Monica Crnogorac - Teen Anxiety & Confidence Coach, Teen Anxiety Specialist
74 episodes
6 days ago
Parents, do you worry about your teen’s emotional well-being and how anxiety may be affecting their daily life? Have you felt helpless or unsure about how to support your teen through their struggles? Are you concerned about the long-term impact of anxiety on your teen’s mental health? Are you looking for guidance and support from experts who understand what you’re going through and can provide practical advice to your teen for navigating this journey?
Hi, I’m Monica Crnogorac and I’m so excited that you’re here on Parenting Anxious Teens. Things may seem smooth and easy for me now, but they weren’t always this way. I remember what it felt like to be a teen and feel overwhelmed, alone, confused, and frustrated. Even though I had the awareness of how I was feeling, I still struggled to overcome the heavy emotions because I was afraid of letting anyone in. I was hoping I would be able to ignore it and shove it under the rug without really needing to address it. What happened? My feelings of anxiety and overwhelm intensified and that freaked me out.
I needed to find a way to free myself from the hole I dug, so I finally decided to work with someone who helped me let go of the burdens of anxiety I was carrying for years. It wasn’t easy and it made me shed a few tears, but I was able to release the pain and move forward to living a life where anxiety doesn’t have the driver seat. Let me tell you, the time, energy, and money I put towards my own transformation is what inspired me to help teens today. Resolving my own anxiety allowed me to uncover the secret to overcoming big emotions in an easy, manageable, and adaptive way. After falling in love with the self-growth journey, I went to school to get educated and certified so I can empower you and tell you everything I know.
Inside this podcast, we explore the nature of non-clinical anxiety, uncovering its triggers, signs and symptoms, and the profound impact it has on a teen’s life. Parents, you will learn how to understand, support, and empower your teens through their struggles with anxiety. You’ll learn actionable steps you can take to create a supportive environment at home and help your teen manage their anxiety effectively. But we don’t stop there. I bring on expert guests, share anxiety hacks, and equip both teens and parents with practical strategies for building resilience, coping with stress, and navigating those turbulent waters with grace and strength.
We are going to simplify teenage anxiety for you because I want you see your teen happy, confident, and thriving. I want you to be able to have a strong and supportive relationship with them where everyone feels understood and supported. Most importantly, I want to help them reach their full potential despite what they’re going through. So, grab your favourite drink, get in some comfy clothes and let’s dig in.
You can find me here:
Instagram: @__consciouscoach
Work with me: www.consciouscoach.biz
Connect: monica@consciouscoach.biz
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Parents, do you worry about your teen’s emotional well-being and how anxiety may be affecting their daily life? Have you felt helpless or unsure about how to support your teen through their struggles? Are you concerned about the long-term impact of anxiety on your teen’s mental health? Are you looking for guidance and support from experts who understand what you’re going through and can provide practical advice to your teen for navigating this journey?
Hi, I’m Monica Crnogorac and I’m so excited that you’re here on Parenting Anxious Teens. Things may seem smooth and easy for me now, but they weren’t always this way. I remember what it felt like to be a teen and feel overwhelmed, alone, confused, and frustrated. Even though I had the awareness of how I was feeling, I still struggled to overcome the heavy emotions because I was afraid of letting anyone in. I was hoping I would be able to ignore it and shove it under the rug without really needing to address it. What happened? My feelings of anxiety and overwhelm intensified and that freaked me out.
I needed to find a way to free myself from the hole I dug, so I finally decided to work with someone who helped me let go of the burdens of anxiety I was carrying for years. It wasn’t easy and it made me shed a few tears, but I was able to release the pain and move forward to living a life where anxiety doesn’t have the driver seat. Let me tell you, the time, energy, and money I put towards my own transformation is what inspired me to help teens today. Resolving my own anxiety allowed me to uncover the secret to overcoming big emotions in an easy, manageable, and adaptive way. After falling in love with the self-growth journey, I went to school to get educated and certified so I can empower you and tell you everything I know.
Inside this podcast, we explore the nature of non-clinical anxiety, uncovering its triggers, signs and symptoms, and the profound impact it has on a teen’s life. Parents, you will learn how to understand, support, and empower your teens through their struggles with anxiety. You’ll learn actionable steps you can take to create a supportive environment at home and help your teen manage their anxiety effectively. But we don’t stop there. I bring on expert guests, share anxiety hacks, and equip both teens and parents with practical strategies for building resilience, coping with stress, and navigating those turbulent waters with grace and strength.
We are going to simplify teenage anxiety for you because I want you see your teen happy, confident, and thriving. I want you to be able to have a strong and supportive relationship with them where everyone feels understood and supported. Most importantly, I want to help them reach their full potential despite what they’re going through. So, grab your favourite drink, get in some comfy clothes and let’s dig in.
You can find me here:
Instagram: @__consciouscoach
Work with me: www.consciouscoach.biz
Connect: monica@consciouscoach.biz
Hi Parents!
Is your teen starting to handle things differently? Are you wondering whether all those tough conversations, coping tools, and coaching sessions are actually helping?
In this episode, I’m sharing 4 clear signs your teen is overcoming anxiety: the key characteristics I consistently see in teens who are learning to regulate emotions, build confidence, and step into their power.
You’ll learn what progress really looks like, how to spot the subtle shifts that mean growth is happening, and what you can do as a parent to support that change, without taking over or fueling more anxiety.
If you’ve ever wondered:
How do I know if my teen’s anxiety is improving?
What should I look for to see if they’re coping better?
What can I do to help this growth continue?
Then this episode is for you!
What You’ll Learn:
The 4 biggest signs your teen is making progress with anxiety
What emotional awareness looks like in real life
How your reactions as a parent can either calm or amplify your teen’s anxiety
Ways to help your teen become their own advocate instead of their biggest critic
Simple shifts that create a calmer home environment and stronger connection
Mentioned in This Episode:
Awakening You: An 8-Week Self-Growth & Confidence Program for Teens with Anxiety™
This program is where I’ve seen these exact transformations happen, week by week.
Inside, teens learn to:
Manage anxious thoughts with confidence
Build emotional resilience and self-trust
Strengthen their mindset and daily habits
Develop the tools to calm anxiety and create lasting change
Book a call using the link below so we can connect and explore how to best support your teen!
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
Parenting through fear can feel overwhelming, especially when your teen is anxious and you’re trying to stay strong for everyone. But what if the real key to peace isn’t found in control, but in trust - trusting that God is guiding both you and your teen through every step?
In this episode, I’m joined by Heather O’Brien, prophetic healing coach, minister, author, and host of the globally ranked Heal with God podcast. Together, we talk about how to lean into faith when fear feels loud, and how parents can model courage, calm, and confidence by anchoring themselves in God’s truth.
Heather shares how to discern God’s voice in everyday moments, the role of gratitude and prayer in easing anxiety, and how self-awareness can help you respond to your teen with love instead of fear. We also explore what it looks like to break anxious patterns by listening, slowing down, and allowing God to lead both you and your family toward healing.
More About Heather:
Heather O’Brien helps Christians heal by learning to hear God’s voice. She guides people toward forgiveness, spiritual restoration, and deeper connection with God, reminding us that through Him, even the deepest wounds can be healed.
She also hosts a workshop every third Monday of the month. It’s an opportunity to lay down the things that keep you feeling anxious or uncertain and invite God to bring healing and clarity into your heart.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing this parenting thing on your own, this conversation will remind you that faith doesn’t remove the fear - it transforms it.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
Sibling rivalry. Friend drama. Conflict that seems to pop up out of nowhere. For parents of teens, it can feel exhausting and confusing to know how much to intervene or when to step back.
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Rosina McAlpine, parenting expert, author, and CEO of Win Win Parenting, to explore why sibling and peer rivalry happens, and how we can guide our teens through it without adding fuel to the fire.
Dr. Rosina shares insights from research that reveal the three main ways kids resolve conflict - coercion, negotiation, and disengagement - and explains why teens often use very different approaches with siblings compared to friends. We also dive into the fascinating role of birth order, what to watch out for when rivalry crosses into bullying, and the values-based strategies parents can use to help their teens build healthier, stronger relationships.
More About Dr. Rosina:
Dr. Rosina McAlpine is an internationally recognized parenting expert, author, and CEO of Win Win Parenting. Through her workplace parenting education programs, she helps busy working parents balance career and family life while navigating everyday parenting challenges such as screen time, emotional regulation, and sibling conflict. Dr. Rosina’s practical, evidence-based approach has been featured widely in the media, and her programs support parents, carers, and educators across Australia and beyond.
If you’ve ever worried about constant bickering at home or felt unsure how to help your teen manage peer tension, this episode offers both practical tools and a sense of relief that you’re not alone in facing these challenges.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
Is your teen just going through typical teenage ups and downs or could it be anxiety? That’s the question so many parents wrestle with and it’s not always easy to answer.
In this episode, I’m joined by Sophia Vale Galano, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, yoga instructor, Reiki Master, and seasoned therapist who has worked with teens and adults in schools, hospitals, and private practice across California. Sophia brings both professional expertise and a holistic approach to mental health that helps parents and teens alike feel more grounded and supported.
Together, we talk about how parents can tell the difference between normal teen behavior and signs of anxiety, how to communicate in ways that actually open the door instead of shutting it, and what steps to take if your teen is resistant to talking at all. Sophia also shares when it’s time to consider extra support and how to approach that process without adding more stress for your teen.
Her book, Calming Teenage Anxiety, offers even more guidance and practical tools for parents who want to better understand their teen’s emotions and create a sense of calm and connection at home.
More About Sophia:
Sophia Vale Galano, LCSW, is a therapist based in California who specializes in working with both adolescents and adults. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from New York University and earned her LCSW in 2018. In addition to her thriving private practice, she supervises associate therapists and has extensive experience in residential, inpatient, outpatient, and educational settings.
Beyond her clinical work, Sophia is also a certified yoga instructor, Master Reiki Practitioner, and certified in sex therapy, animal-assisted therapy, and forensic social work. She’s passionate about integrating evidence-based therapy with holistic tools to help clients navigate anxiety, trauma, and personal growth.
This conversation is both practical and deeply compassionate, reminding you that you don’t need to have all the answers to be a safe place for your child.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
Have you ever wondered why some teens turn to self-harm when they’re in pain?
For parents, even the thought of your teen hurting themselves can feel overwhelming and terrifying. You might find yourself asking: Why would they do this? Is it for attention? Did I miss the signs? The truth is, self-harm is rarely about attention. For many teens, it’s a way of coping with intense emotions they don’t yet have the tools to manage.
In this episode, I’m breaking down why teens self-harm, what it’s really about, and how parents can respond in a way that is supportive rather than reactive. We’ll talk about the emotional needs behind self-harm, how it often connects to anxiety, perfectionism, and self-criticism, and the crucial role parents play in creating safety and open communication.
Whether this is something your teen is currently struggling with or a topic you want to be prepared for, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical steps to help you approach this difficult subject with confidence and care.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
Do you ever feel weighed down by parenting guilt?
If your teen struggles with anxiety, it’s so easy to blame yourself - wondering if you’ve done enough, said the right things, or somehow made things worse. Guilt can creep in when you set boundaries, when you give space, and even when you try to help. The pressure to “get it right” all the time can leave you second-guessing your every move.
In this solo episode, I’m diving into how parenting guilt shows up and why it can feel so heavy when your teen is anxious. More importantly, we’ll talk about how to release it, so you can support your teen with confidence instead of constantly questioning yourself.
I’ll share how guilt can actually fuel anxiety for both you and your teen, the mindset shifts that make space for more calm and clarity, and simple practices that help you show up as the grounded, supportive parent your teen needs most.
Whether you’ve been carrying parenting guilt for years or it’s just starting to show up in your home, this episode will give you the tools and encouragement to let go of the weight and step into a more confident, compassionate role in your parenting journey.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
In this bonus episode, I’m excited to share a special opportunity with you. Monica Virga Alborno is hosting a FREE Intentional Living for Families Summit from Oct. 6th-9th, bringing together a variety of experts who share practical tools, strategies, and encouragement to help parents feel more supported during the holiday season.
This audio event is designed to give you insights and strategies you can use at home right away, while also helping you feel less overwhelmed during this busy time of year. If you’d like lifetime access to the sessions, you can upgrade with the All-Access Pass and as a listener of Parenting Anxious Teens, you’ll receive $5 off when you use the code MONICA at checkout.
👉🏻 Register for the free event here.👉🏻 Upgrade with the All-Access Pass and use code MONICA for $5 off.
This is a wonderful way to connect with expert voices, discover new strategies, and feel more supported as a parent this holiday season.
More About Monica Virga Alborno:
Featured in Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider, and Parents, Monica Virga Alborno is a former Fortune 500 energy engineering executive turned entrepreneur. She is the founder of Wanderwild Family Retreats, the only established retreat company in the Americas welcoming children and WandHERwild, a podcast and digital community for the modern mother.
Originally from New Jersey and now based in Norway, she has lived on four continents, visited more than 80 countries, and is raising two globally rooted children. Her work is fueled by a passion for experiential learning, holistic self-development, and building communities that empower families.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
If you’ve ever felt like your child’s anxiety is triggering your own old wounds, this episode will give you tools and hope for breaking the cycle.
I’m joined by Dr. Robyn Koslowitz, psychologist, trauma expert, and author of Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle, Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be. Dr. Koslowitz is the founder of the Post-Traumatic Parenting model, which helps parents heal their inner child while raising their real-world child with resilience and compassion.
In our conversation, Dr. Koslowitz shares her powerful “trauma app” metaphor, explains why trauma so often impacts our parenting, and walks us through the 5 subtypes of Post-Traumatic Parenting. We also talk about her R2 Parenting framework - Responsive and Responsible - and how it compares to other parenting styles.
If your teen struggles with anxiety, you’ll hear how their struggles might bring up your own trauma, and most importantly, what you can do to respond without passing that pain along.
More About Dr. Robyn Koslowitz:
Dr. Robyn Koslowitz is a psychologist and trauma expert who helps parents recognize how their own childhood experiences influence their parenting today. Through her Post-Traumatic Parenting model, she guides parents to break free from inherited patterns, heal their inner child, and raise resilient, emotionally secure kids. Her work combines clinical expertise with compassionate insight, offering parents both understanding and actionable tools.
This episode is filled with powerful insights and practical tools for parents of anxious teens. Dr. Koslowitz reminds us that while our inner child can’t raise a child, the very act of parenting our real-world children can become part of our own healing journey.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
If your teen crumbles when it’s time to make a decision, second-guesses everything they do, or constantly worries about making the wrong choice, then this episode is for you.
In this conversation, I’m joined by Becky, a Certified Master Life Coach and the creator of the Stand Strong System. Becky helps anxious teens go from reactive to resilient, and she’s here to unpack the connection between perfectionism and decision-making anxiety.
We talk about why some teens struggle to make even small decisions, what perfectionism actually looks like, and the mistakes parents often make when trying to help. Becky also shares simple, powerful ways you can support your teen without taking over or walking on eggshells, even in those high-stress moments.
More about Becky:
Becky is a Certified Master Life Coach, former high school teacher, and mom with lived experience navigating anxiety. She’s the creator of the Stand Strong System - a holistic approach that helps anxious teens build resilience and teaches their parents how to truly support them. Her work is grounded in empathy, real-life tools, and a deep understanding of what teens and parents are really going through.
Get your free resource here and tune in - this episode is full of practical advice, relatable stories, and mindset shifts that can really make a difference!
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
If your teen has ever had a panic attack or if you're not sure how to tell the difference between panic and anxiety, then this episode will help you better understand what they might be going through and how you can support them.
This week, I’m joined by Dr. Amy Kranzler, licensed clinical psychologist and Chief Clinical Officer at Handspring Health, where she works with teens experiencing anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation.
In our conversation, Amy breaks down the key differences between panic attacks and anxiety attacks and explains what panic disorder really is. You’ll learn how to respond if your teen is in the middle of a panic attack, what to avoid in those moments, and how to support teens who live in fear of having another one.
We also talk about what evidence-based treatment for panic disorder looks like, and how parents play a vital role in that process.
More About Dr. Amy Kranzler:
Dr. Kranzler previously ran the adult DBT program at Montefiore Medical Center and was the Associate Director of the CBT Training Program. Amy brings a wealth of clinical experience and a passion for helping young people feel safe, seen, and supported in their mental health journey.
If you’ve ever felt unsure how to support your teen through panic or the pressure to be perfect, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and practical tools you can start using right away.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
What happens when you’re the anxious one but you’re also the parent?
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Jeanne Retief, trauma survivor, panic disorder warrior, and founder of FIGGI Beauty, to talk about the raw, unfiltered reality of parenting when you’re still learning how to feel safe in your own body. Jeanne opens up about the breaking point that made her reevaluate everything, and how she’s learning to heal not just for her child, but with her child.
More About Jeanne:
Dr. Jeanne Retief is a former international human rights expert turned mental wellness advocate, and the founder of FIGGI Beauty - a brand built on the belief that beauty and healing can coexist. After years of working in high-stakes legal environments, Jeanne was diagnosed with panic disorder, prompting her to reimagine not just her career, but her relationship with herself. Today, she combines her lived experience, academic insight, and soulful honesty to support others navigating anxiety, trauma, and parenthood. Jeanne is passionate about redefining what strength looks like - especially for women who’ve spent years holding it all together - and uses her platform to champion nervous system care, emotional safety, and truth-telling as tools for growth.
We explore how anxiety shows up in the body, what it looks like to parent through panic, and why self-regulation isn’t about perfection, but about presence. Jeanne also shares how she began to break inherited emotional patterns and what it really means to model safety when your nervous system is still dysregulated.
This is an episode for every parent who’s ever felt like they’re “too much” or “not enough.” Jeanne reminds us that healing is messy, parenting is vulnerable, and that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is just stay present.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
How do we raise emotionally grounded, self-aware teens in a world full of noise, pressure, and distractions? This week’s guest, Nellie Harden, believes it starts by understanding the real needs your teen has, and showing up in ways that build worth, safety, and connection.
Nellie is a mom of four, a trauma survivor, and founder of The 6570 Family Project - a movement focused on helping parents step into leadership during their teen’s most formative years. With a background in biology and psychology, she brings a refreshing blend of science, life experience, and heart to the conversation.
In this episode, we explore the 5 core needs every teen has, how to recognize when those needs are going unmet, and what you can do starting today to become a steadier, more intentional presence in your child’s life.
More About Nellie:
Nellie Harden is a family life and leadership coach who guides parents through the often-challenging middle ground between childhood and adulthood. She empowers them to lead with purpose, so they can raise teens who are confident, resilient, and emotionally secure. Her work is rooted in the belief that every child is worthy, and that parents have the power to shape that belief by how they lead.
If you're parenting an anxious or emotionally sensitive teen, this conversation will help you shift from managing chaos to creating connection.
P.S. If you loved hearing from Nellie and want to dive deeper into her work, you can find her resources and everything about The 6570 Family Project right here.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
Is your teen too young to be in a relationship?
If teen dating triggers a mix of panic, protectiveness, and uncertainty, just know this is one of the most common fears parents face. For parents of anxious teens, this stage can bring a lot of fear and uncertainty. You might wonder if your child is emotionally ready, if they’ll get hurt, or if their self-esteem is tied too closely to someone else’s opinion. You might even have a family boundary like no dating until 16, but still worry how to enforce that without pushing your teen away.
In this solo episode, I’m diving into one of the most common questions I hear: How do I know if my teen is ready for a relationship - and how do I talk to them about it without sounding like I’m panicking?
We’ll explore what dating looks like for teens today, the average age they start exploring relationships, and how anxiety, both your teen’s and your own, can shape the conversation. I’ll walk you through how to create an open dialogue about dating, without losing your boundaries, your values, or your connection with your teen.
Whether your teen is already dating or you’re just starting to think ahead, this episode is filled with clear guidance and supportive reminders to help you navigate this sensitive season with compassion and confidence.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
What if preparing your teen for college didn’t have to be overwhelming or anxiety-inducing? In this episode, I’m joined by Lindsay Tanne, founder and CEO of LogicPrep, to unpack the college admissions process in a way that feels supportive and intentional.
Lindsay brings a fresh, honest perspective to the world of college prep. She explains how parents can guide their teens without micromanaging, what really matters when choosing a school, and how to avoid common myths that lead to unnecessary stress. We also explore how parents can foster independence, reduce anxiety, and approach this season with more curiosity and less pressure.
More About Lindsay:
Lindsay Tanne launched LogicPrep over a decade ago while a student at Harvard. Today, her company is a global college admissions consultancy offering test preparation, academic support, and strategic guidance through every step of the college journey. With a team of over 50 advisors, coaches, and tutors, LogicPrep has helped thousands of families pursue higher education with less stress and more clarity.
Lindsay’s mission is simple but powerful: to help students succeed in ways that reflect who they are, and to help parents stay connected along the way. Tune in to hear how you can support your teen’s journey to college with less pressure, more purpose, and a whole lot more peace.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
What if the biggest warning sign your teen is struggling is silence?
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Elliot Kallen, President of A Brighter Day, a nonprofit organization founded in memory of his son Jake, who tragically died by suicide at 19 years old. Elliot shares the heart-wrenching story behind A Brighter Day and how it has since grown into a powerful support system for teens and families navigating stress, depression and suicidal thoughts.
More About Elliot:
Elliot Kallen is the President and Co-Founder of A Brighter Day, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing teen suicide by providing free mental health toolkits, school-based events, and resources for both teens and parents. Since launching in 2015, the organization now reaches between 5,000 and 10,000 families each month.
Elliot’s mission began with unimaginable loss. Jake never shared the pain he was carrying, until his final letter. That letter changed everything for Elliot and his family, exposing the silent battles many teens face and the urgent need for better conversations and accessible mental health support. What started as a personal tragedy has since become a national movement offering education, connection, and hope.
In our conversation, Elliot opens up about what parents need to know - the signs that often go unnoticed, what to say when you’re worried, and why it’s so important to normalize mental health discussions at home. He offers practical tools, compassionate insight, and real hope for any parent who feels lost or unsure of how to help.
Whether your teen has opened up about their struggles or tends to keep things in, this episode is a must-listen. You’ll walk away with powerful takeaways and actionable next steps - and most importantly, the reminder that you’re not alone in this.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
Have you ever looked at your teen daughter’s outfit and thought, “Is that really what you’re wearing?” Maybe it’s a crop top, short shorts, or something that makes you pause and wonder how to respond without starting a full-blown argument before 8 a.m.
Clothing choices can bring up a lot of big feelings, for both you and your teen. You want her to feel confident, body positive, and self-expressed but you also want her to understand what’s appropriate for school, family gatherings, or the world outside your home. And somewhere in the middle, your own anxiety gets triggered, often by your past, your fears, and the very real pressure to get it “right.”
In this solo episode, I’m unpacking the layers behind these clothing conflicts. We’ll talk about why your teen might be dressing the way she is, how to respond without shame or shutdown, and what’s actually helpful when your instinct is to lay down the law. You’ll hear about the messaging girls receive around fashion, how peer pressure and limited options shape their wardrobe, and why setting boundaries doesn’t have to mean controlling your daughter’s self-expression.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
What if the secret to helping your anxious teen feel more confident at school wasn’t pushing harder or doing more, but teaching them how to study in a way that works for them?
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Jessyka Coulter, CEO and Founder of Ace Cookie Tutoring and the creator of The NERDY Method. Jessyka shares how intentional study skills can transform a teen’s mindset, build confidence, and reduce academic anxiety. We explore why so many teens don't love to learn, what actually gets in their way, and how study habits rooted in strategy and support can shift everything.
More about Jessyka:
She’s a passionate educator and teen study skills coach who teaches teens how to study smarter, not harder, so they can learn to love learning again. Her work is all about equipping students with the tools they need to thrive and helping parents feel more supported along the way.
Plus, we talk about Jessyka’s upcoming event, Learn It! Open Your Teen’s Mind and Feed It, a free back-to-school series launching August 4th. With over 30 expert interviews (including mine!) and practical tools on everything from study strategies to emotional regulation, it’s the perfect resource to start the school year with clarity and support.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
What if helping your anxious teen build confidence had less to do with what you say, and more to do with how they move their body?
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Neil Sheppard, founder of the Inner Athlete system, to explore the powerful connection between movement and mental health. Neil shares how strength training, structure, and intentional physical activity can help teens manage anxiety, build emotional resilience, and reconnect with their sense of self.
More About Neil:
Neil Sheppard is a performance coach, the founder of the Inner Athlete system, and owner of Dynamic Sport Group in Oakville, Ontario. With a strong foundation in youth development, physical literacy, and strength and conditioning, Neil helps teens and athletes develop confidence, resilience, and a sense of emotional well-being through movement.
His approach was born from personal experience - after years of high-level sport and physical labor, Neil faced multiple injuries and a loss of athletic identity. Stuck in the in-between of not injured enough for therapy, but not strong enough to train, he began rebuilding both physically and emotionally. That process laid the groundwork for the Inner Athlete system, which bridges the gap between rehab and performance.
Today, Neil helps young people tap into the power of their bodies as a path to self-trust, mental strength, and long-term growth. We’ll dive into why movement can be such a powerful tool for self-regulation, how it boosts self-trust, and why progress is the mindset teens need most right now.
Whether your teen is an athlete or just trying to feel more comfortable in their own skin, this conversation offers a fresh, practical lens on what it really takes to feel strong, physically and emotionally.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
This week, I’m switching things up and sharing a special conversation where I was the guest instead of the host.
I recently joined Beth Hillman on her podcast, Parenting Post-Wilderness, to talk about one of the most important topics for parents today, teen anxiety. We covered what it looks like, how it often hides in plain sight, and what parents can do to better support their anxious teen, especially during the school year when demands are high and confidence can run low.
In this episode, we explore the emotional experience of anxiety from a teen’s perspective, how parents can respond with empathy rather than fear, and why creating emotional safety is more powerful than trying to fix the problem. I also share a bit of my own story and why I’m so passionate about helping teens build resilience, self-trust, and coping tools that actually stick.
Beth creates such a welcoming space for real, heartfelt conversations, and I’m honored to have joined her show. I hope this episode leaves you feeling more equipped, more grounded, and more connected to your teen, no matter where they are on their mental health journey.
Tune in to listen, and if you find it helpful, pass it along to a fellow parent who needs it too.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Hi Parents!
Have you ever noticed how the most critical voice in your life might be your own? That internal dialogue that questions every parenting decision, especially when your teen is struggling with anxiety can be exhausting. In today’s episode, I’m joined by Sue Erhart, author of Lose Your Critic for Good for a powerful conversation on what it really takes to quiet that inner voice and reconnect with your calm, confident center.
Sue shares her deeply personal journey from a high-powered corporate career to becoming a guide for others seeking peace and purpose. We explore how perfectionism and pressure create disconnection, why conventional self-help tools often miss the mark, and how small shifts in awareness can lead to lasting change, without needing to burn everything down and start over.
More about Sue:
Sue Erhart spent decades as a corporate executive and attorney, operating in high-stakes environments where success was measured by external achievements. But behind the scenes, she was grappling with a harsh inner critic that left her feeling stuck, depleted, and out of alignment.
After a personal transformation, Sue created a platform that blends grounded wisdom with spiritual insight to help others reclaim their power and inner clarity. Her book offers a step-by-step method to break free from the grip of self-judgment and step into a more aligned, fulfilling way of living.
Now, she’s on a mission to help others, especially those who've spent years doing things “the hard way” - find a more compassionate path to joy, confidence, and inner freedom.
If you're ready to let go of the mental noise and start parenting - and living - from a place of truth and trust, you won’t want to miss this episode.
Big hugs,
Monica Crnogorac
Next Steps
Book a Free Discovery Call
Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program
Connect With Me on Instagram
Parents, do you worry about your teen’s emotional well-being and how anxiety may be affecting their daily life? Have you felt helpless or unsure about how to support your teen through their struggles? Are you concerned about the long-term impact of anxiety on your teen’s mental health? Are you looking for guidance and support from experts who understand what you’re going through and can provide practical advice to your teen for navigating this journey?
Hi, I’m Monica Crnogorac and I’m so excited that you’re here on Parenting Anxious Teens. Things may seem smooth and easy for me now, but they weren’t always this way. I remember what it felt like to be a teen and feel overwhelmed, alone, confused, and frustrated. Even though I had the awareness of how I was feeling, I still struggled to overcome the heavy emotions because I was afraid of letting anyone in. I was hoping I would be able to ignore it and shove it under the rug without really needing to address it. What happened? My feelings of anxiety and overwhelm intensified and that freaked me out.
I needed to find a way to free myself from the hole I dug, so I finally decided to work with someone who helped me let go of the burdens of anxiety I was carrying for years. It wasn’t easy and it made me shed a few tears, but I was able to release the pain and move forward to living a life where anxiety doesn’t have the driver seat. Let me tell you, the time, energy, and money I put towards my own transformation is what inspired me to help teens today. Resolving my own anxiety allowed me to uncover the secret to overcoming big emotions in an easy, manageable, and adaptive way. After falling in love with the self-growth journey, I went to school to get educated and certified so I can empower you and tell you everything I know.
Inside this podcast, we explore the nature of non-clinical anxiety, uncovering its triggers, signs and symptoms, and the profound impact it has on a teen’s life. Parents, you will learn how to understand, support, and empower your teens through their struggles with anxiety. You’ll learn actionable steps you can take to create a supportive environment at home and help your teen manage their anxiety effectively. But we don’t stop there. I bring on expert guests, share anxiety hacks, and equip both teens and parents with practical strategies for building resilience, coping with stress, and navigating those turbulent waters with grace and strength.
We are going to simplify teenage anxiety for you because I want you see your teen happy, confident, and thriving. I want you to be able to have a strong and supportive relationship with them where everyone feels understood and supported. Most importantly, I want to help them reach their full potential despite what they’re going through. So, grab your favourite drink, get in some comfy clothes and let’s dig in.
You can find me here:
Instagram: @__consciouscoach
Work with me: www.consciouscoach.biz
Connect: monica@consciouscoach.biz
