Adolescent counseling helps children and young people explore any concerns that may be causing problems in their physical, social, emotional or cognitive/mental development. The counseling process gives them the opportunity to express difficult or confused feelings in a safe environment with clear boundaries. The Holy Bible in Ecclesiastes 3:3 states that “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” From this approach, we should explain to the young people that what happens to them during adolescent in regard to their body changes, emotions or social life, is not strange but it is a normal stage (season) in life development which will only pass away with time.

Therapy for teenagers and young people can support individuals in developing their self awareness to deal with social situations, relationships both personally and work related; including peer pressure, family, educational and sexual health issues. In Mathew 11:28-29, the Holy Bible says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Margaret Mbugua, one of PACC Counselors during a Group Therapy session with Teenagers of KAG church Waithaka on 11/12/2016.

What made you angry today? Were you able to maintain your dignity at that moment? Anger is a normal and even healthy emotion but it is important to deal with it in a positive way. The Bible in Ephesians 4:26 says, “In your anger do not sin, do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” Uncontrolled anger can ruin your health and your relationships. Being angry may lead to regrettable and irreversible acts. Simple steps like holding back your breath and counting between 10 to 20 seconds, taking a nature walk, exercising, engaging yourself in an activity, diverting your thoughts, listening to music, watching a movie, reading a book, praying or deciding to forgive the offender can work miracles.

Group Therapy on Anger Management by PACC Counselor Margaret at Napastaa Children’s Center, Kiambu - 5th February 2017.

According to Kendra (2016), Self-concept is essentially a mental picture of who you are as a person. Self-concept is likely to change more when people are younger and still going through the process of self-discovery and identity formation. As people age.

Self-perceptions become much more detailed and organized as people form a better idea of who they are and what is important to them. Self Concept is a perception of your image, abilities, and in some ways a perception of your own individual uniqueness, your values, life roles, goals, skills, and much more.

Self image in essence is what you see in yourself. It’s however important to note that your self-image is not necessarily based on reality. A person's self image is influenced by many factors, such as parental influences, friends, school, career, media to name but a few.

According to the Holy Scriptures, God created mankind in his own image and likeness (Genesis 1:26-27) and this fact makes mankind unique and spiritual. Verse 27; male and female he created them. Therefore, for man/woman to live a holistic life, he/she must be connected back to God in order to fully understand who they are and to gain more knowledge and understanding. Remember, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. (Proverbs 9:10)

PACC Counselor Margaret teaching on self concept and self image to teenagers on 19/02/2017 at Tumaini High School.

This simply refers to observed holistic changes in all areas of one’s life from physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual growth that allows a person to live a productive and satisfying life within the customs of their society. This is achieved through the development of life skills. Life skills generally fall into one of several categories: self awareness, intimacy, family, friends, community, job, leisure, and spirituality. They include being able to recognize and describe one's feelings, giving and receiving feedback, recognizing assumptions, setting smart goals, and employing problem-solving strategies. (Dr. Berger V.) The Holy Word in James 1:17, says ” Every good and perfect gift is from above.”

Personal Growth and Development Group Therapy at KAG Waithaka MIssion Center on 27 April 2017 by Par Akletos Counselor.

Drugs and substance abuse is a major issue affecting our population especially the youth. Apart from Rehabilitation, the recovering addict need constant support from professionals to help them through the journey of recovery.This is the role of a Recovery Coach.

From 3rd to 12th April 2017, Par Akletos Counselor Margaret attended a NACADA Recovery Coach training programme.

According to Polk R. relationships are complex part of our personal and social lives. They primarily influence self perception and also one's value or self worth to society. Adolescent relationships include parents, step-parents, siblings, peers, adult relatives, and other significant adults like teachers, mentors and religious figures.

An adolescent may differ in their needs with respect to relationships compared to adults and younger children. As Dr. Siegel put it, we need that closeness with our teens for another reason that goes well beyond just one party, which is that, given the psychological stakes, teens can sacrifice morality for membership and this is what is referred to as peer pressure.

Love is the greatest command in the Bible. There are different types of love but pure love is known as Agape or the love of God. Without God’s love, it is impossible to genuinely love others and make sacrifices for their sake. (Mark 12:30-31)

Adolescent Relationships Group Therapy at KAG Waithaka Mission Center on 27th April 2017 by Par Akletos Counselor