Adolescent and Teen Therapy In-person and Online
Foster Counseling and Therapy provides individual therapy to adolescents and teens specializing in helping with social and peer dynamics, school-related experiences, family dynamics, self-esteem and confidence, identity and sense of self, ADHD and neurodivergence, family changes, performance anxiety, changes in mood and behavior, and trauma. In-person services are accessible to the communities of Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, Crystal Lake, Huntley, and McHenry County, and online services are provided throughout Illinois.
“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”
—ee cummings
Adolescents and Teens Experience So Much
Emotion Regulation & Identity Development
Adolescents often experience intense emotions as they navigate the journey of discovering who they are. Shifting moods, increased self-awareness, and questions about identity can be overwhelming, leading to confusion, anxiety, or self-doubt. Support in developing coping skills and self-acceptance is essential during this formative stage.
Peer Pressure & Social Belonging
Fitting in and being accepted by peers becomes a major concern during adolescence. Teens may feel pressure to conform to group norms, experiment with risky behaviors, or hide parts of themselves to feel included. People-pleasing and perfectionism can start showing up more and more. These social dynamics can greatly impact self-esteem and decision-making.
Academic & Performance Stress
Balancing schoolwork, extracurriculars, and future planning creates significant pressure for teens. High expectations from parents, teachers, or themselves can lead to stress, burnout, or feelings of failure—especially when performance becomes tied to self-worth.
Family Dynamics & Communication
As teens seek more independence, family relationships often shift. Conflicts over rules, expectations, or values can arise, sometimes leading to feelings of isolation or misunderstanding at home. Clear, respectful communication becomes more important—and more challenging.
Body Image & Self-Esteem
Adolescents experience rapid physical changes that can spark insecurity or unhealthy comparisons. Social media and societal beauty standards often intensify concerns about appearance, leading to struggles with self-esteem, eating habits, or body dysmorphia.
Mental Health & Coping Skills
Many teens begin to experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions during this stage of life. Without proper tools or support, these challenges can interfere with daily functioning. Early awareness and accessible resources can make a lasting difference.
Imagine feeling seen, and having someone
there to support you through it all…
Meet Our Adolescent and Teen Specialists
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Gwyn Golembiewski, LSW
Gwyn specializes in seeing adolescents and teens ages 8+. With experience working in a middle school, Gwyn knows the world in which adolescents and teens navigate their day-to-day life and the challenges they face—from peer pressure, academics, sports, family changes, screen addiction and time management to pain points like bullying, social anxiety, exclusion, rejection, isolation and low mood. Gwyn supports you in processing challenges, using your strengths to boost self-trust and joy, and learning and utilizing effective communication strategies to navigate the world with confidence.
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Krupa Desai, LCPC
Krupa has years of experience working directly with adolescents and teens ages 10+ helping you to identify sources of stress, choices within your control, and guiding you in discovering what makes you shine and feel good about yourself. Krupa helps adolescents and teens work through stress, mood challenges, anxiety, and interpersonal dynamics, while discovering your unique strengths, evaluating your roles and habits, and building confidence and self-trust through empowering you to face fears, utilize supports, and go after your goals.