Have you ever noticed that when your kid starts to escalate, you start to get dysregulated? Do you try to keep your rising anxiety or anger in check until it just boils over? Perhaps, when you can’t take it anymore you either yell, say something really harsh, give in, or become incredibly anxious, feel out-of-control, question your parenting skills and approach.

Having teens challenges you on so many deep levels. It is tough, yet can be incredibly rewarding. They have this push-pull dynamic where they want to assert their growing independence and new found freedoms, yet still need you. They can drive, hold down a job, and open a bank account with help, but still need you for money, guidance, and time with you. Plus, you now worry about their expanding freedom with driving, staying out later, and remembering all the things you taught them about safety, drugs, alcohol, and sex.