Today's teenagers are faced with more challenges than ever before. High school presents many new circumstances and unique challenges and teenagers are frequently unsure about how to deal with them. Many teens do not know how to speak about these difficulties or who to talk with.

Peers are important for teens. They often gravitate toward one another and can emotionally thrive in groups. They speak with their friends and their friends are generally supportive; the teen feels reassured that they are not the only one experiencing difficulties. While peers can provide support, it is rare for them to offer additional guidance, confront potentially inappropriate behavior, or challenge decisions or thoughts. However, when a conversation between teens is facilitated by a skilled therapist who can gently guide the content, it can be most productive. Community Counseling Group, in Westlake Village, offers groups for teens aged 14-17 led by a warm, knowledgeable therapist skilled in facilitating "teen speak."

Discussions will focus on issues that are important to teens including:

1) Learning to talk with parents so they will listen

2) Dealing with peer pressure

3) Developing problem-solving techniques

4) Setting and accomplishing short-term and long-term goals

5) Developing social skills and friendship networks

6) Increasing self-esteem and self-confidence

For more information, please call Community Counseling Group at 805-373-1033 or visit our website at www.CCGhelp.com. We have availability in our Thursday evening groups, please call for details.