Teen + Adolescent therapy in SAN FRANCISCO + BENICIA

TEEN + ADOLESCENT THERAPY

Adolescence can feel like a rollercoaster for teens AND for the families who love them! Between school pressures, social dynamics, identity exploration, and the ups and downs of emotions, it’s no wonder this stage of life can feel overwhelming.

Our adolescent therapy services are designed to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where teens can be heard, supported, and guided as they navigate these years.

WHY THERAPY FOR TEENS?

The teenage years bring unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Therapy can help adolescents:

  • Manage stress, anxiety, and depression

  • Navigate friendships, peer pressure, and social media

  • Strengthen communication with parents and caregivers

  • Build self-esteem and a sense of identity

  • Develop coping strategies for academic and life pressures

  • Heal from trauma, loss, or family transitions

WHAT TO EXPECT

Our therapists meet teens where they are. Sessions are tailored to each individual’s needs, using approaches that feel engaging, relatable, and respectful of their stage of life. Therapy often includes:

  • Creative and expressive tools (art, journaling, mindfulness, and play-based techniques)

  • Practical skill-building (coping strategies, emotional regulation, conflict resolution)

  • Collaboration with parents through periodic check-ins to ensure growth extends beyond the therapy room

Confidentiality is an important part of building trust. While we share overall themes and progress with caregivers, sessions are designed to give teens their own safe space.

HOW THERAPY HELPS FAMILIES

Adolescent therapy isn’t just for the teen, it supports the whole family! By creating healthier patterns of communication and understanding, therapy can strengthen family bonds and provide tools for navigating this stage together. Our therapists provide guidance to help parents understand their teen’s world, improve communication, and create healthier connections at home.

A NOTE TO TEENS…

We know opening up isn’t always easy. Therapy isn’t about judgment, it’s about having a space that’s just for you. A place that’s yours to talk, vent, and make sense of things with someone outside the situation who understands what it’s like to be a teen. Whether you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed by big emotions, or just need someone in your corner, we’re here for you.

THE Role of parents + Caregivers

While therapy often involves individual sessions with your child or teen, we believe that therapy is most effective when parents and caregivers are actively engaged in the process. Your involvement can be essential for helping your child practice new skills, feel supported at home, and experience the full benefits of therapy.

The extent of parent participation is always tailored to your child’s age, needs, and developmental stage and may include:

  • Regular check-ins to share themes, progress, and strategies you can reinforce at home

  • Parent coaching to provide tools for navigating challenging behaviors or emotional struggles

  • Family sessions to strengthen communication, resolve conflicts, and foster connection

  • Collaborative goal-setting so everyone is working together toward growth and healing

Your therapist will always work with you to determine the level of involvement that best supports your child or teens growth and treatment goals.