How Can Teen Counseling Help Your Adolescent and the Family Unit Thrive? Insights from S. Lavita Collins, LCSW and Teen Counselor in Chicago

As a therapist in Chicago, many of the individual clients I see long to enjoy loving and fulfilling relationships, and if you're a parent of a teen or child, you likely wish to see your kids experience the same. But what helps family relationships thrive? In this blog series, I will highlight several colleagues who will share how their work with children and adolescents can help cultivate the well-being of the whole family.

I have the pleasure of introducing you to S. Lavita Collins, a licensed clinical social worker who offers Teen Counseling in Chicago.

Lavita has 17 years of clinical experience working with individuals, families, couples, and the BIPOC community. She uses a trauma-informed lens, acknowledging that everyone has experienced trauma at some point in their lives, no matter how small, and this shapes who they are. Working from this perspective allows her to meet each person where they are and respect their unique differences and challenges. As a restorative practitioner, Lavita focuses on collective healing and believes that the best way to heal is through the family and community.

Interview with S. Lavita Collins, LCSW and Teen Counselor in Chicago 

What brought you to the field of adolescent counseling?

I believe that adolescents are often overlooked due to their youth, but they have so much to say and offer. I have learned a lot from adolescents because of their openness, honesty, and individuality. This has allowed me to build a better rapport and become creative in my approach, making adolescents feel at ease and open to different points of view. 

I live by the phrase, “Rules before Relationships reaps Rebellion.” When parents have relationships with their children identified by open communication, trust and honesty, then teenagers are able to be forthcoming about what's happening in their lives versus secrecy and/or rebelling.  Moreover, teenagers who feel their parents are supportive and have mutual respect are more likely to follow rules than those who feel dismissed. 

What kind of counseling services do you provide and to what ages?

I provide psychotherapy and mentorship to teenagers aged 13 and up.

How does your counseling service help teens with trauma?

My intervention begins with creating a safe space for teens to have honest conversations without feeling judged. This allows them to explore parts of themselves that are aching and need healing. Through rapport building and providing a safe environment, I guide my clients on a holistic journey where we address attachment wounds, negative core beliefs, and external stressors, and then implement a plan to begin the healing process.

What do you love about working with adolescents in counseling?

I love that I can let my guard down and not feel judged. The flow of conversation is natural and unassuming, and they make me laugh while also keeping me up to date on current social issues that impact them.

In your experience, what are some important considerations when working with teens?

It’s important to consider their cultural and community needs, things that matter to THEM. They are a unique group, growing up in the social media era where they are always connected and face different social pressures and expectations. Being curious about their lives, experiences, and needs is crucial. As a therapist, you’re not their parent or another adult telling them what to do, but a professional holding space for them to be vulnerable, explore, and grow.

How do you think helping parents help their teens could impact the relationship they have with their partners or loved ones?

Healing begins in the family. When parents have better relationships with their children, the entire family system improves due to better rapport, a stronger sense of connection, and better communication, which results in less conflict.

What would you say to someone who is hesitant about seeking therapy or counseling for their teenager?

Go for it! It’s one of the best things you can do for your child apart from loving them, especially if you find a great therapist. Teens working with therapists develop better self-awareness, self-esteem, communication skills, and relationships with their families and peers. I have seen teens go from non-functioning to thriving, and that’s the part I enjoy the most.

Testimonials from Parents:

“My daughters absolutely LOVE working with Lavita. They get so much value out of each session. I'm beyond grateful.”

“Greetings Lavita Collins,

THANK YOU 

THANK YOU

THANK YOU

You have helped our Lyndsey*** in so many ways and we are so thankful to have found a culturally relevant professional such as yourself.”   (*** Name changed for HIPAA compliance)

What do you wish people knew about counseling services with you?

What you see is what you get. I am open, honest, and natural, which reflects in the therapy room. There is no hocus-pocus or pretentiousness. I provide holistic professional services that meet people where they are. I have a wealth of tools and knowledge and am willing to go the distance to get you and your family the therapy you need. You just have to trust the process and do your part.

How can people contact you to learn more about your therapy services in Chicago?

Please reach me at shunquacollins@yahoo.com, or 773-931-0016.

More about Lavita:

Lavita’s personal mission and purpose is to provide psychoeducation and psychotherapy to others through kindness, compassion, and empathy. As a trained psychotherapist, she believes that therapy should be holistic and healing, encompassing all aspects of the client. Through psychoanalysis, cognitive behavioral theory, mindfulness, and other modalities, Lavita helps clients navigate the stressors and anxieties of daily living.

When she is not in session, you can find her dancing with abandon!

Final Thoughts from a therapist in chicago

I hope you gained some insights about how helping the teen in your life can also cultivate thriving family relationships. 

S. Lavita Collins brings her extensive experience and compassionate approach to support adolescents in navigating their unique challenges and in feeling seen. By fostering a safe and open environment, Lavita helps teens heal from trauma, build self-awareness, and improve their relationships.

If you're considering therapy for your teenager, take the leap. The benefits extend beyond your child, positively impacting family dynamics and communication. Reach out to Lavita to learn more about her services and see how she can support your family on this journey to thriving together.

Schedule a free consultation for relationship counseling in Chicago

Investing in your teen's mental health is a loving and powerful step towards a happier, healthier family life. If you need further support or want to improve your romantic relationships and connect with yourself and others more deeply, contact me!

Lisaura specializes in incorporating movement and the mind-body connection to help people heal, improve their relationships, and feel more whole. Lisaura offers individual relationship counseling, couples counseling, premarital counseling, and dance therapy to help adults connect with themselves and others deeply.

Faith-based therapy and Spanish-speaking services are available.