated

 Connect with friends, family, or a mental health professional to process your feelings

If you feel you’ve fallen into a pit of burnout, you CAN make your way out of that cycle with time and support. Do you feel stuck and need some extra help? We are here to help. Email us at hello@serenemindpsych.com or give us a call at 813.321.8280 to set up an intake appointment to see if one of our therapists can aid you in your healing journey.

Our Counselors Confirm, 3 Ways to Navigate Pressures Placed on Teens

Teens have great expectations placed on them these days- getting good grades, maintaining a social life, contributing to the family household- the list goes on and on. The expectations and pressures placed upon teens in our modern day and age can be stressful, overstimulating, and sometimes even debilitating. Learning to balance and juggle all the responsibilities in adolescents can be a challenge.

Here are some tips from our therapists to help you alleviate the stressors of pressure and expectations teens experience:

Prioritize Downtime and Take Time to Rest

Team sports, school clubs, social events- all these activities add up. Give yourself the time and space to get bored. Although it is important to be socially connected and physically active, it is equally important to rest.

Our culture is centric around the “hustle”, constantly moving, evolving, creating, and conversing. Prioritizing time to rest and integrate can help you focus better and become more present when you are engaged in enrichment activities and social settings. Avoid making down time a space to check your social media. Try to engage in gentle activities like reading, watching a movie, taking a nap! Find something that works for you and helps to fill your cup to the brim. It is not lazy to rest and rejuvenate- give yourself the grace and courtesy to honor self-care.

Unplug from Social Media and Technology

Teens today are constantly connected through text, social media, emails, and so many countless apps that keep them up to date. Create blocks of time to unplug and exist in the present moment. Most smart phones have “Do Not Disturb” functions where you can even eliminate the distraction of notifications coming through. You can track your screen time within your settings app as well. Becoming aware of your screen time usage can be a wake-up call to how connected you are to your phone but disconnected to your waking life.

Schedule Blocks for Creative Time

Creativity can look different for every person. Give yourself an opportunity to get in tune with and embrace your creativity. Finding this through tangible art, playing music, participating in yoga, or even organizing your closet drawer can ignite creativity. Think of activities that feel resonate to you that can connect your mind and body. Maybe try something new! Scheduling a block of time to give yourself space to spark creativity can increase your problem-solving skills, create a calming outlet, and foster confidence.

Is your teen overstimulated? Do they need extra support in navigating the stress of pressure and expectations? We offer teen counseling and rolling groups for teens that focus on many areas of life during the teenage years. Wanting to deepen the connection between you and your teen? We also offer family therapy. Email us at hello@serenemindpsych.com or call us at 813.321.8280 for more info.

Check out our upcoming teen social skills group starting this summer here: https://www.serenemindpsych.com/teen-social-skills-group

Our Therapists Share: 7 Signs Your Teen May Be Struggling with Anxiety

More and more teens are experiencing anxiety, and the symptoms of anxiety can reveal themselves in many different ways. With the fast-paced culture and lifestyle teens live in today, fears, overstimulation, and social situations blossom into full blown anxiety. There are ways to see signs of these symptoms and help to lessen or even stop the discomforts of anxious feelings and thoughts.

Here are some common indicators that your teen may be struggling with anxiety:

Appetite changes

Some teens experience a loss of appetite and skip a meal (or even 2 or 3) when feeling extremely anxious. Others may have a significant increase in appetite.

Trouble Concentrating

The inability to complete tasks and forgetfulness falls under the umbrella of anxiety symptoms. This can also appear as task avoidance, overstimulation, overwhelm, and discouragement. Some teens may be jittery, aloof, and confused- all of these characteristics indicate anxiety may be present.

Connected to devices

Notice your teen constantly scrolling on their social media apps? Scrolling, texting, and even just the instant gratification of picking up a cell phone device can serve as a distraction from anxiety triggers, but in turn can increase them two-fold. These devices are often used as a coping mechanism to distract from the discomfort of anxious thoughts and feelings.

Withdrawal

Can’t get your teen to come out of their room when their home? Is it a battle trying to get them to eat at the dinner table, attend family functions, or even engage in conversation? Withdrawing from social interactions is a key indicator that your teen may be feeling anxious. Nervousness, shyness, visible discomfort- all contribute to a social withdrawal.

Physical Symptoms and/or Anxiety attacks

Anxiety can show many physical symptoms, including:

-Nausea &/or vomiting

-Sweating

-Shaking

-Fainting

-Stuttering

-Rapid breathing

-Racing heartbeat

Difficulty Sleeping

Restlessness and insomnia are often indicators of anxiety. When the mind is not focusing on other things or being distracted, it can revisit thoughts or feelings that are uncomfortable or anxiety provoking. This often happens during bedtime when distractions are decreased in comparison to during the day. There is less stimulation and more sitting with the self. Some teens will stay up late on social media or playing video games to distract from these thoughts and feelings, then fall asleep out of pure exhaustion involuntarily.

Academic Decline

Grades starting to slip? Anxiety may be behind it. The pressure of performing academically effects countless teens, where other teens may be distracted with other anxious thoughts that schoolwork is sent to the back burner. Check in with your teen to see how you can support them with their schooling.

Is your teen experiencing anxiety? Do they need extra support in navigating their symptoms? We offer teen counseling and rolling groups for teens that focus on many areas of life during the teenage years. Wanting to deepen the connection between you and your teen?

We also offer family therapy. Email us at hello@serenemindpsych.com or call us at 813.321.8280 for more info.

Check out our upcoming teen social skills group starting this summer here: https://www.serenemindpsych.com/teen-social-skills-group

Understanding Adolescent Identity Development: A Guide for Parents to Help Their Teens

Hi parents! Today we wanted to write some tips to help you guide your teen through identity development! When your children are growing up, they can go through many stages of development, including changes in appearance, interests, and identity. What this means is that as our children grow into teenagers, they start the natural process of exploring themselves and asking questions about who they are, where they belong, and how to fit into the world around them.

This can be a confusing process for both parents and teens alike, so to help you better understand the evolution of teenage identity development, our Tampa-based team of therapists has put together this helpful guide to provide insight and guidance on how to foster healthy growth during this important stage in your teen's life.

In this post, we'll provide an overview of the phases of adolescent identity development and even explore ways social media can impact it. We'll also offer some tips for parents on how to encourage their teens to explore their identities in healthy and sustainable ways. Our journey begins below; let's explore!

Phases of Identity Development for Growing Teens - And How to Help

According to notable psychologist James Marcia, there are four identity statuses or phases of identity development, and here's how they may relate to your teen. 

These may include:

• Identity Diffusion:

  In this phase, a teen has not yet committed to any particular identity and is not actively seeking one out. They may feel lost or confused about who they are and what they want to do with their lives.

How can I help with this? To help your teen in this phase, provide them with opportunities to explore their interests and values while making sure they know you’re there to support them.

• Identity Foreclosure:

  In this phase, a teen has committed to an identity without exploring other options. They may have adopted the beliefs and values of their parents or peers without questioning them or considering alternative viewpoints.

How can I help with this? To help your teen in this phase, ask open-ended questions about their identity and encourage them to explore different points of view. Make sure they know it’s okay to be curious and ask hard questions about life.

• Identity Moratorium:

  In this phase, a teen is actively exploring different identities and trying out different roles and activities. They may experiment with different clothing styles, hobbies, and friend groups to find out what feels most authentic to them.

How can I help with this? In this phase, it’s important to provide your teen with a safe space to explore without judgment. Make sure they know that you love them no matter what and are available as a sounding board if needed.

• Identity Achievement:

  In this final phase, a teen has successfully developed a strong sense of identity based on their own values, beliefs, and experiences. They have explored different options and made thoughtful decisions about who they are and what they want to do with their life.

How can I help with this? In this phase, it’s important to celebrate your teen’s achievements and provide them with resources for pursuing their goals. By letting them take ownership of their identity in healthy ways, we will give them the confidence to keep growing in a positive direction.

This may seem clinical, and this advice is by no means meant to replace the support of a licensed therapist. If, at any point, this feels overwhelming, consider reaching out to our team for support. Remember, our Tampa-based therapy team is always here to support you through this process.

Impact of Social Media on Identity Development

Now let's briefly touch on social media. While social media can be a valuable tool for connecting with others and expressing oneself, it can also have negative effects on adolescent identity development.

Studies have shown that excessive social media use can lead to low self-esteem, poor body image, and anxiety. Teens may also feel pressure to conform to certain standards or expectations set by social media influencers or peer groups.

So to help with this, encourage your teen to take breaks from social media and focus on real-world activities such as sports, music, or art. By doing this, you're encouraging your teen to explore their identity in the real world in healthy ways, which we believe will have long-term positive impacts on their lives. To read more about this, check out our previous blog on 5 Ways to Help Your Teen Overcome Isolation in the Age of Social Media. 

Tips for Encouraging Healthy Identity Development - Outlining the above in an easy-to-digest format

With the above information noted, we want to make it clear that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. As a parent, there are several things you can do to support your teen's identity development, so to elaborate on this, here are the tips again in an easy-to-digest format. Read below and see if any of these resonate with you:

• Encourage exploration:

  Encourage your teen to try new things and explore different interests and hobbies. This can help them develop a better understanding of what they enjoy and what they're good at.

• Foster open communication:

  Be open and available to talk about any questions or concerns your teen may have about their identity. Create a safe and non-judgmental environment where they can share their thoughts and feelings.

• Limit social media use:

  Set boundaries around social media use and encourage your teen to take breaks from their devices. This can help them develop a healthier relationship with social media and prevent negative effects on their self-esteem and body image.

• Seek professional help if needed:

  If your teen is struggling with their identity development or experiencing mental health challenges, consider seeking the help of a mental health professional. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive space for teens to work through their emotions and develop a greater sense of self early on.

Conclusion

At Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations, we understand that your teen's identity development can be a complex and challenging time. That's why we're excited to announce our upcoming teen social skills group starting in June. In this group, we will help your teen connect with other teens in a healthy and safe setting. To learn more, check out more information here.

Lastly, if you're interested in understanding more about how we can support your teen on this journey, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations.

Remember, your child's teenage years are a time of growth and exploration. By providing a supportive and nurturing environment, we can help our teens navigate this important stage of life with confidence and grace.

The Benefits of Social Skills for Kids + Teens

As social creatures, we thrive from connecting with others and learning from each other. In today’s day and age that is chock full of digital communications and content, we are slowly moving away from the social connection that keeps us grounded and healthy. We have carried on coping mechanisms post-pandemic, such as working from home, exercising from home, video chatting our friends instead of meeting with them in person. Online dating, social media, even school can be completed through a tiny computer screen. Kids today have grown up with these technologies, not needing to be put in social situations and environments children were once in. Even with our ever-changing world, social skills are crucial to creating a happy, confident, and competent lifestyle.

How can I help my child improve their social skills?

Registering your child for a social skills group is a fantastic way to connect them to others their age, engage them in an in-person activity, and get their social skills put to action.

Learn to connect with peers

In a social skills education group, kids & teens will have access to hands-on experience and exercises to aid them in finding ways to connect with their peers. These educational and informative groups teach kids and teens about empathy and sympathy and how to differentiate the two. Learning to embody empathy and sympathy will help to ignite and maintain relationships for your child. In learning in groups such as age- targeted social skills group, your child will inherently connect with other members of the group by shared goals, communal vulnerability, and radical authenticity. These are lifelong stills that will benefit them as they continue their paths in life.

Identify social cues

Reading a room, understanding facial expressions, and decoding tone are key skills in successful relationships; whether they be personal, professional, or even strangers you meet in your day-to-day activities and errands. A social skills education group will teach your child about these imperative skills and techniques to help them feel confident in these settings and situations.

Conversational skills

Being able to start and carry a conversation with peers, family, and people of the workplace is paramount in leading a life that is socially connected. Conversation skills are not only important for in-person interactions, but also digital communications. Social skills groups can teach your child how to initiate conversations, approach others, and continue conversations- along with skills and techniques to avoid awkward silences or disconnected comments.

Self-Confidence

When mastering foundational components of social skills, kids and teens will build their confidence with each session. These groups give kids opportunities to learn on the spot, roll play, and practice with other members of the group.

Is your child or teen needing a boost in their confidence skills? Would a social skills group help them bolster their social skills? We offer children and teen counseling and rolling groups that focus on many areas of life during the childhood years. Wanting to deepen the connection between you and your child? We also offer family therapy. Email us at hello@serenemindpsych.com or call us at 813.321.8280 for more info. Check out our upcoming teen social skills group starting this summer here: https://www.serenemindpsych.com/teen-social-skills-group

The Importance of Social Skills for Teens: Overcoming Isolation and Building Connections

Parents, are you looking for ways to help your teen develop social skills? As our young ones grow older, they need to learn how to interact with other people in real life and not just behind computer screens. This means learning how to talk and get along with others at school, in after-school activities, and at home. Having strong social skills can help teens build relationships, communicate clearly, and feel more confident in their skin.

At Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations, we understand the importance of social skills for teens and offer a variety of programs and services to help support their growth. Let's dive into more details on why teens need to develop social skills from an early age and how we can support them through this delicate process. Are you curious to learn more? Let's get started!

Why are social skills important for teens?

Developing social skills is crucial for teenagers as they navigate their relationships with peers, family, and teachers. By developing strong social skills, they can effectively communicate their thoughts and feelings, manage conflicts, and establish and maintain meaningful relationships. Social skills are essential for success not only in academic settings but also in their future professional lives. These skills include collaboration, teamwork, and leadership, which are highly valued by employers.

Furthermore, according to a recent study by Brooking.edu this is also important because:

“During the teen years, our minds change in the way we remember, think, reason, focus attention, make decisions, and relate to others. From around age twelve to age twenty-four, there is a burst of growth and maturation taking place as never before in our lives. Understanding the nature of these changes can help us create a more positive and productive life journey.”

– Daniel Seigel, clinical professor of psychiatry at the UCLA School of Medicine

Also, in today's fast-paced digital world, social skills have become more critical than ever. The rise of social media and technology has transformed the way teens communicate and interact, making it even more crucial to develop face-to-face communication skills. Don't let your teen get lost behind their screens, let's discuss more ways we can help!

How Can Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations Help? - Teen Social Skills Group Launching Again This Summer

At Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations, we offer a variety of programs and services designed to support teens in developing social skills. Our team of experienced therapists works closely with teens to identify their specific needs and goals and create customized plans for their growth.

One of our most popular programs is our Teen Social Skills Group, which provides a safe and supportive environment for teens to practice social skills, build relationships, and learn new communication techniques in the Tampa area. Led by experienced therapists, our Teen Social Skills Group is dedicated to focusing on developing skills such as active listening, empathy, assertiveness, and conflict resolution.

In addition to our Social Skills Group, we offer individual therapy sessions that address specific social skill challenges, such as social anxiety or difficulty making friends. Our therapists use evidence-based techniques to help teens overcome these challenges and develop confidence in their social interactions.

Now enough about how we can support, let's get deeper into how you can support your teen as they develop their social skills.

How Can Parents Support Their Teen's Social Skill Development?

To assist your teen in enhancing their social skills, here are a few suggestions for parents:

• Encourage positive peer interactions – Encourage your teen to find friends that share similar interests or values and allow them to spend some time with them.

• Model positive social skills – Lead by example and show your teen how to interact positively with others.

• Create family conversations – Create a safe space for your teen to talk about their feelings and experiences with others around the dinner table.

• Praise good behavior – Let your teen know when they are demonstrating good social skills and provide positive reinforcement. If they make a new friend or effectively resolve a conflict with a classmate, make sure to recognize their accomplishments and affirm them.

• Set boundaries – Establish clear expectations for how your teen should and should not behave in social settings.

The Benefits of Developing Social Skills

To further elaborate, here are some more benefits of developing social skills that can have a profound impact on a teen's life, both now and in the future. Some of the benefits of building social skills include:

• Improved communication and conflict-resolution abilities

• Increased self-esteem and confidence

• Greater success in academics and careers

• More meaningful and fulfilling relationships

• Reduced stress and anxiety in social situations

At Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations, we believe that every teen has the potential to develop strong social skills and thrive in their relationships and social interactions. Our programs and services are designed to provide the support, guidance, and resources necessary to help teens achieve their full potential.

Conclusion

In today's fast-paced digital world, social skills are more important than ever for teens. 

At Serene Mind Counseling and Evaluations, we’re here for you! Whether it's through our Teen Social Skills Group that will be launching this summer or our individual therapy sessions, our team of experienced therapists is committed to helping teens achieve their full potential.

If you're interested in learning more about our services, don't hesitate to reach out today! And remember, at Serene Mind Counseling, we're here to support you and your teen every step of the way.

Is Group Therapy Right For Me?

Group therapy can be an incredibly healing experience. Connecting with others who are going through or have gone through similar experiences can create a sense of validation, belongingness, and community. Often times, individuals are intimidated to start the therapeutic process on their own, or to open up to a therapist one-on-one at first. Group therapy is a great way to introduce yourself to the therapeutic process, and also to connect with others. Group therapy is built on a common foundation and grows through understanding and empathy.

How does Group Therapy work?

Typically, group therapy is based on a common topic or focus that all participants can relate to. Once the focus of the group is established, the therapist creates discussion prompts, group goals, and group guidelines. Each therapist is different in their approach, but the foundation of group therapy truly encompasses the purpose of connection and affirmation of all participants. Some therapists prefer to keep groups simple and only facilitate discussion in group sessions, while other therapists may incorporate books, shows, movies, therapy materials, quotes, journaling, and even homework into these group sessions. Be sure to get as much detail about groups you are considering ensuring it is a good fit for you.

How many people are in group sessions?

This depends on the type of group, the size of the therapeutic space, and the number of facilitators present. Usually, therapists will cap their registration to a specific number to be able to speak to all participants and give each group member an opportunity to speak and contribute if they would like to. For example, at Serene Mind, we typically cap in person group sessions to 12 individuals per therapist.

How long do sessions last?

Session duration depends on the group size and the group agenda that is created by the facilitator. Group sessions can be as short as an hour, and last up to several hours. Some groups meet monthly on a rolling basis, while other groups are held on a specific day and time for a planned time period that requires a commitment of attendance from all participants.

How does group therapy work?

Are there virtual groups I can join? Yes! Virtual groups are a great option for individuals who have a busy schedule, lack of transportation, or just need some flexibility in attendance due to their lifestyle. Virtual group sessions still create a space that fosters community connection and acceptance.

I’m shy. Do I need to speak up in a Group Therapy session?

No! You do not need to share if you don’t feel comfortable to. Sometimes being in the presence of others who are walking a similar path, or even listening to the discussion can cultivate connection and acknowledgment of your thoughts and feelings. Therapeutic success is not a one size fits all and can look differently for each person.

We have many groups starting at Serene Mind this year, including in-person and virtual groups. Visit us at serenemindpsych.com, email us at hello@serenemindpsych.com, or call us at 813.321.8280 for more information about out group sessions.