Teens and high-risk behaviors Therapy in AUstin, TX
Support for Teens Facing High-Risk Challenges
We provide specialized, trauma-informed care for teens navigating high-risk behaviors, emotional struggles, and mental health crises, helping them build stability, develop healthier coping strategies, and move toward safer, more supported paths forward.
What is teens and
high-risk therapy?
Teens and high-risk behavior therapy is specialized, trauma-informed care designed to support adolescents who are struggling with behaviors such as self-harm, suicidal ideation, substance use, or severe emotional dysregulation. It focuses on understanding the underlying causes, improving safety, building healthier coping skills, and supporting both the teen and their family in creating stability and lasting change.
WHAT WE HELP WITH
Support for Teens Facing Complex Challenges
We help teens and their families navigate high-risk behaviors and emotional struggles by providing structured, trauma-informed support that builds safety, stability, and healthier ways of coping.
Self-Harm & Suicidal Thoughts
Suicidal ideation (SI)
Self-harm behaviors
Safety planning and crisis support
Building alternative coping strategies
Family Conflict & Communication
Frequent arguments at home
Parent-teen disconnection
Power struggles and defiance
Rebuilding trust and communication
Emotional
Dysregulation
Intense mood swings
Anger or emotional outbursts
Shutdowns or withdrawal
Difficulty managing overwhelming emotions
School & Social Challenges
School avoidance or refusal
Academic struggles
Peer conflict or isolation
Difficulty maintaining daily functioning
Substance Use &
Risk-Taking Behaviors
Early substance use
Impulsive or risky decision-making
Harm reduction strategies
Building awareness and accountability
Contact Us
Reach out to our team with any questions or to take the first step toward finding the support that’s right for you.
Our Approach to Individual Therapy
Calm, Structured Support for High-Risk Situations
Our approach to teens and high-risk behavior therapy is trauma-informed, safety-focused, and grounded in real-world experience—helping adolescents regulate emotions, reduce risk, and build healthier coping skills while supporting families in creating stability and connection.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A Clear, Supportive Path Forward
Step 1 — Initial Consultation
Discuss goals and concerns.
Step 2 — Personalized Treatment Plan
Your therapist creates a tailored approach.
Step 3 — Ongoing Support and Growth
Regular sessions focused on healing and building healthier patterns.
WHAT WE HELP WITH
Thoughtful Care,
Personalized Support
At Second Wave Counseling, our services are built on a foundation of trauma-informed care, clinical expertise, and genuine human connection. We take a thoughtful, personalized approach to every client and family we work with, ensuring support that is both compassionate and effective.
Trauma-Informed Care
We prioritize emotional safety, trust, and nervous system awareness, creating an environment where healing can happen at a pace that feels right for you.
Evidence-Based Approaches
Our clinicians use proven therapeutic methods to provide thoughtful, effective care grounded in research and real-world experience.
Personalized Support
As a small practice, we take the time to thoughtfully match clients with the right clinician and tailor care to each person’s unique needs and goals.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answers to Help You Get Started
Starting therapy often comes with questions, and we’re here to make the process feel clear and approachable. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about individual therapy and what you can expect.
-
This type of therapy supports adolescents who are struggling with behaviors like self-harm, suicidal thoughts, substance use, or severe emotional dysregulation, focusing on safety, understanding, and long-term change.
-
If your teen is engaging in risky behaviors, experiencing intense emotional distress, or traditional therapy hasn’t been enough, this level of support may be helpful.
-
We take a safety-first approach, creating clear plans, providing close support, and working collaboratively with families and other providers when needed.
-
Yes, we work closely with parents and caregivers to improve communication, build trust, and create a more stable home environment.
-
Yes, when appropriate, we collaborate with schools, psychiatrists, and other providers to ensure consistent, aligned care.
-
Getting started is simple—reach out through our contact form, and we’ll guide you through the next steps and match your teen with the right support.
Contact Us
Have a question or ready to get started? Reach out to our team and we’ll help guide you through the next steps toward finding the support that’s right for you.