Adolescence is a unique developmental period of life, during which we face the challenges and pressures of moving from childhood into independent adulthood. Evolutionarily, adolescence is a time of risk-taking and growing independence, and one of the important developmental tasks is to learn to respond to thoughts and emotions in a helpful way, in order to live a full and meaningful life. In this interview, cross-posted from the podcast Psychologists Off The Clock, Dr. Debbie Sorensen interviews Dr. Louise Hayes about her book, The Thriving Adolescent(Context Press, 2015), which offers teachers and mental health professionals evidence-based techniques for understanding and working effectively with adolescents. Based in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), the developmental model outlined by Dr. Hayes will help adolescents and teens manage difficult emotions, connect with their values, achieve mindfulness and vitality, and develop positive relationships with friends and family.Debbie Sorensen, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist practicing in Denver, Colorado and a co-host of the podcast Psychologists Off The Clock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/psychology