Explore every episode of the podcast Teens Uncharted: the Pod
Dive into the complete episode list for Teens Uncharted: the Pod. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Why Insight Doesn't Equal Capacity in Gifted Teens with Emily Yi, LCSW | Teens Uncharted Ep. 68
10 oct. 2026
01:01:22
Have you ever had a brilliant, articulate teen in your office who can explain exactly why they do what they do, but absolutely cannot stop doing it?
In Episode 68 of Teens Uncharted: the Pod, Charity sits down with Emily Yi, LCSW, owner of Jacksonville Creative Therapy, to discuss the nuances of working with bright, neurodivergent, and emotionally intense adolescents. Emily shares why traditional therapeutic approaches can sometimes increase resistance or lead to misdiagnoses like ODD or bipolar disorder in gifted youth. We explore the crucial difference between a teen's intellectual insight and their nervous-system capacity, and how therapists can creatively adapt to build flexibility rather than forcing compliance.
In this episode, we cover: 🔹 Why highly insightful teens still can't "just do the thing" and the gap between intellectual understanding and capacity. 🔹 How giftedness, ADHD, autism, and asynchronous development shape a teen's behavior. 🔹 Why traditional therapy might misinterpret intense teen presentations as defiance or personality disorders. 🔹 Using the therapeutic relationship as an assessment—including pacing, humor, and Emily's "octopus arms" approach to tuning into a teen's emotions. 🔹 Working collaboratively with parents to navigate pervasive demand for autonomy (PDA), adjust rigid expectations, and focus on harm reduction over strict control. 🔹 An inside look at Emily’s new clinical training designed specifically for therapists working with bright and intense teens.
Why Autistic Girls Fly Under the Radar & Redefining Teen Social Skills | Teens Uncharted Ep. 67
03 oct. 2026
01:13:15
If you work with or raise a neurodivergent teen, you know that finding the right support can be challenging. In Episode 67 of Teens Uncharted: the Pod, host Charity Chaffee sits down with Dr. Diane Hudson. Dr. Hudson is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and former school psychologist who specializes in helping older autistic kids, teens, and their people.
Dr. Hudson breaks down why so many autistic girls fly under the radar. These girls often receive anxiety or depression diagnoses before autism is ever considered. We also tackle the controversial history of applied behavior analysis (ABA). We explore how modern, neurodiversity-affirming approaches focus on building new behaviors rather than just extinguishing old ones to force teens into neurotypical expectations.
In this episode, we cover: ✨ The Diagnostic Delay: Autistic girls frequently go misdiagnosed or undiagnosed until their teen years. They are often given mental health diagnoses before autism is even considered. ✨ Masking vs. Tools: There is a critical difference between forcing a teen to mask and teaching them actionable social skills. Teens can choose to use these social tools to confidently find their community and feel accepted. ✨ A Modern Approach: Older teens can benefit from a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and behavioral science. This approach helps them connect with their own values without feeling managed or forced to change. ✨ Parenting Shifts: Parenting a neurodivergent teen requires a completely different approach from raising a neurotypical one. Parents can support their teens' therapy by practicing the skill of simply being available without putting pressure on them. ✨ Social Connections: Tailored social groups and parallel activities create low-pressure environments for girls. These spaces allow neurodivergent teens to unmask, feel understood by their peers, and realize they are not alone.
Why "Weird" is a Superpower: Neurodiversity & Teen Mental Health with Cynthia Baseman | Ep. 66
26 sept. 2026
00:36:00
What if the very things that make a teenager feel "weird" are the exact traits we should be protecting? In episode 66 of Teens Uncharted: The Pod, host Charity Chaffee sits down with author Cynthia Baseman to discuss her new young adult novel, Weirdos Welcome. Drawing from her personal experiences raising neurodiverse sons and witnessing her niece's journey with a late diagnosis, Cynthia explores the complex realities of high school for teens navigating autism, ADHD, OCD, and anxiety. This conversation challenges the traditional parenting goal of helping kids "fit in" and instead advocates for helping them become so comfortable with themselves that fitting in no longer matters.
🎧 The Inspiration Behind Weirdos Welcome: Cynthia's neurodiverse family inspired a seven-year writing and research journey to center teenagers who are usually treated as sidekicks. 🎧 The Gender Gap in Diagnosis: Girls often fly under the radar for autism and ADHD diagnoses, which is mirrored in the book's protagonist, Ray, who starts an "Audi Freak" blog to find others like her and harness their collective superpowers. 🎧 The Heavy Toll of Masking: The book explores the internal struggles of Braden, a character who appears to be the "cool kid" but secretly battles severe anxiety and OCD while terrified of people seeing "the me beneath the me". 🎧 Parental Guilt and Forgiveness: Cynthia offers vital perspective for parents of neurodiverse teens, emphasizing the importance of letting go of hindsight guilt and forgiving yourself for making the best decisions you could with the information you had at the time. 🎧 The Value of Curiosity: Replacing snap judgments with a curious lens helps us appreciate the highly valuable, unique ways neurodiverse minds approach and solve big problems.
Raising Teen Girls Without Losing Your Mind with Pediatric Nurse Amy Young | Teens Uncharted Ep. 65
19 sept. 2026
00:55:19
Raising teenage girls can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, especially when you are simultaneously navigating your own hormonal changes like perimenopause. In Episode 65 of Teens Uncharted, host Charity Chaffee sits down with pediatric nurse, seasoned dance mom, and author Amy Young to discuss the reality of the mother-daughter relationship.
Drawing from 18 years in a pediatric office and her personal experiences raising two girls, Amy shares actionable advice for parents trying to hold it all together. She introduces her nursing-inspired "ABC framework" (Acknowledge, Boundaries, Care Plan) to help diffuse conflict and explains why the absolute best place to get your teenager to open up and spill the tea is in the backseat of a car.
In this episode, we cover: 📌 The Hormone Clash: How to survive a household where your teen's puberty and your perimenopause collide. 📌 Perfectionism & Body Image: Why a young girl's anxiety and perfectionism are often mirrored directly from her mother. 📌 The Dance Mom Dynamic: Navigating competitive sports culture and why building a secure, supportive village over competition is crucial for both you and your kids. 📌 The Binder Generation: How moms carry the pressure of holding the family together while supporting growing teens and aging parents. 📌 Letting Them Fail: Knowing when to step in, when to let your teenager struggle, and why it is perfectly okay to let them quit a sport if they no longer love it.
Trauma-Informed Weightlifting: Flipping the Script on Teen Therapy with Nick Bremer | Ep. 64
12 sept. 2026
01:03:29
If you've ever sat across from a teen who is completely checked out on the therapy couch, you know that just talking about trauma doesn't always cut it. In Episode 64 of Teens Uncharted: the Pod, host Charity Chaffee sits down with Nick Bremer, a pre-licensed therapist based in Michigan who is completely flipping the script on somatic work. Nick is certified in trauma-informed weightlifting and uses physical resilience—literally picking up heavy things—to help teens process anxiety and trauma when words just aren't enough.
Whether working with student-athletes navigating performance anxiety, teens managing ADHD, or LGBTQ+ youth building bodily autonomy, Nick seamlessly integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and somatic skills right on the gym floor. We dive into the neuroscience of the window of tolerance, why framing exercise as "intentional movement" is crucial for emotional regulation, and how to authentically connect with teens outside the confines of traditional talk therapy.
How Therapists & Schools Can Actually Work Together | Teens Uncharted Ep. 63
05 sept. 2026
00:31:40
If you work with teens, you know that therapy does not happen in a vacuum, and eventually, school will enter the chat. In Episode 63 of Teens Uncharted, licensed mental health counselor Charity Chaffee dives into the complexities of school collaboration during the back-to-school season. As requested by our listeners, this episode explores how therapists, parents, and school professionals can communicate effectively. The goal is to work together in a way that protects teens, supports caregivers, and keeps everyone on the same team.
Key Takeaways in This Episode: 💜 The Annual Cycle of Teen Stress: There is a predictable pattern of teen struggle throughout the school year. This cycle often begins with the anxiety of heading back to school. It is followed by increased boredom and academic pressure during the mid-October and November grind. Finally, teens often experience prolonged challenges during the long, grueling month of March. 💜 Effective Communication Strategies: Outside therapists should proactively schedule short, 10-15 minute chats with school psychologists or social workers at the beginning of the academic year. This allows professionals to share relevant information and discuss client needs without violating confidentiality. 💜 Proactive Safety Planning: It is highly recommended to establish safety plans early in the school year. Therapists and parents must understand a school district's specific crisis management and screening protocols. Getting ahead of these policies prevents care teams from scrambling reactively during an active crisis. 💜 Defining Healthy Roles: Parents are advised against acting as the primary enforcers of educational tasks and homework. Instead, schools must be the ones to enforce academic rules and deliver natural consequences. 💜 Navigating Professional Disagreements: Outside therapists must maintain collaborative, civil relationships with school staff. It is crucial not to speak poorly about the school to the teen, as this breaks down therapeutic rapport. Furthermore, private therapists should avoid attempting to direct the work or enforce the lanes of school professionals.
Whether you are a private practice therapist, a school counselor, or a parent navigating the teenage years, this episode provides actionable guidance to better support the adolescents in your life.
You’re Fired: What to Do When a Teen Client Drops You | Teens Uncharted Ep. 62
29 août 2026
00:38:49
In Episode 62 of Teens Uncharted, licensed mental health counselor Charity Chafee tackles an unspoken reality in the field: getting abruptly fired by your teen clients. Rather than letting a sudden termination trigger imposter syndrome or financial panic, this episode explores how to process the experience and use it to become a better clinician.
In this episode, we cover: 🎧 Why being fired is an inevitable milestone in a therapist's career and a valuable opportunity for professional growth. 🎧 The difference between an emotional, knee-jerk firing and a standard discharge after goals are met. 🎧 How to preload termination protocols during the initial intake to help teens and parents practice healthy transitions and conflict resolution. 🎧 Why a therapist's goal during a termination discussion should be understanding the client's choice, not convincing them to stay. 🎧 How to objectively analyze a failed case to recognize your accountability and process your own guilt or shame.
Mental Health Care, Collaboration & The Lindsay Clancy Trial | Teens Uncharted the Pod Ep.61
15 août 2026
00:28:52
Welcome back to the very first episode of our newly rebranded podcast, Teens Uncharted the Pod! Whether you have been here since the beginning or are just tuning in, we are so happy to have you for the Season 2 premiere.
This podcast is dedicated to discussing teens through the lens of the professionals who work with them, including therapists, social workers, doctors, and coaches. In this episode, Charity tackles the common pushback that working with teenagers carries too high of a liability.
Here is what we are unpacking today: ✨ The Liability Myth: Charity explains why she believes teens actually carry less liability than adults. She highlights how teenagers have a built-in web of collaborative support, including school social workers, pediatricians, and guardians. ✨ Systemic Reflections: The devastating Lindsay Clancy trial is an opportunity to take a critical look at the mental health system. Charity discusses how even in a state with top-tier care like Massachusetts, a lack of collaboration between providers can leave dangerous gaps. ✨ Insurance Hurdles: Insurance companies often dictate care and prioritize their wallets over clients. Charity points out how the current system discourages essential collaborative consultation by treating it as unpaid labor for therapists. ✨ Exciting Updates: Charity shares her nervous excitement about being accepted to speak at an upcoming summit in March 2027, where she will present on harm reduction frameworks for teens. ✨ Season 2 Preview: Get ready for a packed season featuring interviews with psychiatrists, DBT specialists, and individuals sharing their lived experiences receiving mental health care as teens.
"I think we can learn a lot from tragedy if we can lean into it and really take a critical look at what happened and why."
The Finale of 'No Cap' & Busting Teen Therapy Myths! | Episode 60
08 août 2026
00:27:12
Welcome to Episode 60 of the Teens: No Cap Podcast! I can't believe we've made it to 60 episodes, and to celebrate, we have some massive announcements. This episode marks the official finale of our "No Cap" era, as we are shifting gears and rebranding to Teens Uncharted the Pod starting next season. Thank you to all the wonderful guests who have shared their expertise and helped this community grow!
In This Episode, We Cover: 🌟 Exciting updates on our Facebook community, "Therapists Who Work with Teens," which is now almost 6,000 members strong. 🌟 My reflections on the successful beta launch of the Parent Integration Training. 🌟 A sneak peek at a new deep-dive clinical training on teens launching in late September or early October. 🌟 A fun and insightful game of "Cap or No Cap" where we tackle common misconceptions and myths about teen mental health.
Myths We Bust in the "Cap or No Cap" Game: 🌟 If a teen gets straight A's and plays sports, their mental health is perfectly fine. 🌟 Sleeping all weekend and isolating is just normal teenage hormones. 🌟 Self-harm and dark social media posts are simply attention-seeking behaviors. 🌟 Asking a struggling teen directly about suicidal thoughts will put the idea in their head. 🌟 Therapy is only necessary if you have hit rock bottom or have a severe mental health diagnosis. 🌟 Social media is the 100% sole reason for the current teen mental health crisis. 🌟 Teens today are softer and lack the resilience of older generations. 🌟 Putting a teenager on antidepressants or anxiety medication will definitively change their personality.
Inside the Juvenile Justice System: Trauma, Mental Health & Teens | Teens No Cap Ep. 59
01 août 2026
00:46:47
In Episode 59 of Teens: No Cap, host Charity Chaffee sits down with mental health professionals Justyna Wolek and Reagan Webb to explore the realities of the juvenile justice system. Drawing from their clinical experience at youth correctional facilities—including the McLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Oregon—Justyna and Reagan shed light on the systemic challenges and chronic dysregulation that incarcerated youth face daily.
This powerful conversation dives deep into the complex intersection of trauma and our punitive justice system. Together, they question how society can better support vulnerable teens who are too often punished for systemic failures out of their control.
Key Topics Covered in This Episode:
🌟 Life Inside the System: The day-to-day realities and high-crisis environments of juvenile detention facilities.
🌟 The Cycle of Trauma: How adverse childhood experiences and systemic failures directly correlate with youth incarceration.
🌟 Treatment vs. Punishment: The intense challenges of providing strength-based, person-centered mental health treatment in a mandated, highly restrictive environment.
🌟 Brain Development & The Law: A look into Oregon’s Measure 1008, brain development up to age 25, and how legislation impacts youth sentencing and rehabilitation.
🌟 The Power of Connection: Why showing up as a consistent, stable adult is the most crucial intervention for teens in the justice system.
If you're a mental health professional, parent, or just someone passionate about youth advocacy, this episode will completely shift your perspective on how we view "resistant" teens.
If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and keep an eye out for Part 2! Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Healing Through Animals & "Jenna Finds a Dog" with Terry Rousseau & Co. | Teens: No Cap Ep. 58
25 juil. 2026
00:42:07
Welcome to episode 58 of Teens: No Cap, hosted by licensed mental health counselor Charity Chaffee! In this episode, Charity is joined by Dr. Terry Rousseau, publisher Alexia Melocchi, and editor Heidi Stangeland to discuss the creation and powerful message behind their new children's novel, Jenna Finds a Dog.
Originally written as a screenplay by Terry during the COVID-19 lockdown, the story was adapted into a novel with the help of Little Studio Films to reach a younger audience. The group dives deep into the realities of teen mental health, the risks of relying too heavily on medication as a quick fix, and the profound therapeutic benefits of connecting with animals and nature.
Key Topics Discussed in This Episode: 🗣️ The inspiration behind Jenna Finds a Dog and its connection to impulsive and explosive behavioral challenges in kids. 🗣️ Why society and the medical field often overmedicate children instead of exploring alternative interventions. 🗣️ The healing power of animal and equine therapy in regulating the nervous system. 🗣️ The importance of getting kids off their screens, out into nature, and giving them a sense of purpose. 🗣️ How storytelling and publishing can be utilized to serve a social purpose and support mental wellness. 🗣️ Tips for therapists and writers looking to publish purpose-driven stories.
Why "School Refusal" is the Wrong Term: Navigating Teen Anxiety with Sarah Haugh | Ep. 57
18 juil. 2026
00:45:58
Welcome back to episode 57 of Teens: No Cap! Today, host Charity Chaffee, LMHC, sits down with Sarah Haugh, an LMHC based in Topsfield, MA who specializes in anxiety and trauma. In this episode, Charity and Sarah dive deep into the complexities of "school avoidance"—a term Sarah prefers over the pathologizing labels of "school refusal" or "truancy."
In this episode, we cover: 🎙️ Why terms like "truancy" and "refusal" feel like accusations to teens. These labels can damage a teen's self-esteem and provoke a defensive response. 🎙️ The real roots of school avoidance. Sarah explains how it is often a symptom of underlying struggles like generalized anxiety, social anxiety, or perfectionism. 🎙️ How the anxiety cycle works. Avoiding a stressful situation brings temporary relief, but it ultimately amplifies the anxiety for the next time. 🎙️ The accidental enabling by parents and schools. Allowing teens to take excessive mental health days or sit in the counselor's office all day can inadvertently reinforce the avoidance cycle. 🎙️ Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) strategies. The goal isn't to remove the anxiety entirely, but to help teens build the tolerance to feel their anxiety and still go to school. 🎙️ The importance of systemic collaboration. Therapists, parents, and school personnel must work together with flexibility and warmth to support a titrated exposure plan.
Geek Therapy: Using Anime, Marvel, & Harry Potter to Connect with Teens | Teens: No Cap Ep. 56
11 juil. 2026
00:48:15
Welcome back to another episode of Teens: No Cap! In episode 56, host Charity Chaffee, a licensed mental health counselor in Massachusetts, sits down with the amazing Yasmin Miranda. Yasmin is a licensed mental health counselor in Florida, Maryland, and Pennsylvania who specializes in working with teenagers and young adults.
In this episode, they dive deep into the incredible value of bringing a teen's favorite fandoms—from anime and superheroes to shows like Ginny & Georgia and Harry Potter—directly into the therapy room. Whether you are a clinician looking to connect better with your younger clients or a parent trying to understand your teen's obsession with a certain character, this conversation is packed with insight and practical takeaways!
In This Episode, We Cover: 🎧 Yasmin discusses her diverse background working in community mental health, youth facilities, juvenile drug court, and prisons. She also shares her recent transition into running her own virtual private practice. 🎧 Both therapists reflect on how graduate school programs often gloss over adolescent development. They also note that these programs frequently fail to prepare students for the business side of private practice. 🎧 Yasmin explains her unique therapeutic niche of using fiction, comic books, and TV shows to build trust with teens. She shares a specific success story of using My Hero Academia to help shy twin clients open up. 🎧 The conversation highlights how externalizing conversations through fictional characters creates a safe space for teens. This method allows them to explore difficult, heavy topics like eating disorders, self-harm, and peer pressure without feeling judged. 🎧 Yasmin and Charity discuss how analyzing complex or polarizing characters, like Severus Snape or Daryl Dixon, can help teens process their own struggles. These character arcs help teens see that they are still capable of growth and bravery despite their flaws or past mistakes. 🎧 Yasmin encourages therapists to embrace the "beautiful chaos" of adolescence and not fear bringing media into sessions. She emphasizes that you do not need to be an expert in a fandom to let your client teach you and use it effectively in therapy.
Failing Safely, Secret Codes & Neurospicy Teens with Amie Parsons | Teens: No Cap Ep. 55
08 juil. 2026
00:57:10
Welcome back to episode 55 of Teens: No Cap with your host, Charity Chafee! In this episode, we sit down for a deeply insightful conversation with Amie Parsons, a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) who specializes in working with teenagers and neurodivergent populations.
Amie shares her fascinating career shift from being a high school history and special education teacher to pursuing her true passion in counseling. Together, Charity and Amie tackle the messy, beautiful reality of raising and treating teens, shedding light on the critical gap in mental health resources available for this age group.
Episode Highlights: 🤔 Amie reflects on her impactful time working at a residential treatment center. 🤔 She discusses her experience volunteering for the Trevor Project Crisis Hotline. 🤔 The conversation highlights how schools and systems often lack the resources to support teens reaching out for help. 🤔 Amie opens up about raising neurodivergent children and the importance of leading with curiosity rather than reactivity. 🤔 We discuss a philosophy called "Parenting with Dignity," which emphasizes allowing teenagers to fail in a safe manner to build decision-making skills. 🤔 Amie shares a brilliant safety strategy where teens can use the phrase "order a large pepperoni pizza" as a secret code to be rescued from an uncomfortable party. 🤔 Charity and Amie explore the vital role of humility and repairing mistakes within the parent-child relationship. 🤔 Amie reveals the inspiration behind her practice name, Star Stuff Counseling, reminding teens that they are beautifully made of the same minerals as the stars.
Navigating Family Dynamics, Therapist Burnout, & Post-Pandemic Youth | Teens: No Cap Ep. 54
27 juin 2026
00:51:20
Welcome to another episode of Teens: No Cap! In this episode, host Charity Chaffee sits down with Dr. Rachel Hughes, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), child mental health specialist, and certified autism spectrum disorder clinical specialist based in Washington state.
Dr. Hughes brings an incredibly refreshing and honest perspective to the realities of treating neurodivergent teens, navigating family systems, and surviving the current mental health landscape.
Key topics covered in this episode include: 🎧 The Art of Code-Switching: Why teen therapists shouldn't just pick a "side" between the adolescent and the parents. Dr. Hughes explains how to act as a bridge to ethically and effectively treat the whole family system. 🎧 Re-framing "Mean" Teens: Why a teenager pushing boundaries, talking back, or being "mean" in session is actually a prime clinical opening and a strong indicator of a secure attachment. 🎧 Parenting a Teenager: How parents can successfully transition their role from being a "caretaker" in the driver's seat to acting as a "mentor" and guardrail as their teen gains independence. 🎧 The Reality of Therapist Burnout: A candid, unfiltered discussion on the broken insurance system, the devaluation of mental health care, and how capitalism is driving therapist burnout across the industry. 🎧 Post-COVID Developmental Stunting: How the pandemic disrupted critical milestones, specifically leaving the 19-to-21-year-old demographic feeling stuck and struggling to launch into adulthood. 🎧 Bringing Your Teen Self to Session: Dr. Hughes and Charity bond over their own "spicy" teenage years—from Hot Topic phases to blasting Linkin Park—and discuss why being a real human is always better than being a "blank slate" therapist.
Whether you are a parent trying to figure out how to best support your adolescent's autonomy, or a fellow clinician feeling the weight of the mental health system, this episode is full of validation, laughs, and deep clinical wisdom.
Treating Trauma in Neurodivergent Teens with EMDR | Teens: No Cap Ep. 53
20 juin 2026
00:51:49
In Episode 53 of Teens: No Cap, host Charity Chaffee sits down with therapist Alyssa Desroches to explore the intersection of neurodivergence, trauma, and EMDR therapy in teenagers. They dive deep into why "high-performing" and high-masking neurodivergent teens are often missed, the vital difference between oppositional behavior and nervous system overwhelm, and how compounded "small t" traumas impact a teen's daily life.
Alyssa shares her expertise as a virtual therapist across Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, specializing in neurodivergence, high performance, burnout, and complex trauma. Together, they explain why EMDR can be incredibly effective and fast-acting for teens compared to adults, and how teens uniquely build safety and resources in therapy—often centering around the powerful theme of "freedom".
In this episode, we cover: ✨Spotting Neurodivergence: How autism and ADHD frequently go under the radar in high-performing teens, often presenting as extreme exhaustion or emotional shutdown at the end of the day. ✨Behavior vs. Nervous System: How to differentiate between a teen making an oppositional choice and an involuntary nervous system reaction. ✨EMDR for Teens: Why EMDR often works faster for teenagers, taking advantage of their brain plasticity to build a healthy foundation before adulthood. ✨Creative Resourcing: How EMDR resourcing looks different for teens, shifting away from peaceful landscapes and focusing on objects, role models, or symbols of independence like a first car. ✨Care Collaboration: The importance of properly preparing parents for shifts in their teen's behavior during EMDR processing. ✨Provider Teamwork: How specialized therapists can effectively collaborate with a teen's primary talk therapist to tackle recurring behavioral themes and stuck points.
Understanding BFRBs (Skin Picking & Hair Pulling) in Teens with Laura Chackes | Teens: No Cap Ep. 51
06 juin 2026
00:45:25
Welcome back to another episode of the Teens: No Cap! In Episode 51, host Charity Chaffee sits down with Laura Chackes, a psychologist and owner of the Center for Mindfulness and CBT in St. Louis, Missouri. Laura specializes in treating anxiety, OCD, and Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs).
In this important conversation, we explore the heavily stigmatized and under-recognized world of BFRBs. Laura sheds light on how parents and clinicians can identify these conditions, reduce client shame, and implement effective, compassionate treatment strategies.
Key Takeaways from this Episode: ✨What are BFRBs?: Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors include hair pulling (trichotillomania), skin picking (excoriation disorder), and other behaviors like cheek or nail biting. ✨The Hidden Struggle: Teens often experience intense shame and go to great lengths to hide their BFRBs using clothing, makeup, or fake eyelashes. ✨BFRBs vs. Self-Harm: While self-harm generally involves an intent to cause pain to regulate emotions, BFRBs are typically self-soothing or stimulating behaviors where the harm caused is unintentional. ✨What Not to Say: Telling a teen to simply "stop" their behavior is entirely ineffective and will likely only increase defensiveness or secrecy. ✨Approaching Treatment: Effective therapy starts with mindfulness and self-compassion to manage the shame before trying to change the behavior itself. ✨Redefining Recovery: The goal of BFRB treatment is not necessarily complete cessation of the behavior, but rather managing it so it no longer disrupts the teen's life.
Breaking Generational Trauma: Why Your Teen Won't Talk To You | Teens: No Cap Ep. 50
30 mai 2026
00:59:40
Are you struggling to connect with your teenager, or wondering why they seem totally shut down? In Episode 50 of Teens: No Cap, we dive deep into the unfiltered reality of teen mental health and how families can break cycles of generational trauma.
Episode Summary: In this episode, we sit down with licensed social worker Tatyana White to explore what really goes on in therapy sessions with kids ages nine and up. She shares her authentic approach as a queer person of color and mom , explaining why being a "yes person" simply doesn't work with teenagers. We tackle heavy topics like the compound stress placed on parentified children , the importance of holding parents accountable for behavior changes , and why "radical acceptance" is sometimes the only way forward in difficult environments. Plus, you'll hear practical tips for building communication, like using Disney movies to talk about feelings and creating a "Dictionary of Me" with your kids.
The Wild World of Teen Therapy: Mustangs, Playlists & Harm Reduction | Teens: No Cap Ep. 49
23 mai 2026
00:51:33
Welcome back to another episode of Teens: No Cap! In Episode 49, host Charity Chaffee, LMHC, sits down with Sarah Evert, LICSW, a clinical social worker and private practice owner based in Minnetonka, MN. Both Charity and Sarah are fiercely passionate about specializing exclusively in adolescents, and they break down exactly why teens require a completely different therapeutic approach than adults or younger children.
In this episode, we dive into: 🎧Why traditional 9-to-5 therapy scheduling doesn't work for busy, burnt-out high schoolers balancing sports, jobs, and AP classes. 🎧How the "pressure and release" method of training wild Mustangs perfectly mirrors the journey of parenting and building trust with teenagers. 🎧The importance of collaborating with parents instead of treating therapy like an "us vs. them" battle. 🎧Why practicing unconditional positive regard—and allowing teens to unmask, even if it means swearing in session—builds essential trust. 🎧Charity’s signature "-10 to +10" scale for harm reduction and helping high-risk teens shed shame around their choices. 🎧Sarah's creative interventions, including using customized music playlists to help teens process messy breakups and grief. 🎧Reframing the pressure of "practice makes perfect" for students, because perfection is just an opinion.
Using Art & Play in Therapy with High-Risk Teens | Teens: No Cap Ep. 48
16 mai 2026
00:51:47
In this episode of Teens: No Cap, host Charity Chaffee, LMHC, sits down with board-certified art therapist and licensed counselor Lindsey Jonin to break down the transformative power of creativity in therapy.
Many parents and even clinicians wonder: What is the actual difference between a certified art therapist and someone who just uses art activities in a session? Lindsey unpacks this hot topic, explains why there are no "universal meanings" for colors, and shares how to avoid assumption traps when looking at a teen's creative work.
We also dive into: ✅Process over Product: Why your teen doesn't need to be a "fine artist" to benefit from art therapy. ✅Handling Pushback: How to talk to parents who think doing art in session isn't "real therapy". ✅Therapeutic Materials: Why fluid mediums like watercolor can actually cause dysregulation, and what to use instead. ✅Altered Books & Blackout Poetry: Cheap, accessible ways to introduce tactile creativity to teens. ✅Lindsey’s Journey: From struggling academically in high school to owning a successful private practice.
Whether you are a provider looking to expand your toolkit, a parent trying to connect with your teenager, or a student interested in the field of art therapy, this conversation is packed with authentic, actionable insights.
Do Coping Skills Actually Work? Harm Reduction & Self-Harm in Teens | Teens: No Cap Ep. 47
09 mai 2026
00:34:23
In episode 47 of Teens: No Cap, host and licensed Massachusetts mental health counselor Charity Chaffee tackles some of the most complex questions surrounding teen mental health. When dealing with high-risk behaviors, do coping skills actually work?
Designed as a resource for both clinicians and parents, this episode dives deep into effective strategies for supporting treatment-resistant teenagers who have already been through various treatment facilities. Charity challenges the traditional approach of simply handing out a list of coping skills to "fix" a problem. Instead, she introduces her "negative 10 to positive 10" scale—where a negative 10 represents death—to help contextualize and understand the full range of teen coping mechanisms.
Key Topics Covered in This Episode: 🚨Why stripping away a teen's existing coping mechanisms without understanding the root cause can be detrimental. 🚨How adults and professionals should react with curiosity instead of panic or shame when a teenager discloses self-harm. 🚨Applying a harm reduction philosophy to high-risk behaviors by focusing on making a situation just 1% better. 🚨Why natural hobbies, such as playing an instrument or joining a sports team, are fundamentally powerful coping skills. 🚨The importance of reframing relapse as a vital learning opportunity rather than a personal failure.
Deployment, Reintegration, & Masking: Inside the Minds of Military Kids | Teens: No Cap Ep. 46
03 mai 2026
00:52:48
Welcome back to another episode of Teens No Cap with your host, Charity Chaffee! In this episode, we sit down with Jason Kelley, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to discuss the unique experiences and mental health challenges faced by teenagers in military families.
Jason brings an incredible blend of lived and professional experience to our coffee chat. After serving in the military for 17 years and working in mental health for the latter half of his career, Jason opened his own practice, Your Way Therapy, where he focuses on military members, veterans, and their families. Today, we unpack the realities behind the "resilient military brat" stereotype, the hurdles of deployment and reintegration, and how to best support military families.
In this episode, we discuss: ✨The Cost of Resiliency: While military children are known for being resilient, they often mask their true emotions or act as overachievers to keep their family stable during difficult times. ✨The Complexities of Deployment: Beyond just deployments, military kids face the stress of constant relocations, long hours, and temporary duty assignments (TDYs) that frequently disrupt their lives and friendships. ✨The "Reintegration" Phase: Jason explains that a deployed parent returning home is often harder on the family than the deployment itself, as everyone must adjust to shifted routines and changing family dynamics. ✨Parental Shame: The stay-at-home caregivers often struggle with feelings of shame or inadequacy when they can't manage their child's severe mental health issues on their own. ✨Advice for Therapists: Providers must take the time to understand military culture and avoid putting the service member on a pedestal, ensuring they equally recognize the profound sacrifices made by the family at home.
Guides Not Guards, Rethinking Consequences & Reframing Teen Rebellion | Teens: No Cap Ep.45
25 avr. 2026
00:16:22
Welcome back to Teens: No Cap! In episode 45, licensed mental health counselor Charity Chaffee shares her top insights from day two of a specialized teen therapy conference.
In this episode, we cover: 🎙️Rethinking Tech Use: Why it is more important to understand the how and why of a teen's screen usage rather than simply tracking their time limit. 🎙️Guides, Not Guards: Exploring presenter Chris Conley's concept of transitioning from managing your child to mentoring them as they grow into teens. 🎙️The Reality of Consequences: Why consequences should focus on steering teens in the right direction as a learning opportunity, rather than validating an adult's feelings about the behavior. 🎙️Reframing Rebellion: Understanding that what looks like rebellion is often just a teen's attempt to gain autonomy, build independence, and trust their own intuition. 🎙️The Power of Community: Why teen therapists need dedicated consultation spaces and how we are only as strong as our weakest link.
Whether you are a clinician looking to evolve your skill set or a parent navigating high-risk behaviors, you deserve a community that understands this unique population.
Inside the Teen Therapy Conference: Trauma, Resistance & Sports Culture | Teens No Cap Ep. 44
18 avr. 2026
00:29:14
Hey everybody, welcome back to episode 44 of Teens: No Cap! I’m your host, Charity Chaffee, a licensed mental health counselor in Massachusetts who specializes exclusively in treating teenagers. In this episode, I’m coming to you straight from Pennsylvania after an exciting Day 1 at the Teen Therapy Conference run by Katie Kates May. It's been a long day and I am tired, but I couldn't wait to share my raw, bullet-point notes and biggest takeaways from today's incredible presentations!
Here are some of the game-changing "nuggets of information" from today's experts:
Regulation & Safety: Regulation isn't always calm, and ensuring safety is the actual treatment. Before you can get regulation within a teenager, you have to establish regulation with them.
Reframing Trauma: Trauma is what happens in the nervous system, not just the incident itself.
The Truth About Resistance: Teen resistance is really just a data point, and it is actually a powerful developmental milestone for building autonomy.
Student Athletes: A massive 90% of athletes identify their coach as their biggest role model. Unfortunately, sports culture frequently normalizes emotion suppression.
High-Conflict Divorce & Policies: When managing high-conflict cases, providers must be brave, because being too risk-averse creates a barrier to competent care. Practice policies are the structure for your practice and are different from consents for treatment.
Self-Harm vs. Repetitive Behaviors: Body-focused repetitive behavior should absolutely be assessed, but it is not actually self-harm.
Shame & Secrecy: Shame is a relational wound, and secrecy functions as a supportive behavior. If a parent or therapist's response increases a teen's shame, it almost guarantees that their behavior will become more secretive.
We have to remember that teens deserve their own specialized treatment category because they aren't just little adults, and they shouldn't be lumped in with children!
Stay tuned for Part 2 next week after Day 2 of the conference!
Neurodiversity in Teen Girls: ADHD, Autism & Harm Reduction w/ Jamie Roberts | Teens No Cap Ep 43
11 avr. 2026
00:46:56
Welcome back to Teens No Cap! I'm your host, Charity Chafee, a licensed mental health counselor specializing in teens and their families.
Today, I am absolutely jazzed to welcome Jamie Roberts to the show! Jamie is a California-based LMFT who specializes in working with neurodivergent teens and young adults (ADHD, autism, learning differences, and anxiety). She joins us to discuss her incredible new book, Neurodiversity for Teen Girls, and share her own journey of receiving a late diagnosis of AuDHD in her thirties.
In this episode, we dive deep into: ✅The Diagnostic Gap: Exploring why 80% of autistic girls do not receive a diagnosis by age 18. ✅The Phone Battery Analogy: A highly relatable update to the traditional "spoon theory" that helps teens effectively communicate their daily energy levels. ✅Redefining Self-Harm: Why we need to start viewing self-harm as a form of "pain regulation" for dopamine-deprived brains. ✅Harm Reduction Strategies: How to implement "distract and delay" techniques to keep teens safe, rather than relying on abstinence-only approaches that don't work. ✅Finding Yourself in Fiction: A look at the six crystal-named archetypes in Jamie's book (like Citrine, Onyx, and Emerald) that help neurodivergent teens feel seen and understood.
Stop Treating Teens Like Adults: The Ultimate Guide to Teen Therapy Standards | Teens: No Cap Ep.40
08 avr. 2026
00:23:50
Working with teenagers isn't the same as working with children or adults. Because of their unique brain development, teenagers are their own distinct clinical subspecialty.
In Episode #40 of Teens: No Cap, licensed mental health counselor Charity Chaffee breaks down the critical standards of care required for working effectively with adolescents. If you want to offer better scaffolding and support to your teen clients and navigate family dynamics with confidence, these are the practices you need to implement.
What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✨Parent Involvement: Why treating a teen in a vacuum doesn't work and how to include regulated parents at regular intervals. ✨The Intake Process: The importance of holding completely separate intake sessions for teens and parents. ✨Customized Paperwork: Why teens need their own tailored intake packets and policies written in language they can understand. ✨Wraparound Support: How attending school meetings (like IEPs and 504s) gives you a greater sense of the landscape your clients face. ✨Clear Boundaries: Setting firm, written policies for texting, outside contact, and mandated reporting. ✨Tracking Progress: Using quarterly check-in forms to give teens a safe, alternative way to disclose difficult behaviors like self-harm.
Self-Harm is a Coping Skill: How to Actually Help High-Risk Teens | Teens No Cap Ep. 39
08 avr. 2026
00:25:57
Welcome back to Teens No Cap! In episode 39, we are tackling a heavy but crucial topic for March, which is Self-Harm Awareness Month. Self-harm is still a very taboo subject today, and there are many misconceptions about what it actually is. As a licensed mental health counselor specializing in high-risk teens, I want to share a different perspective on how we approach and treat self-injury.
Here is what we cover in tonight's episode: 💡We expand the definition of self-harm beyond traditional cutting or burning to include disordered eating, substance abuse, and high-risk sex practices. 💡We discuss how self-harm is often an attempt to manage an internal state and self-preserve through means the person has control over. 💡I explain why asking a teen "why" they self-harm is unhelpful because it puts them in a state of defense and forces them to justify their coping skills. 💡We explore the alternative of asking "what is that like for you?" to foster collaboration and curiosity. 💡I break down why telling someone to "just stop" ignores the reality that the behavior has become a predictable, comforting friend to them. 💡We look at recovery through the lens of micro-steps, focusing on building behavioral scaffolding rather than expecting overnight healing. 💡We discuss how relapse is a normal part of the process and a learning opportunity, not a failure.
If you are a clinician treating teens, don't forget to join the free school community for monthly case consultations and private practice building sessions.
Parents on GLP-1s: How to Talk to Your Teen About Weight Loss & Body Image | Teens: No Cap Ep 38
08 avr. 2026
00:42:29
Is your health journey impacting your teen’s body image?
In Part 2 of our deep dive into GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic and Wegovy), Charity Chaffee, LMHC, and Dr. Emily Gordon, Psy.D., explore the complex "spiderweb" of parenting while on a weight-loss journey. As GLP-1s become a cultural movement, many parents are left wondering: Should I tell my teenager?.
In this episode, we discuss the "Great Untangling"—the process of separating your health decisions from your teen’s developing identity. We cover how to handle accusations of hypocrisy, why "do as I say, not as I do" fails with observant teens, and how to maintain family rituals when your eating habits change.
In this episode, we discuss: ✨The Narrative Shift: Why it’s safer for your teen to get the story from you than from an AI or Google. ✨Developmental Risks: Why GLP-1s are a different conversation for a developing teen brain versus an adult. ✨Family Rituals: How to keep the "connection" at the dinner table even if your appetite has changed. ✨Body Positivity vs. Acceptance: Helping teens navigate a culture preoccupied with thinness while making your own health choices. ✨Authentic Parenting: Being "messy and grey" instead of perfect to deepen your relationship.
About Our Guest: Dr. Emily Gordon is a licensed psychologist (MA, VT, CT, FL) specializing in adolescents, young adults, and eating disorder prevention.
Why "Just Say No" Doesn't Work with Teens: A Harm Reduction Crash Course | Teens: No Cap Ep. 37
08 avr. 2026
00:18:31
Happy Friday! In this episode of Teens No Cap, host and licensed mental health counselor Charity Chaffee dives deep into the "lens" she uses in her specific practice: Harm Reduction.
Many parents and providers struggle with the shift between childhood and teenhood, often defaulting to a demand for compliance. Charity explains why a "hard no" often backfires and how shifting the locus of control from compliance to support can actually keep your teen safer.
In this episode, we cover: 📌What Harm Reduction Is (and Isn't): It’s not about condoning high-risk behavior; it’s about safety, problem-solving, and keeping the conversation open. 📌The Power of 1%: How micro-changes and "analytical improvements" lead to long-term growth and success. 📌Autonomy vs. Secrecy: Why providing "scaffolding" prevents teens from "claming up" or engaging in dangerous behaviors in secret. 📌Radical Acceptance: Facing the reality of consequences (like STIs, pregnancy, or substance use) without living in a world of denial. 📌The Change Process: Understanding the cycles of collapse, learning, and growth.
"Your kid is going to fuck up. It’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when." Learn how to be the source of support they need when it happens.
Is it "all in their head," or is something else going on?
In this episode of Teens: No Cap, Charity Chaffee sits down with Destiny Davis, LPC, CRC, a specialist in counseling people with physical and mental disabilities. Together, they dive deep into the pervasive issue of chronic illness in teenagers—an often invisible struggle that is frequently misidentified as "just anxiety."
In this episode, we discuss: ✨The Diagnosis Gap: Why it takes an average of 7 to 10 years for many (especially females) to receive a proper diagnosis. ✨The Power of Validation: Why believing your teen’s symptoms (like chronic stomach pain) is the first step to preventing further trauma. ✨Parenting with Distress Tolerance: Learning how to manage your own fears so you can better advocate for your child in school and medical settings. ✨ACT for Chronic Illness: How Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps teens separate their identity from their symptoms and live a value-driven life. ✨Medical Gaslighting: Destiny shares her personal story of growing up with a parent dismissed by the medical system and how that shaped her career.
Valentine’s Day Special: The Myth of the High School Sweetheart | Teens: No Cap Ep.35
08 avr. 2026
00:21:14
Welcome to our Valentine's Day chat on all things teen relationships! Whether you are a parent supporting your teen's first relationship or navigating the preteen dating years, this episode is for you.
It can be tempting for parents to say, "No dating until college!". However, if teens don't date now, they often end up navigating their first serious relationships in college without the supervision, guidance, or feedback of a parent. In this episode, we discuss why teen relationships shouldn't be dismissed, but rather viewed as the groundwork and foundation for future adult relationships.
In This Episode, We Cover: ✨The Danger of Abstinence-Only Dating: Why forbidding teens from dating means they miss out on learning healthy dynamics while they still have a safety net. ✨The "Fall in Love and Be Done" Myth: How media like The Summer I Turned Pretty and My Life with the Walter Boys sets unrealistic expectations that love is simply found, rather than actively maintained. ✨Defining the Code Words: How to help teens break down vague words like "trust" into actionable concepts like consistency, transparency, and communication. ✨The Power of Neutrality: Why parents must remain neutral and curious, avoiding the trap of either demonizing a teen's partner or glorifying them as "perfect". ✨Teen Couples Counseling?: Why addressing conflict resolution, needs, and attachment in teen relationships could prevent them from routinely needing to heal trauma in their 20s and 30s.
Disability Neutrality & How to Advocate for Your Autistic Teen w/ Haley Moss | Teens: No Cap Ep.34
08 avr. 2026
00:51:03
In this powerful episode, Haley Moss—autistic attorney, author, and neurodiversity advocate—joins Teens Uncharted for a deep conversation about autism, neurodivergence, and supporting teens through self-discovery and advocacy.
We explore: 🔹 The pressure to constantly achieve and how to enjoy the journey 🔹 Navigating autism and neurodiversity in school, work, and relationships 🔹 Parenting teens with empathy, flexibility, and acceptance 🔹 Disability neutrality vs. the “superpower” narrative 🔹 How to advocate for yourself and your teen in IEP meetings and beyond 🔹 The importance of community, communication, and self-acceptance
Whether you’re a teen exploring your own neurodivergence, a parent learning how to support your child, or an educator wanting to create more inclusive spaces—this episode is packed with insight, validation, and hope.
Supporting Teens Who Don't Want to Go to College | Non-College Blueprint with Cathy Tallone Ep. 33
08 avr. 2026
00:52:10
What do you do when your teen says they don't want to go to college? In this episode, host Charity Chaffee talks with Cathy Tallone, founder of The Non-College Blueprint: Finding Futures That Fit. They discuss how to navigate this pivotal decision without shame, build a practical and fulfilling alternative path, and support your teen's confidence, values, and network.
Cathy shares her personal journey, the "stackable skills" approach, and actionable steps for parents feeling lost or anxious about their teen's future beyond traditional education.
In this episode, we cover: 🔹Why the "college or bust" mindset is outdated 🔹How to respond when your teen rejects the college path 🔹The 3 key pillars for building a non-college future: Values, Confidence, and Networking 🔹Real-world examples of alternative paths and "stackable skills" 🔹Reducing parent anxiety and rebuilding the parent-teen relationship around this choice
Connect with Cathy Tallone: Email: cathytallone@gmail.com Free Facebook Group: Non-College Teens Book a complimentary call or explore coaching packages
Timestamps: 00:00 Preview & Intro 01:05 Cathy’s Intro & The Non-College Blueprint 06:23 The Problem with the "College Blueprint" 11:10 Building a Bridge Instead of Shame 18:21 How Parents Should Respond 23:37 The 3 Pillars: Values, Confidence, Networking 34:50 Expanding Options Beyond Trades 44:27 A World of Opportunities Without a Degree 51:55 Purpose Building & The Boy Mom Perspective 55:50 How to Work with Cathy & Closing
GLP-1 Medications: Risks for Teens & Families | Part 1 w/ Dr. Emily Gordon | Teens No Cap Episode 32
08 avr. 2026
00:35:16
In this important first installment of a two-part series, Dr. Emily Gordon returns to Teens: No Cap to discuss the rise of GLP-1 medications and their impact on teen mental health, body image, and eating behaviors. We dive into the history of these drugs, their shift from diabetes treatment to widespread weight loss use, and the serious risks they pose for adolescent development.
🔍 In this episode, we cover: ➡️The origins of GLP-1 medications and how they work ➡️Why they are becoming so popular—and what’s being overlooked ➡️The dangers of malnutrition, emotional disconnection, and long-term health effects ➡️How teens and parents can navigate conversations about weight, medication, and self-worth ➡️The importance of slowing down and making informed decisions—not quick fixes
This conversation is essential for parents, caregivers, and anyone concerned about the mental and physical well-being of teens in today’s “quick-fix” culture. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive deeper into how to talk about food, body image, and self-acceptance.
👥 Guest: Dr. Emily Gordon 🎙 Host: Charity Chaffee, LMHC 📌 Episode: 32 | Teens No Cap
💬 Join the conversation in the comments below: Have you or your teen been affected by the rise of GLP-1 medications? What questions do you have about their use and impact?
📢 Subscribe and hit the bell 🔔 so you don’t miss Part 2 of this critical discussion!
Is Your Teen’s IEP Helping or Enabling? (Honest Talk with an Expert) | Teens: No Cap E31
08 avr. 2026
00:53:39
🤔 It's the tough question every parent and educator wrestles with: Is your teen's IEP setting them up for success, or is it holding them back?
In Episode 31 of Teens: No Cap, host Charity Chaffee sits down with Monica Trost—a school psychologist, educational psychologist, and parent advocate—for a raw, honest conversation about the fine line between support and enabling in special education.
We get real about: ✅ The purpose of an IEP & when it’s truly necessary ✅ How to tell if accommodations are helping vs. creating learned helplessness ✅ Empowering your teen to self-advocate in IEP meetings ✅ Navigating school avoidance with empathy & high expectations ✅ The emotional journey for parents—addressing grief, fear, and hope ✅ What doesn't belong in an IEP (and how to change it) ✅ Preparing your teen’s IEP for the transition to college
Monica shares her dual perspective as a professional in the system AND a mom of two children with disabilities, offering practical strategies and heartfelt clarity.
Stop the IEP Battles: Building Trust Between Parents & Schools w/ Gaby Diller | Teens: No Cap Ep 30
08 avr. 2026
00:43:41
Welcome back to Teens: No Cap! In this episode, your host Charity Chaffee sits down with Gaby Diller, founder of Lotus Advocacy, to dive deep into the world of IEPs, student-led meetings, and effective collaboration between families, schools, and providers.
We explore practical strategies for empowering students to take ownership of their education, how to foster productive partnerships with schools, and why including outside providers in IEP meetings can be a game-changer. Gaby also shares insights from her experience as a special educator, administrator, and advocate—and how she’s working to bridge gaps in the special education system.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, therapist, or advocate, this conversation is packed with actionable advice and a hopeful vision for creating supportive, transparent, and effective IEP teams.
Navigating the Teenage Winter Slump: New Year's Mental Health Strategies | Teens: No Cap Ep.29
08 avr. 2026
00:24:48
Welcome back to Teens Uncharted! 🎙️ I'm your host, Charity Chafee, LMHC, a teen specialist and licensed mental health counselor.
In this solo New Year's special, recorded on January 1st, 2026, we dive deep into why January through March is one of the most challenging times for teenagers. We discuss the perfect storm of post-holiday letdown, academic pressure, seasonal affective disorder, and few breaks.
In this episode, you'll learn: ➡️Why referrals for teen mental health services spike in January/February. ➡️How to reframe "New Year, New Me" goals into realistic, manageable plans for teens. ➡️The importance of letting teens lead the conversation about their struggles (and how to do it without invalidating them). ➡️A practical guide to implementing "Mental Health Days"—why they're crucial and how to structure them effectively with your teen. ➡️Preventative crisis planning: Why every teen and family should have a plan before a crisis hits. ➡️Creative, out-of-the-box coping skills for beating the winter blues.
Whether you're a parent, therapist, school counselor, social worker, or educator, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to support the teens in your life through the toughest stretch of the year.
🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell to get notified about our weekly episodes focused on teen mental health, parenting strategies, and professional insights!
📞 Need more support? Follow for more teen-focused mental health content. Professionals: Join our teen-focused case consultation groups.
⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction 01:43 - Why Jan-Feb-Mar is So Hard for Teens 06:06 - Rethinking New Year's Resolutions with Teens 10:28 - Letting Teens Lead the Conversation 14:36 - The Power of Mental Health Days 19:17 - School Support (IEPs/504s) & Seasonal Coping Skills 22:05 - MUST-HAVE: Preventative Crisis Planning 27:52 - Final Thoughts & Encouragement
💬 Connect with Teens Uncharted: Let us know what topics YOU want us to cover! Comment below.
Is My Teen Lazy or In Pain? Navigating Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) | Teens: No Cap Ep.28
08 avr. 2026
01:17:26
Is your teen constantly exhausted, struggling with joint pain, or labeled as "lazy"? In this episode of Teens Uncharted, host Charity Chaffee sits down with therapist and mom, Becky Shaulis, to discuss the complex reality of raising a teenager with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS).
Becky shares her personal journey of fighting for a diagnosis after realizing her daughter’s extreme flexibility and pain were not "normal". We dive deep into the intersection of chronic illness, medical gaslighting, and the mental health toll invisible illnesses take on teens.
In this episode, we cover: 🎧The Early Signs: How hyper-flexibility and "party tricks" can actually be symptoms of EDS. 🎧Lazy vs. Chronic Fatigue: Understanding that a teen sleeping after school might be physical survival, not a behavioral issue. 🎧Medical Gaslighting: The struggle to get doctors to listen when a teenager's pain is invisible. 🎧The Neurodivergent Link: The high correlation between EDS, ADHD, and Autism. 🎧Parenting Strategies: Why modeling rest and apologizing to your teen are crucial skills for parents of chronically ill kids.
Guest Information: Becky Shaulis is a licensed therapist in Texas and a mother navigating the world of EDS and neurodivergence. She specializes in trauma, ADHD, and supporting families through chronic pain journeys.
Autism in Teen Girls: Why They’re Misdiagnosed, Missed & Misunderstood | Teens No Cap Ep. 27
08 avr. 2026
00:46:56
In this powerful episode of Teens No Cap, host Charity Chafee sits down with Dr. Tabitha Hapeman, a neurodiversity-affirming psychiatric nurse practitioner, to explore how autism presents differently in teen girls—and why so many go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years.
We discuss: 🔍 Key differences between autism in boys vs. girls 🔍 The internalized shame and impact of late diagnosis 🔍 Why “masking” makes identification harder 🔍 How parents and providers can spot the signs earlier 🔍 Navigating new diagnoses with compassion and clarity 🔍 The importance of family scaffolding and neurodiversity-affirming care
If you’re a parent, provider, or teen wondering about autism, sensory sensitivities, social anxiety, or ARFID—this episode is for you.
Building a Coping Skills System That Actually Works | Teens No Cap Ep. 26
08 avr. 2026
00:24:42
Why do some teens master coping skills while others continue to struggle? The secret isn't the skill itself—it's the system around it. In this follow-up episode of Teens No Cap, host Charity Chaffee, a teen mental health specialist, provides a step-by-step clinical framework for building effective, lasting coping skills with high-risk teens.
Moving beyond the "try this" approach, this episode dives into the crucial groundwork that must happen before a skill is ever introduced. Learn how to assess readiness, align skills with a teen's unique sensory needs, and create a process that builds buy-in and self-awareness instead of resistance.
This episode is an essential guide for therapists, counselors, and dedicated parents who want to move from simply suggesting skills to collaboratively building a sustainable coping toolkit.
In this episode, you'll learn: 👉The critical first step (hint: it's NOT teaching a skill) based on the "Stages of Change." 👉How to assess a teen's sensory profile to find skills that actually feel helpful. 👉A harm-reduction approach to brainstorming all coping options—without demonizing current behaviors. 👉How to implement a "feedback loop" to evaluate what’s working and what isn’t. 👉Why neutrality and curiosity are your most powerful tools when a teen discloses self-harm or other risky behaviors. 👉An 8-step framework to transform coping skills from a random suggestion into an integrated system.
If you're ready to stop throwing coping skills at the wall and start building a web of support that truly holds, this episode is for you.
Want to connect or have questions? Reach out to Charity Chaffee, LMHC - Teen Mental Health Specialist, Therapist, Coach, Consultant, and Speaker. www.teensuncharted.com www.raisingvibrance.com @teens.uncharted
Subscribe for more unfiltered conversations on navigating the world of teen mental health.
Coping Skills Aren't Magic: What Parents & Providers Need to Know | Teens No Cap Ep. 25
08 avr. 2026
00:47:43
Struggling to get through to a teenager about coping skills? You're not alone. In this episode of Teens No Cap, host Charity Chaffee, a teen mental health specialist, dives deep into why the common advice to "just use your coping skills" often fails and can even damage trust and connection.
We'll unpack what coping skills truly are (and what they are NOT), how to match the right skill to the real need, and why co-regulation with a calm adult is far more powerful than sending a dysregulated teen away to "fix" themselves. This episode is a must-listen for parents, therapists, and anyone supporting a high-risk teen who feels burned out by traditional skills-based approaches.
In this episode, you'll learn: ➡️The real goal of coping skills (it's not what you think). ➡️Why high-risk teens are often resistant to coping skills. ➡️How to avoid "coping skill burnout" and rebuild a positive association. ➡️What to say INSTEAD of "Go use your skills." ➡️The crucial role of connection and co-regulation. ➡️How to build a "coping menu" that actually works.
If you've ever felt like you're just throwing coping skills at a problem with no results, this episode will give you a new framework and practical strategies to help the teen in your life effectively manage big emotions.
Want to connect or have questions? Reach out to Charity Chaffee, LMHC - Teen Mental Health Specialist, Therapist, Coach, Consultant, and Speaker. www.teensuncharted.com www.raisingvibrance.com
Subscribe for more unfiltered conversations on navigating the world of teen mental health.
Harm Reduction for High-Risk Teens: A Therapist's Approach | Teens: No Cap Ep. 24
08 avr. 2026
00:26:42
In this episode of Teens: No Cap, host Charity Chaffee—a teen mental health specialist—dives deep into the philosophy of harm reduction and why it's a game-changer for engaging high-risk teens in therapy. Learn why traditional methods like strict "no-harm contracts" can often backfire, and how meeting teens where they are with curiosity and neutrality can build trust and save lives.
Charity breaks down: 🤔 Why "resistance" is just data, not defiance 🧩 How harm reduction lowers barriers to treatment 🚫 The difference between harm reduction and enabling 🧠 Practical strategies to center a teen's voice and build buy-in 🎬 Even a Disney analogy (hello, Ariel!) to illustrate her points
If you're a parent, therapist, or anyone working with teenagers, this episode is packed with insights to transform your approach.
Want more? Have questions? Drop them in the comments below!
👉 Follow Teens Uncharted for more raw and real conversations about teen mental health.
Timestamps: 00:00 Intro & What is Harm Reduction? 02:52 The Problem with "They Just Need DBT" 08:38 Harm Reduction as Long-Term Protection 12:49 The Power of Curiosity Over Demonization 17:55 Resistance is Data, Not a Bad Thing 19:13 Harm Reduction vs. Enabling 25:34 A Real-World Story from Community Mental Health 30:08 Wrap-Up & How to Learn More
Therapy with Resistant Teens, Pride Flags in Session & Letting Teens Make Mistakes | Ep.23
08 avr. 2026
00:35:05
Welcome back to Teens No Cap! I'm your host, Charity Chaffee, a licensed mental health counselor specializing in high-risk teens and young adults. In this episode, I'm switching it up and diving into your questions from Reddit!
We're tackling three big topics that every teen therapist and parent needs to hear: ➡️ What to do when your teen client is quiet, resistant, or just "unimpressed" with therapy. ➡️ How to respond when a client says your Pride flag is a "symbol of hate." ➡️ My top advice for parents and providers: Why you need to let teens make mistakes and "pick the hills you want to die on."
If you're a mental health provider working with teens or a parent of a teenager, this episode is packed with real-world strategies and heartfelt insights to help you build better connections.
LINKS & RESOURCES: 👉 Want to join the Teens Uncharted membership for providers? DM me on Instagram or email me! 👉 Follow me on Instagram: @teens.uncharted 👉 Visit my website: www.teensuncharted.com
Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 01:13 Reddit Post #1: Tips for Working with Quiet Teens 08:08 Reddit Post #2: Pride Flag in the Therapy Room 15:09 Reddit Post #3: Help with an Unwilling Teen Client 23:08 What's On My Mind: Letting Teens Make Mistakes 38:20 Wrap-Up & How to Join Our Community
Teens in Crisis: A Therapist Analyzes 4 Desperate Parent Stories | Teens: No Cap Ep.22
08 avr. 2026
00:29:12
In this powerful episode of Teens No Cap, host and teen mental health specialist Charity Chaffee dives into four raw and emotional Reddit posts from parents at their wits' end. We explore the real, complex challenges of raising teenagers today, including:
🔍 A teen who acts completely different with her mom than with her dad—is it manipulation or a cry for help? 🚨 A daughter trapped in a toxic home environment with her father, leading to police involvement and juvenile detention. 💬 A tense mother-daughter conversation about homelessness and financial anxiety that may have gone too far. 🏥 A desperate mother seeking advice after her daughter's suicide attempt and a new diagnosis of CPTSD and ADHD.
Charity breaks down each situation with empathy and expertise, emphasizing that "behavior is communication" and offering actionable advice on: ➡️Collaborating with your teen's therapist ➡️The importance of emotional safety ➡️Considering intensive treatment and residential programs ➡️How to navigate tough conversations without triggering your teen
If you're a parent, guardian, or professional working with teens, this episode offers invaluable insights, hope, and a reminder that you are not alone.
Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Happy Friday! 01:10 Story 1: "My daughter is manipulating me." 05:20 Behavior is Communication 07:43 Story 2: "Advice on removing teen from father's house." 12:51 The Importance of Safety & Intensive Treatment 17:08 Story 3: "Did I take a conversation too far?" 19:40 Navigating Tough Topics with Teens 23:35 Story 4: "I'm so desperate to help my daughter." 28:47 Advocacy, Treatment Options, and Hope 33:30 Wrap-up & Self-Care Reminder
Breaking the Hospitalization Cycle: Supporting High-Risk Teens | Teen: No Cap Ep.21
08 avr. 2026
00:54:33
What do you do when a teen is stuck in a cycle of repeated hospitalizations, self-harm, and suicidal ideation? In this powerful episode, I'm joined by Katie K. May, LCSW, a renowned expert in working with high-risk teens and their families. We dive deep into why the "revolving door" of inpatient stays often fails to create lasting healing and can even increase a teen's vulnerability.
Katie shares her transformative approach that focuses on building safety, trust, and real-world coping skills outside of a hospital setting. We discuss: 🔹 Why behavior (even self-harm) is communication and how to respond to it as data, not a crisis. 🔹 The critical role parents play and how to support them without triggering shame. 🔹 Moving beyond "safety contracts" to effective harm reduction and distress tolerance. 🔹 How to manage clinician and parent anxiety to break the hospitalization cycle. 🔹 The importance of a "no secrets" policy to build trust with both teens and parents.
If you're a therapist looking for confidence in supporting high-risk teens, or a parent feeling lost and hopeless after multiple treatment attempts, this episode is packed with practical strategies and a renewed sense of hope.
Are Teens "Reliable Reporters"? | Navigating Family Narratives&Toxic Positivity | Ep.20
08 avr. 2026
00:25:59
Is your teen's version of events always different from yours? In this episode of Teens: No Cap, host Charity Chaffee, a licensed mental health counselor, dives into the concept of the "reliable reporter" in family systems. We explore why it's less about who is "right" or "wrong" and more about creating a "shared narrative" that validates every family member's experience.
Charity discusses: ➡️Why dismissing a teen's perspective can be damaging. ➡️How to move from conflict to collaboration by embracing the "gray area." ➡️The difference between supportive cheerleading and "toxic positivity." ➡️Practical steps for therapists and parents to help teens feel seen, heard, and understood.
If you're navigating the challenges of parenting a teenager or supporting them in a therapeutic setting, this episode offers a fresh, compassionate framework for building connection and understanding.
Let's Connect! Have thoughts or questions? Drop a comment below!
Prioritizing Teen Mental Health Over Everything: Teens: No Cap Ep. 19
08 avr. 2026
00:25:48
In this powerful episode for Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, host Charity Chaffee delivers a crucial message every parent needs to hear. We tackle the hard truth: prioritizing a teen's grades, sports, and activities over their mental health can have devastating consequences.
Charity, a teen mental health specialist, explains why we must stop waiting for teens to hit "rock bottom" before getting help, how to talk openly about suicide without fear, and why therapy should be a preventative tool for every family. She also provides actionable advice for parents on finding the right therapist, implementing mental health days, and advocating for your child's well-being above all else.
This is more than a podcast episode; it's a wake-up call and a guide to saving lives.
Key Discussion Points: *Why we must normalize conversations about teen suicide *The dangers of dismissing mental health concerns as "not that bad." *How to choose a therapist skilled in handling high-risk teens. *Implementing structured "mental health days" effectively. *Shifting the family priority from achievement to wellness.
If this conversation resonates with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with another parent who needs to hear it. Your support helps us spread this life-saving information.
Timestamp Guide: 00:01 - Introduction & Topic Overview 02:20 - The Danger of "Is It Really That Bad?" 04:43 - Suicide as a Leading Cause of Death 07:30 - Prioritizing Mental Health Over Activities 10:29 - A Message to Therapists Working with Teens 15:08 - A Parent's Guide to a Suicidal Teen 17:57 - The Infection Analogy: Treat Early 20:15 - How to Implement Mental Health Days 25:01 - Treatment Modalities & Finding the Right Therapist 27:30 - Closing Thoughts & Resources
Subscribe to Teens: No Cap for more honest conversations about supporting teenagers.
No Friends, Sex, and Running Away | Reddit Chaos | Teens: No Cap Ep.18
08 avr. 2026
00:36:46
Struggling with your teenager? In this episode of Teens: No Cap, licensed mental health counselor and teen specialist Charity Chaffee tackles your toughest Reddit parenting questions! From social struggles and secret relationships to defiance at home, we're diving deep into the chaos of raising teens.
We cover: - What to do when your teen has no close friends (00:01) - How to handle your teen's request for NO photos on social media (08:52) - How to approach your teen about sex & safety (without shaming them) (12:53) - Setting boundaries with an 18-year-old who refuses to help around the house (26:58) - What it means when your teen says they want to move far away (33:31) - How to get a defiant child to take responsibility for their actions (37:56)
Charity provides actionable advice, therapeutic insights, and compassionate strategies to help you connect with your teen and navigate these challenging years.
Teen Therapy Standoff: How to Connect with a "Resistant" Teen Who Won't Talk | Teens: No Cap Ep.17
08 avr. 2026
00:14:25
Struggling with a teen client who refuses to talk? You're not alone. In this episode, we're tackling one of the biggest challenges for teen therapists and parents: what to do when a teen shuts down.
I'm sharing the top 5 practical, validating strategies you probably never learned in grad school to de-escalate tension, build trust, and create a safe space for even the most resistant teens. Learn how to move beyond the pressure to "just get them to talk" and instead, foster a genuine connection that leads to real progress.
In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ What to NEVER say to a shut-down teen (and why it backfires). ✅ 5 actionable techniques to use in the moment: validation, reassurance, acknowledgment, and more. ✅ How to navigate parent pressure and teen confidentiality without breaking trust. ✅ Why forcing therapy often does more harm than good and what to do instead. ✅ How to address a teen's deep-seated fears about therapy (from confidentiality to real-world consequences).
This is essential viewing for any mental health professional working with adolescents, parents of teens, or anyone looking to better support the young people in their life.
👉 Want more support? Join our FREE community for clinicians dedicated to mastering teen therapy! Connect with like-minded professionals and get ongoing support. https://www.skool.com/teens-uncharted
Timestamps: 0:00 - The 5 Things Grad School Never Taught You 1:16 - The #1 Question in Therapist Groups 1:40 - What NOT To Do 2:15 - Strategy 1: Validate 2:37 - Strategy 2: Provide Reassurance 3:09 - Strategy 3: Acknowledge the Silence 3:35 - Strategy 4: Change the Subject 4:25 - Strategy 5: Offer a Game or Activity 5:09 - The Power of Perspective 6:20 - What to Do When a Teen Doesn't Want Therapy 12:23 - The Importance of Consultation & Community
Subscribe for more real-world strategies on teen therapy, business tips for your practice, and insights you won't find in a textbook.
Replying to Your Reddit Threads on Teens & Parenting | Teens: No Cap Ep 16
08 avr. 2026
00:14:48
Chaos before coffee! Join teen therapist and specialist Charity Chaffee as she answers your Reddit questions with her signature no-nonsense, expert advice. In this episode, she tackles three big parenting dilemmas:
Piercings & Permission: What to do when one parent says "yes" to a 14-year-old's belly button piercing and the other isn't so sure. Charity breaks down the real questions to ask beyond just age.
Family vs. Freedom: A 13-year-old doesn't want to spend a whole week at grandma's house over summer. Is a week too long? Should you force it? Charity offers a controversial take on respecting a teen's voice and time.
The "Lazy" Teen Eater: A 15-year-old stepson won't make his own breakfast or lunch during summer break. Is it laziness, anxiety, or something else? Learn why jumping to conclusions is a mistake and how to start a productive conversation.
Get practical strategies focused on curiosity, communication, and collaboration instead of control. It's all about understanding the why behind teen behavior.