Puberty & teen issues
Viveka has a team of specialists who are very experienced with teenagers. Our aim is to guide young people through this phase of life, helping them to feel self-aware and confident, and make healthy choices. We work with individual young people and with family groups.
The teenage years may involve challenges inside and outside the family. Some common challenges include pressure from school and peers; family conflict or parental break-up; low body image, eating or weight issues; uncertainty about sexuality; and dilemmas posed by alcohol, cigarette and drugs.
For girls in puberty, gynaecologist Dr Rashna Chenoy and GP Dr Laila Kaikavoosi offer sensitive consultations, including sexual health advice.
Medical treatment will be tailored accordingly. Our doctors provide the HPV vaccination to prevent cancer of the cervix; and are here to talk about contraception.
Additional emotional advice and support may come from psychotherapist Kitty Hagenbach, or Ann Herreboudt, who is a counsellor and family therapist: both have teenage children. We also have a hypnotherapist. Consultations are confidential. Many young people are pleased to have a 'safe place' to air their thoughts and to thrash out troubling feelings. It often boosts self-esteem and improves relationships. We also offer family consultations and sometimes find that the teenage years provide a wonderful opportunity to deepen bonding between parent and child.
Complementary therapists at Viveka are experienced working with young people to address a huge range of issues. If you are unsure which therapy may suit you we will give you advice, matching you with a specialist who we think you'll get on well with. Homeopathy and cranial osteopathy are particularly powerful for teenagers. Our nutritionists are used to dealing with eating issues in the teenage years.
Lifestyle support is also available.
