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.