A Framework for Counseling Gifted and Talented Teens

Highly gifted teens often become society’s preeminent creators, thinkers and leaders. Their combination of high intelligence, intensity, intuition, persistence and curiosity allows them to excel. However, the same qualities that bring such greatness also make life more complex, especially when identity formation is taking place in adolescence. While it would seem that counseling them in the school setting would be easier, given their high abilities, the opposite is often true. Often, too much emphasis may be placed on IQ, while teens who have a highly developed creative talent may not be included in gifted programs.

There are four areas that provide a framework for identity formation in gifted individuals. First, the giftedness must be validated, both within the adolescent and in the primary relationships with family, teachers and others in authority. Does the student minimize their own giftedness to fit in with peers, or does extended family not support a student’s talents because of gender or cultural issues? Secondly, affirmation provides a “seconding” of the giftedness through enrichment opportunities, teachers, learning and experiences. This process reinforces more deeply within the self that “I am gifted.” Third, a sense of affiliation provides an alliance with others of similar intensities, passions, desires and abilities. For instance, school counselors could start a group for talented writers or musicians that meets periodically to provide students with an opportunity to connect with others like themselves. Fourth, affinity is the drive to find a sense of purpose in life, which gifted students can feel more keenly at a younger age. If the previous three conditions are not being fully met, teens will find it difficult to ascertain how they want to use their giftedness and this confusion may persist into adulthood. Teachers and counselors have a unique opportunity to provide wisdom and encouragement as teens explore this crucial aspect of a healthy identity. 

Counselors of all types have the unique opportunity to help shape the identity of the young gifted and talented members of our society. The rewards of these efforts will be felt in the contributions and achievements of these individuals as they move into adulthood.

Brooke Guida, LPC is in private practice in Mount Pleasant and has a special interest in counseling gifted teens and their families. Portions of this article were taken from Andy Mahoney, LPC, LMFT’s article “In Search of the Gifted Identity.”