A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

Some people prefer to have just a few very close friends, while others like to experience a variety. Read on for suggestions on how to speak to your teen about this subject. – Sandra

“8 people fit at a lunch table and I have more than 8 friends, so I sit with different people on a day to day basis. My friends think that I am not sitting with them because I do not like them. What should I do?”

Definitions of Friendship
It sounds like you get along with, and are well liked by many people. That is a very positive thing. It can be challenging, however, when friends have different definitions of what they think friendship means.

To some people, being a friend means that you spend all your time with them. Others may be understanding of the fact that you may have more than one friend, or group of friends. I think it could be helpful to talk to the people who are complaining, and find about their definition of friendship.

Some Friends Are Possessive
If your friends are merely feeling a little insecure, re-assuring them that they are still very important to you may help them to let go of the fear that you no longer like them. If they are the possessive type, and don’t want to share you with anyone else, you will have to let them know that your definition of friendship may be different than theirs.

After talking with them, if there are some who are still being critical of your choices, you may need to decide if they are worth your giving up all of your other friends to be with them. This is entirely up to you.

You Can’t Please Everyone
The bottom line is, that as much as you might want to, you can’t please everyone all of the time. You can, however, do your best to be honest and clear about who you are, and what you want. In this way, the people who are comfortable with your definition of friendship will be happy to spend time with you.

Worried About Your Teen? FREE Parent Consultation.

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

..

Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Providing service for: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations, Parent Coaching, Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

Teens don’t often stop and think about who they are and where they are going in life. As a parent, you can be instrumental in helping your teen begin the process of examining their life. – Sandra

SELF-REFLECTION
Self-reflection allows teens to figure out what about a situation is unpleasant and then to come up with possible ways of responding more effectively with similar experiences in the future. The habit of self-reflection is not often easy for teens to develop on their own, and they need to be encouraged and guided.

A SENSE OF IDENTITY
Self-reflection helps teens to figure out more effective ways of interacting with the world. Teens may come to recognize that there are certain skills they still need to learn. They might also come to understand ways to avoid similar situations in the future, or how they might turn them around.

CREATING ONE’S LIFE
The world is full of distractions. Television, video games, and cell phones definitely look more exciting to teens than time for reflection. Yet, self-reflection is important because it gives teens the sense that they creating their life, and not merely being ruled by forces outside of their control.

GAINING MATURITY
Self-reflection provides a doorway to understanding themselves, and life in general. The kind of wisdom and self-control that teens need to be ready to go out into the world and live on their own doesn’t come all at once. It is gained by learning from their mistakes and utilizing every experiences to grow.

Worried About Your Teen?  FREE Parent Consultation.

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations,Parent Coaching,Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

Puberty is a journey into the unknown, filled with new experiences and new feelings. Read on to learn more about this important time in your child’s life. – Sandra

A Time Of Innocence
Childhood is known as a time of innocence and play. It is also a time of being taken care of by adults. Oftentimes, being a child meant that you had little to no responsibilities. Becoming an adolescent requires that children put aside some of their play to start learning the skills that they will need as they get older.

A Time Of Body Changes
Puberty is a natural part of life which every person goes through. During this time, the body changes, as it prepares itself for reproduction and ultimately the creation of a family. It is not uncommon for teens to experience some feelings of awkwardness as they get used to looking and feeling different than they used to.

Turning To People You Trust
This is a time when mothers, older siblings and aunts can be helpful. They have already been there, and can guide and support teens in the things they need to learn. You might also want to direct your teen to consult with the nurse at their school to learn more specifics about what to expect.

Worried About Your Teen? FREE Parent Consultation.

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

..

Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Providing service for: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations,Parent Coaching,Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

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A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

In a Talking Circle, group members are usually seated in a circle and make comments on the topics of discussion following a small number of rules. Read on to learn more. – Sandra

“Talking Circle” Rules
1. Only the person holding the talking stick may speak.
2. The goal is to listen as you would like to be listened to when you are speaking.
3. The “talking stick” is passed around until everyone who wants to has spoken.

General Format
Everybody is seated circle so that they can see everybody else’s face, including those on either side of them. Each person is given the opportunity to speak, with the speaker holding the talking stick. Members are asked to speak loudly enough for everyone in the circle can hear them.

No Interrupting
Participants are asked to not interrupt the speakers, though this “rule” may be broken by a request if the topic is very stimulating. (In this case, it is the facilitator’s decision to allow or disallow the interruption.) As the speaker completes their turn, they pass the stick to their neighbor, who may speak, or simply pass the stick on.

Use of “I” Statements
Discussion continues until the stick has been passed around the whole circle once in silence. Privacy is a key element to all talking circles, and gossiping about others is not allowed. Members will be encouraged to use “I” statements, to take personal ownership for their thoughts and feelings, and thus communicate more directly. This can enhance each members’ capacity for intimacy through increasing the quality of their communication.

Participation is Voluntary
No one is forced to participate in group discussions, however, everyone will be encouraged. Members will be invited to listen beneath the words, and attempt to pick up the feelings that the words are expressing. Active participation in the group discussions will allow the participants to learn from each other, as well as discover that they are not alone in their feelings,

The Goal
The goal of this type of teen support group is to facilitate teens in maximizing their social skills and self-awareness, and discover their authentic expression. All potential members will be interviewed prior to joining, to verify that the group is a fit for them.

Creating a Safe Space
The main ground rule is that everything discussed in group is held in confidence so as to create a safe space for members to feel free to open up. The groups I lead are open, meaning that members will be added as other members decide to leave. Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be unquestionably unacceptable. Any casual discussions of drugs or alcohol will also be discouraged. Use of walkmans, cell phones or other electronic devices will not be permitted in the group.

**Note: I am currently interviewing people interested in joining the groups meeting Friday nights at 6 p.m. and Saturday mornings at 11 a.m. in my Santa Monica office..

Contact Sandra Dupont To Reserve Your Space. FREE Parent Consultation

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

..

Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations, Parent Coaching, Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups,,,,

A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

Even within families who get along well most of the time, there can be occasional disagreements. In your relationship with your teenager, it is important to be open to hearing their point of view. – Sandra

STAY ON TOPIC
First, it is essential to really listen while your teen is talking, instead of formulating your response in your head. Also, try to stick to topic you are discussing and not jump around by bringing up past hurts or misunderstandings.

AVOID AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR
The foundation of any respectful argument involves avoiding: raising your voice, swearing, name calling, or pointing your finger in their face. You never want to use threats or taunts, which will only escalate the tension between you. A healthy relationship is based on honesty and trust, so you also don’t want to exaggerate to make a point.

CREATE A SAFETY PHRASE OR GESTURE
You should never be placed in a position where you fear an argument could get physical. Laying a hand on anyone in anger is not okay. Therefore, it is wise to agree upon a safety phrase or gesture that indicates it might be helpful to take a “time out” from an argument which has gotten too heated.

BE WILLING TO APOLOGIZE
You become a role model for your teen by being willing to apologize if you realize you are wrong. These recommendations will obviously work best if you and your teen can both agree to use them. Remember, you are teaching your teen that it’s easier to “hear” and “be heard” when opinions are expressed thoughtfully and respectfully.

Yes, it is possible for you to express your feelings without alienating your teen! The goal is to model to your child that it’s okay to agree to disagree…

Worried About Your Teen? FREE Parent Consultation.

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

Adolescent Therapist | Parent Coach | Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, and West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations, Parent Coaching, Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

With the right approach, you can build a healthier relationship with your teen and guide them on the path to becoming valued contributors to the community. – Sandra

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
By the end of this private and personalized 6-week course, you will be able to support your teenager in becoming more responsible, communicative and independent.

TOPICS INCLUDE:

• Understanding Yourself and Your Teenager
• Improving Your Response to Your Teen
• How to Communicate Respect and Understanding
• Encouraging Cooperation and Problem-Solving
• Using Consequences to Build Responsibility

MY PARENTING PHILOSOPHY:
I propose a style of interaction with your teen that honors the authority of the parent while accommodating the teen’s need for personal autonomy. Families facing serious problems will be empowered by parenting strategies that can truly make a difference in their lives!

Worried About Your Teen? FREE Parent Consultation.

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations,Parent Coaching,Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

Instead of staying in their immediate neighborhood, teens are often biking, taking a bus, or asking parents to drive them to nearby cities to meet up with their friends. Read on to learn tips on keeping your teen safe. – Sandra

DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR TEEN IS?
Parents may think they know where their teen is, but this is not always the case. Telling a parent that they are spending the night at one friend’s, they get another parent to drive them across town to a party, working out their ride home however they can.

DO YOUR KNOW YOUR TEEN’S FRIENDS?
It is important to know who your teen’s friends are. Also get to know who their friend’s parents are, that you might have a sense of the type of values they uphold in their homes.

DIFFERENT FAMILIES HAVE DIFFERENT RULES
In your home, there may be strict curfews, as well as restrictions around alcohol and other mind-altering substances. But in other homes, parents sometimes turn a blind eye to their teen’s entertainment activities, including drinking, and unsupervised access to bedrooms.

OTHER PARENTS IN CHARGE OF YOUR TEEN’S SAFETY
It is a wise parent who gets contact information for any sleep-overs or parties, including the address, phone number and the name of the adult in charge of the event. It is also responsible behavior to call and introduce yourself, verify the details, and get a feel for who that other parent is.

TRUST IS SOMETHING TO BE EARNED
The boundaries you set for your teen shows your caring. Do not cave in under pressure when presented with the claim that “all the other parents let their kids …”  I assure you that there are plenty of parents who still expect their teens to earn their trust.

Worried About Your Teen? FREE Parent Consultation.

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, and West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations,Parent Coaching,Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

Join A New Teen Workshop …

CLICK ON THE VIDEO TO LEARN MORE

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 A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

The purpose of this group is to give participants the experience of been seen and accepted for who they truly are. Support groups are a wonderful way for parents to maximize their dollar in today’s economy -Sandra

Topics addressed will include:

• How to overcome your fears and be yourself.
• How to stand strong in what is true for you.
• Accepting others for who they are.
• Letting go of the need for others’ for approval.
• Taking responsibility for your actions.

Each member will receive a copy of my new journaling book: “WHAT WOULD YOUR TEEN THERAPIST SAY? A Workbook For Discovering Your True Self-Expression.”

PRACTICING SOCIAL SKILLS
This is a wonderful setting for “shy” teens to gain greater confidence in social settings.

PARTICIPATION IS VOLUNTARY
No one is forced to participate in group discussions, however, everyone will be invited.

CREATING A SAFE SPACE
The main ground rule is that everything discussed in group is held in confidence so as to create a safe space.

For families living outside of Los Angeles, you can order a copy of my new book “WHAT WOULD YOUR TEEN THERAPIST SAY? A Workbook For Discovering Your True Self-Expression.” by clicking on this link and using the password “sandradupont”

Sign Up For This Group. FREE Initial Parent Consultation.

SANTA MONICA FAMILY THERAPIST OFFICE ADDRESS:

1421 Santa Monica Bl., Suite 108
Santa Monica, CA 90404

.

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations, Parent Coaching, Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

It’s not uncommon for teenage girls to pick on others who stand out from the crowd. Read on for tips on how to support your daughter in dealing with jealous girls. – Sandra

“I’m a cheerleader and all of my friends act mad at me because I can do cool tricks and flips. They think I’m showing off. I’m really not like that at all. I’ve tried to tell them but they keep ignoring me. What do I do now??”

RECOGNIZING ENVY
What you are describing is something called envy. Sometimes, when you have something that someone else wants, they try to take it away from you by putting it down. This is one of the main reasons that gossip magazines are so popular. Everyone wants to hear the dirt on the stars who appear to be living the “dream life”.

YOUR HAVE CHOICES

• You can just keep doing what you are doing, knowing that you will just have to put up with other girls acting envious.
• You can stop doing all your cool tricks and anything else that makes you stand out.
• You can share what you have by helping those who are interested learn to do some cool tricks of their own.

BUILDING BRIDGES
I recommend sharing as a way to build a bridge between you and those who wish they had what you have. Of course, there may still be some who won’t accept your gift, but a number of people will realize what a really nice person and real friend you are.

To have good friends you first need to be a good friend. Good friends share what they have. Good friends stick up for each other. Good friends are kind to each other. Good friends encourage each other to be the best they can be.

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

Adolescent Therapist | Parent Coach | Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, and West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations, Parent Coaching, Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

Punishment is designed to control a person’s behavior and is not effective for teaching teens to become responsible and independent young adults. Read on to learn why discipline is a better option. – Sandra

WHAT DOES PUNISHMENT LOOK LIKE?
Punishment includes threats, yelling, and verbal insults. If you are frequently yelling at your child, chances are that they may start to pay attention to you only when you raise your voice. Insults are not healthy for anyone, and when teens hear you yelling and using verbal insults, they learn to do that behavior too.

DOES GROUNDING YOUR TEEN WORK?
Often parents punish teenagers by grounding them. Many times grounding is not related to what the teen did, therefore they have difficulty learning the lesson you are trying to teach them.

WHAT DOES HITTING ACCOMPLISH?
Some parents hit their teen out of anger. Hitting hurts both the teen and the parent, because the teen feels unloved and the parent feels guilty. The teen also learns that hitting is a way to get power or solve their problem.

DISCIPLINE IS A MORE RESPECTFUL OPTION
Discipline is a respectful way of relating to your teen. Discipline teaches your teen to become more responsible and cooperative. Discipline allows your teen to learn from their behavior and the natural consequences of their choices.

ALLOWING TEENS ROOM TO GROW
Teens need limits, but those limits need to be adjusted as your teen becomes more mature. Many parents are often afraid to let their teen make their own decisions. However, it is very important to allow teens a chance to make and learn from their choices–within certain limits.

Weekly Teen Support Groups

in Santa Monica.

A Note From the Santa Monica Family Counselor

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

..

Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations, Parent Coaching, Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

It is always fun to get together with friends and chat about things, even other people, but crossing the line to gossiping can be dangerous. Teach your teen about the meaning of gossiping. – Sandra

“My best friend loves to gossip about other people, and I am afraid that she is gossiping about me. What should I do?”

GOSSIPING CAN MEAN A FEW THINGS:

• Your friend could be feeling envious or jealous of someone, and is trying to feel better about herself by putting the other person down.
• Your friend may be trying to feel more popular, and is using gossip as a way to gather more people around her.
• Your friend may be angry with someone, but instead of handling her hurt feelings directly with that person, she is venting her feelings publicly.
• She may see something in the behavior of that other person that she believes is wrong and is trying to force that person to change by alerting everyone else.

Since she is your best friend, your opinion is probably very important to her. Have you considered sharing with her your feelings and concerns about gossiping in general and creating a discussion?

If it seems like she is open to the discussion, you could even go so far as to express your fear that she may talk about you to others. You can then invite her to tell you directly about anything she thinks is getting in the way of your friendship and promise to do the same for her.

She is doing what she is doing for a reason. However, she may not understand why she is doing it and your conversation could be a safe place where she can explore her feelings. Together, you could discover better options for handling these situations besides gossiping.

Worried About Your Teen? FREE Parent Consultation.

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

..

Adolescent Therapist | Parent Coach | Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, and West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations,Parent Coaching,Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

I believe it is the responsibility of adults who have contact with teens to lead by example. Read on to learn how you can help your teen deal with bullying. – Sandra

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN BULLIED?
Has anyone ever intimidated you, or made you feel less than them? Perhaps it was a parent, a teacher, a neighbor, an employer, or a spouse. The feeling was probably one of helplessness and despair, along with perhaps some anger and the desire for revenge.

PASSING JUDGMENT ON OTHERS
People often define things by right and wrong, good and bad, different and similar. When countries go to war over over religion and people are judged for the color of their skin or romantic preference, what lessons are we teaching our teens?

TOLERANCE FOR DIVERSITY
When little Johnnie hits a friend for taking his toy, there is an opportunity to teach him how to share. When bigger Johnnie mocks his classmate for his handicap or learning disability, there is an opportunity to teach him about diversity.

WHAT LESSON ARE YOU TEACHING?
If your teen frequently hears you talk down about others, or experiences  you using intimidation to get them to do what you want, you may be teaching them how to be bullies, or victims. I invite you to consider the possibility of using your behavior to teach lessons of  respect, compassion and acceptance.

EXTINGUISH BULLYING BEHAVIOR
As for parents of the victims being bullied, there will always be people who don’t treat your teen in the way you would like. But if you help your teen to have a strong sense of self love, they can respond in ways that avoid giving bullies satisfaction.

HOW TO HANDLE INSULTS
There are ways to handle insults that remove their sting. For example, if someone makes a mocking comment about one’s clothes, hair, accent, or physical features, a response you could suggest to your teen might be to simply say: “Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Thank you for sharing yours.”

Worried About Your Teen? Schedule a FREE Parent Consultation.

For more information, please visit my website:

www.SandraDupontMFT.com

.

Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations,Parent Coaching,Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

A Note From the Santa Monica Family Counselor

Not every student learns at the same pace or in the same style. The following are suggestions on how to help your teen succeed in school. Read on to learn how to help your teen succeed in school. – Sandra

INQUIRE ABOUT YOUR CHILD’S TEACHERS
At the start of the school year, check in with your child by asking what they think of their teachers and how enthused they are feeling about each of the subjects they are studying.

SHOW INTEREST IN WHAT THEY ARE LEARNING
Once school is underway check in daily or weekly, depending upon the self-motivation of your particular child, by asking about their assignments and what their are learning.

HANDLING OBSTACLES TO ACADEMIC SUCCESS
If  your teen starts expressing feelings of helplessness or hopelessness about a particular class or classes this could mean a couple of things:

• They need some assistance beyond the time spent in class to actually digest the new information, and thus a tutor may prove helpful.
• They may have a learning style or learning disability that needs to be better understood, like ADD, dyslexia, or a sensory processing disorder. There are tests as well as treatment designed to help overcome these challenges.
• They may be struggling emotionally with depression, bullying, low self-esteem or even substance abuse. These are all situations that would benefit from a consultation and/or treatment with a trained mental health professional.

THE VALUE OF THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS
The educational process offers students the opportunity to learn social skills, personal responsibility, respect for authority, how to manage their time, what areas interest them, as well as how to gather and absorb information.

HAPPY TEENS MAKE MORE FOCUSED STUDENTS
Instead of focusing only on an outcome, it is essential that parents support their child in having a positive and successful school experience.

Worried About Your Teen? Free Parent Consultation.

For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

Adolescent Therapist | Parent Coach | Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

tags: Find a Family Therapist, FREE Parent Consultations,Parent Coaching,Parenting Classes, Santa Monica Family Therapy and Counseling, Teen and Adolescent Therapist and Counselor, Teen Support Groups

A Note From The Santa Monica Family Therapist

There is great value in encouraging teenagers to help other people through volunteering. Here are some local opportunities for teens to be of service. – Sandra

Access Center (Ocean Park Community Center)
1616 7th Street
www.OPCC.net
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 450-4050
Drop-in center providing emergency services (sack lunches, showers, clothing, groceries) long term case management, and outreach services to homeless and low income people, needs:
Food and grocery preparation, lunch servers, clean-up crew, clothing room monitors. Youth volunteers are welcome, with parental consent.

Amazing Kids!
1158 26th Street
www.amazing-kids.org
(310) 514-9203
Program which seeks to improve the lives of children through uncovering the potential within each child, providing them with the tools to nurture their unique talents — including access to a mentor — and inspiring them to pursue excellence in their endeavors and to become lifelong achievers needs:
Volunteer mentors to use their time and expertise to help guide a child’s learning; website and clerical help.

American Red Cross
Santa Monica Chapter
1450 11th Street
www.redcrossofsantamonica.com
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 394-3773
Santa Monica chapter of international relief organization needs:
First Aid and CPR instructors, public speakers, disaster team-members, first aid station team members, fundraising, and community information booths. Youth volunteers are welcome.

Binky Patrol of Santa Monica
1786 Sunset Avenue
(310) 396-2296
Organization that makes and gives handmade blankets to babies born HIV positive or drug-addicted, children who are abused, in shelters, or foster care needs:
Volunteers to knit or sew blankets (no sewing experience necessary) and to deliver them. Youth volunteers welcome.

Boys & Girls Club of Santa Monica
1238 Lincoln Boulevard
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 393-9629
Educational and Recreational Youth Center needs:
Tutors, mentors and coaches to work with young people ages 7-18. Youth volunteers are welcome.

California Heritage Museum
2612 Main Street
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 392-8537
Museum with rotating exhibits on decorative arts and the history of Santa Monica and California needs:
Docents/tour guides, museum shop volunteers, data entry for photo archive. Youth volunteers 16-and-over are welcome.

Center For Healthy Aging
Ken Edwards Center
1527 4th Street
Director of Volunteer Services:
(310) 576-2499
Organization providing health and other services for older adults needs:
Assistance with health screenings, primary medical care, health education, peer counseling, mental health services, friendly visiting, money management; fundraising and clerical support.

Child Development Services
2802 4th Street
www.smmusd.com
Volunteer Coordinator:
(310) 399-5865, ext. 539
Preschools for children three months to five years, after school care for school aged children needs:
Volunteers to work in the classrooms. Youth volunteers are welcome.

The Children’s Nature Institute
1440 Harvard Avenue
www.childnatureinst.org
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 998-1151
Organization that provides field trips, workshops, and events for children to teach respect for wildlife, parklands and each other through fun educational activities, needs:
Nature walk and field trip assistance, clerical assistance, project organizing.

City of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street
Volunteer Program: (310) 458-8300
Municipality needs:
Volunteers in a variety of areas, including: animal shelter, police department, Farmers’ Markets, special events, Westside Special Olympics, youth and senior activities. Youth volunteers are welcome.

CLAIRE
1871 9th Street
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 314-6220
Alcohol and drug addiction recovery program needs:
Twelve-step program meeting leaders, Bargain Center retail supervisors, clerical assistance, gardening and building project assistance.

Common Ground
The Westside HIV Community Center
2012 Lincoln Boulevard
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 314-5480
Organization providing services to westside residents living with HIV/AIDS, and community education and outreach needs:
Administrative support, HIV testing services, receptionists, community booth and special event volunteers. Youth volunteers are welcome.

Daybreak Day Center and Shelter (Ocean Park Community Center)
1610 7th Street
www.opcc.net
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 450-0650
Day Center providing food, showers, clothing, advocacy, and shelter providing transitional housing, case management, and independent living skills for homeless mentally ill women needs:
Volunteers to prepare meals, socialize with women, provide clerical assistance, teach classes (such as yoga, art, resume writing).

18th Street Arts Complex
1639 18th Street
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 453-3711
Non-profit arts center supporting artists and art organizations dedicated to issues of community and diversity and contemporary society needs:
Clerical assistance, database work, publicity.

The Elizabeth Glazer
Pediatric AIDS Foundation
2950 31st Street #125
www.pedaids.org
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 314-1459
Organization that identifies, funds, and conducts critical pediatric AIDS research needs:
Clerical and administrative assistance, fundraising. Youth volunteers are welcome.

The Foundation for Consumer
& Taxpayer Rights
2701 Ocean Park Boulevard, #150
www.consumerwatchdog.org
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 392-0522
Consumer protection organization that promotes the Oaks project, challenges unfair insurance and educates the community on healthcare issues needs:
Grassroots activists with the Oaks program (a program which devotes itself to public participation and democracy), clerical assistance. Youth Volunteers are welcome.

Heal the Bay
3220 Nebraska Avenue
www.healthebay.org
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 453-0395
Organization promoting the health and safety of Los Angeles County coastal waters through education, community action, policy programs and research needs:
Beach cleaners, beach captains for “coastal cleanup day” in September, Malibu Creek stream monitors, fundraising, speakers bureau representatives, clerical help. Youth volunteers are welcome.

Helping Other People Eat (HOPE)
P.O. Box 3622
Santa Monica, CA 90408
Program Director: (310) 399-7020
Co-Directors: Paul Grymkowski, Moira LaMountain
Community-based nonprofit striving by means of direct action to eradicate hunger on the Westside needs:
Volunteers to collect and/or serve food, people with vehicles are especially needed.

International Wildlife Education
& Conservation (IWEC)
237 Hill Street
www.iwec.org
Volunteer and Intern Coordinator:
(310) 392-6257
Grassroots wildlife conservation organization promoting the healing benefits of the human-animal bond and animal well-being in captivity and in the wild
Needs:
Animal handlers, computer and newsletter help, and those with animal behavior or biology background. Also needs volunteers for Create-a-Smile Animal Assisted Therapy Team and Ride 2 Heal Therapeutic Riding Center.

Jewish Family Service
of Santa Monica
1424 4th Street, 3rd Floor
Volunteer Coordinator:
(310) 393-0732
Non-profit, non-sectarian family service agency providing counseling for all ages, including an in-home senior program, needs:
Administrative assistance, friendly visitors and case aides for seniors, volunteers for holiday events. Youth volunteers are welcome.

Meals on Wheels
Santa Monica-Malibu-Pacific Palisades
P.O. Box 7001
www.meals-on-wheels.net
Volunteer Coordinator:
(310) 394-5133,
or (310) 394-7558
Group committed to enhancing wellness by providing quality nutritious meals, nutrition education, coordinating community resources and referrals for homebound people, enabling them to maintain their independence and quality of life, needs:
Drivers, assistants to the drivers, clerical help, grant writing. Youth volunteers are welcome.

Retired Senior and Volunteer Program (R.S.V.P.)
A Program of WISE Senior Services
1328 22nd Street
Director of Volunteer Services:
(310) 315-6151
Program which assists individuals 55 and over to put their skills and life experiences to work for their communities by guiding them in finding volunteer placements in non-profit agencies in Santa Monica and environs needs: people over 55 who are interested in volunteering. R.S.V.P. places volunteers in a wide variety of agencies, from hospitals to museums.

St. John’s Health Center
1328 22nd Street
Director of Volunteer Services:
(310) 829-8438
Hospital and health center needs: clerical assistance, patient escorts, aides for Heart Institute and John Wayne Cancer Institute, gift shop volunteers. Youth volunteers 16-and-over are welcome.

Salvation Army
1533 4th Street
Coordinator of Volunteer Services: (310) 451-1358
Agency providing social services to low income and homeless people, including case management, emergency food, referrals for shelters and other services, ESL classes, bible studies and educational and activity programs for youth needs:
Receptionists to meet and greet clients, clerical help, grocery bagging for food pantry. Youth volunteers are welcome.

Santa Monica College
1900 Pico Boulevard
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 434-4419
Community college needs:
Assistance in various departments, including admissions, records, and the library.

Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1638 17th Street
www.smmusd.org
Coordinator of School and Community Partnerships: (310) 450-8338
School District serving elementary – high school-aged children in Santa Monica and Malibu needs:
Tutors in kindergarten – 12 grades, mentors for secondary school students, career mentors.

Santa Monica Museum of Art
Bergamot Station
2525 Michigan Avenue, Bldg. G-1
www.netvip.com/smmoa
Museum Administrator: (310) 586-6488
Museum that exhibits work of art by local artists needs:
Assistance with special events, gallery sitting, clerical help. Youth volunteers are welcome.

Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Center
1250 16th Street
Manager of Volunteer Services:
(310) 319-4614
Hospital and Medical Center needs:
Volunteers to interact with patients and their families, clerical help.

Santa Monica YMCA
1332 6th Street
www.santamonicaymca.org
Volunteer Director: (310) 393-2721
Physical fitness and family activity center needs:
Babysitters, assistance in the fitness center, aquatics, weight room and at the front desk. Youth Volunteers are welcome.

Sojourn Services for Battered Women and Their Children (Ocean Park Community Center)
P.O. Box 7081
www.opcc.net
Hotline Coordinator: (310) 264-6646
Comprehensive domestic violence service agency that offers services including a 24-hour hotline, shelter, support groups, emergency response, children’s program and legal advocacy needs:
Hotline volunteers, support group facilitators, peer counselors, children’s program volunteers, emergency response team members, legal accompaniment. Attendance at a forty-hour training is required (Next training begins in Spring 2003). Youth volunteers 16-and-over are welcome.

Step-up on Second
1328 2nd Street
Job Coach: (310) 394-6889
Organization providing day services for adults with severe and persistent mental illness needs:
Facilitators for educational and support groups, assistance with outings and holiday events.

Turning Point Transitional Housing (Ocean Park Community Center)
1447 16th Street
www.opcc.net
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 828-6717
Transitional housing program for homeless men and women that provides services including job counseling, life skills classes, money management, with the goal of transitioning residents into permanent independent housing and into the workforce needs:
Volunteers to prepare and serve breakfast and dinner meals, phone monitors, clerical help, special instructors (art, yoga, resume writing, etc.) Youth volunteers 15-and-over are welcome.

UCLA Ocean Discovery Center
1600 Ocean Front Walk
www.odc.ucla.edu
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 393-6149
Educational aquarium with programs for school children and the general public needs:
Educational and wet lab docents, microscope docents, activity box monitors, admissions and information assistance, bookstore and gift shop volunteers. Training is provided. Youth volunteers 16-and-over are welcome.

Upward Bound House
1104 Washington Ave.
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 458-7779
Housing with supportive services for senior citizens and homeless families needs:
Childcare, clerical assistance, computer class teachers and senior citizen companionship. Youth volunteers are welcome.

The Wellness Community -WLA
2716 Ocean Park Boulevard
Volunteer Coordinator: (310) 314-2555
Program providing psychological, social and emotional support to cancer patients and their families needs:
Receptionists, clerical help, outreach, fundraising, volunteers for special events. Youth volunteers are welcome.

Westside Food Bank
P.O. Box 1565
Program Director: (310) 828-6016
Food distribution service to 30-40 local social service agencies needs:
Office work, primarily computer-based, and delivery assistance for “second helpings” program. Volunteers are used on an as-needed, will-call basis. Youth volunteers are welcome.

WISE Senior Services
1527 4th Street
Director, R.S.V.P. Program: (310) 394-9871
Organization providing adult day care, elder abuse prevention, long-term care ombudsman, paratransit transportation needs:
Assistance in adult day care program, friendly visitors, long-term care, ombudsman, transportation. Youth volunteers are welcome.

YWCA of Santa Monica
2019 14th Street
www.smywca.com
Office Manager: (310) 452-3881
Organization providing women’s and children’s fitness, self-defense workshops, after school child care, crafts, sports, GED diploma program, career counseling, transitional housing program for young women emancipated from foster care, teen media literacy projects, girls’ basketball, breast cancer support and education, career mentoring, workshops on financial planning, speech writing, CPR, parenting and outreach programs needs:
Volunteers to participate in and assist with all of the above services listed. Also, assistance with special events, computer needs, Board of Directors’ activities. Youth volunteers are welcome.

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Adolescent Therapist|Parent Coach|Teen Mentor

Serving: Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Beverly Glen, Culver City, Brentwood, Westwood, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Topanga Beach and Topanga Canyon, Ocean Park, Hancock Park, West Hollywood.

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