Adolescents

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Junior High, High School & College can be a really challenging time for kids.

You are searching for answers. Your child is starting to change. You’re worried. It’s so hard to watch them struggle. You’ve done all you can and you’re ready to add more people to your child’s support system.

You just want to make sure they have a safe person to talk to and help give them tools to make good choices for their life today, and for their future.

We get it. That’s why we’re here!

The benefits your adolescent will see from doing therapy at Inspire:

  • Your teen will learn about their feelings
  • Your teen will have strategies for dealing with unpleasant feelings
  • Your teen will understand what “triggers” some of their feelings and have different tools for those situations
  • Your teen will learn how to calm themselves in arguments
  • Your teen will learn how to advocate for themselves, with confidence and kindness
  • Your teen will learn healthy and positive relationships with friends, siblings, parents
  • Your teen will start to feel control of their impulses and behavior
  • Your teen will be able to be more present and focused
  • Your teen will learn healthy ways to communicate their feelings
  • Your child will start to feel more confident
  • Your child will feel happier
  • Your child’s relationships with you & your family will improve

Our therapists work closely with parents, families, Social Workers, psychiatrists, or whoever is in each child’s life to ensure therapy is most effective.

Inspire also offers support for everyone in the family (parenting, families, couples, etc.) to provide the best outcome for each child and their family system. We love seeing our clients gain confidence, manage the obstacles they’re facing and begin to live their best life — even during the challenges of adolescents.

Why Inspire Counseling Center is the right place for your adolescent’s therapy

At Inspire, we don’t just focus on clinical symptoms–we focus on results. If there is something holding your teen back (anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship troubles, etc.), we have clinical tools to help. BUT, we don’t stop there. We want to INSPIRE your child to live their best life. Our goal is that every client leaves a better person.

Why? We believe your child is a gift to this world. We believe that inspiring one person to live their greatest life, will inspire another person. We believe the world will change with love, connection, and inspiration. One person at a time. Your role in this process is vital. When you get support for yourself or your family, you are doing your part in this community and world to spark change.

Our adolescent therapists know the North Shore, know trends, Instagram, Snapchat, the school systems, but are also able to provide a safe and supportive environment with tools for them to work through life’s challenges–today and for their future adult life.

Your teen will learn tools to use for the rest of their lives. The lessons they learn today will carry into future relationships, workplaces, and in their adult life.

We will work closely with you, caregivers, family members, Social Workers, pediatricians, psychiatrists, etc. to ensure a unified and effective plan for your child.

Counseling is an investment in your child’s future. Give them tools they can carry through school and into their adult life.

Take the Next Step. Support Your Teen in Living Their Best Life.

To schedule an appointment call (847) 919-9096 ext. 1 or email hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com.

How do I choose my Therapist?2024-01-24T17:27:07-06:00

You are welcome to search therapists by speciality type, location, service or insurance accepted by clicking here. 

We’re here to hold your hand! Choosing a therapist is a very personal experience. Scrolling through bios is helpful, but there’s a lot you can’t tell just by reading on the internet. Our Therapist Matchmakers are here to find the right fit with the right professional for your unique situation and personality style.

To talk to a LIVE human (and part of our Inspire intake team!) just call us at (847) 919-9096 ext. 1 or email hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com

We can’t wait to help you find the right match and get you started!! It’s our favorite part.

What will the first session be like?2023-10-25T02:13:43-05:00

The first session lasts approximately 60 minutes. You’ll have paperwork to complete virtually before your session. The therapist will spend time introducing themselves and getting to know you, your story and your dreams. At the end, you’ll have the option to schedule your next session based upon your availability and goals. There is no pressure to book another session. We’re here for you to come and go as you need.
FOR MINORS UNDER 18: If the session is for a child 12 years or younger, the first session is just with the therapist and parent (s) or guardian. If the client is 12-18, we ask that a parent (or guardian) attend the first session for the first 10-15 minutes. The parent will be able to meet the therapist and help make the child feel comfortable.
PLEASE NOTE: Please share any concerns about your child with the therapist or Intake Team prior to the session— not in front of your child in the session. This is to protect your child and foster a positive start to therapy!

What will all the other sessions be like?2023-10-25T02:14:39-05:00

The second session is our unique formula for goal setting. In this session, your therapist will help you connect and understand what your heart really wants in this life. The remainder of the sessions will then be working on skills to tackle any obstacles in the way of you living your best life. In order to see lasting results, a commitment to at least 8 weekly sessions is recommended. However, we are flexible and can work with you to accommodate your schedule and goals.

FOR MINORS UNDER 18: Parents will not be required to attend the sessions but must be available for the last 10 minutes of the session in case the therapist would like to touch base with you or for any scheduling changes.

How much does therapy cost?2023-10-25T02:16:18-05:00

Counseling is a fee-for-service program. Inspire accepts insurance and offers in-network and out-of-network benefits. We are in-network with BCBS PPO, Humana, Aetna, and UnitedBehaviorHealthcare. All billing policies and information can be found by clicking this link to our Rates & Insurances page.

 

 

 

 

Take the Next Step

Request an Appointment

🦃Navigating Eating Struggles During the Holidays

The holidays are often pictured as a time of joy, celebration, and… lots of food. For some, that’s fun — but for those with eating or body image concerns, it can also be stressful. Anxiety, guilt, or shame around meals can show up easily, especially with family gatherings, social expectations, and changes in routine.

Here are some gentle reminders to care for yourself this season:

✨ Give yourself permission to eat. Restricting often backfires — your body needs consistent fuel to feel safe and supported.

✨ Focus on connection, not control. Enjoy conversations, share memories, and be present with the people you care about.

✨ Set boundaries. It’s okay to redirect conversations about diets, weight, or calories with a simple, “I’m focusing on enjoying the day — can we change the subject?”

✨ Have a grounding plan. Deep breaths, journaling, or a short walk can help manage anxiety before it builds.

✨ Practice self-compassion. If a meal feels difficult, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Treat yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a friend.

✨ Reach out for support. You don’t have to navigate this alone — therapy can help you build a healthier relationship with food, your body, and yourself.

Remember: you deserve peace with food, your body, and within yourself this holiday season. 💛

📞 Call us at 847-919-9096
💌 Email hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com

📍 Offices in Evanston, Lake Forest, Kenilworth & Northbrook
👩‍💻 In-person & virtual sessions available
🦃 Family Holiday Bingo: A Fun Therapist-Approved Way to Stay Grounded 🦃 

We are officially ONE WEEK away from Thanksgiving!! 

Let’s be honest — family gatherings can be… a lot. 😅 Between the opinions, the jokes that aren’t really funny, and the “When are you getting married?” questions, it’s easy to feel triggered or overwhelmed.

Here's a game us therapists use to help people avoid getting triggered and — instead get grounded and have a little fun! 

🦃Family Holiday Bingo!🦃

Here’s how to play:
1️⃣ Before the holiday, make a bingo card with all the predictable family moments you might experience. (Think: “Uncle brings up politics,” “Mom asks about your dating life,” “Someone critiques the food,” “Sibling humblebrags.”)
2️⃣ During the day, notice when these things happen — and check them off your card.
3️⃣ Later, compare cards or text your “Bingo Buddy” when you’ve got a win! 🧡

It’s a lighthearted way to stay calm, grounded, and amused instead of reactive. The goal isn’t to judge — it’s to observe and laugh a little through the chaos. 

By anticipating your triggers and make a little light of them, it will help you to stay grounded, positive and hopefully enjoy your holiday just a little bit more. 

Because let’s face it — no family is perfect. But with curiosity (and a little humor), you can make this holiday a lot more enjoyable.

🤗Need help setting boundaries or managing holiday stress?
Our therapists at Inspire Counseling Center can help you prepare and feel more confident heading into the season.

📞 847-919-9096 | 💌 hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com

🌐https://inspirecounselingcenter.com/making-the-most-of-thanksgiving/ 

#holidaystress #familydynamics #holidaybingo #holidaymentalhealth #selfcaretips #holidayhumor #boundaries #therapyhelps #inspirecounselingcenter #mindfulholidays #mentalwellness #holidaygames
🦃 Thanksgiving Conversation Starters 🦃 

Let’s be real — family gatherings can get interesting. Between the food, opinions, and old stories, it’s easy for tension or awkward moments to sneak in.

If you want to help guide your family toward more meaningful and uplifting conversations, try sprinkling in some of these (therapist-approved!) questions. 

➡️Even better– put these questions in a bowl and pass it around the table! Everyone gets a chance to talk, share and add laughter and happiness to your dinner.

🦃What’s one of your favorite holiday memories?
🦃What’s something that made you laugh this year?
🦃What’s one thing you’re grateful for this year that surprised you?
🦃What’s a small moment from this year that made you really happy?
🦃If you could relive one day from this year, what would it be?
🦃What’s something you learned about yourself in the past year?
🦃What’s a family tradition you love — or one you’d love to start?
🦃Who’s someone who made a difference in your life this year?
🦃What’s one thing you’re looking forward to in the new year?

Sometimes, one good question can turn a surface-level conversation into a truly heartwarming one. 💛

Wishing you connection, laughter, and gratitude this Thanksgiving season.

—
🧠 Need extra support managing holiday stress or family dynamics?
Our therapists at Inspire Counseling Center are here to help you prepare, stay grounded, and feel more at peace.
📞 847-919-9096 | 💌 hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com

🌐 https://inspirecounselingcenter.com/making-the-most-of-thanksgiving/

#thanksgiving #holidaymentalhealth #gratitudepractice #mindfulholidays #familyconversation #thanksgivingtips #selfcare #inspirecounselingcenter #holidaywellness #positivevibes
✨ Thanksgiving Reality Check ✨

We're in the countdown to Thanksgiving....and we're here for you! 

The holidays are supposed to be full of joy and connection — but for many, they also bring stress, tension, comparison, and old family triggers.

If you find yourself feeling anxious before a family gathering (or dreaming of a “perfect” Thanksgiving that never quite happens), you’re not alone. 💛

This year, try approaching your holiday with curiosity and compassion — not perfection.
✔️ Expect imperfection.
✔️ Notice your triggers instead of reacting.
✔️ Shift the focus to connection.
✔️ Try fun tools like “Family Holiday Bingo” to stay grounded.
✔️ Use positive conversation starters to spark laughter and gratitude.

No family is perfect — but with the right mindset, you can create moments of peace, humor, and connection that truly matter. 🧡

Read our newest blog post for practical tips (and Thanksgiving conversation ideas!) to help you stay calm and centered this season.

👉 Visit ihttps://inspirecounselingcenter.com/making-the-most-of-thanksgiving/ or click the link in our bio.
📞 Need extra support this holiday season? Call 847-919-9096 or email hello@inspirecounselingcenter.com
 — we’re here for you.

#thanksgivingstress #holidaymentalhealth #familydynamics #selfcaretips #mentalhealthawareness #inspirecounselingcenter #mindfulholidays #holidayanxiety #boundaries #therapyhelps #thanksgivingtips
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