rockwall counselor

Teen Stress Is Real: How to Support Your Teen’s Mental Health

Is your teen feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or withdrawn? You’re not alone.

Teenagers today face an incredible amount of pressure—from academic expectations and social media to friendship dynamics and personal identity struggles. As parents, it can be heartbreaking to watch your child struggle, especially when they don’t always open up about what’s going on.

If you’ve noticed changes in your teen’s mood, behavior, or overall well-being, it may be time to offer extra support.

Understanding Teen Stress

The teenage years are a time of growth and change, but they can also be filled with uncertainty and emotional ups and downs. Some of the most common stressors for teens today include:

📌 Academic Pressure – The push for good grades, college acceptance, and extracurricular success can feel overwhelming.

📌 Social Media & Comparison – Teens are constantly connected, often feeling pressured to live up to unrealistic online expectations.

📌 Friendship & Peer Challenges – Navigating friendships, bullying, and social status can create anxiety and self-doubt.

📌 Family Changes & Conflict – Divorce, blended family dynamics, or household stress can deeply impact a teen’s emotional health.

📌 Identity & Self-Esteem – Figuring out who they are and where they fit in the world can be confusing and stressful.

Signs Your Teen May Be Struggling

Every teen handles stress differently, but here are some common signs that may indicate they need additional support:

🔹 Increased anxiety or excessive worry
🔹 Frequent mood swings or irritability
🔹 Changes in sleep or appetite
🔹 Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
🔹 Withdrawal from family or friends
🔹 Negative self-talk or low self-esteem

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy provides a safe, supportive space where teens can process emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and build confidence. At Rockwall Counseling & Wellness, we help teens:

✔ Manage anxiety & stress in a healthy way
✔ Develop self-esteem & resilience
✔ Navigate friendship & family challenges
✔ Set boundaries with social media
✔ Express emotions in a safe, constructive way

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

As a parent, your support is crucial—but sometimes, an outside perspective can make all the difference. If your teen is struggling, we’re here to help. Our licensed therapists specialize in working with teens and their families to create lasting, positive change.

📍 In-person & virtual therapy available
📞 Call us today: 972-742-7038
🌐 Schedule at rockwallcounselingandwellness.com

Your teen’s mental health matters. Let’s take the next step together.

Finding Strength and Support After Divorce

Divorce is one of life’s biggest pivots—whether it’s fresh or years behind you, the impact lingers in ways you may not have expected. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Our counseling support group at Rockwall Counseling and Wellness is a space for women to connect, heal, and grow alongside others who truly understand.

In this group, you’ll find:

  • Connection – Meet other women who share similar experiences and can offer support, encouragement, and perspective.

  • Healing Tools – Gain practical strategies to process emotions, rebuild confidence, and move forward with clarity.

  • A Safe Space – Share openly without judgment, knowing you’re surrounded by people who get it.

Your story isn’t over—this is just a new chapter. Join us at Rockwall Counseling and Wellness and take the next step toward healing and empowerment. You deserve support, and we’re here for you.

For more information or to sign up, contact Ashley Guynes at Ashley@Rockwallcw.com.

EMDR or Brainspotting?

Understanding the Differences Between EMDR and Brainspotting

When it comes to trauma-focused therapy, two highly effective approaches often come up: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting (BSP). While both are designed to help individuals process unresolved trauma and emotional pain, they differ in their methodology and therapeutic approach. Understanding these differences can help you determine which might be the best fit for you or your clients.

What is EMDR?

EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy developed in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro. It helps individuals process distressing memories through guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation (such as tapping or auditory tones).

How EMDR Works:

  1. Targeting Specific Memories: EMDR focuses on identifying a specific traumatic memory.

  2. Bilateral Stimulation: The therapist guides the client in eye movements or tapping, which helps reduce the emotional charge of the memory.

  3. Reprocessing: Through this process, the memory becomes less distressing and more integrated into the individual’s overall understanding.

EMDR is highly structured, following an eight-phase protocol, and is supported by extensive research for treating PTSD, anxiety, and other trauma-related disorders.

What is Brainspotting?

Brainspotting is a newer therapeutic approach, developed by David Grand in 2003. It is based on the concept that where you look affects how you feel. Unlike EMDR, which uses external stimuli, Brainspotting taps into the brain’s natural capacity for self-healing by focusing on an internal felt sense.

How Brainspotting Works:

  1. Locating the Brainspot: The therapist helps the client identify a “brainspot,” or an eye position that correlates with a specific emotional or somatic response.

  2. Deep Processing: Clients focus on their internal experience while maintaining the eye position, allowing the brain to access and process the trauma.

  3. Non-Directive Approach: Brainspotting is less structured than EMDR, allowing the process to unfold organically.

Brainspotting is particularly effective for clients who may struggle with the structured nature of EMDR or have difficulty verbalizing their experiences.

Key Differences Between EMDR and Brainspotting

  1. Structure:

    • EMDR follows a detailed protocol, ideal for clients who need clear guidance.

    • Brainspotting is more fluid and adaptable, offering a client-led experience.

  2. Focus:

    • EMDR actively targets specific memories and reprocesses them with bilateral stimulation.

    • Brainspotting explores deeper emotional and somatic responses, allowing the body to guide healing.

  3. Methodology:

    • EMDR involves external stimuli (eye movements, tapping, tones).

    • Brainspotting uses sustained eye positions and internal awareness.

  4. Client Preference:

    • Some clients may prefer the structured approach of EMDR, while others feel more comfortable with the less directive nature of Brainspotting.

Meet Our Therapists

At Rockwall Counseling and Wellness, we are proud to offer both EMDR and Brainspotting therapies through our dedicated team:

Each of our therapists is committed to helping clients heal from trauma, reduce anxiety, and regain a sense of well-being.

Which Therapy is Right for You?

Both EMDR and Brainspotting are powerful tools for trauma recovery and emotional healing. The choice between them often depends on your personal preferences, needs, and goals. Consulting with a trained therapist can help you explore which approach might be most effective for your unique journey.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists and take the next step toward healing.

Counselor Spotlight - Piper Williams, LPC

THIS WEEK ON THE BLOG…

Rockwall Counseling and Wellness would love for you to get to know Piper Williams, LPC. After taking time away from the mental health field to raise her children, Piper proudly works with teenage girls and women to help them rediscover their worth. We are so thankful for her expertise and passion. If you’re interested in booking a session with Piper, please click the link at the bottom of the page.

Tell us a little about your journey to becoming a counselor. Where did you go to school? What are your degrees in? Are you originally from the Rockwall area?

I am originally from San Antonio and attended school at Texas Tech and UH Clear Lake. Although I worked in the mental health field for many years prior to having a family, after achieving my masters in counseling, I decided to take time to raise our children and did not return to counseling until about 10 years ago. It is so rewarding and I’m so glad I did!

What type of therapy are you most passionate about? Why?

I am passionate about helping teen girls and women find their purpose in life, especially those that struggle with depression, anxiety and low self-worth. I struggled with those things myself as a teen and have found myself having come full circle now that I have the blessing to serve my clients

If you could have any job besides the one you have now, what would you want to be doing?

Own a ranch and lots of animals!

What do you feel the biggest struggle facing your clients is?

Many of the clients I serve don’t know who they really are, what their gifts are, or where their identity lies. I have found that once I help a client to identify those, they SOAR!

What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self?

God has a purpose for your life. Just trust in Him.

Are you a dog person or a cat person?

Dog! We have two and I can’t imagine my life without them. I am also a horse person. My horse, Teddy is 30 years old and we spend time together daily

What’s your favorite place to go out to eat in Rockwall?

Zanata's

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love taking walks with my husband. We try to do that almost every day. I treasure it.

What’s your favorite time of year?

Summer! I love it because I can see my kids more, and I love the hot weather.

What is your favorite place to visit?

I took each of our teenage kids on separate occasions on a spontaneous trip to NYC last year... only 2-3 days but it was lots of fun and such an adventure!

If you could have dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be and why?

I would love to meet actress, Jennifer Garner. Supposedly we look alike, but more importantly, I love her personality and the character roles she plays


Counselor Spotlight: Kristen Velasquez, LPC

this week on the blog…

We are excited to introduce you to Kristen Velasquez, LPC. Born and raised in Alabama, Kristen moved to the Rockwall area in 2018. Kristen is passionate about working with women, couples and families who are looking to strengthen their family dynamic. We are so thankful for her expertise and hard work! We hope you’ll take the time to get to know her a little more.

Tell us a little about your journey to becoming a counselor. Where did you go to school? What are your degrees in? Are you originally from the Rockwall area?

I decided to pursue counseling after taking just one psychology class in college! I got my graduate degree at Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN, but I grew up in Alabama. My husband and I met in Dallas in 2014, and we moved to Rockwall in 2018.

What type of therapy are you most passionate about? Why?

I feel a special draw towards perinatal women and couples/family relationships!

If you could have any job besides the one you have now, what would you want to be doing?

I truly can’t see myself in any other field! If I wasn’t doing this I would probably want to just stay at home with my children.

What do you feel the biggest struggle facing your clients is?

Right now, the biggest struggle may be accessibility and affordability of therapy. We live in very tough times and the healthcare system doesn’t always make it easy to get therapy quickly or affordably, and insurance panels are difficult to work with for a lot of therapists, which leads them not to want to accept insurance.

Who in your life do you most look up to? Why?

I look up to my grandmother! There has never existed a more patient woman.

What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self?

It’s okay if people don’t like you, and you don’t have to change yourself or pretend like you don’t need what you need in order to get people to stick around.

What would you say to someone who is considering starting therapy, but doesn’t know if it’s worth the time or money?

I would tell them that therapy is like taking your car to the shop. You do it for an oil change and you do it after a wreck. Both times, it’s worth the money and effort

Are you a dog person or a cat person?

I am an animal person! I have always had both dogs and cats in my home!

Do pineapples belong on pizza?

Pineapples do not belong on pizza, no. I can’t imagine a greater assault to my pizza taste buds!

What’s your favorite place to go out to eat in Rockwall?

My husband and I love Ramen Head in the square!

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time I like to exercise or read! My husband and I have done kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu together.

What’s your favorite time of year?

My favorite time of year is Fall because it starts a series of really happy times for me! My birthday and wedding anniversary are both in October (yay gifts!), then Halloween and October leads into Thanksgiving, which leads into Christmas and New Years. Just really great memories for this time of year for me!

Tell us a little about your family.

I have been with my husband since 2014! We met at an MMA gym and continue to exercise together. I have two daughters, Lily (4) and Camilla (2), and I gave birth to my son in July of this year!

What is your favorite place to visit?

My favorite place to visit is Alabama, as that is where most of my family of origin lives.

If you could have dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be and why?

I would have to say Jesus! I believe the world today needs clarification on a few things and I’d like to ask him about that

Are you more introverted, extroverted, or a mixture of both?

I am an extroverted introvert! I am mostly happy to keep to myself and my small family, but I do crave social interaction at times!


Counselor Spotlight - Ryann Rich LPC-Associate, Supervised by Lauren Coats LPC-S

this week on the blog…

We would love to introduce you to Ryann Rich one of the LPC-Associates here at Rockwall Counseling and Wellness. Ryann is being supervised during her work by our owner, Lauren Coats, LPC-S. We are so honored Ryann has chosen to do this work with us, and we know she is a wonderful asset to our team. 

Tell us a little about your journey to becoming a counselor. Where did you go to school? What are your degrees in? Are you originally from the Rockwall area?

Becoming a counselor was something I always knew I wanted accomplish and being a part of the helping field was a non-negotiable for me. I am so passionate about my job and could not imagine being in any other occupation😊 I got my Bachelors of Science degree in Rehabilitation Services at Stephen F. Austin State University, and completed my Masters of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The University of North Texas at Dallas shortly after. I was born and raised in Rockwall, (JFND!!!) and am currently residing in Uptown, Dallas!

What type of therapy are you most passionate about? Why?

I am most passionate about working with teens and young adults. I have worked with all ages and welcome anyone who is seeking out counseling for the betterment of their mental health!

If you could have any job besides the one you have now, what would you want to be doing?

I would probably be working with the special needs population in some form or fashion. I was raised with my special needs older brother, Andrew, and have been employed with rehabilitation centers of mentally disabled adults while in graduate school, which is something I enjoyed tremendously. I have so much love for these people and would be happy working with them as a career!

Who in your life do you most look up to? Why?

I look up to my mom and sister the most. They are both amazing role models not only through their Christian faith, but in many other aspects as well. My mom has always been my rock throughout my life, and my sister’s strength is something I have always admired. I am extremely blessed with an amazing and close-knit family who I feel constant support from!

What would you say to someone who is considering starting therapy, but doesn’t know if it’s worth the time or money?

I think everyone can benefit from going to counseling at least once in their life. It is an investment in yourself and can help you in so many ways. I recommend it to anyone and everyone 😊

Are you a dog person or a cat person?

Dog person 100% (I am biased to Basset Hounds specifically)

Do pineapples belong on pizza?

Unfortunately, I cannot get behind this idea!

What’s your favorite place to go out to eat in Rockwall?

Either Edo Japan for sushi, Joe Willies, Zanata or Chiloso, of course!

What do you like to do in your free time?

I would consider myself to be a social butterfly, so I love to spend time with my friends, family, and boyfriend. I also love crafting and photography 😊

What’s your favorite time of year?

I love all season except when it is 30 degrees outside – Texas girl through and through!

Tell us a little about your family.

My family consists of my mom (Lisa), brother (Andrew), sister (Darby), brother-in-law (Marco), my sweet baby niece (Richie), and one nephew on the way (Name is TBD)! My dad passed away from cancer when I was 18 - I always want to include him, because he was such an amazing dad, a huge part of my life, and a big reason why I am a therapist today!

What is your favorite place to visit?

Any beach!!!

If you could have dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be and why?

I would choose my late dad - I would love to catch him up on life since he has been gone and give him the biggest hug imaginable. Can’t wait for that reunion one day!

Are you more introverted, extroverted, or a mixture of both?

Definitely extroverted 😊