# 306 Build Trust with Your Teen: Interview with Susan Caso, MA, LPC
Are you struggling to connect with your teen amidst the chaos of modern parenting? Do
you feel like the constant demands of academics, extracurriculars, and social media have created a wall between you and your child? If so, this episode of Power Your Parenting: Mom’s the Teen Podcast with Colleen O’Grady and guest Susan Caso offers invaluable insights into building trust and fostering meaningful relationships with your teen.
In this episode, Colleen and Susan explore the challenges of parenting in today’s high-pressure world and emphasize the importance of creating emotional safety and connectedness at home. They discuss how critical it is for teens to feel a sense of belonging and trust in their parents, not just as enforcers of rules but as compassionate guides who see and accept them for who they are. The conversation highlights the difference between addressing behavior and unconditionally accepting your child as a person. The hosts also delve into the concept of “secure attachment,” which can be nurtured through intentional listening, emotional regulation, and moments of true connection—even in the midst of life’s busyness. Through relatable examples and practical advice, the podcast equips parents to create an environment where their teens feel safe to be open and transparent.
Susan Caso, MA, LPC, helps people find the feeling of connectedness that 
createsheartfelt interactions. A sought-after therapist, consultant, and speaker with over twenty years in clinical practice, Susan has helped parents, teens, couples, and families create emotional safety to build stronger relationships. Susan holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and Counselor Education from the University of Colorado. Susan’s work has been featured in media outlets such as Mother.ly, andThe Hollywood Reporter. She is the author of the Parent -Teen Connection: How to Build Lifelong Family Relationships.
Here are three powerful takeaways from the episode:
- Shift from judgment to acceptance: Teens thrive when they know their parents accept them unconditionally, even when their behavior falls short. Separating the person from the behavior allows you to address issues without damaging the relationship.
- Listen to understand, not to fix: When teens come to you with concerns, resist the urge to jump straight into problem-solving. Instead, focus on listening, validating their emotions, and empathizing with their experience to build trust and connection.
- Model emotional regulation and introspection: Your ability to handle stress and reflect on your emotions directly impacts your teen. By staying calm and self-aware, you create a safe space where your teen feels encouraged to share and grow.
This episode is packed with actionable advice for navigating the ups and downs of parenting teens while fostering lifelong connections.
Find out more at susancaso.com
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