Ep.54 Connecting to Teens Through Curiosity : A Conversation with Joshua De La Cruz

In this episode, I sit down with Joshua De La Cruz, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, to talk about what teens are really facing in today’s digital world. We explore everything from video game overuse to the deeper emotional needs underneath behavior, and how parents can show up with more curiosity, authenticity, and compassion. Josh shares practical insight on building stronger relationships with teens and creating spaces where they feel seen, understood, and supported. If you’d like to connect with Josh or learn more about his work, you can visit www.delacruztherapy.com.

Takeaways:

Joshua De La Cruz is passionate about supporting teens.

Video game addiction is a common issue among teens.

Building connections with youth requires compassion and curiosity.

Understanding the underlying needs behind addiction is crucial.

Parents often seek therapy out of desperation.

Creating a safe space for teens to express themselves is vital.

The importance of creativity in youth cannot be overlooked.

Relationships with young clients can be deeply impactful.

Parents should approach their teens with authenticity and humility.

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