Today's Teenager

115: Managing Cooped Up Teens

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 16:53:10 +0000

In this episode, Roy offers insight and strategies into caring for and managing teens during the COVID19 epidemic.

114: Teens And Trauma, Part 3

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 09:00:00 +0000

In the final installment of a three-part series on teens and trauma, Roy offers practical and effective strategies adults can use to help teens who have been traumatized.

113: Teens And Trauma, Part 2

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 14:58:52 +0000

In the second installment of a three-part series on teens and trauma, Roy focuses on the variety of ways that trauma affects the adolescent brain.

112: Teens And Trauma, Part 1

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 10:00:00 +0000

In this first of a three-part series on teens and trauma, Roy defines and explains trauma, how it effects teens, and how adults can identify and help traumatized teens.

112: Teens And Trauma, Part 1

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 10:00:00 +0000

In this first of a three-part series on teens and trauma, Roy defines and explains trauma, how it effects teens, and how adults can identify and help traumatized teens.

111: Helping Teens Set And Respect Boundaries, Part 3

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 20:06:18 +0000

In this third of a three - part series of micro episodes, Roy offers strategies and insights that will help you to discuss the importance of setting and respecting boundaries with teens.

109: Helping Teens Set And Respect Boundaries, Part 1

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 10:00:00 +0000

In this first of a three - part series of micro episodes, Roy defines and explores what the term "boundaries" means for relationships and its importance to adolescent growth.

108: Talking Concussions with Dr. Josh Couvillon

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy discusses the dangers teen athletes faced when suffering a concussion and the best practices for treatment.

Dr. Joshua Couvillon is a licensed Chiropractor in Texas and Louisiana. He currently practices in Lafayette, Louisiana at Clark Integrated Medical Clinics. Josh holds degrees in Biology, chemistry, human biology, and Chiropractic. He received 2 bachelors degrees from university of Louisiana in the fields of biology and chemistry.

He also holds a bachelors degree in human biology and a Doctorate in chiropractic which he received from Texas Chiropractic College. Josh is a chiropractor who works with neurological and mechanical problems as it pertains to human movement. Josh has worked with many professional athletes in restructuring movement patterns and correcting improper bio-mechanics.

Clark Integrated Medical Clinics
clarkintegrated.com
337-232-3353
130 Rue Beauregard suite a, Lafayette, LA 70508

Email drjosh@clarkintegrated.com
instagram @dr_couv

110: Helping Teens Set And Respect Boundaries, Part 2

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 01:58:29 +0000

In the second part of Roy's three-part look at the importance of helping teens set and respect boundaries, he explores the reasons helping teens with boundaries is so often a difficult process.

107: Helping Teens To Emotionally Forecast

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 16:25:27 +0000

In this episode, Roy explains the phenomenon of emotional forecasting, its importance in emotional and psychological development, and how adults can help teens learn how to employ emotional forecasting in their lives.

106: Teens And Romantic Relationships

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 16:26:40 +0000

In this episode, Roy explores the psychological and emotional dynamics of teen romantic relationships and offers strategies for discussing them with young people.

105: Helping Teens Problem Solve

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 20:42:52 +0000

In this episode, Roy offers insight into the difficulty teens face when solving problems due to age and inexperience. Roy provides tips useful in helping teenagers re-frame what they consider to be threats not as dangers to be survived but rather challenges to be addressed and resolved.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

104: Interview with Stacey Sumereau

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 16:42:22 +0000

Roy welcomes former professional Broadway actress, Stacey Sumerau. Stacey shares her experiences as a teen struggling to be the smartest, prettiest, and most talented performer she could be, how that struggle led to an eating disorder and ultimately, a spiritual transformation that informs her current work as a speaker who inspires teens to give their lives over to God's plan.

Visit Stacey's official website for more on her speaking and experiences as a member of the Lifetime TV series, Sisterhood: Becoming Nuns.

103: Dr. Michael Reichert Talks Raising Healthy Boys

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 16:18:08 +0000

In this episode, Roy welcomes Dr. Michael Reichert, a psychologist and author whose new book, "How To Raise A Boy: The Power of Connection To Build Good Men" is receiving widespread acclaim. Dr. Reichert drew on his decades of experience working to counter societal conventions of how boys become men. Roy and Dr. Reichert discuss ways that those who work with boys and young men can help create compassionate, self - aware, and healthy men.

Click here for more information "How To Raise A Boy" at Amazon.com.

Dr. Reichert's interview on CBS This Morning.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

102: Placeholder Conversations

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy explains how to employ the skill of placeholder conversations, brief exchanges with teens that help prime them for more in-depth discussions on important topics at a future date.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

101: The Power Of Reminiscing

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy discusses how looking back with teens on their progress in healing and personal achievement can encourage their continued growth and success.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

100: Good Vs. Bad Stress

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 09:00:00 +0000

In the 100th episode of Today's Teenager, Roy again addresses the importance of recognizing how impacting stress is for young people today. Roy illustrates the differences between positive and negative sources of stress and offers insight into helping teens to recognize these differences and how to manage both in their lives.

099: Should I Drug Test My Teen?

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 01:04:04 +0000

In this micro episode, Roy offers his thoughts on a questions he's often asked by parents of teens: 'should I drug test my teen?' Roy discusses the positive and negative aspects of the issue and provides insight into making the best decision for your teen and your family.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

098: Teens And Stress Avoidance

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 16:57:04 +0000

In this episode, Roy examines a growing trend among today's youth to avoid the stress that results from awkwardness. As Roy explains, this phenomenon is not exclusive to teens who suffer from social anxiety. Roy offers details and examples from his work with teens and strategies parents and those who work with teens can use to challenge teens to properly engage and cope with awkwardness and stress.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

097: Getting Teens To Do What They Don't Want To Do

Tue, 26 Feb 2019 17:15:03 +0000

In this episode, Roy responds to a question from a parent: "How do I get my teen to do what they don't want to do?" Roy explores the various factors involved in both the parent(s)' asking of the question and the teenager's refusal to do something the parent wants them to do. Roy examines the value of the adage "choose your battles" and how it applies to raising teens not as older children but as young adults.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

096: Dealing With Teen Drama

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 18:00:37 +0000

Even those who don't work with teens are familiar with the term "teen drama." Despite the stereotypes and caricatures associated with the term, teens experience emotional and mental stressors that are more intense given their age and state in life. Roy explains the causes and signs of these stressors and offers strategies parents and adults who work with young people can use to help teens to cope and overcome.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

094: Dr. Lisa Damour And Anxiety In Teen Girls

Tue, 12 Feb 2019 10:00:00 +0000

In this special episode of Today's Teenager, Roy discusses the effects of the rising anxiety epidemic on teen girls with Dr. Lisa Damour, PhD. Dr. Damour is a clinical psychologist, regular writer for The New York Times and contributor to CBS News. She has witnessed the rising tide of stress and anxiety in her own research, in private practice, and in the all-girls' school where she consults.

Dr. Damour and Roy discuss how the epidemic of teenage anxiety is especially difficult for girls and young women, the benefits of stress and anxiety on healthy adolescent development, and solutions to the tensions girls face in the various aspects of their lives.

Roy's interview with Dr. Damour is an excellent preview of her new book, Under Pressure, which is devoted entirely to the epidemic of stress and anxiety in girls. Under Pressure releases today and can be purchased via Random House here and Amazon here.

Visit Dr. Damour's website for more information about her experience with young people and the wealth of articles she's written on a vast array of issues facing teens and those who raise and work with them.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

095: Talking Tech Addiction with Marissa Verson Harrison

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 05:59:54 +0000

Roy welcomes Marissa Verson Harrison to discuss the realities of tech addiction, especially prevalent among today's young people. Marissa has developed ScreenAge Bootcamp, a program designed to help parents guide children in learning to use technology as a means of enhancing their lives instead of being dominated by it. She talks her philosophy and offers helpful strategies for parents and those working with young people in what she calls "The ScreenAge."

Click here for more about Marissa and ScreenAge Bootcamp.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

093: How To Stop Being A Perfect Parent

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy addresses how anxiety and fear manifest themselves in a parent's desire to be 'the perfect parent.' Roy illustrates how damaging this can be to both parents and young people alike and offers strategies to cope with the anxiety and worry that leads to perfectionism.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

092: How To Stop Nagging Your Teen

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 17:20:30 +0000

In this micro episode, Roy offers strategies for approaching the young people in your life about responsibilities and expectations in ways that will not feel like nagging to them.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

091: Raising Adult Children with Jan Risher

Wed, 02 Jan 2019 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy talks with Jan Risher about the challenges and joys of parenting adult children. Jan is an award - winning journalist, investigative reporter, and former managing editor of The Times of Acadiana. Roy and Jan also discuss Jan's new book, Looking to the Stars from Old Algiers and Other Long Stories Short, a collection of her columns written over fifteen years.

090: Small Talk For Teens with Debra Fine

Fri, 28 Dec 2018 16:23:20 +0000

In this episode, Roy discusses the importance of learning conversational skills with Debra Fine. A nationally recognized keynote speaker, bestselling author and conversation expert, and author of The Fine Art of Small Talk: How to Start A Conversation, Keep it Going, Build Rapport – And Leave a Positive Impression. Debra shares insightful and invaluable tips in aiding young people to build solid conversational skills that are especially helpful to teens struggling with anxiety and social interaction.

Click here to visit Debra's site and learn more about her books and work in the field of communication skills.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

089: Tips For Becoming More Approachable To Teens

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 18:12:10 +0000

In this episode, Roy talks about how adults can be more approachable to the teens and young people in their lives. Roy acknowledges that some people are naturally approachable in general but believes that approachability is a skill set that can be learned. Roy offers seven tips for being more approachable to teens, including the importance and effectiveness of smiling and learning to truly listen to teens instead of being preoccupied with advice to give when approached by a teen.

088: Sexual Abuse And Assault Of Teens With Laurie Degatto-Whitten

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 15:31:34 +0000

Roy discusses sexual abuse and assault of teens with Laurie Delgatto-Whitten. For close to thirty years, Laurie has served in the field of youth ministry. She has been involved in various local, regional, and national youth ministry training programs and conferences. She has a longstanding interest in the spirituality of adolescents, and is an outspoken advocate for teen involvement in the Church. She has written and edited dozens of ministry and educational books and resources. As a survivor of sexual assault herself, Laurie offers powerful and authentic insight into the experiences of sexual assault survivors and how to discuss the issues of sexual abuse and assault with teens.

087: A Conversation About Young People And Failure with Jessica Lahey

Tue, 09 Oct 2018 15:45:21 +0000

In this episode, Roy talks with New York Times best-selling author Jessica Lahey. Roy and Jessica discuss her groundbreaking and controversial book, The Gift of Failure: How The Best Parents Learn To Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed.

Jessica's experience as an educator led her to write a book about how perfectionism and the desire to be everything to everyone leads young people to become more anxious and apathetic about learning. Jessica and Roy also discuss how young people see success and the damage adults do when predicating love of children on school performance. Jessica offers concrete strategies that parents can use to help themselves and their children face, embrace, and then move on from failure.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

086: Getting Things Done For Teens with Mike Williams

Mon, 24 Sep 2018 16:28:55 +0000

In this episode, Roy talks with Mike Williams, co - writer of "Getting Things Done For Teens," based on the original book written by David Allen. The purpose of the book, from its back cover:

"Very little time, focus, or education is being spent teaching and coaching this generation how to navigate this unprecedented amount of "stuff" entering their lives each day. How do we help the overloaded and distracted next generation deal with increasing complexity and help them not only survive, but thrive? How do we help them experience stress-free productivity and gain momentum and confidence? How do we help them achieve autonomy, so that they can confidently take on whatever comes their way?"

Roy has addressed teens' struggle with the glut of input and noise they face every day many times on Today's Teenager and in his speaking. He and Mike discuss how the "Getting Things Done" method can help teens transform thought into action and create a self-directed and fruitful future.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

085: Talking Challenges And Opportunities For Hispanic Youth with Dr. Hosffman Opino

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 17:32:15 +0000

In this episode, Roy discusses the challenges and opportunities experienced by Hispanic youth today with Dr. Hosffman Opino. Dr. Opino was born in Colombia where he pursued undergraduate studies in Philosophy. He taught philosophy and religion at various academic levels and worked for the National Confederation of Catholic Education of Colombia. He currently holds an M.A. in theology with concentration in Church History and a Ph.D. in Theology and Education from Boston College.

"In an attempt to promote collaboration, I suggested that Dr. Ospino reach out to Lifeteen. In my ignorance, I said, "Clearly hispanic ministry is a blindspot" for Lifeteen. I've since learned that this is not, nor has it been a "blindspot" for Lifeteen, who has for years, intentionally worked to empower communities of faith to build, implement and sustain vibrant Catholic youth ministry that invites Hispanic/Latino teens to encounter Christ. My apologies go out to the entire Lifeteen organization who works tirelessly for the minds, hearts and souls of young people."

084: Interview iwth John Hodges Davis

Wed, 29 Aug 2018 01:44:54 +0000

In this episode, Roy interviews young adult, John Hodges Davis. John shares his journey as a child and a teen pursuing a golf scholarship and a professional golf career. In his Junior year, John and his family discovered that he was born with hip dysplaysia, ultimately leading to two major surgeries which forced him out of competition and into a search for a new dream. John shares what was helpful to him during a bout of depression and how his faith opened the door for a new direction in his life.

083: Advanced Communications Tips For Talking With Teens

Fri, 03 Aug 2018 20:23:40 +0000

It's common for teens to say things to us or about us that provoke strong emotions in us. In this episode, Roy offers strategies to avoid inflicting your emotional reaction on your teen while also acknowledging the incident instead of pretending it didn't happen.
Among the strategies Roy suggests are using the phrase "when you (teen behavior) I feel (your vulnerable emotion)," along with the question "tell me more" when talking with teens. These tips and others will enable you to engage in meaningful and successful communication with teens that will sustain trust and build a foundation for future communication.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Episode 082:Explaining Vs. Excusing Behavior

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 19:21:05 +0000

In this episode, Roy discusses the difference between letting teens know that we understand their reasons (or lack thereof) for explaining their behavior and giving them a pass for their behavior, thereby excusing it. Roy suggests that as caring adults, we do teens no favors by excusing their choices and behavior and offers suggestions for communicating this concept to teens.

081: How Much Screen Time Is Too Much?

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy addresses one the questions he's most frequently asked by parents: how do you know how much screen time is enough for kids and how do you know when they're spending too much time on their devices? Roy believes that while there are no exact formulas for just how much screen time is best, Roy does believe that the issue of screen time should not be avoided or ignored. Roy offers principles and tips to have conversations with spouses and young people about the importance of regulating screen time.

080: 13 Reasons Why Season 2

Sat, 02 Jun 2018 17:55:28 +0000

In this episode, Roy addresses the second season of the controversial Netflix series, 13 Reasons Why. Roy begins by detailing the plot of the first and second seasons and then explores the positive and negative elements of the series. Roy offers strategies and talking points for adults who wish to discuss the show's themes with teens.

Today's Teenager on season one of 13 Reasons Why: Part 1. Part 2.

Roy encourages adults working with young people to take advantage of the resources offered by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or AFSP. The AFSP's website can be found here and features a wide variety of resources helpful in addressing suicide as well as contact information for local ASFP charters. If you or someone you know is in crisis, you can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HELLO to 741-741.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

079: Dealing With Teenage Apathy

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 09:00:00 +0000

It's easy to see how one could assume that today's youth doesn't care as much as teens once did. Over the years, Roy has discovered several, at times overlapping, reasons teens become apathetic. Many parents and other adults will comment or complain that teens don't care about school, church, or their future as much as they believe they should.

In this episode, Roy explains that the truth is that today's teens are disenchanted with the world today. At the root of much of this apathy is disappointment and disenchantment with people, institutions, God, and even themselves. This disillusionment is often the result of unmet expectations, and many times, teens are hurt, let down, and abused well before they are aware of their expectations.

Roy has found that teens do indeed care, but are exhausted from caring so much. They struggle to find hope in the midst of the complex emotional landscape they may be experiencing. Roy believes adults can help in various ways, including acknowledging the reality of what teens are feeling, engaging teens in what they care about, and helping teens to help teens find healthy ways to recreate.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

078: Helping Teens Regulate Emotions

Fri, 30 Mar 2018 09:00:00 +0000

As Roy explains in this episode, more and more teens are having difficulty regulating their emotions. Being "emotional" and having a roller coaster of feelings is a normal part of being a teenager. Yet many teens experience this intensity at unhealthy levels and for extended lengths of time. Roy explores how teen's inability to "cap", regulate or de-escalate their feelings puts them at risk for more serious emotional problems such as anxiety and depression.

Roy offers strategies aimed at helping teens to better manage their emotional lives, including talking with teens when they are calm instead of during the heat of the moment, helping teens to differentiate between feelings and reality, and teaching teens self-soothing skills. These methods can help adults who work with teens guide young people through the tumultuous emotional journey that all teens experience and provide a basis for healthy emotional regulation throughout their lives.

077: Helping Teens Define Success

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy addresses one of the greatest sources of anxiety for teens today: the pursuit of an unhealthy and often unconscious definition of success. Roy uses the example of teens who suffer panic attacks after failing tests to address what grades and performance really mean to some teens. For teens consciously or unconsciouly struggling to live up to a harsh definition of success, a failing grade really represents their belief that they are unable to succeed in school and in the life that follows. These teens have developed a fear of failing to achieve perfect grades, get into the best colleges, and then secure high-paying jobs that will lead to happiness.

Roy shares his own issues with this definition of success, including its incompatibility with true Gospel values, the pursuit of unquestioned goals, and the false equivocation of money with happiness. Roy suggests that adults can help these teens by first examining their own definitions of success through a self-inventory. With this awareness, Roy believes adults can begin a dialogue with teens that helps them analyze and evaluate what they expect of themselves and others in a pursuit of happiness and success.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

076: Existential Depression In Teens

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 17:41:19 +0000

In this episode, Roy explores a form of depression that many adults are unaware young people are experiencing: existential depression. This type of depression is often a of psychological and spiritual experiences in which matters of life and death, freedom, intimacy, and ultimate meaning weigh heavily on a teen.

As Roy explains, existential depression was believed to only be experienced by 'gifted' teens who are creatively or artistically talented. Roy shares his belief that the label 'gifted and talented' is a misnomer as all teens possess gifts and talents, some of which are not as easily recognized as others. Roy has also worked with many teens who would not fall under the 'gifted and talented' category but who are still experiencing existential depression.

Roy delves into why some teens experience existential depression, including factors like tragedy, betrayal, a lack of faith, and sensitivity to the injustices of the world. Finally, Roy explores the signs that indicate teens are experiencing existential depression, like a preoccupation with matters of mortality and the meaning of life, loss of interest in religious or spiritual participation, and sudden loss in the rest of life, among others.

075: Helping Perfectionist Teens

Tue, 06 Feb 2018 18:34:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy explores the surprising way that anxiety manifests among many teens today: perfectionism.

The teen who has to do most things absolutely perfectly, like homework with little point value or getting upset when not making a perfect score on a test are teens struggling with anxiety-driven perfectionism. Roy explains that while these many not seem to be related to anxiety, they very much are and result from increasing demands on teens from almost countless social and personal pressures, many of which are tied to our Western society's concept of perfection.

Roy suggests that adults cannot help these teens without first reflecting on their own definition of success. Knowing this definition will enable adults to ask teens about their own ideas of success and then begin to address those definitions and their implications. Roy offers a list of questions adults can use in these conversations as well as other useful suggestions for initiating a conversation on the topic of perfectionism.

Roy suggests the following blog entries as resources for engaging teens in conversations on anxiety and perfectionism:

The Art of Listening To Teens

What's Causing The Anxiety Epidemic In Teens Today?

The Importance of Letting Teens Fail with Michelle Hernandez

Five Conversational Tips For Teens

074: Teens And The Holiday Blues

Tue, 26 Dec 2017 19:36:02 +0000

For many, the holidays are "the most wonderful time of the years," but for others it can feel like the worst. Adults are often unaware that teens also feel "the holiday blues." In this episode, Roy explores the warnings signs that indicate the young person or people in your life are experiencing those blues. Roy then offers simple and effective strategies that will aid you in shepherding teens through their holiday sadness and also determine if a teen may need more intensive help from a mental health professional.

073: Responding Instead Of Reacting To Teens

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy discusses the struggle many adults have when working with teens: reacting instead of responding to their behavior. Roy builds on Dr. Steven Covey's observation that humans have a gap between a stimulus and response and that this gap can be widened through forethought and awareness of behavioral triggers. Roy suggests techniques that can aid in responding instead of reacting, including prayer and processing triggers and difficulties with a trusted person.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

072: Why Are Some Teens Delaying Getting Their Driver's License?

Tue, 28 Nov 2017 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy addresses the surprising phenomenon of teens putting off getting their driver's licenses. Roy shares from his own experience working with teens as a counselor and from his interaction with teens and adult through speaking. The prevailing trend is that more and more teens avoiding the acquisition of their driver's license, for reasons varying from anxiety over taking the driving test to feeling that having a driver's license is not necessary.

Roy breaks down the findings of research into this trend over the last few decades, illustrating that there are both valid and invalid reasons some teens have for not pursuing a license. Roy offers insight into these findings and offers suggestions parents and other adults can use to engage teens who may be hesitant to avoid obtaining a driver's license.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

071: Helping Teens With Anxiety

Tue, 14 Nov 2017 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy further addresses how anxiety affects young people, especially their spiritual life. Roy offers tips for helping teens who struggle with anxiety, including less technology, more social interaction with friends and family, and avoiding transferring anxiety to teens.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

070: Social Media And Teen Mental Health

Tue, 07 Nov 2017 10:00:00 +0000

In this micro episode, Roy addresses how social media impacts the mental health of today's teenagers. Roy focuses on how social media apps like Snapchat and Instagram affect dopamine production and dependence in the brain. Roy also discusses how social media curbs proficiency in recognizing verbal and non - verbal social cues and how some teens are robbing themselves of a rich social life by spending time on social media instead.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

069: Teens And Unhealthy Relationships

Fri, 03 Nov 2017 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy explores traits of unhealthy relationships that today's teens find themselves in. These may include overprotective and obsessive behavior like one partner requiring the other to disclose social media passwords or more seriously, sexual and other types of abuse.

Roy also offers tips for assisting teens in avoiding unhealthy relationships or to recognize and then leave unhealthy relationships. Roy strongly encourages parents to discuss relationship issues with teens, even those issues that adults may find most uncomfortable.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

068: Teens And Sexting, Part 2

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 09:00:00 +0000

In this second episode on teens and sexting, Roy offers practical strategies for helping young people who are texting and attempt to dissuade those who are not from the behavior.

Roy's strategies include acknowledging the reality of sexting and setting consequences for teens who have use multiple social media accounts in addition to those parents already know about.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

067: Teens And Sexting Part 1

Tue, 17 Oct 2017 09:00:00 +0000

In this first of a two - part episode, Roy addresses an alarming epidemic among today's teens: sexting. Roy defines sexting as the electronic transmission of sexually suggestive or explicit text or images, including nude photos of the self or others.

Roy then discusses the texting statistics and why the trend is increasing in recent years. Roy also explains the dangers of texting and what motivates teens to participate in this behavior.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

066: Tips For Disciplining Teens

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 20:04:02 +0000

In this first of a series of micro episodes designed to offer quickly - digestible insight on a range of topics, Roy offers tips for effectively and compassionately disciplining teens. Roy's strategies include asking teens what they feel are appropriate disciplinary actions and making sure that correctional techniques correspond to the offense committed.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

065: Helping Teens Help Their Friends

Tue, 26 Sep 2017 17:38:23 +0000

When struggling adolescents seek support, they go first to their friends. Many of these struggling teens are dealing with mental health and other serious issues. This places a great deal of pressure on those teens in helping roles who want to help their friends without compromising the trust of those friends.

In this episode, Roy addresses this growing issue by offering tips for adults who work with young people struggling to help their struggling friends. These tips include asking teens if they are in this position with one or more friends, validating the role of helper they're in, and assuring teens that no one is totally responsible for the life of another.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

064: Bullying, Part 2

Tue, 19 Sep 2017 09:00:00 +0000

In this second episode on bullying, Roy offers insight into the signs that a young person is bullying or that a young person is being bullied. Roy offers strategies for engaging teens in both circumstances as well as tips for recognizing and addressing bullying behavior among adults. Finally, Roy provides resources for adults and organizations involved with young people that can be used to foster a safe environment for teens and adults.

Resources:

CDC Tip Sheet

Books on bullying:

Dr. Rosalind Wiseman's Queen Bees and Wannabes and Masterminds and Wingmen.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

063: Bullying - Part 1

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 11:02:03 +0000

In this first of a two - part series on bullying, Roy explains what bullying is and what is isn't and the prevalence of bullying among school - age children and adults.

Roy also explores the various types of bullying and the warning signs indicating that a young person is either being bullied or is bullying others themselves.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

062: To The Bone - The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly

Wed, 23 Aug 2017 13:49:53 +0000

In this episode of Today's Teenager, Roy addresses the Netflix movie To The Bone, which has gained both popularity and notoriety for its treatment of eating disorders. Roy first offers a synopsis of To The Bone before addressing what he see as its positive qualities, like accurately portraying that eating disorders are not about food, the role family plays in the life of someone with an eating disorder, and the lethal nature of untreated eating disorders.

Next, Roy addresses his concerns regarding To The Bone, especially its potential to be highly triggering for someone struggling with an eating disorder. Roy also feels that To The Bone reinforces the stereotype that only girls or women suffer from eating disorders and that anorexia is now the "face" of eating disorders in the media despite not being fully understood and at the expense of realizing the full spectrum of eating disorders.

Roy recommends The Butterfly Foundation, which offers specialized and confidential for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

061: Youth On The Margins

Fri, 30 Jun 2017 21:11:44 +0000

In this episode, Roy addresses the problem of youth who, for various reasons, continue to struggle with mental health issues without receiving acknowledgement or adequate care.

Roy shares the alarming statistic that the second leading cause of death among adolescents today is suicide, a result of an epidemic of depression and anxiety.
Roy believes that much of this anxiety results from the experience of being disconnected amidst unprecedented access to technology that promises to keep us more connected.

Roy believes that religious institutions have a unique opportunity to reach youth who will not access or don't have access to mental health services by advancing the training of both clerical and lay staff in the skills of pastoral care with specific awareness of at - risk youth. Roy feels that providing the same level of training in pastoral care that exists in matters of finance, theology, and catechesis will allow religious institutions to meet the changing needs of the people in their care, especially teens.

If you believe that your teen or a teen you work with is in need of professional mental heath treatment, listen to Roy's episode on how to choose the best counselor or mental health professional for teens.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

060: Helping Depressed Teens

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Today's Teenager, Roy offers four tips that adults can employ in helping depressed teens. The first tip that Roy suggests is understanding that teenage depression is real and to validate that for teens. The second tip Roy recommends is that adults be patient with the seemingly contradictory emotions of teens, which can sometimes cause an adult to believe a young person is not really depressed.

Roy believes that perhaps the most important tip to helping depressed teens is to offer non - reactive and non - judgmental listening. Roy stresses that this kind of attentive, empathetic listening is crucial to helping a teen to feel that they aren't suffering alone and that their experiences are not at all unusual or abnormal. Finally, Roy recommends that adults get a depressed teen counseling from a reliable and professional source like private counselors, school counselors, pastoral counselors or ministers, social workers, psychologists, or pediatricians.

Click here to listen to previous episodes of Today's Teenager that can also aid in working with depressed teens:

Episode 15: What's Normal Vs. Abnormal Teen Behavior?

Episode 23: How Do I Find A Counselor For My Teen?

Episode 42: The Art of Listening To Teens

Episode 48: Teen Suicide Seeing The Signs To Prevent The Sorrow

Episode 49: Teen Suicide What Adults Can Do

Click here for Roy's various blog entries related to teen depression, anxiety, and effective listening to teens.

Roy encourages adults working with young people to take advantage of the resources offered by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or AFSP. The AFSP's website can be found here and features a wide variety of resources helpful in addressing suicide as well as contact information for local ASFP charters. If you or someone you know is in crisis, you can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HELLO to 741-741.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

059: Helping Teens Integrate Their Compartmentalized Selves

Fri, 09 Jun 2017 17:22:09 +0000

More and more parents today are saying their kid is one way at school but act a totally different way at home. Parents hear rave reviews from teachers about how kind, respectful and conscientious their teen is at school or in public, but parents are confused because their teen seems to only behave this way at school.

In this week's episode, Roy addresses this phenomenon which he says is not at all new. Roy has experienced teens displaying different selves and personas in different aspects or roles of their lives, what Roy calls a "compartmentalization of selves.

Roy explains that social media has only exacerbated this behavior, which is not necessarily a problem as all people have multiple selves. Roy suggests that parents and other adults admit this truth to teens in an appropriate way so that teens understand that adults can relate. While changing selves is normal, a lack of consistency between different selves may hold consequences a young person has not considered. Roy encourages parents to those living or working with teens to ask teens about this issue and how they see their different selves and offers further tips to enable teens to visualize and realize the dynamics involved in these situations without a condemning or judgmental tone.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

058: Summer Is An Opportunity To Connect With Teens

Tue, 06 Jun 2017 09:00:00 +0000

Summer marks the end of what is, for most parents and teens, a grueling academic year filled with a multitude of stressors like studying, school and athletic-related activities, not to mention the busy nature of work and family life. As Roy points out in this week's episode, the temptation to simply leave a teen alone at the end of the school year is very real, offering a seeming break for both teens and parents.

While a brief respite is understandable, Roy encourages parents to use the summer break to create opportunities for meaningful connection with teens. Roy suggests that parents simply begin with being intentional about deeper and more meaningful connection with their teens. This includes being truly present and attentive to teenagers and both what they say and don't say. Roy also encourages parents to listen to teens not only when asking them questions, but when they approach parents on their own. Other strategies include vulnerability and specific, meaningful affirmation regarding work ethic and integrity, not just results and successes.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

057: 13 Reasons Why: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly, Part 2

Fri, 05 May 2017 09:00:00 +0000

In this second of a two-part series on the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why, Roy examines the concerns he and other mental health professionals have about how suicide and related mental health disorders are portrayed in the series. Roy also discusses the negative depiction of mental health professionals and adults in the series. Finally, Roy offers strategies adults working with teens can use to turn 13 Reasons Why into an opportunity for dialogue not only on the topic of suicide, but also, other sensitive topics like sexual assault and bullying, which are both prominently featured in the series.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

056: 13 Reasons Why: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly, Part 1

Wed, 03 May 2017 09:00:00 +0000

In this first of a two-part series, Roy examines the controversial Netflix program, 13 Reasons Why, offering a synopsis of the series and exploring its positive and negative aspects. Part 2 will be released on Friday, May 4th.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

055: Engaging In Hard Conversations With Teens

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 01:06:28 +0000

In this first episode in a series on having hard conversations with teens, Roy discusses the "anatomy" of a difficult conversation with a young person on a topic that is sensitive, timely, and/or emotionally charged. Various factors can discussing such topics even more difficult, like a history of combative past conversations, unclear religious teaching on the issue, as well as poor timing or an inappropriate setting.

Roy offers suggestions for making these difficult exchanges with adolescents easier, including acknowledging the awkwardness of the topic at hand, asking a young person for permission to discuss the issue, and seeking a teen's opinion while also reflecting back to the teen their thoughts and feelings.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

054: Communicating Vs. Connecting With Teens

Tue, 21 Mar 2017 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Today's Teenager, Roy explains the differences between communicating and connecting with teens. Roy suggests that when adults who work with teens or parents of teens say they want to learn to better communicate with teens, they're really seeking deeper connection. Roy offers three strategies for connecting with young people, which is the fruit of good communication. Roy illustrates how these strategies can be effective and that the attitude adults must adopt for successful connection is a willingness to leave their own comfort zones to engage teens in their own experiences.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

053: Learning The Dynamics Of Blended Families With Melissa Lowery

Fri, 10 Mar 2017 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy explores the dynamics of blended families with Mrs. Melissa Lowery, a colleague of Roy's at Pax Renewal Center in Lafayette, LA.

Roy and Melissa delve into the struggles and joys unique to blended families. Melissa offers insight and advice to those who are in the midst of navigating the process of creating new families in light of divorce, separation, or the loss of a spouse. Melissa encourages adults in blended families to recognize they don't have all the answers and to admit this vulnerability to their children. She also encourages adults who minister to or work with children in blended families to provide stability, consistency, and understanding.

Click here to read more about Melissa and the services she offers as a therapist at Pax Renewal Center.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

052: Religion As A Coping Resource For Teens

Fri, 17 Feb 2017 10:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode, Roy explores how the practice of religion, including elements like ritual and community, can enable teenagers to find comfort and encouragement in the ever-changing world in which they are growing up.

Roy explains how the predictability and sameness of ritual can provide a sense of stability for young people, despite their attraction to novelty. Religious practice also offers hope for a better future, a sense of relief in the humble realization that there are things we cannot and do not have to change, and the encouragement that comes from belonging to a community of like-minded believers.

Finally, Roy offers practical suggestions for families looking to introduce or increase ritual and spiritual discipline in their family lives and how certain apps can benefit teens in their spiritual growth. Roy recommends the Pope App, Jesus Calling, Bob Rice's 40 Day Spiritual Workout, The Bible app, and Headspace.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

Dr. Dore and her staff embrace their orthodontic patients like family. In addition to traditional metal and ceramic braces Dr. Dore enjoys using Invisalign clear aligners, and she is an Invisalign "Preferred Provider." Call her today for a free exam and Live Life Smiling at (337) 267-SMILE, or click here to learn more about Dr. Dore and her practice.

051: Teens And Social Media

Thu, 02 Feb 2017 15:43:19 +0000

In this episode of Today's Teenager, Roy addresses a topic often brought up in his conversations with parents: "how do we handle our teens and social media?" Roy offers practical tips to parents seeking to regulate the use of social media and electronics by their teens. Roy encourages parents to determine and then communicate their values regarding social media use to teens and then use those values as the basis for setting healthy boundaries. These boundaries include issues like time spent on devices, frequency of use, and what parents feel is appropriate for teens to communicate via social media sites and texting.

This episode of Today's Teenager is sponsored by Dr Danielle Ardoin Dore' Orthodontics.

050: Teens And Psychotropic Medications With Dr. Amy Cavanaugh

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy welcomes Dr. Amy Cavanaugh, a licensed clinical and medical psychologist in the Acadiana area. Roy and Dr. Cavanaugh discuss the topic of psychotropic medications and their role in treating teenage mental health issues. Roy and Dr. Cavanaugh address the stigma these medications have in today's culture, the hesitance many parents encounter when this form of treatment is suggested, and that psychotropic medication is most effective when coupled with therapy and other mental health care. Dr. Cavanaugh and Roy also discuss how parents and adults can enable teens and other young people to develop coping and social strategies by allowing teens to encounter hard work and failure.

Click here for more information about the services Dr. Cavanaugh and her colleagues at Acadiana Medical Psychological Services can offer you and your teen.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

049: Teen Suicide: What Adults Can Do

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy continues discussing the epidemic of teenage suicide by focusing on what adults can do when they recognize the signs that indicate a young person is contemplating suicide. Roy encourages adults to broach the subject with teens by first asking permission to discuss the issue, which allows teens to feel a measure of trust and security with the adult. Even resistant teens will be inclined to at least listen to what an adult has to say about suicide using this method.

Roy stresses that adults working with or parenting teens must understand that broaching the subject of teen suicide does not cause it to happen, but rather, exposes it to healthy discussion and most often, prevention. Roy explains that adults must work through their own discomfort to help reach today's teens, who are struggling with tremendous anxiety and stress. These struggles, Roy points out, are not getting any easier or diminishing for teens and are to blame for the high rate of teen suicide today.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

048: Teen Suicide: Seeing The Signs To Prevent The Sorrow

Thu, 12 Jan 2017 02:24:15 +0000

In the first in a two-part series on teen suicide, Roy confronts the epidemic of teenage suicide in the United States, beginning with a detailed examination of those mental health disorders that are most associated with suicidal tendencies. Roy also addresses the active and passive types of suicidal tendencies and explains the importance of viewing suicide from a mental health perspective instead of a moral one.

Finally, Roy shares the warning signs that signal a teen or other young person may be suffering from those mental health disorders that may lead to suicide. Roy also offers practical steps that adults can take if they suspect a teen or young person they know is considering suicide.

Roy encourages adults working with young people to take advantage of the resources offered by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or AFSP. The AFSP's website can be found here and features a wide variety of resources helpful in addressing suicide as well as contact information for local ASFP charters. If you or someone you know is in crisis, you can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HELLO to 741-741.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

AFSP.

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

047: How to Accompany LGBTQ Teens, Part 2

Tue, 03 Jan 2017 23:17:25 +0000

In part two of a 2-part series on understanding teens who identify as being on the LGBTQ spectrum, Roy offers practical strategies for helping these teens on their journey of self-discovery. Roy suggests that adults working with teens who self-identify as LGBTQ serve those teens best when they provide a safe place for teens to discuss their experiences, but also, by admitting their own ignorance and fear of the issue. Roy encourages those who works these teens and especially, those who parent them, to reject condescension and judgment and instead see their role as someone accompanying these young people on the journey of their identity exploration and identification.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

046: How to Accompany LGBTQ Teens, Part 1

Fri, 30 Dec 2016 10:00:00 +0000

In this first part of a 2-part series, Roy begins an exploration of the sensitive and critical issue of the LGBTQ spectrum. Roy begins the series by detailing what each of the terms in the spectrum (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning) means and how these terms relate to the experiences of teens who use them to identify themselves. Drawing from his extensive experience with teens, Roy provides valuable insight into the importance of this issue and always remaining mindful that people are at its center, not labels.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

045: Teens and Food: Interview With Yvette Quantz, RDN

Tue, 27 Dec 2016 10:00:00 +0000

Roy sits down with Yvette Quantz, a registered dietitian, speaker, and entrepreneur who helps people of all ages to develop a healthy relationship with food through nutrition counseling and other services. Roy and Yvette discuss a variety of topics, including the importance of helping young people build a healthy relationship with food and activity, recognizing the signs of eating disorders, and much more. Click here to learn more about Yvette and the numerous services she provides.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

044: When Teens Ask "Why Does God Allow Bad Things To Happen?"

Tue, 20 Dec 2016 18:28:10 +0000

A question all people who work with or know young people will eventually hear is "why does God allow bad things to happen?" As Roy explains in this episode, this question is not an intellectual or theological one, but rather, an overture for a relationship with the person being asked. Roy explains that teens already know adults don't have the answer to this question, but are asking it to know that they are being heard and understood. Roy offers practical tips for addressing this question with teens and expanding upon the question to build a meaningful relationship with those who ask it.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

043: Helping Teens Beat The Holiday Blues

Fri, 16 Dec 2016 08:00:00 +0000

Roy addresses the unfortunate but common reality that for many people, including teens, the holiday season is not 'the most wonderful time of year.' As Roy illustrates, some teens experience grief, loneliness, frustration, fatigue, and deep sadness. Divorce, family strife, loss of of a loved one, and other factors can keep young people from experiencing the rest, peace, and joy that the holiday season can offer. Roy offers practical strategies and insights into helping adults recognize the signs of a young person's sadness or malaise and how to help them combat those feelings.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

042: The Art Of Listening To Teens

Wed, 14 Dec 2016 16:00:14 +0000

In this episode, Roy offers invaluable insight into the art of listening to teens and other young people. As Roy explains, people do not truly become vulnerable unless they feel they are being truly heard. This is especially true of teenagers, who spend most of their time being required to listen to other people during school or other activities. Roy offers practical listening strategies that enable adults to become truly receptive during verbal and non - verbal communication with teens.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

041: The Anxiety Epidemic, Part 2

Tue, 06 Dec 2016 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy continues to discuss the epidemic of anxiety among young people and teens today. As Roy stresses again in this episode, 1 in 5 young people between the ages of 12 and 17 have a diagnosable anxiety disorder. To help adults help the young people in their lives face and work through anxiety, Roy offers seven strategies that enable young people to cope with and ultimately overcome anxiety.

These strategies range from prioritizing and list-making to simple breathing techniques and medication and psychotherapy. Roy encourages adults to take anxiety and its effects seriously and to be open to discovering the best means of helping young people overcome those effects.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

040: The Anxiety Epidemic, Part 1

Fri, 02 Dec 2016 10:00:00 +0000

In this first of a two-part series, Roy explores the alarming degree of anxiety found in young people and teens today. In addition to defining the kinds of anxiety most prevalent among young people today and their causes, Roy offers insight into how societal expectations and goals affect young people, as well as the role adults can play in teaching young people to cope with anxiety.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

Roy has established Today's Teenager as a non-profit organization dedicated to covering the expenses of therapy sessions and other mental health services for teens and families that would otherwise be unable to afford them. Visit todaysteenager dot com for more information.

039: Interview With Michelle Hernandez

Fri, 18 Nov 2016 10:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode of Today's Teenager, Roy sits down with Michelle Hernandez of Hernandez Group in Lafayette, Louisiana. Michelle is a licensed professional counselor who works with individuals and families struggling with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, and working with children who are in the spectrum of Aspergers and autism.

Roy and Michelle discuss why it's critical for parents and other adults to provide a healthy context for young people to understand, accept, and move beyond failures and personal struggles. Roy and Michelle agree that adults do a disservice to teens when they continually insulate them from the lessons and character development that come with failure.

Click here to visit Michelle's website or call Hernandez Counseling at 337 - 501 - 7730.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

038: Talking With Teens About Their Futures

Tue, 01 Nov 2016 15:24:23 +0000

In this episode, Roy shares insight into how parents can effectively broach the subjects of career and future with teens. Roy explains that teens are truly concerned about these issues, despite appearing to parents and other adults as noncommittal or apathetic. Roy explains that today's teens have a vast number of career options to choose from due to social media and other technologies, and that so many options can be overwhelming. Roy encourages parents and adults to use compassion and patience when discussing these issues.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

037: Roy Shares His TEDx Journey

Fri, 21 Oct 2016 09:00:00 +0000

In this special episode of Today's Teenager, Roy shares his journey towards giving a TEDx presentation last month in Lafayette, Louisiana. Roy offers insight into his own creative processes and how they were challenged and refined by the strictures of a TEDx presentation.

Click here to watch Roy's full TEDx presentation.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

036: Roy Talks With Catholic Educator And Author, Jared Dees

Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:00:00 +0000

Roy welcomes Catholic educator and author Jared Dees to Today's Teenager to discuss a variety of topics, including Jared's thoughts on how to effectively reach teens as a Catholic educator, the adults who influenced his own development, and what resources he recommends for Catholic educators.

Jared is digital publishing specialist at Ave Maria Press and creator of the popular website, The Religion Teacher. The Religion Teacher provides practical resources and effective teaching strategies to religious educators. Jared holds master's degrees in education and theology from Notre Dame and has taught in Catholic schools and parish religious education programs. His articles have appeared in various Catholic educational magazines and websites. Jared is the author of 31 Days to Becoming a Better Religious Educator and lives in South Bend, Indiana, with his wife and three children.

Click here for Jared's blog and other resources he's created for Catholic educators and ministers.

035: Understanding Teen Self-Injurious Behavior, Part 2

Tue, 04 Oct 2016 15:30:13 +0000

In this second episode on teen self-injurious behavior, Roy explains the severity of such behavior and why parents and others who work with teens should not ignore it. Roy offers anecdotes from his work with teens that illustrates how important it is to seek professional help for teens who are hurting themselves and strategies that parents and adults can use to broach the subject with teens.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

034: Understanding Teen Self-Injurious Behavior, Part 1

Fri, 30 Sep 2016 09:00:00 +0000

Roy addresses a serious affliction facing many teens today: self-injurious behavior. In this first of a two-part discussion of what is often known as "cutting," Roy explains the root causes of self-injurious behavior and why these actions are taken by young people.

Roy discusses the various names and methods teens use to injure themselves, the affect these actions have on the brain, what teens are getting from self-injurious behavior, and finally, how parents and other adults can address this issue with the young people in their lives.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

033: Is My Teen Missing Out?

Wed, 28 Sep 2016 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy discusses the fear that parents have about their teens missing out on experiences or opportunities that other teens may have. Roy explains that the number one mental health concern for teens today is anxiety, caused by the stress of being too busy. More importantly, young people are moving from experience to experience without learning how to pause and reflect upon the significance of those experiences and how they relate to their own personal development.

Roy suggests that adults can help teens to reflect by providing opportunities for relational connection and intimacy that avoids the distractions of our modern lives and instead allows families to explore the meaning of past events and their significance.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

032: Parenting Through Fear

Fri, 23 Sep 2016 09:00:00 +0000

This week, Roy breaks down three of the biggest parenting fears he hears about from other parents and experiences in his own parenting. These fears, Roy says, are those that are not frequently discussed directly among other adults.

Fears of our children missing out, rejection by other parents, and judgment from other parents often lead some parents to isolate themselves and burden themselves with heavy and unhealthy shame. Roy stresses the importance of moving past through denial by naming and addressing the fears that a parent faces as they navigate the treacherous waters of their children's teenage years.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

031: The Gift Of Your Time

Fri, 16 Sep 2016 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy addresses the need that teens have for attention from and the mindful presence of the adults in their lives. Roy shares his own experiences of feeling invisible and unnoticed as a teen and how that has informed his awareness of the dynamics of positive and negative attention in a teen's relationship with the adults in their lives.

Roy offers three methods that can help adults be more aware, attentive, and present to the teens in their lives, with a focus on the importance of careful listening to ministering to and loving young people.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling

030: Parenting From The Inside Out Part 2

Fri, 09 Sep 2016 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy continues to explore the concept of "parenting from the inside out," which means parenting from a less utilitarian and more introspective place. Roy expands on this idea by illustrating how adults can begin to see not only what they can do for their children but what the gift and journey of parenting can do for their own personal development and relationship with God. Roy explains that this perspective can enlighten those tough times in parenting, especially those involving difficult issues like gender identity and sexuality.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

029: Parenting From The Inside Out

Tue, 06 Sep 2016 08:30:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy explores what he calls "parenting from the inside out," a philosophy which means approaching parenting with mindfulness and intent, reflecting on what motivates our actions, reactions, behaviors, and values as parents.

Roy says parents can come to learn how God is working on them as adults through their own experience of parenting, and that God may be using parenting as a way of healing and transforming the parent instead of the child. Roy also shares examples of this philosophy through examples from his parenthood and childhood.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

028: Interview with Chris Padgett

Mon, 29 Aug 2016 15:17:49 +0000

In this episode, Roy talks with Catholic musician, speaker, and author Chris Padgett. Chris uses storytelling, comedy, and music to bring his unique take on the Gospel to an international audience.

Chris has written six books on a variety of topics, including marriage, the Eucharist, and Marian spirituality. Chris is also an accomplished musician with a number of albums to his credit.

Roy and Chris discuss a range of topics, including how Chris' experiences as a teen influence his ministry today, current trends among young people and in youth ministry, and Chris' message for adults who work with teens.

Click here for more about Chris, including photos of his 9 - sided home mentioned in this episode, links to his books and albums, contact information, and more.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

027: What's Your Kid's "One Thing?"

Tue, 23 Aug 2016 08:30:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy explores how the concept of "the one thing" can enhance working with teens and other young people. The notion of "the one thing" suggests that success can be found by applying greater focus and direction towards a singular goal or aspect of a person's life. This idea has circulated in the popular consciousness for some time, including books on business and success like Gary Keller's "The One Thing."

Roy encourages adults who interact with teens to devote themselves to learning what a teen's greatest need or "one thing is" through mindfulness, attention, and presence. Roy then suggests Gary Chapman's "Five Love Languages" ( Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service, and Quality Time) can be powerful tools for engaging, loving, and serving teens by recognizing and fulfilling their various needs.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

026: Riding The Roller Coaster Of Teen Personality Development

Fri, 19 Aug 2016 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy explores the sometimes confusing nature of teen personality development. Roy explains that the formative nature of a teenager's personality leads to rapid changes, some of which will seem alarming to adults. At the heart of a teenager's personality is an adaptive quality that is based on various situations and interactions with other people, which Roy says is normal for every teenager and is even something found in adult behavior.

Roy also addresses the hesitance and fear that some adults fear in acknowledging some changes in teens. Roy strongly encourages adults to avoid condescension and patronizing teens and instead offering support through attentive presence and availability.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

Episode 025: Logical Vs. Relational Consequences

Tue, 16 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000

In this week's episode, Roy explores the differences between logical and relational consequences in disciplining teenagers. While both types of consequences modify behavior, one is ultimately destructive and leads to shame. This shame and its effects are deep and lasting and can result in emotionally and psychologically damaged teens. Roy explains the differences between healthy guilt and shame, which can deeply affect a young person's sense of value and worth.

Roy then offers five tips for administering logical consequences and avoiding emotional and relational consequences. Roy's tips help parents and other adults working with young people to be mindful of their own emotional states in light of a teen's violation of trust and to lovingly yet effectively resolve the situation.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

024: Interivew with Doug Tooke

Fri, 12 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy welcomes Doug Tooke. Doug is a former youth minister and current international speaker and Executive Director of Reach Youth Ministry. Doug is also the founder of Monarch Ministries, which offers an assortment of areas of youth ministry, family dynamics, and leadership development.

Roy and Doug discuss a variety of topics, including the importance of encouraging authentic and healthy communication among teens and young adults, the importance of teaching young people how to pray, and the resources Doug draws from in his ongoing ministry.

Click here to learn more about Doug and Monarch Ministries, as well as listen to Doug's podcast, Renovo.

023: How Do I Find A Counselor For My Teen?

Tue, 09 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy offers insight into how parents can find a counselor for their teen. Roy first encourages parents to listen to episode 15 of Today's Teeanger or read this blog post, both of which address normal and abnormal teen behavior. These criteria can help assess whether or not a teen's behavior warrants the intervention of a counselor. As Roy explains, finances are an issue for most people looking for mental health care, so he recommends beginning with counselors on one's insurance plan and what mental health services are also covered.

Roy then explains the difference psychologists, counselors, psychotherapists, LPCs (Licensed Professional Counselors), LMFT (Licensed Marriage & Family Therapists), LCSW (Licensed Counselor/Social Workers) and which of these specialists may be best for your family. He also addresses the resistance and fear that some teens will understandably associate with being asked to speak with a mental health professional and ways that parents can comfort and encourage teens to look at counseling as a path towards personal healing and development.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

022: Three Needs Of Every Parent

Fri, 05 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000

In this episode of Today's Teenager, Roy examines the three needs that every parent has when it comes to caring for their children. Roy explains that these needs don't necessarily apply to caring for other people's children as they do for caring for one's own. A parent's need to provide, protect, and please their children may seem obvious, but are complicated by the new and often unpredictable changes to daily life as a result of a rapidly-changing modern world.

Roy encourages parents to concentrate on the ways they do provide and care for their children rather than feeling anxiety over what they may not be doing. Being active in learning about a young person's interests and culture help to alleviate that anxiety. Roy also looks at how women struggle more with protecting their children and men with providing for them. Finally, Roy offers how powerful spending time with and being present to our children can be in the formative teenage years.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

021: The Five Hungers of Today's Teenagers

Tue, 02 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy explores the five 'hungers' or needs of today's teenagers. These needs are universal to all people, but as Roy explains, they are especially critical for young people during the formative years of adolescent development. Roy further explains how teens will fulfill the void created by unmet needs with anything they can, including unhealthy attachments and abuse. Roy also offers practical strategies for recognizing these needs in young people and how to provide and assist them in fulfilling these needs.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

020: Conversational Tips For Teens

Fri, 29 Jul 2016 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Today's Teenager, Roy offers suggestions for both adults and teens in developing healthy and successful conversational skills. In an episode designed to be listened to by teens in particular, Roy explores the social components of initiating, sustaining, and engaging in conversation with peers and adults.

Roy discusses the fear of rejection and invisibility he sometimes felt as a teen himself, and how adults modeled and encouraged successful conversation. Roy delves into the elements critical to skillful communication, including awareness of other people, the art of attentive listening, and above all, the power of smiling in social interaction.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

019: Motivating Teen Boys

Tue, 26 Jul 2016 07:30:00 +0000

In this episode, Roy discusses the different ways adults can help motivate apathetic, disengaged and unmotivated teen boys. By helping provide sources of external he motivation, adults can help adolescents gradually develop the internal motivation needed to succeed in life.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

018: Interview with Dan Jurek, LPC, LMFT

Fri, 22 Jul 2016 09:39:56 +0000

In this episode, Roy sits down with Dan Jurek, the founder and director of Pax Renewal Center for Individual, Couple and Family Therapy, to discuss what he's found to be effective in working with today's teens. From many years of experience working with teens as a teacher, minister, administrator, collegiate dean, spiritual director and counselor and his own experience overcoming challenges as a teen, Dan shares how we can most effectively reach teens.

Roy and Dan discuss the anxiety and stress epidemic that affects many of today's teens and families and practical suggestions for educators, parents, clergy and ministers to address anxiety in various settings.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.

017: Grieving Teens - What every adult should know

Tue, 19 Jul 2016 07:30:00 +0000

In this week's episode, Roy offers insight into the unique way that teens grieve and how it is similar to but also different from how adults grieve. Roy encourages adults to recognize that most teens will experience a 9 -15 month period of denial before finally confronting and processing their own grief. Roy also illustrates how critical peer presence and support is for teens when dealing with loss. Finally, Roy suggests things that adults should and should not say to a teenager that's grieving.

To get Roy's newest ebook "Little Book of Questions that Really Get Teens Talking" go to todaysteenager.com and sign up or email Roy at roy@todaysteenager.com.

Today's Teenager podcast is produced for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to nor should it be used as a replacement for professional counseling.