Shadow Y Luz

When you work with teenagers, two things become clear:

1. They think you don’t get it
2. They’re usually right, until they’re wrong

Most often, teenagers walk in like they’re walking into an interrogation- suspicious, guarded and ready to say absolutely nothing.

It’s not personal, it’s just puberty.

I’m a blind Therapist and most teens are relieved that I can’t “watch” them. They think this is an advantage, but they are wrong.

Sighted Therapists are distracted by facial expressions, body language and mean mugs. Me? I’m listening to the things you sighted people miss- the sighs, their gym shoes scuffing the carpet or the tall tale sounds of finger tapping on phone screens. My sessions are part therapy, part interragation and part seance.

Teenagers think they can hide themselves in the shadows. Joke’s on you because I live in the shadows. I hear the micro-sighs, the breath catches and the restless shuffling like they’re covered in fleas.

They’ll test boundaries, they’ll try sarcasm or mutter under their breath. They’ll try and sneak in playing with their phone until- I tilt my head and ask the question they are trying to dodge like it’s an STD.

Because yes, I did hear that. I always do.

In a world where people are obsessed with being seen, my work is to help you feel heard. This is the key to working with teenagers. I can’t see their masks, but I can sure give weight to their voices.

And if you listen, no, really listen- then you have been granted access to the most exclusive club in the world. Often times, adults, any adult, dismisses what their teen has to say. I love telling my full grown adult clients that sometimes, my teenage clients have it more together or are more mature than them. True story.

I like to think of my practice like it’s an all nighter drive-thru- I got the signs on and parking lot empty- but I’m there when you are ready to pull in. And well, if my teens think they can hide in the dark, I’m ready.

I do my best work in the dark.