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Teens Uncharted: the Pod

Teens Uncharted

Teens Uncharted: the Pod

Being a teenager today is messy, and we aren’t going to lie about it. Welcome to Teens Uncharted: the Pod where we drop the filters and talk about what’s actually going on. Hosted by Charity, this show bridges the gap between teens, parents, and the professionals who support them. From mental health and school struggles (yes, even IEPs) to high-risk behaviors and finding real connection, we tackle the hard stuff with zero judgment, total honesty, and real clinical insight. Whether you’re a teen trying to figure it out, a parent trying to understand, or a therapist doing the work, you're in the right place. Watch the video episodes on Spotify and YouTube, or listen anywhere you get your podcasts.

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  • 22 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 44 min
  • English

Episodes 22

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  • S2 · E65
    Saturday · 55 min

    Raising Teen Girls Without Losing Your Mind with Pediatric Nurse Amy Young | Teens Uncharted Ep. 65

    Raising teenage girls can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, especially when you are simultaneously navigating your own hormonal changes like perimenopause. In Episode 65 of Teens Uncharted, host Charity Chaffee sits down with pediatric nurse, seasoned dance mom, and author Amy Young to discuss the reality of the mother-daughter relationship. Drawing from 18 years in a pediatric office and her personal experiences raising two girls, Amy shares actionable advice for parents trying to hold it all together. She introduces her nursing-inspired "ABC framework" (Acknowledge, Boundaries, Care Plan) to help diffuse conflict and explains why the absolute best place to get your teenager to open up and spill the tea is in the backseat of a car. In this episode, we cover: 📌 The Hormone Clash: How to survive a household where your teen's puberty and your perimenopause collide. 📌 Perfectionism & Body Image: Why a young girl's anxiety and perfectionism are often mirrored directly from her mother. 📌 The Dance Mom Dynamic: Navigating competitive sports culture and why building a secure, supportive village over competition is crucial for both you and your kids. 📌 The Binder Generation: How moms carry the pressure of holding the family together while supporting growing teens and aging parents. 📌 Letting Them Fail: Knowing when to step in, when to let your teenager struggle, and why it is perfectly okay to let them quit a sport if they no longer love it. Be sure to check out Amy’s upcoming book, Hormones and Hair Ties: Raising Teen Girls Without Losing Your Mind, releasing on January 12th in both print and audiobook formats. [https://little-flower-43595.myflodesk.com/p7yajoaklj] Follow her at Instagram: @amyyoungadvice [https://www.instagram.com/amyyoungadvice/] Website: https://www.amyyoungadvice.com/ Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #ParentingTeens #TeenGirls #MotherDaughter #TeensUncharted #AmyYoung #DanceMoms #Perimenopause #Puberty #PediatricNurse #MentalHealth #RaisingTeens #ParentingTips

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  • S2 · E64
    September 12 · 1 hr 3 min

    Trauma-Informed Weightlifting: Flipping the Script on Teen Therapy with Nick Bremer | Ep. 64

    If you've ever sat across from a teen who is completely checked out on the therapy couch, you know that just talking about trauma doesn't always cut it. In Episode 64 of Teens Uncharted: the Pod, host Charity Chaffee sits down with Nick Bremer, a pre-licensed therapist based in Michigan who is completely flipping the script on somatic work. Nick is certified in trauma-informed weightlifting and uses physical resilience—literally picking up heavy things—to help teens process anxiety and trauma when words just aren't enough. Whether working with student-athletes navigating performance anxiety, teens managing ADHD, or LGBTQ+ youth building bodily autonomy, Nick seamlessly integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and somatic skills right on the gym floor. We dive into the neuroscience of the window of tolerance, why framing exercise as "intentional movement" is crucial for emotional regulation, and how to authentically connect with teens outside the confines of traditional talk therapy. Connect with Nick Bremer: Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/nick-william-bremer-jenison-mi/1392742 Instagram: @_therapy.with.nick_ https://www.instagram.com/_therapy.with.nick_?stkn=Y254bTUzODgwd2xk Tahoma Counseling: https://tahomacounseling.com/ Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensUncharted #TeenTherapy #TraumaInformedWeightlifting #SomaticTherapy #NickBremer #TeenMentalHealth #CBT #TraumaRecovery #StudentAthleteMentalHealth #TherapyForTeens

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  • S2 · E63
    September 5 · 31 min

    How Therapists & Schools Can Actually Work Together | Teens Uncharted Ep. 63

    If you work with teens, you know that therapy does not happen in a vacuum, and eventually, school will enter the chat. In Episode 63 of Teens Uncharted, licensed mental health counselor Charity Chaffee dives into the complexities of school collaboration during the back-to-school season. As requested by our listeners, this episode explores how therapists, parents, and school professionals can communicate effectively. The goal is to work together in a way that protects teens, supports caregivers, and keeps everyone on the same team. Key Takeaways in This Episode: 💜 The Annual Cycle of Teen Stress: There is a predictable pattern of teen struggle throughout the school year. This cycle often begins with the anxiety of heading back to school. It is followed by increased boredom and academic pressure during the mid-October and November grind. Finally, teens often experience prolonged challenges during the long, grueling month of March. 💜 Effective Communication Strategies: Outside therapists should proactively schedule short, 10-15 minute chats with school psychologists or social workers at the beginning of the academic year. This allows professionals to share relevant information and discuss client needs without violating confidentiality. 💜 Proactive Safety Planning: It is highly recommended to establish safety plans early in the school year. Therapists and parents must understand a school district's specific crisis management and screening protocols. Getting ahead of these policies prevents care teams from scrambling reactively during an active crisis. 💜 Defining Healthy Roles: Parents are advised against acting as the primary enforcers of educational tasks and homework. Instead, schools must be the ones to enforce academic rules and deliver natural consequences. 💜 Navigating Professional Disagreements: Outside therapists must maintain collaborative, civil relationships with school staff. It is crucial not to speak poorly about the school to the teen, as this breaks down therapeutic rapport. Furthermore, private therapists should avoid attempting to direct the work or enforce the lanes of school professionals. Whether you are a private practice therapist, a school counselor, or a parent navigating the teenage years, this episode provides actionable guidance to better support the adolescents in your life. Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Website: https://www.teensuncharted.com/ Facebook Group for Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Facebook Group for Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensUncharted #TeenTherapy #SchoolCollaboration #MentalHealthCounseling #ParentingTeens #BackToSchool #TherapistTips #CharityChafee

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  • S2 · E62
    August 29 · 38 min

    You’re Fired: What to Do When a Teen Client Drops You | Teens Uncharted Ep. 62

    In Episode 62 of Teens Uncharted, licensed mental health counselor Charity Chafee tackles an unspoken reality in the field: getting abruptly fired by your teen clients. Rather than letting a sudden termination trigger imposter syndrome or financial panic, this episode explores how to process the experience and use it to become a better clinician. In this episode, we cover: 🎧 Why being fired is an inevitable milestone in a therapist's career and a valuable opportunity for professional growth. 🎧 The difference between an emotional, knee-jerk firing and a standard discharge after goals are met. 🎧 How to preload termination protocols during the initial intake to help teens and parents practice healthy transitions and conflict resolution. 🎧 Why a therapist's goal during a termination discussion should be understanding the client's choice, not convincing them to stay. 🎧 How to objectively analyze a failed case to recognize your accountability and process your own guilt or shame. Resources & Links: Download the free "You're Fired" processing workbook at https://www.teensuncharted.com/clinical-resources-teens-uncharted to help you critically analyze and move through abrupt terminations. Join a community of 6,000+ professionals in our new Facebook group: "Therapists Who Work with Teens". https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensUncharted #TeenTherapy #TherapistLife #MentalHealthCounselor #ClinicalPractice #ClientTermination #TherapistTips

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  • S2 · E61
    August 15 · 28 min

    Mental Health Care, Collaboration & The Lindsay Clancy Trial | Teens Uncharted the Pod Ep.61

    Welcome back to the very first episode of our newly rebranded podcast, Teens Uncharted the Pod! Whether you have been here since the beginning or are just tuning in, we are so happy to have you for the Season 2 premiere. This podcast is dedicated to discussing teens through the lens of the professionals who work with them, including therapists, social workers, doctors, and coaches. In this episode, Charity tackles the common pushback that working with teenagers carries too high of a liability. Here is what we are unpacking today: ✨ The Liability Myth: Charity explains why she believes teens actually carry less liability than adults. She highlights how teenagers have a built-in web of collaborative support, including school social workers, pediatricians, and guardians. ✨ Systemic Reflections: The devastating Lindsay Clancy trial is an opportunity to take a critical look at the mental health system. Charity discusses how even in a state with top-tier care like Massachusetts, a lack of collaboration between providers can leave dangerous gaps. ✨ Insurance Hurdles: Insurance companies often dictate care and prioritize their wallets over clients. Charity points out how the current system discourages essential collaborative consultation by treating it as unpaid labor for therapists. ✨ Exciting Updates: Charity shares her nervous excitement about being accepted to speak at an upcoming summit in March 2027, where she will present on harm reduction frameworks for teens. ✨ Season 2 Preview: Get ready for a packed season featuring interviews with psychiatrists, DBT specialists, and individuals sharing their lived experiences receiving mental health care as teens. "I think we can learn a lot from tragedy if we can lean into it and really take a critical look at what happened and why." Connect with the Community: Website: Check out https://www.teensuncharted.com/ and sign up for the mailing list to get all the upcoming goodies. Facebook Group: Join the conversation in the "Therapists Who Work with Teens" Facebook group, which has grown to almost 6,000 members! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensUncharted #TeenTherapy #MentalHealthPodcast #TherapistLife #MentalHealthSystem #TherapyLiability #SocialWork #Season2Premiere

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  • S1 · E60
    August 8 · 27 min

    The Finale of 'No Cap' & Busting Teen Therapy Myths! | Episode 60

    Welcome to Episode 60 of the Teens: No Cap Podcast! I can't believe we've made it to 60 episodes, and to celebrate, we have some massive announcements. This episode marks the official finale of our "No Cap" era, as we are shifting gears and rebranding to Teens Uncharted the Pod starting next season. Thank you to all the wonderful guests who have shared their expertise and helped this community grow! In This Episode, We Cover: 🌟 Exciting updates on our Facebook community, "Therapists Who Work with Teens," which is now almost 6,000 members strong. 🌟 My reflections on the successful beta launch of the Parent Integration Training. 🌟 A sneak peek at a new deep-dive clinical training on teens launching in late September or early October. 🌟 A fun and insightful game of "Cap or No Cap" where we tackle common misconceptions and myths about teen mental health. Myths We Bust in the "Cap or No Cap" Game: 🌟 If a teen gets straight A's and plays sports, their mental health is perfectly fine. 🌟 Sleeping all weekend and isolating is just normal teenage hormones. 🌟 Self-harm and dark social media posts are simply attention-seeking behaviors. 🌟 Asking a struggling teen directly about suicidal thoughts will put the idea in their head. 🌟 Therapy is only necessary if you have hit rock bottom or have a severe mental health diagnosis. 🌟 Social media is the 100% sole reason for the current teen mental health crisis. 🌟 Teens today are softer and lack the resilience of older generations. 🌟 Putting a teenager on antidepressants or anxiety medication will definitively change their personality. Get Involved & Join the Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensUncharted #TeenMentalHealth #TherapistsWhoWorkWithTeens #TeenTherapy #PodcastFinale #CapOrNoCap #MentalHealthAwareness #ParentIntegration

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  • S1 · E59
    August 1 · 46 min

    Inside the Juvenile Justice System: Trauma, Mental Health & Teens | Teens No Cap Ep. 59

    In Episode 59 of Teens: No Cap, host Charity Chaffee sits down with mental health professionals Justyna Wolek and Reagan Webb to explore the realities of the juvenile justice system. Drawing from their clinical experience at youth correctional facilities—including the McLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Oregon—Justyna and Reagan shed light on the systemic challenges and chronic dysregulation that incarcerated youth face daily. This powerful conversation dives deep into the complex intersection of trauma and our punitive justice system. Together, they question how society can better support vulnerable teens who are too often punished for systemic failures out of their control. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: 🌟 Life Inside the System: The day-to-day realities and high-crisis environments of juvenile detention facilities. 🌟 The Cycle of Trauma: How adverse childhood experiences and systemic failures directly correlate with youth incarceration. 🌟 Treatment vs. Punishment: The intense challenges of providing strength-based, person-centered mental health treatment in a mandated, highly restrictive environment. 🌟 Brain Development & The Law: A look into Oregon’s Measure 1008, brain development up to age 25, and how legislation impacts youth sentencing and rehabilitation. 🌟 The Power of Connection: Why showing up as a consistent, stable adult is the most crucial intervention for teens in the justice system. If you're a mental health professional, parent, or just someone passionate about youth advocacy, this episode will completely shift your perspective on how we view "resistant" teens. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and keep an eye out for Part 2! Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensNoCap #JuvenileJustice #TeenMentalHealth #TraumaInformedCare #YouthJustice #MentalHealthAwareness #SocialWork #TherapyForTeens #AtRiskYouth #TherapistLife

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  • S1 · E58
    July 25 · 42 min

    Healing Through Animals & "Jenna Finds a Dog" with Terry Rousseau & Co. | Teens: No Cap Ep. 58

    Welcome to episode 58 of Teens: No Cap, hosted by licensed mental health counselor Charity Chaffee! In this episode, Charity is joined by Dr. Terry Rousseau, publisher Alexia Melocchi, and editor Heidi Stangeland to discuss the creation and powerful message behind their new children's novel, Jenna Finds a Dog. Originally written as a screenplay by Terry during the COVID-19 lockdown, the story was adapted into a novel with the help of Little Studio Films to reach a younger audience. The group dives deep into the realities of teen mental health, the risks of relying too heavily on medication as a quick fix, and the profound therapeutic benefits of connecting with animals and nature. Key Topics Discussed in This Episode: 🗣️ The inspiration behind Jenna Finds a Dog and its connection to impulsive and explosive behavioral challenges in kids. 🗣️ Why society and the medical field often overmedicate children instead of exploring alternative interventions. 🗣️ The healing power of animal and equine therapy in regulating the nervous system. 🗣️ The importance of getting kids off their screens, out into nature, and giving them a sense of purpose. 🗣️ How storytelling and publishing can be utilized to serve a social purpose and support mental wellness. 🗣️ Tips for therapists and writers looking to publish purpose-driven stories. Where to Find the Book: Jenna Finds a Dog is available online at major retailers, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble. https://www.amazon.com/Jenna-Finds-Dog-Terence-Rousseau/dp/B0GW5Q3542 https://books.google.com.ph/books/about/Jenna_Finds_a_Dog.html?id=8Wvt0QEACAAJ&redir_esc=y https://health.usnews.com/doctors/terence-rousseau-615626 https://www.alexia-melocchi.com/ https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0CPYLXFS6/about Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensNoCap #TeenMentalHealth #JennaFindsADog #AnimalTherapy #EquineTherapy #YouthMentalHealth #ParentingTips #LittleStudioFilms #PodcastEpisode58

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  • S1 · E57
    July 18 · 45 min

    Why "School Refusal" is the Wrong Term: Navigating Teen Anxiety with Sarah Haugh | Ep. 57

    Welcome back to episode 57 of Teens: No Cap! Today, host Charity Chaffee, LMHC, sits down with Sarah Haugh, an LMHC based in Topsfield, MA who specializes in anxiety and trauma. In this episode, Charity and Sarah dive deep into the complexities of "school avoidance"—a term Sarah prefers over the pathologizing labels of "school refusal" or "truancy." In this episode, we cover: 🎙️ Why terms like "truancy" and "refusal" feel like accusations to teens. These labels can damage a teen's self-esteem and provoke a defensive response. 🎙️ The real roots of school avoidance. Sarah explains how it is often a symptom of underlying struggles like generalized anxiety, social anxiety, or perfectionism. 🎙️ How the anxiety cycle works. Avoiding a stressful situation brings temporary relief, but it ultimately amplifies the anxiety for the next time. 🎙️ The accidental enabling by parents and schools. Allowing teens to take excessive mental health days or sit in the counselor's office all day can inadvertently reinforce the avoidance cycle. 🎙️ Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) strategies. The goal isn't to remove the anxiety entirely, but to help teens build the tolerance to feel their anxiety and still go to school. 🎙️ The importance of systemic collaboration. Therapists, parents, and school personnel must work together with flexibility and warmth to support a titrated exposure plan. Connect with Sarah Haugh: Website: https://northshoreprofessionaltherapy.com/ Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/sarah-haugh-anxiety-trauma-licensed-therapist-topsfield-ma/1364597 Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensNoCap #SchoolAvoidance #TeenMentalHealth #AnxietyRelief #TherapyPodcast #ParentingTeens #ERP #ChildPsychology

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  • S1 · E56
    July 11 · 48 min

    Geek Therapy: Using Anime, Marvel, & Harry Potter to Connect with Teens | Teens: No Cap Ep. 56

    Welcome back to another episode of Teens: No Cap! In episode 56, host Charity Chaffee, a licensed mental health counselor in Massachusetts, sits down with the amazing Yasmin Miranda. Yasmin is a licensed mental health counselor in Florida, Maryland, and Pennsylvania who specializes in working with teenagers and young adults. In this episode, they dive deep into the incredible value of bringing a teen's favorite fandoms—from anime and superheroes to shows like Ginny & Georgia and Harry Potter—directly into the therapy room. Whether you are a clinician looking to connect better with your younger clients or a parent trying to understand your teen's obsession with a certain character, this conversation is packed with insight and practical takeaways! In This Episode, We Cover: 🎧 Yasmin discusses her diverse background working in community mental health, youth facilities, juvenile drug court, and prisons. She also shares her recent transition into running her own virtual private practice. 🎧 Both therapists reflect on how graduate school programs often gloss over adolescent development. They also note that these programs frequently fail to prepare students for the business side of private practice. 🎧 Yasmin explains her unique therapeutic niche of using fiction, comic books, and TV shows to build trust with teens. She shares a specific success story of using My Hero Academia to help shy twin clients open up. 🎧 The conversation highlights how externalizing conversations through fictional characters creates a safe space for teens. This method allows them to explore difficult, heavy topics like eating disorders, self-harm, and peer pressure without feeling judged. 🎧 Yasmin and Charity discuss how analyzing complex or polarizing characters, like Severus Snape or Daryl Dixon, can help teens process their own struggles. These character arcs help teens see that they are still capable of growth and bravery despite their flaws or past mistakes. 🎧 Yasmin encourages therapists to embrace the "beautiful chaos" of adolescence and not fear bringing media into sessions. She emphasizes that you do not need to be an expert in a fandom to let your client teach you and use it effectively in therapy. About Our Guest: 👤 Yasmin Miranda is an LMHC licensed in FL, MD, and PA, offering virtual counseling primarily for teens and young adults in their 20s and 30s. Be sure to check out her TikTok series where she breaks down mental health diagnoses through relatable pop culture lenses! 👤 https://care.headway.co/providers/yasmin-miranda 👤 https://www.mind-diagnostics.org/listing/234783-Yasmin-Miranda Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensNoCap #TeenTherapy #GeekTherapy #MentalHealthPodcast #TherapistLife #PopCultureTherapy #AdolescentMentalHealth #TherapyForTeens #ParentingTeens #FandomsInTherapy

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  • S1 · E55
    July 8 · 57 min

    Failing Safely, Secret Codes & Neurospicy Teens with Amie Parsons | Teens: No Cap Ep. 55

    Welcome back to episode 55 of Teens: No Cap with your host, Charity Chafee! In this episode, we sit down for a deeply insightful conversation with Amie Parsons, a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) who specializes in working with teenagers and neurodivergent populations. Amie shares her fascinating career shift from being a high school history and special education teacher to pursuing her true passion in counseling. Together, Charity and Amie tackle the messy, beautiful reality of raising and treating teens, shedding light on the critical gap in mental health resources available for this age group. Episode Highlights: 🤔 Amie reflects on her impactful time working at a residential treatment center. 🤔 She discusses her experience volunteering for the Trevor Project Crisis Hotline. 🤔 The conversation highlights how schools and systems often lack the resources to support teens reaching out for help. 🤔 Amie opens up about raising neurodivergent children and the importance of leading with curiosity rather than reactivity. 🤔 We discuss a philosophy called "Parenting with Dignity," which emphasizes allowing teenagers to fail in a safe manner to build decision-making skills. 🤔 Amie shares a brilliant safety strategy where teens can use the phrase "order a large pepperoni pizza" as a secret code to be rescued from an uncomfortable party. 🤔 Charity and Amie explore the vital role of humility and repairing mistakes within the parent-child relationship. 🤔 Amie reveals the inspiration behind her practice name, Star Stuff Counseling, reminding teens that they are beautifully made of the same minerals as the stars. About Our Guest: Amie Parsons is currently licensed in Texas, living in New York, and preparing for a move to Germany. You can connect with her and learn more about her practice, Star Stuff Counseling, using the links below! Star Stuff Counselling Website: https://www.starstuffcounseling.com/index.html Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starstuffcounseling Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensNoCap #TeenMentalHealth #ParentingTeens #Neurodivergence #AmieParsons #TherapyForTeens #TeensUncharted #StarStuffCounseling

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  • S1 · E54
    June 27 · 51 min

    Navigating Family Dynamics, Therapist Burnout, & Post-Pandemic Youth | Teens: No Cap Ep. 54

    Welcome to another episode of Teens: No Cap! In this episode, host Charity Chaffee sits down with Dr. Rachel Hughes, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), child mental health specialist, and certified autism spectrum disorder clinical specialist based in Washington state. Dr. Hughes brings an incredibly refreshing and honest perspective to the realities of treating neurodivergent teens, navigating family systems, and surviving the current mental health landscape. Key topics covered in this episode include: 🎧 The Art of Code-Switching: Why teen therapists shouldn't just pick a "side" between the adolescent and the parents. Dr. Hughes explains how to act as a bridge to ethically and effectively treat the whole family system. 🎧 Re-framing "Mean" Teens: Why a teenager pushing boundaries, talking back, or being "mean" in session is actually a prime clinical opening and a strong indicator of a secure attachment. 🎧 Parenting a Teenager: How parents can successfully transition their role from being a "caretaker" in the driver's seat to acting as a "mentor" and guardrail as their teen gains independence. 🎧 The Reality of Therapist Burnout: A candid, unfiltered discussion on the broken insurance system, the devaluation of mental health care, and how capitalism is driving therapist burnout across the industry. 🎧 Post-COVID Developmental Stunting: How the pandemic disrupted critical milestones, specifically leaving the 19-to-21-year-old demographic feeling stuck and struggling to launch into adulthood. 🎧 Bringing Your Teen Self to Session: Dr. Hughes and Charity bond over their own "spicy" teenage years—from Hot Topic phases to blasting Linkin Park—and discuss why being a real human is always better than being a "blank slate" therapist. Whether you are a parent trying to figure out how to best support your adolescent's autonomy, or a fellow clinician feeling the weight of the mental health system, this episode is full of validation, laughs, and deep clinical wisdom. Follow Rachel Hughes: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelhughesphd/?hl=en Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/rachel-hughes-issaquah-wa/742605 Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeenTherapy #FamilyTherapy #NeurodivergentTeens #MentalHealthMatters #TherapistBurnout #ParentingTeens #TeensNoCapPodcast #PostPandemicYouth #AuthenticTherapy #TherapyRealTalk

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  • S1 · E53
    June 20 · 51 min

    Treating Trauma in Neurodivergent Teens with EMDR | Teens: No Cap Ep. 53

    In Episode 53 of Teens: No Cap, host Charity Chaffee sits down with therapist Alyssa Desroches to explore the intersection of neurodivergence, trauma, and EMDR therapy in teenagers. They dive deep into why "high-performing" and high-masking neurodivergent teens are often missed, the vital difference between oppositional behavior and nervous system overwhelm, and how compounded "small t" traumas impact a teen's daily life. Alyssa shares her expertise as a virtual therapist across Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, specializing in neurodivergence, high performance, burnout, and complex trauma. Together, they explain why EMDR can be incredibly effective and fast-acting for teens compared to adults, and how teens uniquely build safety and resources in therapy—often centering around the powerful theme of "freedom". In this episode, we cover: ✨Spotting Neurodivergence: How autism and ADHD frequently go under the radar in high-performing teens, often presenting as extreme exhaustion or emotional shutdown at the end of the day. ✨Behavior vs. Nervous System: How to differentiate between a teen making an oppositional choice and an involuntary nervous system reaction. ✨EMDR for Teens: Why EMDR often works faster for teenagers, taking advantage of their brain plasticity to build a healthy foundation before adulthood. ✨Creative Resourcing: How EMDR resourcing looks different for teens, shifting away from peaceful landscapes and focusing on objects, role models, or symbols of independence like a first car. ✨Care Collaboration: The importance of properly preparing parents for shifts in their teen's behavior during EMDR processing. ✨Provider Teamwork: How specialized therapists can effectively collaborate with a teen's primary talk therapist to tackle recurring behavioral themes and stuck points. Follow Alyssa: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/alyssa-desroches-neurodivergent-burnout-newington-ct/1223593 Alyssa's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seedoftruthcounseling/ Website: https://seedoftruthcounseling.com/ Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #teentherapy #Neurodivergence #EMDR #AutismInTeens #ADHD #TeensNoCap #CharityChaffee #MentalHealthPodcast #TraumaTherapy #ParentingTeens

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  • S1 · E51
    June 6 · 45 min

    Understanding BFRBs (Skin Picking & Hair Pulling) in Teens with Laura Chackes | Teens: No Cap Ep. 51

    Welcome back to another episode of the Teens: No Cap! In Episode 51, host Charity Chaffee sits down with Laura Chackes, a psychologist and owner of the Center for Mindfulness and CBT in St. Louis, Missouri. Laura specializes in treating anxiety, OCD, and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs). In this important conversation, we explore the heavily stigmatized and under-recognized world of BFRBs. Laura sheds light on how parents and clinicians can identify these conditions, reduce client shame, and implement effective, compassionate treatment strategies. Key Takeaways from this Episode: ✨What are BFRBs?: Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors include hair pulling (trichotillomania), skin picking (excoriation disorder), and other behaviors like cheek or nail biting. ✨The Hidden Struggle: Teens often experience intense shame and go to great lengths to hide their BFRBs using clothing, makeup, or fake eyelashes. ✨BFRBs vs. Self-Harm: While self-harm generally involves an intent to cause pain to regulate emotions, BFRBs are typically self-soothing or stimulating behaviors where the harm caused is unintentional. ✨What Not to Say: Telling a teen to simply "stop" their behavior is entirely ineffective and will likely only increase defensiveness or secrecy. ✨Approaching Treatment: Effective therapy starts with mindfulness and self-compassion to manage the shame before trying to change the behavior itself. ✨Redefining Recovery: The goal of BFRB treatment is not necessarily complete cessation of the behavior, but rather managing it so it no longer disrupts the teen's life. Connect with Laura Chackes: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/laura-chackes-saint-louis-mo/66259 https://www.instagram.com/laurachackes/ Facebook Support Group: Search for "Overcoming Skin Picking and Hair Pulling Help for BFRBs". Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensNoCap #LauraChackes #BFRB #SkinPicking #HairPulling #Trichotillomania #Dermatillomania #TeenMentalHealth #TherapistResources #ParentingTeens #SelfCompassion

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  • S1 · E50
    May 30 · 59 min

    Breaking Generational Trauma: Why Your Teen Won't Talk To You | Teens: No Cap Ep. 50

    Are you struggling to connect with your teenager, or wondering why they seem totally shut down? In Episode 50 of Teens: No Cap, we dive deep into the unfiltered reality of teen mental health and how families can break cycles of generational trauma. Episode Summary: In this episode, we sit down with licensed social worker Tatyana White to explore what really goes on in therapy sessions with kids ages nine and up. She shares her authentic approach as a queer person of color and mom , explaining why being a "yes person" simply doesn't work with teenagers. We tackle heavy topics like the compound stress placed on parentified children , the importance of holding parents accountable for behavior changes , and why "radical acceptance" is sometimes the only way forward in difficult environments. Plus, you'll hear practical tips for building communication, like using Disney movies to talk about feelings and creating a "Dictionary of Me" with your kids. Connect with Tatyana White: Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/tatyana-white-moorestown-nj/1447705 Instagram: @thrivingwithtaty Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Facebook Page: Like Us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Skool Community: Join us in Skool https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Instagram: Follow us @teens.uncharted https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeensUncharted #TeenMentalHealth #ParentingTeens #GenerationalTrauma #Parentification #FamilyBoundaries #TeenTherapy #ParentingAdvice

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  • S1 · E49
    May 23 · 51 min

    The Wild World of Teen Therapy: Mustangs, Playlists & Harm Reduction | Teens: No Cap Ep. 49

    Welcome back to another episode of Teens: No Cap! In Episode 49, host Charity Chaffee, LMHC, sits down with Sarah Evert, LICSW, a clinical social worker and private practice owner based in Minnetonka, MN. Both Charity and Sarah are fiercely passionate about specializing exclusively in adolescents, and they break down exactly why teens require a completely different therapeutic approach than adults or younger children. In this episode, we dive into: 🎧Why traditional 9-to-5 therapy scheduling doesn't work for busy, burnt-out high schoolers balancing sports, jobs, and AP classes. 🎧How the "pressure and release" method of training wild Mustangs perfectly mirrors the journey of parenting and building trust with teenagers. 🎧The importance of collaborating with parents instead of treating therapy like an "us vs. them" battle. 🎧Why practicing unconditional positive regard—and allowing teens to unmask, even if it means swearing in session—builds essential trust. 🎧Charity’s signature "-10 to +10" scale for harm reduction and helping high-risk teens shed shame around their choices. 🎧Sarah's creative interventions, including using customized music playlists to help teens process messy breakups and grief. 🎧Reframing the pressure of "practice makes perfect" for students, because perfection is just an opinion. Connect with our Guest: Sarah Evert operates her private practice in Minnetonka and maintains a thoroughly vetted mental health provider referral list for families in Minnesota. https://www.instagram.com/s.e.e.psychotherapy/ https://seepsychotherapy.com/ Join the Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #TeenTherapy #MentalHealthPodcast #TeensNoCap #ParentingTeens #HarmReduction #SocialWork #AdolescentTherapy #LICSW #LMHC #MentalHealthAwareness

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  • S1 · E48
    May 16 · 51 min

    Using Art & Play in Therapy with High-Risk Teens | Teens: No Cap Ep. 48

    In this episode of Teens: No Cap, host Charity Chaffee, LMHC, sits down with board-certified art therapist and licensed counselor Lindsey Jonin to break down the transformative power of creativity in therapy. Many parents and even clinicians wonder: What is the actual difference between a certified art therapist and someone who just uses art activities in a session? Lindsey unpacks this hot topic, explains why there are no "universal meanings" for colors, and shares how to avoid assumption traps when looking at a teen's creative work. We also dive into: ✅Process over Product: Why your teen doesn't need to be a "fine artist" to benefit from art therapy. ✅Handling Pushback: How to talk to parents who think doing art in session isn't "real therapy". ✅Therapeutic Materials: Why fluid mediums like watercolor can actually cause dysregulation, and what to use instead. ✅Altered Books & Blackout Poetry: Cheap, accessible ways to introduce tactile creativity to teens. ✅Lindsey’s Journey: From struggling academically in high school to owning a successful private practice. Whether you are a provider looking to expand your toolkit, a parent trying to connect with your teenager, or a student interested in the field of art therapy, this conversation is packed with authentic, actionable insights. 🔗 Connect with Lindsey Jonin: 🙌Workshops & Consultation: http://abstractandaligned.com/ 🙌Clinical Practice & Supervision: Lilly Counseling and Art Therapy (Bordentown, NJ) 🙌Email: abstractandaligned@gmail.com Join the Community: 🔗Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ 🔗Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ 🔗Like our Facebok Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 🔗Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about 🔗Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #arttherapy #TeenMentalHealth #TherapistPodcast #ParentingTeens #CreativeHealing #MentalHealthMatters

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  • S1 · E47
    May 9 · 34 min

    Do Coping Skills Actually Work? Harm Reduction & Self-Harm in Teens | Teens: No Cap Ep. 47

    In episode 47 of Teens: No Cap, host and licensed Massachusetts mental health counselor Charity Chaffee tackles some of the most complex questions surrounding teen mental health. When dealing with high-risk behaviors, do coping skills actually work? Designed as a resource for both clinicians and parents, this episode dives deep into effective strategies for supporting treatment-resistant teenagers who have already been through various treatment facilities. Charity challenges the traditional approach of simply handing out a list of coping skills to "fix" a problem. Instead, she introduces her "negative 10 to positive 10" scale—where a negative 10 represents death—to help contextualize and understand the full range of teen coping mechanisms. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: 🚨Why stripping away a teen's existing coping mechanisms without understanding the root cause can be detrimental. 🚨How adults and professionals should react with curiosity instead of panic or shame when a teenager discloses self-harm. 🚨Applying a harm reduction philosophy to high-risk behaviors by focusing on making a situation just 1% better. 🚨Why natural hobbies, such as playing an instrument or joining a sports team, are fundamentally powerful coping skills. 🚨The importance of reframing relapse as a vital learning opportunity rather than a personal failure. Join the Teens Uncharted Community: 🔗Website & Mailing List: Visit https://www.teensuncharted.com/ to stay updated on new recordings and announcements. 🔗For Parents: Join our free Facebook group [ https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ ] to access parent get-togethers, support, and trainings. 🔗For Therapists: Connect with our specialized Facebook community [ https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ ] for clinicians working with teenagers. 🔗Like our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 🔗Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Don't forget to like, follow, and subscribe for more insights into navigating the teen years! #teenmentalhealth #SelfHarmAwareness #HarmReduction #ParentingTeens #TherapistTips #CopingSkills #TeensNoCap #TeenTherapy #MentalHealthPodcast #TreatmentResistantTeens

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  • S1 · E46
    May 3 · 52 min

    Deployment, Reintegration, & Masking: Inside the Minds of Military Kids | Teens: No Cap Ep. 46

    Welcome back to another episode of Teens No Cap with your host, Charity Chaffee! In this episode, we sit down with Jason Kelley, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to discuss the unique experiences and mental health challenges faced by teenagers in military families. Jason brings an incredible blend of lived and professional experience to our coffee chat. After serving in the military for 17 years and working in mental health for the latter half of his career, Jason opened his own practice, Your Way Therapy, where he focuses on military members, veterans, and their families. Today, we unpack the realities behind the "resilient military brat" stereotype, the hurdles of deployment and reintegration, and how to best support military families. In this episode, we discuss: ✨The Cost of Resiliency: While military children are known for being resilient, they often mask their true emotions or act as overachievers to keep their family stable during difficult times. ✨The Complexities of Deployment: Beyond just deployments, military kids face the stress of constant relocations, long hours, and temporary duty assignments (TDYs) that frequently disrupt their lives and friendships. ✨The "Reintegration" Phase: Jason explains that a deployed parent returning home is often harder on the family than the deployment itself, as everyone must adjust to shifted routines and changing family dynamics. ✨Parental Shame: The stay-at-home caregivers often struggle with feelings of shame or inadequacy when they can't manage their child's severe mental health issues on their own. ✨Advice for Therapists: Providers must take the time to understand military culture and avoid putting the service member on a pedestal, ensuring they equally recognize the profound sacrifices made by the family at home. Jason Kelley's Practice: https://ywtherapy.clientsecure.me/#home Join the Teens Uncharted Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebok Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #MilitaryTeens #TeenMentalHealth #MilitaryFamilies #TeensNoCap #DeploymentSupport #MilitarySpouse #TherapistTips #MentalHealthAwareness #MilitaryBrat #ChildPsychology

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  • S1 · E45
    April 25 · 16 min

    Guides Not Guards, Rethinking Consequences & Reframing Teen Rebellion | Teens: No Cap Ep.45

    Welcome back to Teens: No Cap! In episode 45, licensed mental health counselor Charity Chaffee shares her top insights from day two of a specialized teen therapy conference. In this episode, we cover: 🎙️Rethinking Tech Use: Why it is more important to understand the how and why of a teen's screen usage rather than simply tracking their time limit. 🎙️Guides, Not Guards: Exploring presenter Chris Conley's concept of transitioning from managing your child to mentoring them as they grow into teens. 🎙️The Reality of Consequences: Why consequences should focus on steering teens in the right direction as a learning opportunity, rather than validating an adult's feelings about the behavior. 🎙️Reframing Rebellion: Understanding that what looks like rebellion is often just a teen's attempt to gain autonomy, build independence, and trust their own intuition. 🎙️The Power of Community: Why teen therapists need dedicated consultation spaces and how we are only as strong as our weakest link. Whether you are a clinician looking to evolve your skill set or a parent navigating high-risk behaviors, you deserve a community that understands this unique population. Join the Community: Clinicians: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BHi1bkcXZ/ Parents: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CLjk1359K/ Like our Facebok Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575657270757 Join us in Skool: https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted/about Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teens.uncharted/ #teensnocap #TeenTherapy #ParentingTeens #TeenMentalHealth #TherapistCommunity #GuidesNotGuards #TeensUncharted

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