How Can I Help?
When a young person is struggling, family involvement can be a powerful force for change. Here are a few steps to consider:
- Start with Compassionate Conversations: Open dialogue is crucial. Share your concerns without judgment, and try to understand their perspective.
- Educate Yourself on Substance Use: Knowing more about substance abuse and addiction can help you understand what they’re going through and how best to support them.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Working with counselors and addiction specialists can be essential. Professional support can create a safer, structured path forward.
Our Services
5 Steps to Better Communication
5 Steps to Better Communication
We offer a variety of evidence-based counseling services, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. We also offer specialized services for children and adolescents, as well as support for LGBTQ+ individuals and families.
5 Steps to Better Communication
5 Steps to Better Communication
5 Steps to Better Communication
Talking to a child about drug use can be challenging, but creating an open and non-judgmental dialogue is key to offering support. Learn how to listen actively, avoid blame, and offer solutions that empower your child to seek help and healing.
Free Resources
5 Steps to Better Communication
Free Resources
Explore our free downloadable resources designed to support teens facing drug and alcohol challenges. These guides offer practical advice, coping strategies, and valuable insights to help you or someone you know start the journey to recovery.
"Family is not an important thing, it's everything"
Transform Your Family with NextGen Counseling
What NexGen Offers for Families
At NexGen, we believe in treating both individuals and the people who care about them. Here’s how we can support you:
- Family Counseling Sessions: Work together to heal and build stronger family dynamics.
- Support Groups: Connect with other families facing similar situations to share experiences and find strength in community.
- Educational Resources: Access workshops, webinars, and articles specifically for family members of teens struggling with substance use.
5 Steps to Better Communication With Your Teen
It can be hard to have a conversation about substance use with your child. You may feel confused, worried, or even hurt by what’s happening. It’s important to remember that your child is not defined by their struggles, and your relationship can be a supportive foundation
Start by ensuring your child feels safe and supported. Choose a time and place where they feel comfortable—avoid making them feel cornered or pressured. It’s helpful to express that you’re there to listen, not to judge.
Approach the conversation with empathy. Instead of blaming or accusing, use “I” statements like, "I’m concerned about you" or "I love you and want to help." Avoid language that may make them feel defensive, like "You always make bad choices."
Allow your child to share their perspective. Sometimes, young people may turn to substances to cope with underlying emotional pain, stress, or peer pressure. Make sure they feel heard, and resist the urge to interrupt or offer solutions right away.
Instead of asking, “Why are you doing this?” try asking questions like, “What’s going on in your life right now?” or “How are you feeling?” This opens up space for a conversation about their struggles rather than making them feel accused or ashamed.
Even if you don’t fully understand why they turned to drugs, acknowledge that their feelings are real. Saying things like, “I know life has been really tough for you lately” can help your child feel seen and validated.
Useful Files
Communicating with Your Teen A Guide to Building Trust (pdf)
DownloadRecovery and Treatment Options and Teens (pdf)
DownloadReflecting on My Teen’s Behavior (pdf)
DownloadSetting Goals for Family Connection (pdf)
DownloadTalking to Teens About Substance Use (pdf)
DownloadThe Value of Family Counseling (pdf)
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