Teen Technology Addiction in Orland Park, Illinois

Group Support Workshop for Parents

Date/Time: Meeting Every Thursday evenings 8PM to 9PM (except holidays)
Location: White Oak Institute – Orland Park
Therapist: Dr. Donna Mendez, LPC
Cost: $40 per session (not covered by insurance)

At White Oak Institute, we understand that parenting children and teens in a world of devices and social media can be challenging. Our weekly Technology Addiction Support Group and workshop provide a safe and compassionate space to navigate the complexities of parenting teens. Whether it’s overuse of their phone, tablet, computer, video games, or TV, this group is here to support you as you establish appropriate boundaries with your kids.

Led by an experienced therapist, the group fosters connection and understanding among individuals who share similar experiences. Together, we’ll explore strategies, share common scenarios, and discuss healthy ways to set proper boundaries.

You don’t have to face technology and screen addiction alone. Join us for a parenting support group, where healing happens together.

Teen Technology Addiction
Teen Technology Addiction
Teen Technology Addiction
Teen Technology Addiction

Technology Addiction: Understanding Its Impact on Your Child’s Life

Technology addiction is one of the most pressing challenges facing children and teens today. While technology can be a powerful tool for learning and connection, its overuse can disrupt your child’s well-being, relationships, and development. It’s okay to feel concerned or overwhelmed as a parent when you see screens taking over their daily life. Excessive use of social media, gaming, or other digital platforms can leave children feeling isolated, unmotivated, and even anxious or irritable.

Helping your child break free from technology addiction is a complex, emotional journey that requires guidance and support. This group is designed to help parents understand and navigate the challenges their children face in today’s digital landscape. You’ll learn that your concerns—whether about their constant connection or struggles to set boundaries—are valid and part of finding a healthier balance for your family. Together, we’ll work on strategies to support your child while reclaiming quality time and meaningful connections.

Technology Addiction: Understanding Its Impact on Your Child’s Life
Technology Addiction Workshop

What You’ll Explore in Our Technology Addiction Workshop

Our weekly sessions offer a structured yet compassionate environment to address the many facets of creating boundaries. Topics and activities include:

  • Sharing similar challenging technology scenarios
  • Identifying and processing difficult decision making
  • Learning optional discipline methods
  • Exploring healthy reward affirmations
  • Recognizing and addressing unhealthy behaviors
  • Focusing on the future with hope and resilience

This support group fosters connection, understanding, and healing, offering a safe space for you to navigate your parenting journey.

Tech Addiction FAQs

What is technology addiction in children and teens?

Technology addiction refers to the excessive use of digital devices, such as smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and computers, to the extent that it interferes with daily life. For children and teens, this often means neglecting schoolwork, social activities, and family time in favor of screen use. It can significantly impact their development and well-being if not addressed.

Signs of technology and screen addiction in children and teens include spending increasing amounts of time on devices, becoming irritable or anxious when they can’t use technology, and declining academic performance. You might also notice them withdrawing from face-to-face interactions and neglecting hobbies or activities they once enjoyed. These behaviors could indicate an unhealthy relationship with screens.

Excessive screen time can have various negative effects on your child’s well-being. It can disrupt their sleep patterns, increase the risk of anxiety and depression, and impair their social skills. Over-reliance on technology also reduces physical activity, which may lead to long-term health issues. Addressing these challenges early can help prevent more serious consequences.

Reducing your child’s technology use requires a balanced approach. Setting clear and consistent screen time limits is crucial, along with encouraging participation in offline activities and hobbies. Designating tech-free zones or times at home, such as during meals, can also create healthy boundaries. As a parent, modeling balanced technology use yourself can have a powerful impact.

The Technology Addiction Support Group offers a supportive environment for parents to share experiences and challenges with others facing similar issues. It provides expert advice on managing technology use within families, as well as practical tools and strategies to implement at home. Most importantly, the group offers emotional support, helping you navigate the complexities of technology addiction and foster a healthier relationship with screens for your child.

Yes, professional treatments are available and can be highly effective. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to address underlying issues contributing to technology addiction. Adolescent and teen counseling or family therapy can also help improve communication and set boundaries around screen use. In addition, support groups for both parents and children provide valuable perspectives and coping strategies. In some cases, medication may be recommended to address co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety or depression.

Worried about your teen or child’s technology use?
Join our Technology Addiction Counseling support group today.