Teenage relationships can be tough to navigate, even for the most experienced. As an addiction treatment center in Colorado, Imagine Fort Collins sees firsthand the negative effects of teenage relationships when they become toxic. That’s why we’re here to help. Through teen relationship counseling, we strive to help teens recognize the signs of a toxic relationship and empower them to make healthy choices for themselves. Contact our experienced team at 888.291.2309 to learn more about how we can help you or your teen.
What Is an Unhealthy Teenage Relationship?
An unhealthy teenage relationship is one where one or both partners feel trapped, hurt, or unsafe. These relationships can manifest in many ways, with varying degrees of severity. Some common characteristics of an unhealthy teenage relationship include insecurity, anxiety, jealousy, and a lack of trust. Sometimes, one partner may try to control or manipulate the other through threats, intimidation, or physical violence.
8 Red Flags in Teenage Relationships
The signs of a toxic teenage relationship you and your teen should pay attention to include the following:
- Your partner constantly puts you down or belittles you, either in public or private.
- Your partner tries to isolate you from your friends and family.
- Your partner becomes jealous or possessive when you interact with others.
- Your partner checks your phone or social media accounts without your permission.
- Your partner demands that you do things you’re uncomfortable with, whether sexually or otherwise.
- If you try to leave the relationship, your partner threatens you with violence or retaliation.
- Your partner tries to control your behavior by dictating what you wear, where you go, or who you talk to.
- Your partner gaslights you or makes you feel crazy for suspecting that something is wrong.
If you or your teen are experiencing any of these red flags in a relationship, you must take steps to end the relationship and seek help. Having someone to talk to about what is happening can make all the difference in recognizing an unhealthy relationship and moving away from it. At Imagine Fort Collins, we counsel teens affected by toxic relationships.
How Can Teen Relationship Counseling Help?
Teen relationship counseling can be incredibly empowering for young people struggling to navigate the complexities of teenage relationships. Through counseling, teenagers can:
- Learn how to recognize the signs of a toxic relationship—and how to avoid getting into one
- Develop healthy coping skills for dealing with negative emotions in relationships
- Build self-esteem and self-confidence, which can lead to more positive relationships
- Address any underlying issues that may be contributing to an unhealthy relationship dynamic
- Feel supported as they learn to set boundaries and make relationship decisions
At Imagine Fort Collins, we understand the unique challenges faced by teens in unhealthy or toxic relationships. Our experienced therapists specialize in helping young people recognize and move away from these types of relationships. We offer individual counseling sessions for teens struggling with their current relationships and group therapy sessions where they can explore issues related to teenage relationships with peers who understand what they are going through.
As a parent, knowing when and how to intervene in your child’s relationships can be challenging. The best thing you can do is stay informed and talk openly with your teen about their relationships. If you are concerned that your child is in an unhealthy relationship, our team at Imagine Fort Collins can provide the support and guidance they need to move forward.
Find Teen Relationship Counseling in Colorado at Imagine Fort Collins
If you or someone you know is struggling with the negative effects of teenage relationships, know that help is available. At Imagine Fort Collins, we provide compassionate, effective teen relationship counseling to empower young people to make healthy choices for themselves. Don’t wait to seek help if you’re in need. Contact Imagine Fort Collins today at 888.291.2309. Together, we can help you build a brighter future.