How Therapy Can Help with Risky Behaviour in Teens

The teenage years are all about figuring things out such as discovering who you are, where you fit in, and what you believe in. We’ve all been there, and it’s no secret that these years come with a mix of curiosity and experimentation. Sometimes it’s hard to tell the difference between typical teen exploration and risky behaviour that might need extra attention. 

Here, we will break down some typical risky behaviours of teens and how teen counselling can be used to help in this department. Whether short or long-term, therapy for teens can be customized to support your teen’s unique needs.

3 Common Risky Behaviours in Teens in the 21st Century

We all know about risks of bullying, violence, and exposure to substances that have been around for decades. In spite of that, teens now face similar, yet slightly different pressures because of the current state of media and internet access.

1. Drinking and Smoking

   Warning ads against teen drinking and smoking were created for a reason. With the media constantly showing and glamorizing this behaviour, and modern trends like flavoured vaping, it is easy to see why teens might be curious. This is especially true at an age where they’re trying to assert independence and feel more grown-up. 

2. Phone Addiction and Indecent Media Exposure

   Tiktok, Instagram, and Twitter (now called X) give teens a chance to connect with others and explore their identities. For a lot of people, it’s the only space where they feel truly seen. At the same time, constant exposure of media on these platforms can negatively impact their self-image, body-image, confidence, or eating habits. Some teens can also come across violent or explicit content that influences their behaviour or emotional responses, often without them even realizing it.

3. Dating and Sexual Behaviour

   Many teens begin exploring romantic and sexual relationships without the tools to fully understand healthy boundaries, consent, or what an emotionally safe relationship looks like. They may not know how to identify red flags, or how to speak up if something feels wrong. Teen counseling offers a safe space to talk openly about these topics, build awareness, and empower teens to make informed, respectful decisions about their bodies and relationships.

Why Overbearing Parenting is Not the Solution

Teenagers are experiencing the most independence they’ve ever had. They want to be trusted, respected, and seen as capable. It can be tempting to monitor everything or over control behaviour, but this often leads teens to hide what they’re doing. 

Attempting to stop your teen from behaviours may only teach them to better hide it from you. A better solution to recognizing risky behaviour in your teen is teen therapy. A teen therapist gives a neutral, supportive environment where your teen can explore challenges, process emotions, and develop tools to make healthier choices.

Worried about Therapists Hiding Your Teens’ Risky Behaviours?

There are laws protecting your teen in teen therapy. If your teenager is a danger to themselves, a danger to others, or is suspected to be experiencing abuse, the therapist has a legal duty to notify the family or even authorities if the situation requires it.

Otherwise, therapy remains a private space. This allows teens to open up without fear of judgment. Therapists are trained to tell the difference between typical teen behaviours and patterns that might require intervention and they’ll work together with families when needed.

Is Your Teen Struggling With Risky Behaviour?

You’re not alone and neither is your teen. Our therapists are here to support you both.

At Healing Voices Psychotherapy, our experienced Registered Psychotherapist Alysha Plaggemeier offers teen therapy tailored to the unique needs of teens. Alysha provides a safe and supportive space to help them thrive. Book a free 15-minute consultation with her today to get started.