Adolescents present unique challenges, but also unique opportunities. After almost 30 years experience working with this population, there aren't many situations I haven't encountered. There is always reason for hope. What your therapist expects influences the outcomes. As a behavioral optimist, I approach clients I work with believing that no one wants to be miserable. We all want to reach our potential, as children, adolescents, parents, families, members of a community. Every living, breathing person, whatever their age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or place in life, is capable of change. That is a firm belief of mine.