E9: Unmasking Back-to-School with Tessa Knickerbocker, LPC: Supporting Adolescent Mental Health through Open Communication and Understanding vs. Fear

Summary In this episode, Cindy and Sarah interview Tessa Knickerbocker, a middle school and high school teacher, counselor, and parent. They discuss the challenges and joys of parenting adolescents and the importance of supporting their mental health. Tessa emphasizes the need for curiosity over judgment when understanding and guiding adolescents. She also highlights the significance of creating a safe space for kids to express their emotions and helping them navigate social pressures. Tessa shares her personal experiences and insights as both an educator and a parent. In this conversation, Cindy, Sarah, and Tessa discuss parenting during the middle and high school years. They talk about the importance of allowing children to be themselves and not imposing unnecessary expectations. They also discuss the challenges of social media and offer advice on how to navigate it. The conversation emphasizes the importance of open communication, understanding, and creating a safe space for children to express themselves.