Part 3 - Therapy with the Adolescent Who Withdraws

Part 3 - Teen Withdrawal

Some adolescents who withdraw from the world don’t see their isolation as a problem. It can feel like a choice. Seventeen-year-old Frederico said he was happy on his own. He didn’t feel the need to see friends and preferred to sleep during the day and stay up late at night playing games or scrolling online. Over time, even talking to his family became rare.

When Frederico came to therapy, he seemed unsure and distant. He didn’t think anyone could really help him. Instead of pushing, I focused on meeting him gently, at his pace. We didn’t make a formal plan. Sessions were flexible, short when needed, and always respectful of his limits.

In Gestalt therapy, this kind of approach is key. Rather than trying to fix the behaviour, we focus on building trust and contact. Isolation is often a way to protect against emotional pain. Therapy can help bring awareness to what’s happening underneath that pattern.

The goal is not to take the withdrawal away but to understand it, support the teen’s sense of self, and slowly create space for connection to return—on their terms.

To learn more or connect:

www.terrasoultherapies.com.au

📩 terrasoultherapies@gmail.com | 📞 0416 158 752