Adolescent Counselling in Ankara

What is Adolescent Counselling in Ankara?

Adolescent counselling in Ankara is a counselling process that accompanies young people, typically aged 12-18, through the developmental changes they experience, focusing on communication, family relationships, and daily living skills. This process is not a medical procedure; its aim is to help adolescents and their families understand and manage this period more effectively.

Adolescence is a time when identity-seeking becomes prominent, peer relationships gain importance, and family authority is redefined. Tensions experienced during this period are often part of normal developmental processes; however, in some families, communication can become strained, and external guidance may be needed.

In our centre, sessions with adolescents are conducted in an age-appropriate language, respecting confidentiality principles. Throughout the process, the family is also regularly informed as part of the process; however, the adolescent's personal space is maintained.

We have gathered the topics of interest to families searching for a psychologist in Çankaya or a psychologist in Ankara on our Çankaya psychologist guide page; sessions with young people take place at our centre in Kavaklıdere, Çankaya, Ankara.

What are the Common Reasons for Referral from Families?

The reasons why families in Ankara seek adolescent counselling are mostly grouped under similar headings. The common thread in these topics is that the changes brought by adolescence challenge family communication.

None of these topics alone is a cause for concern; what truly matters is how the issue is discussed within the family and for how long it has been ongoing.

How Does Adolescent Counselling Differ from Individual and Family Counselling?

Adolescent counselling is an area at the intersection of individual and family counselling, yet it has its own unique framework. The focus is on the adolescent themselves, but the family context is never excluded.

In some cases, sessions with the adolescent alone are sufficient, while in others, joint sessions involving parents are planned. This decision is shaped together based on the reason for referral and the family's needs.

Situations requiring medical evaluation are outside this framework. In cases such as intense and persistent mood changes, significant changes in eating patterns, self-harm behaviour, or a sudden and marked increase in school absenteeism, the priority is to consult a doctor.

Suggestions for Families if the Adolescent is Reluctant to Attend Sessions

It is quite common for adolescents to be unwilling to attend a counselling session. This reluctance is often not resistance, but a natural unease towards the unknown.

At this point, if the family adopts an explanatory rather than a pressuring attitude, it can make taking the first step easier. It is important to explain that the session is not a punishment or a place of judgment, but an environment where the adolescent's own voice is valued.

Presenting the first meeting as a brief, introductory encounter, making the decision feel like it belongs to the adolescent, and if necessary, starting the process with small steps, usually works.

How Does the First Session Proceed?

The first session is an introductory meeting dedicated to helping the adolescent and family understand how the process will work. Generally, a brief preliminary meeting is first held with the family, followed by a one-on-one session with the adolescent.

In this session, space is created for the adolescent to explain the issue from their own perspective; a listening, non-directive attitude is adopted. At the end of the session, the extent to which the family will be informed is discussed with the adolescent.

Families are welcome to review our first session guide for more detailed information.

How Does the Process Progress Step by Step?

The adolescent counselling process has a structure that starts with an introduction, continues with regular sessions, and is reviewed at specific intervals. At each stage, the expectations of the adolescent and family regarding the process are re-discussed.

The duration of the process varies from person to person; in some cases, a few sessions may be sufficient, while in others, longer-term support is appropriate.

Face-to-Face and Online Adolescent Sessions

Both face-to-face and online session formats can be preferred in adolescent counselling. Which one is suitable is determined by considering the adolescent's age, the nature of the issue, and the practical needs of the family.

For younger age groups, face-to-face sessions are generally recommended because a change of environment and physical presence can facilitate trust-building. Nevertheless, in situations with school intensity or transport limitations, online sessions offer a practical alternative.

Confidentiality with Adolescents: What is Shared with the Family?

Confidentiality is the cornerstone of the trust relationship in adolescent counselling. It should not be expected that every detail shared by the adolescent in the session will be directly relayed to the family; this approach would prevent the adolescent from speaking openly.

However, the family is not entirely excluded. General progress, the course of the process, and points where the family can be supportive at home are shared at regular intervals. This balance is clarified with both the adolescent and the family during the first session.

In situations involving safety, such as the risk of the adolescent harming themselves or others, the family is informed as an exception to the confidentiality principle, and a referral to a doctor is made if necessary. This boundary is also explicitly explained to the adolescent at the beginning of the session.

From Which Areas of Ankara Can We Be Reached?

Özel Vivere Aile Danışmanlık Merkezi is located in Kavaklıdere, Çankaya, Ankara, on Paris Caddesi. This location is a central point that facilitates access from districts such as Tunalı Hilmi, Kızılay, Bahçelievler, and Çayyolu.

Adolescent counselling sessions are usually planned for after-school hours, taking school schedules into account. This ensures regular participation without disrupting the adolescents' school programmes.

To make an appointment, you can contact us via phone or WhatsApp; a suitable day and time will be planned together. Early appointment planning is recommended during exam periods due to increased demand.