Date: 07/06/2023
Title: The High School Girls Group at CTC with Olivia Sung
My name is Olivia Sung. I'm a marriage and family therapist trainee here at Child and Teen Counseling, and I facilitate the high school girls group. Well, during my own high school experience, it was one of the most challenging times of my adolescence, and I felt very alone in what I was dealing with and my experiences, and I really wish that I had a safe, supportive place where I could talk to other people my age to gain perspective and to just know that I wasn't struggling by myself. I think a lot of the current issues that a lot of girls bring to the group are shared, like bullying, self -esteem issues, issues navigating maybe toxic friendships, navigating autonomy and independence at their age in terms of family dynamics. Whatever we say in group stays in group, just to build trust among group members. and also I really like to explore being active listeners and letting room, giving room for people to talk about their experience and also getting room to share our experiences as well. So I think a group provides support in a way that individual therapy can't. I think that a lot of people in the group can build confidence from hearing one another's story and provide a source of understanding that maybe a therapist that is a different age or has a different experience in life can't really empathize with. Hearing and having support from individuals your own age with similar experiences in a similar life stage can be very healing and therapeutic.
THE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS GROUP
The High School Girls Group at Child & Teen Counseling is designed to provide a supportive and safe environment where high school girls can connect with others who understand their experiences. This group offers a unique space where girls can freely express themselves, share their thoughts, and gain valuable perspectives from peers who are navigating similar challenges. The pressures and complexities of adolescence can sometimes feel overwhelming, the High School Girls Group serves as a reminder that no one has to face these struggles alone.
In this group, we encourage girls to explore a wide range of topics that resonate with their everyday lives. From dealing with bullying and building self-esteem to navigating toxic friendships and fostering autonomy, the group covers issues that are not only relevant but also crucial for personal growth. The facilitators, Olivia Sung and Katherine MacLeod, are dedicated to creating an atmosphere of trust and confidentiality, ensuring that whatever is shared in the group remains within the group. This commitment to privacy allows participants to speak openly without fear of judgment or repercussions.
Active listening is a core practice in the High School Girls Group. Members are taught to listen attentively and empathetically, giving their peers the space to express their thoughts and feelings. This practice not only helps girls feel heard and understood but also fosters a sense of community and belonging. By sharing their own stories and hearing those of others, girls learn that they are not isolated in their experiences. They discover that many of their struggles, whether related to self-image, social dynamics, or personal challenges, are shared by others their age. This realization can be incredibly empowering, as it helps to build confidence and reduce feelings of isolation.
At Child & Teen Counseling, we strongly believe in the power of group therapy. While individual therapy is essential for addressing personal issues, group therapy offers something uniquely powerful. It provides a platform for teens to witness their peers articulate similar emotions and experiences, which can be both affirming and validating. There is something profoundly impactful about hearing someone your own age put into words what you might be feeling. It not only normalizes your own experiences but also helps to strengthen your self-esteem and confidence.
The High School Girls Group is not just about discussing challenges; it’s also about developing essential social skills for teens. Participants learn how to engage in healthy, constructive conversations, build meaningful connections, and practice empathy and understanding. These skills are vital as they transition into adulthood and face increasingly complex social situations. By participating in this group, girls gain the tools they need to navigate their social worlds more effectively, boosting their confidence in the process.
Whether you’re struggling with low self-esteem, trying to build your independence, or simply looking for a place where you can be yourself, the High School Girls Group offers a supportive community where you can grow and thrive. The group meets every Monday at 7 PM, providing a consistent space for girls to come together and support one another.
If you’re interested in joining the High School Girls Group or want to learn more about how it can benefit you, we encourage you to reach out to us. You can contact Child & Teen Counseling at (818) 912-6001 or email us at CTC@childteencounseling.org. We’re here to help you explore if this group is the right fit for you.
At Child & Teen Counseling, we are committed to helping teens develop the confidence, self-esteem, and social skills they need to navigate the challenges of adolescence. The High School Girls Group is just one of the many ways we support teens on their journey toward independence and emotional well-being. Join us and discover the strength that comes from being part of a community that truly understands and supports you.
