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Identity Development
Supporting Your Teen Through Identity Development
Values are core beliefs that influence how we think, feel and act. Teens may align their developing values with those of their parents, they may act in opposition to the values of their parents, or they may also engage in their own value exploration and develop personal values based on their individual experiences. When actions are aligned with values, teens are more likely to experience a positive sense of self and well-being. Our therapists help teens explore these beliefs in a thoughtful, guided way.
Helping Teens
Define Their Values
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Building Self-Awareness
Self-awareness is the ability to understand your own thoughts, feelings, values, and actions. It includes the ability to recognize strengths and weaknesses, understanding how you impact others and being able to manage emotions. Having self-awareness in teens leads to a positive self-worth, improved communication, and stronger relationships with the peers and adults in their lives. At Ballard Clinic, we help teens build self-awareness through reflection, discussion, and skill-building.
Gender identity is one’s internal sense of self and their gender, and is not outwardly visible to others. For most people, gender identity aligns with the sex assigned at birth. For others, it can be confusing and even scary when you feel like your mind and experiences don’t fit the body you are in. Gender expression is how a person presents gender outwardly, through pronouns, behavior/mannerisms, clothing, or other perceived characteristics.
Some people might experience gender dysphoria, a substantial distress associated with a mismatch between one's sex assigned at birth and one's gender identity. This can lead to emotions that feel really big and difficult to manage. Not everyone who has a gender identity different from sex assigned at birth experiences dysphoria.
Exploring Gender Identity and Expression
Sexuality is also part of identity, but is different from gender identity. Sexuality is who you are attracted to emotionally, romantically and/or physically, and is separate from gender identity. Exploring sexuality can also be confusing and isolating. Ballard therapists offer a supportive environment where teens can reflect on their experiences, explore different labels, and gain greater clarity. This process often leads to a deeper understanding of one’s identity and a sense of validation.
Understanding Sexuality
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How We Can Help
Conversations around gender can often feel overwhelming or uncertain. At Ballard, therapists provide a safe, affirming space for teens to explore their experiences with gender identity and expression. Through thoughtful dialogue and experiential activities, teens can discover which aspects of their gender expression feel most aligned and empowering. For some, past trauma may be intertwined with their identity development. Therapists at Ballard use a variety of evidence-based approaches to support healing and integration.
In addition to individual therapy, Ballard Clinic offers a group therapy program specifically for adolescents exploring gender identity and sexuality. This peer setting helps teens feel less alone in their experiences and promotes shared growth and understanding. Learn more about group therapy offerings HERE.
