Nurturing Mental Health in Mothers and Adolescents: Why It Matters — and How Rising Sun Therapy Can Help

In today’s fast-paced world, stress, isolation, and emotional overwhelm have become common experiences for both mothers and adolescents. At Rising Sun Therapy, we see every day how deeply the emotional wellbeing of mothers and their adolescents is intertwined.

Recent data from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) shows that 1 in 5 U.S. women experience a mental-health or substance-use disorder during the perinatal period. And among mothers, the proportion reporting excellent mental health dropped from 38% in 2016 to 26% in 2023, according to findings in a study by the University of Michigan. 

For adolescents, the picture is also urgent: over 20% of teens aged 12-17 have a current diagnosed mental or behavioral health condition (anxiety, depression or behavior/conduct problems).

Given these realities, therapy that supports both generations is key.

When a mother feels supported, her capacity to nurture and guide her family expands.

When an adolescent feels seen and understood, their confidence and emotional regulation grow.

Supporting both generations means strengthening the entire system of connection.

The Need for Compassionate Support for Mothers

Motherhood is one of life’s most transformative experiences — filled with joy, but also with exhaustion, worry, and identity shifts that can feel overwhelming.

Many mothers come to therapy feeling the pressure to “have it all together,” while quietly managing stress, anxiety, or burnout beneath the surface. At Rising Sun Therapy, we help mothers:

• Reconnect with their sense of self beyond their roles

• Develop tools for emotional regulation and mindfulness

• Set healthy boundaries and release perfectionism

• Build community and self-compassion

  
  

Through individual therapy, group offerings, and workshops like Art for Self-Care, women find space to rest, reflect, and rediscover their inner strength.

Understanding Adolescent Mental Health

Adolescence is a time of rapid growth — physically, emotionally, and socially. Teens today are navigating immense pressures: academic expectations, social media comparison, and identity development amid an ever-changing world.

Without proper support, this can manifest as anxiety, depression, or emotional withdrawal. Our adolescent therapy focuses on helping teens:

• Build self-awareness and emotional resilience

• Strengthen coping and communication skills

• Develop self-compassion and confidence

• Foster healthy relationships at home and with peers

We also work collaboratively with parents, schools, and other care providers to ensure every teen feels supported by a consistent network of understanding adults.

About Rising Sun Therapy

Located in Harleysville, Pennsylvania, Rising Sun Therapy offers a safe, inclusive space for healing and growth.

Our approach blends mindfulness, creative expression, and evidence-based therapy to help clients find balance and emotional clarity.

We believe therapy should feel like sunlight breaking through the clouds — gentle, hopeful, and illuminating.

Meet Leah Andreoni, Licensed Therapist & Owner

Leah Andreoni, Licensed Therapist and Owner of Rising Sun Therapy, founded the practice with a vision of compassionate, whole-person care.

Leah’s calm presence and integrative approach help clients feel grounded, supported, and understood.

Her work is rooted in the belief that healing happens best in connection — with ourselves, with others, and with the rhythms of everyday life.

Whether working with mothers, adolescents, or families, Leah offers a space that feels warm, real, and deeply human.

A Shared Path Toward Wellness

Supporting both mothers and adolescents is more than therapy — it’s an investment in generational wellness.

When one person heals, it ripples outward, touching families and communities alike.

If you or someone you love could benefit from therapy or group support, we invite you to reach out.

📍 Rising Sun Therapy – Harleysville, PA 📧 leah@risingsuntherapy.com 🌿 www.risingsuntherapy.com

You don’t have to do it alone. Healing begins with connection — and we’re here to walk beside you.