What happens when a therapist who supports adolescents through their hardest moments faces a crisis in her own family?
In this episode of Strong Voices, therapist Sarah Weaver, LPC, shares her deeply personal journey navigating her daughter’s mental health crisis. Drawing on her experience as both a mental health professional and a parent, Sarah offers an honest look at the challenges families face when a young person is struggling.
Together, they discuss how parents can recognize warning signs, respond to difficult conversations, and create a safe space for teens to share what they are experiencing. Sarah also explores the importance of self-compassion, finding support for caregivers, maintaining healthy boundaries, and remembering that a crisis affects the entire family.
Content note: This episode discusses adolescent mental health challenges, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and family crisis.
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In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- Recognizing potential warning signs when a teen is struggling
- Building trust and encouraging open, nonjudgmental communication
- Navigating difficult decisions during a family crisis
- Supporting siblings and other family members
- Finding support for yourself while caring for your child
- Why connection, compassion, and patience matter
Sarah Weaver is a therapist, speaker, and founder of 11;11 Healing. Her experience spans juvenile justice, group practice, and behavioral health, with specialized training in trauma-informed care and violence prevention.
Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or professional who works with young people, this conversation offers meaningful perspective on supporting teens through difficult seasons and building stronger family connections.