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Parenting a teen can feel confusing, overwhelming, and at times… completely unfamiliar.
The child who once needed you for everything is now pushing for independence, questioning boundaries, and experiencing emotions that can feel big—for both of you. If you’ve found yourself wondering “What happened?” or “Am I doing this right?”—you’re not alone.
This 4-part summer series is designed to help you better understand what’s happening beneath the surface during the adolescent years—and how to stay connected to your teen while guiding them with confidence.
Each session will offer practical tools, real-life examples, and a deeper understanding of your teen’s development so you can respond with intention instead of reaction.
Week 1 (July 7): "What Is Going On In There?" — Understanding the Teen Brain
Understand why teens react so strongly to “small” things by learning what’s actually happening in their developing brain—and how that changes the way you respond, reduce conflict, and stay connected.
Week 2 (July 14): “Why Won’t They Talk to Me?” Communication That Actually Builds Trust (Not Shutdowns)
Learn how to approach conversations in ways that build connection first—helping your teen feel less defensive, more open, and more likely to come to you when it matters most.
Week 3 (July 21): Pick Your Battles — Holding Limits Without Losing the Relationship
Learn how to set clear, consistent boundaries with calm authority—reducing power struggles while maintaining connection and making your limits more effective.
Week 4 (July 28): Is My Teen OK? — Recognizing and Responding to Emotional Struggles
Recognize the difference between typical teen stress and deeper emotional concerns—and learn how to respond in ways that build trust, encourage openness, and support your teen with confidence.
The goal isn’t to be a perfect parent.
It’s to be a connected one.
Led by Sha Wortman, LPC with Sparrow Counseling (Homewood, AL)
Parenting a teen can feel confusing, overwhelming, and at times… completely unfamiliar.
The child who once needed you for everything is now pushing for independence, questioning boundaries, and experiencing emotions that can feel big—for both of you. If you’ve found yourself wondering “What happened?” or “Am I doing this right?”—you’re not alone.
This 4-part summer series is designed to help you better understand what’s happening beneath the surface during the adolescent years—and how to stay connected to your teen while guiding them with confidence.
Each session will offer practical tools, real-life examples, and a deeper understanding of your teen’s development so you can respond with intention instead of reaction.
Week 1 (July 7): "What Is Going On In There?" — Understanding the Teen Brain
Understand why teens react so strongly to “small” things by learning what’s actually happening in their developing brain—and how that changes the way you respond, reduce conflict, and stay connected.
Week 2 (July 14): “Why Won’t They Talk to Me?” Communication That Actually Builds Trust (Not Shutdowns)
Learn how to approach conversations in ways that build connection first—helping your teen feel less defensive, more open, and more likely to come to you when it matters most.
Week 3 (July 21): Pick Your Battles — Holding Limits Without Losing the Relationship
Learn how to set clear, consistent boundaries with calm authority—reducing power struggles while maintaining connection and making your limits more effective.
Week 4 (July 28): Is My Teen OK? — Recognizing and Responding to Emotional Struggles
Recognize the difference between typical teen stress and deeper emotional concerns—and learn how to respond in ways that build trust, encourage openness, and support your teen with confidence.
The goal isn’t to be a perfect parent.
It’s to be a connected one.
Led by Sha Wortman, LPC with Sparrow Counseling (Homewood, AL)