Depression Therapy for Children & Teens
Guiding Your Child Back to Joy and Connection
Childhood and adolescent depression often looks different than adult depression. Where adults might express persistent sadness, young people may show irritability, physical complaints, academic decline, or social withdrawal. As both a therapist and mother of three San Francisco teenagers, I understand how painful it is to watch your child struggle with depression and how difficult it can be to distinguish between normal developmental changes and signs of clinical depression.
Depression therapy provides a safe space for children and teens to explore their feelings, develop coping skills, and rebuild connections to joy, meaning, and hope. Using evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to your child's unique needs and developmental stage, we'll work together to lift the fog of depression and help your child reconnect with their authentic self.
Ready to help your child rediscover joy and purpose? Book a free 15-minute consultation to discuss how we can work together on this important healing journey.
Understanding Depression in Children & Teens
Depression in young people can manifest in many ways:
Mood changes: Persistent sadness, irritability, emptiness, or anger
Motivational shifts: Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Social changes: Withdrawal from friends and family
Physical symptoms: Sleep problems, appetite changes, fatigue, headaches
Cognitive patterns: Negative self-talk, hopelessness, difficulty concentrating
Behavioral signs: Declining grades, abandoning hobbies, increased screen time
Depression often coexists with other challenges like anxiety, self-esteem issues, behavioral challenges, sleep problems, or responses to life transitions such as parental divorce or grief.
My Approach to Depression Therapy
My therapeutic approach to childhood and adolescent depression combines several evidence-based methodologies:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Identifying and changing negative thought patterns
Behavioral activation: Gradually increasing engagement in meaningful activities
Interpersonal therapy: Improving relationships and communication skills
Mindfulness practices: Developing present-moment awareness and acceptance
Family systems work: Involving parents in creating a supportive environment
Creative and expressive therapies: Using art, movement, and writing to process emotions
As both a therapist and mother of three teenagers in San Francisco, I bring professional expertise and compassionate understanding to our work together. I understand the unique pressures San Francisco youth face academically, socially, and in our achievement-oriented culture.
Signs Your Child May Benefit from Depression Therapy
Consider reaching out if your child:
Shows persistent sadness, irritability, or emotional numbness
Loses interest in previously enjoyed activities
Withdraws from friends and family
Experiences changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
Shows declining academic performance
Expresses hopelessness, worthlessness, or suicidal thoughts
Demonstrates increased sensitivity to rejection or failure
Uses negative self-talk or shows excessive self-criticism
Supporting Parents of Depressed Children & Teens
Parents play a vital role in supporting children through depression. Through our work together, I'll help you:
Understand depression from your child's perspective
Create a supportive home environment
Balance empathy with appropriate expectations
Recognize warning signs of suicidal thinking
Navigate school accommodations when needed
Practice self-care while supporting your struggling child
For parents seeking additional guidance, I also offer specialized parent coaching sessions focused on supporting children with mood disorders.
Begin Your Child's Journey to Emotional Wellness
Depression is highly treatable, and with the right support, children and teens can develop resilience and emotional management skills that will serve them throughout life. As both a therapist and mother of three teenagers here in San Francisco, I bring professional knowledge and personal understanding to our therapeutic relationship.
Contact me today for a free 15-minute consultation to discuss how we can work together to help your child find their way back to joy, connection, and emotional well-being.
