Summer Group Therapy: High School Transition Group for Rising 8th & 9th Graders
The jump to high school is one of the biggest transitions a young person can face — new hallways, new expectations, new social dynamics, and often a whole lot of "what ifs." This summer, LaRhonda Gough and Zach Gordon are partnering together to offer a small-group therapy experience designed to help rising 8th and 9th graders walk into high school feeling more confident, connected, and prepared.
What to Expect
This group is a space where teens can talk honestly about the anxiety, excitement, and uncertainty that comes with high school transitions — and learn real skills to navigate them. Over three sessions, we'll focus on:
Understanding and managing transition-related anxiety
Building and strengthening social skills
Developing the confidence and self-awareness to thrive in a new environment
Groups are kept intentionally small — capped at 7 participants — so every teen has the opportunity to feel seen, heard, and supported.
Format & Schedule
We're offering two scheduling options to fit your summer:
Intensive format: All 3 sessions within a single week
Spread-out format: One session per week over 3 weeks
Sessions will be held in person at 8720 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD.
Cost: $325 for all three sessions
About the Facilitators
This group will be co-facilitated by Zach Gordon, LCSW of In Focus Psychological & Educational Services and LaRhonda Gough, LCSW of Capital Therapeutic Services — two clinicians with a shared commitment to supporting teens through life's transitions with warmth, humor, and practical tools.
Is This Group Right for Your Teen?
This group is a great fit for rising 8th or 9th graders who:
Feel nervous or anxious about starting or transitioning into high school
Want to build stronger social connections and communication skills
Would benefit from a supportive peer environment over the summer
Group Registration
Further registration information will be sent after initial registration.