Being a teenager is one of the most difficult stages of life. Hormones are raging as teenagers look and search aimlessly for instant satisfaction. Sometimes looking in the wrong place for answers to countless questions. Applying social and educational skills learned as a teenager can bring maturity as well as steps into adulthood for any teen. However, in this modern time there are many troubled teens that need guidance and counseling in order to find the right path. Sometimes the worldly temptations or peer pressures may be great and the risks irrevocable.
In this day and age, where single parenthood is the norm, or emotionally abused teenagers living in a dysfunctional family is not unheard of. The devastating reality is most teens are uninformed of their choices. They may not realize they are in trouble. In fact, it can be difficult to find solutions without first assessing the whole family dynamic even for a trained professional. Thus understanding and bridging these gaps are some of the aspects a Counselor can bring to light. Sometimes family counseling or one on one meetings may well be worth the time. This is where At Risk Teens Consultant take the wheel.
An “At Risks Teen Consultant” is mainly responsible for guidance and support to families along with their teens by providing options and alternatives. Research has shown one of the reasons teens are at risk is due to a sense of hopelessness with no apparent or obvious alternatives in their future. They may feel the need to quantify their worth by dropping out of school. There may be instances when a teenager will rebel the system or house rules by acting out. The Public School System may offer some reprieve with troubled teens however, the school system must also provide guidance counselors that can effectively take on those responsibilities. Families can be at a loss and welcome this into their lives.
Some successful Consultants utilize their years of knowledge by providing families with options when faced with dilemmas. Some alternatives may be a special school that is better equipped to deal with some troubled teens. They may offer various after school programs that can eventually re-habilitate the teenager. Some of these programs at various institutions can be federally funded. The services and support provided by the At Risk Teen Counselor can include one on one counseling with the trouble teenager. Therefore with the right applications and research, the teen can enroll in any of the programs for free. A Consultant will be knowledgeable about any and all opportunities in their city. Whether it’s privately funded or a federally funded program it’s a service a Consultant offers with their knowledge and research. Teenagers can benefit from these programs when they are guided in the right direction.
In order to become an At Risk Teen’s Consultant, a degree in Psychology or Family therapy is ideal. However other alternative backgrounds can be desirable. Having a background in social work will make research into federally funded programs that much easier. Some out of town travel may be necessary but not mandatory. It all depends on the institution one chooses to work with. The pay scale will vary from state to state but an average would represent a starting salary of $55,000 up to $135,000 a year. This is based on experience and work history.
