Therapists for Teens in Laguna Beach, CA

Photo of Amy Neufeld, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Neufeld
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Anxiety, depression, stress, divorce, parenting, co-parenting, teen anxiety, children behavioral issues, navigating adult pressures.... Oh my! It’s a lot to manage on your own. Life is going to present its challenges and you don't have to deal with them alone. Together we can get you living the life you want.
Anxiety, depression, stress, divorce, parenting, co-parenting, teen anxiety, children behavioral issues, navigating adult pressures.... Oh my! It’s a lot to manage on your own. Life is going to present its challenges and you don't have to deal with them alone. Together we can get you living the life you want.
(949) 541-4921 View (949) 541-4921
Photo of Andrea D Schoon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea D Schoon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: *COUPLES COUNSELING *ANXIETY *DEPRESSION *CHILD AND ADOLESCENT ISSUES *SUBSTANCE ABUSE *LOSS/GRIEF *RELATIONSHIP ISSUES *ADJUSTMENT ISSUES *ANGER MANAGEMENT *DIVORCE **.
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: *COUPLES COUNSELING *ANXIETY *DEPRESSION *CHILD AND ADOLESCENT ISSUES *SUBSTANCE ABUSE *LOSS/GRIEF *RELATIONSHIP ISSUES *ADJUSTMENT ISSUES *ANGER MANAGEMENT *DIVORCE **.
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
(714) 942-5618 View (714) 942-5618
Photo of Melissa Hernandez - ASPIRE at Laguna Beach, LCSW, MD, RN, PMHNP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
ASPIRE at Laguna Beach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MD, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
ASPIRE supports adolescent emotional wellness by taking a holistic treatment approach incorporating education, training and active participation from teens and their families. Adolescence is a time of profound growth and change. While one’s brain is still developing, challenges in school and interpersonal relationships can result in significant emotional distress leading to difficulties in normal daily functioning. ASPIRE helps teens navigate issues that are commonly present during this stage of life, such as family conflict, low self-esteem, ineffective communication, and symptoms of anxiety and depression.
ASPIRE supports adolescent emotional wellness by taking a holistic treatment approach incorporating education, training and active participation from teens and their families. Adolescence is a time of profound growth and change. While one’s brain is still developing, challenges in school and interpersonal relationships can result in significant emotional distress leading to difficulties in normal daily functioning. ASPIRE helps teens navigate issues that are commonly present during this stage of life, such as family conflict, low self-esteem, ineffective communication, and symptoms of anxiety and depression.
(949) 997-2618 View (949) 997-2618
Photo of Dara Cortes, MSW, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dara Cortes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
I have been a specialist in the Orange County Teen Court, as well as presented on Trauma Informed Practices at the county and state level.
Life can be challenging, painful, frustrating, and uncertain at times. Through therapeutic means, we can work together to explore meaningful and creative ways to break down barriers and find the appropriate means for you to feel good in your skin. There are no guarantees in what life throws our way. There are however, beautiful opportunities in every situation we encompass, to respond effectively and empower ourselves to live the best life possible. I welcome the opportunity to journey through this process with you.
I have been a specialist in the Orange County Teen Court, as well as presented on Trauma Informed Practices at the county and state level.
Life can be challenging, painful, frustrating, and uncertain at times. Through therapeutic means, we can work together to explore meaningful and creative ways to break down barriers and find the appropriate means for you to feel good in your skin. There are no guarantees in what life throws our way. There are however, beautiful opportunities in every situation we encompass, to respond effectively and empower ourselves to live the best life possible. I welcome the opportunity to journey through this process with you.
(949) 247-8540 View (949) 247-8540
Photo of Dr. Catherin Snyder - Laguna Beach Clinical Psychology: Psychotherapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Laguna Beach Clinical Psychology: Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Now Accepting New Appointments. The Holidays are Coming. I am offering in person and virtual individual and family sessions. I do play therapy with children and teach parents how to do filial play therapy with small children. Understanding the family dynamics is key to healing. School age and adolescent children can generally emotion focused and cognitive therapies to cope with what is preventing them from being at ease. Adults are able to use insight oriented approaches to understand complex dynamic systems at work and at home. Ensuring restful sleep and aa decrease in stress is an overall indicator of health and healing.
Now Accepting New Appointments. The Holidays are Coming. I am offering in person and virtual individual and family sessions. I do play therapy with children and teach parents how to do filial play therapy with small children. Understanding the family dynamics is key to healing. School age and adolescent children can generally emotion focused and cognitive therapies to cope with what is preventing them from being at ease. Adults are able to use insight oriented approaches to understand complex dynamic systems at work and at home. Ensuring restful sleep and aa decrease in stress is an overall indicator of health and healing.
(844) 722-0252 View (844) 722-0252
Photo of Andrea D Schoon, MA,  , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea D Schoon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, , LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: *COUPLES COUNSELING *ANXIETY *DEPRESSION *CHILD AND ADOLESCENT ISSUES *SUBSTANCE ABUSE *LOSS/GRIEF *RELATIONSHIP ISSUES *ADJUSTMENT ISSUES *ANGER MANAGEMENT *DIVORCE **.
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: *COUPLES COUNSELING *ANXIETY *DEPRESSION *CHILD AND ADOLESCENT ISSUES *SUBSTANCE ABUSE *LOSS/GRIEF *RELATIONSHIP ISSUES *ADJUSTMENT ISSUES *ANGER MANAGEMENT *DIVORCE **.
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
(714) 942-4091 View (714) 942-4091
Photo of Mickey Wilson - Teen & Family Life Coaching, Coach Mickey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Teen & Family Life Coaching, Coach Mickey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
I offer your family and teen "coaching" without the stigma of therapy or the need to have long deep discussions.
TEENS - your happy outgoing child has been replaced by a secretive/withdrawn, irritable/defiant teenager, creating worry, anxiety, chaos. You find yourself reacting to your teen, rather than enjoying a happy family. You've tried everything - bribery, setting boundaries, making demands, hurling threats. It's only gotten worse. Worried over the cause of your teen's change - addiction, (alcohol or drug abuse), ADD/ADHD, body image/self esteem issues (anorexia, bulimia, cutting, weight) bullying, maybe your pending divorce...anxiety, depression, school, suicide attempts, suicide of a friend or family member...
I offer your family and teen "coaching" without the stigma of therapy or the need to have long deep discussions.
TEENS - your happy outgoing child has been replaced by a secretive/withdrawn, irritable/defiant teenager, creating worry, anxiety, chaos. You find yourself reacting to your teen, rather than enjoying a happy family. You've tried everything - bribery, setting boundaries, making demands, hurling threats. It's only gotten worse. Worried over the cause of your teen's change - addiction, (alcohol or drug abuse), ADD/ADHD, body image/self esteem issues (anorexia, bulimia, cutting, weight) bullying, maybe your pending divorce...anxiety, depression, school, suicide attempts, suicide of a friend or family member...
(949) 416-2176 View (949) 416-2176
Photo of Jennifer Lafferty O'Connor, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Lafferty O'Connor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Hello, I specialize in the treatment of eating and anxiety disorders. I have been featured on CNN's Newsroom, the Anderson Cooper Show and A&E's "Obsessed" due to my expertise in the treatment of OCD and related anxiety disorders. My highly specialized training has equipped me to treat individuals who struggle with various types of anxiety, worry, fear, obsessions, or compulsive behavioral patterns. I have extensive training and experience in treating eating disorders and issues related to body image distress. I treat all ages, but have specialized training in pediatric and adolescent development.
Hello, I specialize in the treatment of eating and anxiety disorders. I have been featured on CNN's Newsroom, the Anderson Cooper Show and A&E's "Obsessed" due to my expertise in the treatment of OCD and related anxiety disorders. My highly specialized training has equipped me to treat individuals who struggle with various types of anxiety, worry, fear, obsessions, or compulsive behavioral patterns. I have extensive training and experience in treating eating disorders and issues related to body image distress. I treat all ages, but have specialized training in pediatric and adolescent development.
(949) 427-2521 View (949) 427-2521
Photo of Sherrie Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sherrie Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92656
My name is Dr. Sherrie D. Lee, and I am currently dually licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT86706) and a Licensed Psychologist (PSY33937). I am based in Southern California, providing therapy to adolescent and adult clients statewide via telehealth. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety and depressive disorders to empower clients and promote change. I believe in providing everyone with quality, culturally sensitive mental health treatment, from assessment to termination.
My name is Dr. Sherrie D. Lee, and I am currently dually licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT86706) and a Licensed Psychologist (PSY33937). I am based in Southern California, providing therapy to adolescent and adult clients statewide via telehealth. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety and depressive disorders to empower clients and promote change. I believe in providing everyone with quality, culturally sensitive mental health treatment, from assessment to termination.
(747) 281-2887 View (747) 281-2887
Photo of Brandon Owens, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandon Owens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92653
I provided therapy for people experiencing depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, difficult life circumstance, challenges with relationships, parent- teen issues, and family challenges. People seeking therapy often need support when learning to tolerate uncertainty in the face of difficult situations. Client's often benefit from emotional support paired with insight to increase mental health. Finally, Clients benefit from effective strategies that help improve or change the relationship with the problem facing them.
I provided therapy for people experiencing depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, difficult life circumstance, challenges with relationships, parent- teen issues, and family challenges. People seeking therapy often need support when learning to tolerate uncertainty in the face of difficult situations. Client's often benefit from emotional support paired with insight to increase mental health. Finally, Clients benefit from effective strategies that help improve or change the relationship with the problem facing them.
(949) 785-2794 View (949) 785-2794
Photo of Aly Giermann, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aly Giermann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92652  (Online Only)
I work with clients ages older adolescent through adulthood.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: I believe therapy is a powerful tool for change and personal empowerment. It can be difficult to make the decision to seek support, but I believe starting therapy is a courageous act of self-compassion. I aim to provide a warm, genuine, and collaborative approach when working with clients. I strive to create a connection that allows clients to be themselves and feel safe to work through any obstacles in their path. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, I work with clients to build confidence and skills to navigate life stressors and to create a life they can’t wait to wake up to.
I work with clients ages older adolescent through adulthood.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: I believe therapy is a powerful tool for change and personal empowerment. It can be difficult to make the decision to seek support, but I believe starting therapy is a courageous act of self-compassion. I aim to provide a warm, genuine, and collaborative approach when working with clients. I strive to create a connection that allows clients to be themselves and feel safe to work through any obstacles in their path. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, I work with clients to build confidence and skills to navigate life stressors and to create a life they can’t wait to wake up to.
(949) 401-6683 View (949) 401-6683
Photo of Jerry Weichman - The Weichman Clinic, PhD, Psychologist
The Weichman Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
(949) 537-2393 View (949) 537-2393
Photo of Irene Nunez - Flow With It Therapy, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Flow With It Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92607
I help moms process the transition into pregnancy/motherhood, birth trauma, teen moms & mood.
My approach to healing is to encourage you to unlearn and challenge deep rooted childhood patterns and maladaptive beliefs that you are undeserving of love & nurturing relationships. I would be honored to provide you with a safe place to tell your story and challenge these beliefs. My focus is to help those who are breaking cycles to begin to balance emotions, tracking the body and nervous system responses, reprocess traumatic events, break patterns of intergenerational trauma, connect with their inner child and become aware of their inner strengths. I also conduct Mental Health Immigration Evaluations.
I help moms process the transition into pregnancy/motherhood, birth trauma, teen moms & mood.
My approach to healing is to encourage you to unlearn and challenge deep rooted childhood patterns and maladaptive beliefs that you are undeserving of love & nurturing relationships. I would be honored to provide you with a safe place to tell your story and challenge these beliefs. My focus is to help those who are breaking cycles to begin to balance emotions, tracking the body and nervous system responses, reprocess traumatic events, break patterns of intergenerational trauma, connect with their inner child and become aware of their inner strengths. I also conduct Mental Health Immigration Evaluations.
(714) 278-3190 View (714) 278-3190
Photo of Asfara Noormohamed, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Asfara Noormohamed
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Hello there! Are you seeking a therapist who's not only approachable but also deeply committed to helping you navigate life's ups and downs? Well, you've landed in the right place—I'm Asfara Noormohamed, and I'm here to lend you a friendly ear and a helping hand. With nine years of experience in consultation and professional relationship management, I've developed a knack for building connections and fostering positive change. Currently immersed in a Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program, under the supervision of Melinda Haynes (LMFT 10230). I'm eager to expand my skills and support individuals, couples, and families like you.
Hello there! Are you seeking a therapist who's not only approachable but also deeply committed to helping you navigate life's ups and downs? Well, you've landed in the right place—I'm Asfara Noormohamed, and I'm here to lend you a friendly ear and a helping hand. With nine years of experience in consultation and professional relationship management, I've developed a knack for building connections and fostering positive change. Currently immersed in a Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program, under the supervision of Melinda Haynes (LMFT 10230). I'm eager to expand my skills and support individuals, couples, and families like you.
(949) 635-4458 View (949) 635-4458
Photo of Fabrice Paracuellos, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fabrice Paracuellos
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
I help heal emotional pain and relationship distress. I bring a warm approach to therapy, informed by life experiences in Europe and Asia. I became a therapist after having discovered the meaning of fatherhood. I taught the practice of psychotherapy to graduate students and am supervising therapists in training. I use tools that help regulate the nervous system as needed. Where I find myself at home is with helping the development of self-awareness with tenderness toward our underlying humanity, for this brings self-love, vibrancy, empowerment, intimacy, and meaning.
I help heal emotional pain and relationship distress. I bring a warm approach to therapy, informed by life experiences in Europe and Asia. I became a therapist after having discovered the meaning of fatherhood. I taught the practice of psychotherapy to graduate students and am supervising therapists in training. I use tools that help regulate the nervous system as needed. Where I find myself at home is with helping the development of self-awareness with tenderness toward our underlying humanity, for this brings self-love, vibrancy, empowerment, intimacy, and meaning.
(949) 682-9305 View (949) 682-9305
Photo of Ari Novick, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ari Novick
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
I specialize in Anger and Stress Management for adults, adolescents, couples, families, individuals and corporations; however, I also see clients for a variety of other reasons, particularly Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression and Substance Abuse. Our office also provides Orange County court and probation Anger Management and Parenting classes and a variety of online classes. We have locations in Orange and Santa Cruz County.
I specialize in Anger and Stress Management for adults, adolescents, couples, families, individuals and corporations; however, I also see clients for a variety of other reasons, particularly Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression and Substance Abuse. Our office also provides Orange County court and probation Anger Management and Parenting classes and a variety of online classes. We have locations in Orange and Santa Cruz County.
(949) 214-4801 View (949) 214-4801
Photo of Lori Aleknavicius, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Lori Aleknavicius
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92652
I am a licensed psychologist who has extensive therapy experience treating children, adolescents, adults and families in a wide variety of settings including outpatient, inpatient, residential, and school settings. I have provided individual, family and group therapy services to, as well as conducted psychological evaluations on, children, adolescents, adults and families of varying cultures, ethnicities, religions affiliations, sexual orientations, and levels of socioeconomic status. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, relational problems,and disorders usually diagnosed during childhood. I value each client as a unique individual and tailor my treatment approaches based on individual characteristics.
I am a licensed psychologist who has extensive therapy experience treating children, adolescents, adults and families in a wide variety of settings including outpatient, inpatient, residential, and school settings. I have provided individual, family and group therapy services to, as well as conducted psychological evaluations on, children, adolescents, adults and families of varying cultures, ethnicities, religions affiliations, sexual orientations, and levels of socioeconomic status. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, relational problems,and disorders usually diagnosed during childhood. I value each client as a unique individual and tailor my treatment approaches based on individual characteristics.
(949) 393-4219 View (949) 393-4219
Photo of Michele Hall, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michele Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Life can be tough and struggling through challenges alone can be even tougher. You may be experiencing high levels of stress, depression or anxiety. You may even be suffering from panic attacks. There is hope, however, and EMDR therapy can help identify unwanted patterns, triggers and behaviors in order to create positive change. We do not have to be defined by our negative experiences or past traumas. We all have the power within us to make positive changes in our lives and I want to help you do just that! I am also a certified Bikram Yoga instructor and truly believe in the importance of the Mind/Body connection.
Life can be tough and struggling through challenges alone can be even tougher. You may be experiencing high levels of stress, depression or anxiety. You may even be suffering from panic attacks. There is hope, however, and EMDR therapy can help identify unwanted patterns, triggers and behaviors in order to create positive change. We do not have to be defined by our negative experiences or past traumas. We all have the power within us to make positive changes in our lives and I want to help you do just that! I am also a certified Bikram Yoga instructor and truly believe in the importance of the Mind/Body connection.
(949) 541-7771 View (949) 541-7771
Photo of Julie Maul, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Maul
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Are you questioning whether you should continue in your current relationship? Is your daily life plagued with arguing? Do you need help with communication? Are there trust issues or an infidelity? In a satisfying relationship and planning on getting married? Do you need help ending a relationship? Is your relationship affecting other family members? Have you been feeling depressed or anxious? Are you having difficulty with disturbing memories of a traumatic event? Are you experiencing chronic pain or have you been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, RSD or migraines? Are you faced with a dilemma and need a sounding board? I can help.
Are you questioning whether you should continue in your current relationship? Is your daily life plagued with arguing? Do you need help with communication? Are there trust issues or an infidelity? In a satisfying relationship and planning on getting married? Do you need help ending a relationship? Is your relationship affecting other family members? Have you been feeling depressed or anxious? Are you having difficulty with disturbing memories of a traumatic event? Are you experiencing chronic pain or have you been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, RSD or migraines? Are you faced with a dilemma and need a sounding board? I can help.
(949) 541-5992 View (949) 541-5992
Photo of Jody Spellmeyer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jody Spellmeyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Life can be full of challenges and life changing events. Some of these events and challenges can result in intense emotional distress. If you or a loved one are struggling with sadness, anxiety, stress management, loss & grief, or trauma, I would like to work with you in a mutual effort to address your distress and healing. Over the past 24 years I have been working with children, teens, adults and families to sort through emotions, build strategies & skills, and find solutions to manage the emotional struggles.
Life can be full of challenges and life changing events. Some of these events and challenges can result in intense emotional distress. If you or a loved one are struggling with sadness, anxiety, stress management, loss & grief, or trauma, I would like to work with you in a mutual effort to address your distress and healing. Over the past 24 years I have been working with children, teens, adults and families to sort through emotions, build strategies & skills, and find solutions to manage the emotional struggles.
(714) 793-0733 View (714) 793-0733

See more therapy options for Laguna Beach

Teen Therapists

What does therapy for teenagers look like?

When a therapist works with a teenager, the pair will talk about what the teen is struggling with and explore solutions, which may involve interpersonal skills, coping strategies, medication, or lifestyle changes related to sleep, diet, and exercise. Different therapists employ different modalities, but most involve a combination of conversation and skill building.

How long does therapy for teenagers generally take to work?

There’s variability in teenagers’ experiences and challenges; some may begin to improve from therapy within a few weeks while others may take several months or longer. Teens can discuss their progress with their therapist periodically to assess how they’re improving and any changes to the treatment plan that could potentially accelerate that progress.

How do you encourage a teenager to go to therapy?

It’s helpful to express your concern and love while framing therapy as an opportunity to explore a tool that could help improve their life; just like they practice baseball or dance, now they can practice their emotional skills. Give your teen control over the process where you can—maybe by weighing in on choice of therapist and signaling that therapy involves confidentiality, so a parent need not know all that is discussed in sessions.

How do you prepare teens for therapy?

You can prepare your teenager for therapy by describing what the process will look like and setting expectations for timeline, if requested. You can explain that the first session may begin with an assessment phase, that they can describe their experiences but that the therapist will ask questions too, and that it may take time to feel comfortable opening up. Ask how they’re feeling about the process and answer any questions calmly and supportively.