Jeff is

completing his
school counseling
internship at MMS
this year and he
has already jumped
right in as an active
member of our
team! I embrace the opportunity
to get to know the students,
parents and staff, while
incorporating the schools
counseling program through many
collaborative avenues. Jeff earned
a degree as an Intervention
Specialist at BGSU. In his free
time he enjoys coaching
swimming, playing water polo,
and rooting on the Buckeyes.
November is National Inspirational Role Model
Month. Ask teens what inspirational role model they
#follow? Who #inspires them?
the
1
Teen Identity Development
Whats the
Lets Talk
Campaign?
The LTC is a piece of
the comprehensive school
counseling program, which aims
to provide students, parents, and
teachers with accurate
information and useful resources
to benefit the immediate needs of
the student body.
Constructing Identityis this
typical for my teen?
N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4
2
Featuring

Meet Mr.
Williams


IDENTITY DEVELOPMENT NOVEMBER 2014
2

Independence & Growth:
Conversation Tips
Talking to your teen could be a struggle. It can be difficult
trying to talk them into your world when they have different
experiences in their world. Saying teens are being dramatic
and ridiculous will hinder them from forming their
cognitive and emotional identity. Here are some proactive
approaches you can bring to a conversation to help
empathize with teens on their current situation:

1. Listen and Reflect
Old Way: I dont get what you are so sad about
New Way: It is hard to not fit in and to be picked on

2. Ask Nondefensive Questions
Old Way: Why do you always blow up like this?
New Way: Tell me about or Whats that like

3. Problem Solve
Share your insight on a relatable problem or dilemma; role-
play some conversations your teen might have with peers


!
!
!
!
!
When parents asks why
questions to their teen it creates a
defensive posture. They dont feel
like they are heard. Explore your
teens views with them and help
them construct personal
meaning.
Do you encourage independence
with your child?
Teens want to fit in and want to be
an individualand at the same
timethey want to belong and
want to be independent. It can be a
confusing time for teens.