E3: Breaking Stereotypes - Raising Teens Doesn't Have to Be Hard

In this episode of Raising the Next Gen, I speak with Dr. Julia Sen, the "Possibility Psychologist™," about breaking the stereotype that the teen and tween years must be a difficult stage in parenting.

A major theme in this episode is the idea of being a “pattern breaker” or a “generational cycle changer.” Many of us were raised with discipline methods rooted in shame, compliance, and external validation. However, research and lived experience show that nurturing emotional intelligence and resilience in our children requires a different approach. By validating their feelings and modeling self-regulation, we create a foundation for lifelong emotional well-being.

We talk about mindset, understanding teen physiology and behaviour, creating a sense of belonging and fostering trust between parents and teen.

Plus, Dr. Sen shares her BEFAB method to help parents navigate this period with greater understanding and connection, so these years don't have to be dreaded or difficult. While challenges exist, the key is fostering mutual respect, adaptability, and curiosity about what works best for each unique child. Rather than forcing compliance, guiding children through self-awareness and autonomy helps them develop confidence and emotional security.

If you’ve ever felt frustrated when your child doesn’t immediately respond the way you’d like, or if you’ve caught yourself reacting in ways that mirror how you were raised, this episode offers encouragement and actionable steps. Parenting tweens and teens isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about ongoing growth, self-compassion, and a commitment to breaking old patterns.

Join us as we explore how small, intentional shifts can transform our relationships with our children, fostering deeper understanding and stronger family connections. Tune in and discover how you can support your teen’s emotional growth while also nurturing your own.

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Learn more about Dr. Julia Sen:

Dr. Julia Sen is a clinical and counselling psychologist with over 20 years of experience. She has a full-time private practice, is a speaker, author, entrepreneur, and workshop leader. She has focused on fertility counselling, parenting, and working with our inner child. Over the last few years, Julia has created transformational group programs for parents and for anyone interested in discovering the magic of their inner child. Her mission is for everyone to develop unconditional confidence in themselves and their children. Julia is the founder of The Habit of Heart™, a practice that builds security and belonging within ourselves, a key component to achieving compassion and confidence. She is also the founder of the IBY (I Believe in You) League™, a collective for South Asian career driven moms to rise, while raising unconditionally confident children, without the hustle or the guilt. She is mom to two amazing daughters, aged 20 and 23, and two adorable dogs! Julia is known for finding the possibility in every situation and as such is known as The Possibility Psychologist™.

Follow and connect with Dr. Julia Sen on Instagram  and YouTube to learn more parenting tips.

To find out about Dr. Julia Sen's services, visit her website. If you're a South Asian parent, you can also learn about and join her IBY (I Believe in You) League™ membership program.

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