Have you asked your teenager a simple question, like “How was your day?” and gotten a
one-word answer, such as “Fine”? Or maybe you only received a shrug. We can feel powerless
when our teenagers stop talking to us. While this withdrawal is a typical part of seeking
independence, it can also signal underlying mental health issues, leaving parents unsure how to
respond. The good news is, parents, you’re not powerless. While we often focus on their
academic and athletic skills, one of the most valuable skills a teenager can develop is effective
communication. And it is the most trainable of all skills.
Support Your Teen
The “Level Up Your Connections” group, offered by Acorn Counseling Education
Services, is designed for teenagers to learn and practice practical skills that improve their
everyday communication. These skills are not rote theoretical concepts, but real-world tools that
can be personalized and applied in daily situations. The goal is to expand their toolkit with
practical ways to express their thoughts while also building their self-confidence. Teens will
master their skills in a productive way that feels natural, powering them to navigate social
interactions with confidence and ease.
Let’s Talk, Parent to Parent
I’ll never forget the night my daughter, who barely spoke to me, opened up about a
problem with a friend. We didn’t solve it, but we re-established a connection. Our goal is to
improve family communication, as well as encourage healthy interactions with oneself,
classmates, friends, teachers, and potential employers. Effective communication between parents
and teenagers can reduce stress and foster healthier families, making improved relationships a
reality we can look forward to.
Group Focus
The group begins with “Find Your Core”. Navigating adolescence involves more than
just fitting in; it’s about developing a strong inner compass by finding your ‘core‘. For teens,
discovering this core means identifying their authentic selves, their deeply held values, beliefs,
and purpose—beyond external pressures from friends, social media, or other expectations. While
the group is getting to know its members, we will delve into their values and what is dear to
them. Discovering what truly matters to a person is about stepping out of the taken-for-granted
mode and helping them see that their actions have an impact on those around them. By
recognizing what matters most, teens can build self-respect, make confident decisions, and
cultivate resilience to stay grounded even when faced with challenges. This journey of self-
discovery provides the foundation for a more authentic and meaningful life.
The ”Skills to Chill and Talk” sessions will focus on learning how to communicate by
sharing your thoughts and feelings with confidence. Mastering the skills to ‘chill and talk’ helps
teens navigate conflicts and deepen relationships. Instead of reacting with heightened emotions,
chilling involves learning to pause, take a deep breath, and calm down before responding.
Talking effectively means using ‘I feel’ statements to express feelings constructively without
placing blame, while also practicing active listening to understand the other person’s perspective.
By embracing these techniques, teens can transform potential fights into opportunities for mutual
understanding, fostering more positive and resilient social connections. This shift empowers
them to approach disagreements with maturity and a focus on finding a resolution rather than
winning an argument.
“Lower the Drama” sessions focus on learning healthier ways to handle conflict and
stress. Teens will explore strategies and role-play different scenarios to help them determine
their preferred styles of communication. Rather than fueling drama for attention or out of
insecurity, teens can develop better coping mechanisms. Cultivating emotional intelligence,
practicing active listening, and communicating feelings clearly can help teens navigate
disagreements with friends and family more productively. Encouraging teens to focus on their
goals and healthy relationships, and to know when to disengage from toxic situations, provides
them with the tools to prioritize a more positive and stable social life. By developing these skills,
teens can learn to manage conflict constructively, rather than letting drama dictate their
interactions.
Next Step
Counselor Cheri Sassmann
Cheri Sassman, LPC Associate Supervised by Kathryn Morgan, LPC S
Join us for six engaging ninety-minute sessions where we will explore communication
scenarios, analyze impactful video clips, and participate in discussions and role-plays. We’ll
infuse humor into our learning while valuing everyone’s contributions. Together, we’ll focus on
the present and shape a positive future by applying evidence-based skills that enhance self-
confidence, respect, and healthy boundaries. The potential for improved relationships and
academic performance is within your reach. Don’t miss out—sign up today by emailing Cheri@AcornCounseling.Services! The group starts on October 21, 2025, at 4:00 PM.
