Teen Therapist for Anxiety & Depression
Therapist for teens in Pasadena
Navigating the teenage years can be a whirlwind of emotions, changes, and challenges.
As a teen therapist for anxiety and depression, I offer a safe and supportive space where teens can process these experiences, express themselves, and develop tools to manage stress and uncertainty.
As a parent, it can be heartbreaking to watch your child struggle with the overwhelming grip of anxiety.
It often feels like a persistent tension lurking beneath the surface—a restless energy that never quite goes away, even on seemingly good days. Your teen might constantly second-guess themselves, replay conversations, or worry endlessly about things that haven’t happened. Anxiety can show up physically, too—tightness in their chest, stomachs, headaches, or a sense of dread before school, social events, or even everyday tasks.
Teen anxiety often overlaps with other signs of distress
As a parent, it’s normal to wonder “is this normal, or is something more serious going on?”
Parent-Child Conflict
Your teen may seem distant, give the silent treatment, or engage in frequent arguments.
People-Pleasing
Teens may prioritize others’ needs over their own, suppressing their true feelings and desires.
Friendship Challenges
Struggles with making friends, maintaining healthy relationships, or dealing with peer drama can take a toll.
Sport-Related Anxiety
Competitive athletes may struggle with stress that affects both their performance and well-being
High Expectations
Teens often set unrealistic goals and feel like they’re failing when they don’t meet them.
Low Self-Esteem
Negative self-talk and a lack of confidence can hinder personal growth and success.
Depression
Signs include lack of motivation, withdrawal from activities, and isolation from friends and family.
Body Image
Social pressures, unrealistic media standards, and physical changes that come with adolescence may impact self-esteem and confidence.
How can a teen therapist help?
Emotional Regulation
Teens learn to manage intense emotions, such as anger, sadness, and anxiety, in healthy ways.
Self-Discovery
Therapy encourages teens to explore their identity, values, and goals, fostering personal growth and self-awareness.
Communication Skills
Teens develop tools to express themselves effectively, improving relationships with family and friends.
Building Resilience
Develop coping strategies to help them navigate stress more effectively.
Understand their Nervous System
Notice the difference between nervous system states and build body awareness.
Problem-Solving Skills
Teens learn to approach challenges with a sense of agency and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions for Teen Therapy
How can therapy help my teen with anxiety?
My teen has tried therapy before without success. What makes this different?
Many therapies focus on managing symptoms, but IFS (Internal Family Systems) and similar experiential approaches work on addressing the root causes of anxiety. This allows teens to connect with and heal the parts of themselves that feel overwhelmed, rather than simply suppressing their emotions.
What if my teen has struggled with anxiety for years?
Even longstanding anxiety can improve with the right teen therapist and therapeutic support. Through consistent therapy, teens can develop healthier coping mechanisms, build confidence, and create lasting change in how they handle stress and anxiety.
Can therapy help with the physical symptoms of anxiety, like headaches?
Yes, while therapy doesn’t directly treat physical symptoms, it addresses the stress and emotional factors contributing to them. Techniques for managing stress and promoting relaxation can reduce physical symptoms like tension headaches, digestive issues, and episodes of chest pain over time.
Is therapy confidential for teenagers?
Yes, therapy sessions are confidential to encourage openness and trust. However, therapists are obligated to inform parents if there are concerns about the teen’s safety or well-being.
How long will it take to see progress in my teen?
Every teen is different. Some may notice improvements within the first few months, while others might take longer. We’ll regularly assess progress and adjust the approach to ensure your teen feels supported and is moving toward their goals.
Supporting your teen through therapy can be a life-changing step toward their growth and well-being.
As an experienced teen therapist, I recognize that each teen’s journey with their mental health is unique. They don’t have to go through this alone, and neither do you.