Teens today report more pressure to perform than ever, and struggle to ask for help because of a belief that “other people don’t struggle this much”. School and societal expectations, including the challenges of social media create an often toxic mix of worry about success, fear of disappointment, and all-or-nothing thinking. In this presentation parents and guardians will learn about the “Myth of Success”, the impact of different types of perfectionism, and strategies for pushing back on the narrative that a brand-name college and a high paying career are the only markers of success. Adults will learn steps they can take to help manage their own worries about their children’s success. This presentation also provides additional guidance on how to identify when to reach out for extra support to address stress and anxiety.
This program is geared toward parents/caregivers of kids who are 10 and up. Light refreshments will be served.
Presenter Anne Baker has over 15 years of experience working with teens and young adults. She attained her LMHC in New York in 2011. Prior to starting private practice in 2014 she worked in various settings including as a school based counselor in urban high schools in Boston and Schenectady and as as clinician within the Massachusetts Juvenile Justice System. She maintains a solo practice in Ballston Spa with a focus on anxiety, perfectionism, and LGBTQUIA+ clients. She is also a Faculty Liaison for St. Rose's Mental Health Counseling program. She began giving presentations on perfectionism and teens in 2023.