Therapists for Teens in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Brooke Bendix, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Brooke Bendix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
Growing up in today’s world isn’t easy! As a parent you want to ensure your 'GenZ'er has the emotional support they need to thrive in life. Imagine your child or teen with an improved sense of self-awareness and confidence in themselves. I provide a safe space to explore and manage their emotions and thoughts so they can develop a better sense of self. Our mission at Therapyology is to empower the next generation to lead a more valued life! It takes a village, am I right? I practice with a team approach working together with parents/doctors/teachers/school counselors to ensure each individual and family receives the best care.
Growing up in today’s world isn’t easy! As a parent you want to ensure your 'GenZ'er has the emotional support they need to thrive in life. Imagine your child or teen with an improved sense of self-awareness and confidence in themselves. I provide a safe space to explore and manage their emotions and thoughts so they can develop a better sense of self. Our mission at Therapyology is to empower the next generation to lead a more valued life! It takes a village, am I right? I practice with a team approach working together with parents/doctors/teachers/school counselors to ensure each individual and family receives the best care.
(248) 733-4899 x2 View (248) 733-4899 x2
Photo of Kyle Celio, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kyle Celio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I have also enjoyed years of experience working with individuals in their adolescent years.
Are things just not going quite right? Are parts of your life feeling out of your control? Do you need a safe and loving place to talk about what's really going on? I believe we all do sometimes and my goal is to provide this place for you so that you may share your story to someone who is warm, approachable and non-judgmental. Together let's look at what is and isn't working in your life right now in a calm and interactive way increasing your self-awareness and building upon the strengths you already have.
I have also enjoyed years of experience working with individuals in their adolescent years.
Are things just not going quite right? Are parts of your life feeling out of your control? Do you need a safe and loving place to talk about what's really going on? I believe we all do sometimes and my goal is to provide this place for you so that you may share your story to someone who is warm, approachable and non-judgmental. Together let's look at what is and isn't working in your life right now in a calm and interactive way increasing your self-awareness and building upon the strengths you already have.
(415) 637-9699 View (415) 637-9699
Photo of Adrian Rivera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Adrian Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
I have specialized in Child, Adolescent, and Family psychotherapy since 2004 with an emphasis on Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Family Therapy.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
I have specialized in Child, Adolescent, and Family psychotherapy since 2004 with an emphasis on Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Family Therapy.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
(510) 901-5736 View (510) 901-5736
Photo of Karla Schlags, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Karla Schlags
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
I am the founder of a group practice, California Integrative Counseling Center, located in downtown San Francisco. Our team specializes in treating individuals with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders, career challenges, relationship issues, and those going through life transitions. We provide individual therapy, group therapy for Adults with ADHD, couples therapy, teen therapy, and family therapy.
I am the founder of a group practice, California Integrative Counseling Center, located in downtown San Francisco. Our team specializes in treating individuals with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders, career challenges, relationship issues, and those going through life transitions. We provide individual therapy, group therapy for Adults with ADHD, couples therapy, teen therapy, and family therapy.
(415) 524-0582 x1 View (415) 524-0582 x1
Photo of Leandra Lehmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Leandra Lehmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
Finding a therapist can feel hard and vulnerable and I appreciate your effort. As a holistic psychotherapist, I enjoy guiding deep-feeling, compassionate, and driven teen girls and women to understand, love & accept themselves fully by weaving evidence-based modern science with the holistic, witchy & wise. You can expect to be surrounded by curiosity, kindness & a whole lot of validation as you shift patterns and beliefs holding you back from what deeply satisfies and nourishes you. My clients often learn to be more present, feel grounded in their bodies, clear about their feelings, needs, & goals & to rest unapologetically.
Finding a therapist can feel hard and vulnerable and I appreciate your effort. As a holistic psychotherapist, I enjoy guiding deep-feeling, compassionate, and driven teen girls and women to understand, love & accept themselves fully by weaving evidence-based modern science with the holistic, witchy & wise. You can expect to be surrounded by curiosity, kindness & a whole lot of validation as you shift patterns and beliefs holding you back from what deeply satisfies and nourishes you. My clients often learn to be more present, feel grounded in their bodies, clear about their feelings, needs, & goals & to rest unapologetically.
(415) 843-4416 View (415) 843-4416
Photo of Ron Austin MS, LMFT 925-949-6349, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ron Austin MS, LMFT 925-949-6349
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
I have experience in family counseling, adult and adolescent individuwal sessions.
25 plus years of experience in all areas of counseling. - Clinical Director Substance Abuse - Directed County Mental Health Teams , including Crisis and Children's Mental Health - Adjunct faculty at two Universities totaling 20 years - Juvenile Justice experience I enjoy working with couples and adults as they sort through the challenges of life. I make every attempt to help develop change for a healthy lifestyles. I am skilled in CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused treatments.
I have experience in family counseling, adult and adolescent individuwal sessions.
25 plus years of experience in all areas of counseling. - Clinical Director Substance Abuse - Directed County Mental Health Teams , including Crisis and Children's Mental Health - Adjunct faculty at two Universities totaling 20 years - Juvenile Justice experience I enjoy working with couples and adults as they sort through the challenges of life. I make every attempt to help develop change for a healthy lifestyles. I am skilled in CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused treatments.
(925) 478-2536 View (925) 478-2536
Photo of Gilbert A. Woo, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Gilbert A. Woo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
Gilbert received his M.S. in Clinical Psychology from San Francisco State University with internships at UCSF and SFGH Psychiatry Departments. For 7 years, he was the Mental Health Director at UCSF Epilepsy Center. He has been working with individuals with seizures since 2004 and has provided psychotherapy in a variety of settings, including child adolescent services and LGBT community clinics. He is also an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of San Francisco.
Gilbert received his M.S. in Clinical Psychology from San Francisco State University with internships at UCSF and SFGH Psychiatry Departments. For 7 years, he was the Mental Health Director at UCSF Epilepsy Center. He has been working with individuals with seizures since 2004 and has provided psychotherapy in a variety of settings, including child adolescent services and LGBT community clinics. He is also an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of San Francisco.
(415) 449-1667 View (415) 449-1667
Photo of Barri Pitkoff Aji, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Barri Pitkoff Aji
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
If you or your teen is struggling, don't hesitate to reach out.
Feeling anxious or down? Do you crave deeper connections with others? For over 20 years, I've helped adults and teens overcome obstacles and build happier, more fulfilling lives.
If you or your teen is struggling, don't hesitate to reach out.
Feeling anxious or down? Do you crave deeper connections with others? For over 20 years, I've helped adults and teens overcome obstacles and build happier, more fulfilling lives.
(415) 599-7364 View (415) 599-7364
Photo of Denis Barron, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Denis Barron
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
When working with an adolescent, I use an approach rooted in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to help create change.
Childhood can be an incredibly challenging time for kids, as well as for their families. The days can drag on, as the years fly by. While teens and children strive for independence and control, we as adults know that it may take time and effort until they are truly ready to take the reins successfully. This can be a difficult balance that can lead to turmoil and conflict. I am here to help young people find the tools to successfully navigate this time of change, and to help whole families increase respectful dialogue and peace at home. I also work with parents to increase effective parenting and co-parenting strategies.
When working with an adolescent, I use an approach rooted in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to help create change.
Childhood can be an incredibly challenging time for kids, as well as for their families. The days can drag on, as the years fly by. While teens and children strive for independence and control, we as adults know that it may take time and effort until they are truly ready to take the reins successfully. This can be a difficult balance that can lead to turmoil and conflict. I am here to help young people find the tools to successfully navigate this time of change, and to help whole families increase respectful dialogue and peace at home. I also work with parents to increase effective parenting and co-parenting strategies.
(628) 333-3613 View (628) 333-3613
Photo of Nita Batta, Associate Clinical Social Worker in San Francisco, CA
Nita Batta
Associate Clinical Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I also enjoy helping parents navigate the challenges of parenting, from infancy through the teen years.
East meets West. It is a phrase we hear often but how does it translate into practice? The pull lies in the strength of the familiar; the push is an urge to create space and jump into the unfamiliar. As an individual who was raised between two cultures, I offer a warm and safe space to discuss cultural competency as it relates to your life. Retaining your cultural values and traditions while simultaneously assimilating to the societal norms of your geographic upbringing can lead to many questions about ourselves in the past, present and future. I believe strongly in your ability to grow if nurtured in an encouraging environment.
I also enjoy helping parents navigate the challenges of parenting, from infancy through the teen years.
East meets West. It is a phrase we hear often but how does it translate into practice? The pull lies in the strength of the familiar; the push is an urge to create space and jump into the unfamiliar. As an individual who was raised between two cultures, I offer a warm and safe space to discuss cultural competency as it relates to your life. Retaining your cultural values and traditions while simultaneously assimilating to the societal norms of your geographic upbringing can lead to many questions about ourselves in the past, present and future. I believe strongly in your ability to grow if nurtured in an encouraging environment.
(341) 222-3526 View (341) 222-3526
Photo of Sheena Craig, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sheena Craig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I currently work with adult and adolescent individuals and couples. The issues I deal with include depression and dysthymia, panic attacks, stress, generalized anxiety disorder, gender identity disorder, obsessions and compulsions, childhood sexual trauma, childhood physical abuse, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, communication conflict, commitment, intimacy, sexual difficulties, insecurity, trust, infidelity and social phobia.
I currently work with adult and adolescent individuals and couples. The issues I deal with include depression and dysthymia, panic attacks, stress, generalized anxiety disorder, gender identity disorder, obsessions and compulsions, childhood sexual trauma, childhood physical abuse, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, communication conflict, commitment, intimacy, sexual difficulties, insecurity, trust, infidelity and social phobia.
(415) 858-6152 View (415) 858-6152
Photo of Nina Atanassova, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nina Atanassova
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
I help clients with issues related to: * Depression and Anxiety * Stress Management * Domestic Violence * Anger Management * Self Esteem Issues * Communication and Relationship Issues * Adolescent Behavioral Issues * Trauma, Grief and Loss * Parenting and Step-Parenting Issues.
In my practice, I believe that the process of change requires an approach that is tailored to each individual's unique style and needs. I strive to create a collaborative, caring, and supportive atmosphere that will assist you in identifying and changing the thoughts, the behaviors, and the interpersonal styles that are no longer effective for you. I offer confidential, supportive and caring environment free of judgment that will facilitate your journey through difficulties and challenges.
I help clients with issues related to: * Depression and Anxiety * Stress Management * Domestic Violence * Anger Management * Self Esteem Issues * Communication and Relationship Issues * Adolescent Behavioral Issues * Trauma, Grief and Loss * Parenting and Step-Parenting Issues.
In my practice, I believe that the process of change requires an approach that is tailored to each individual's unique style and needs. I strive to create a collaborative, caring, and supportive atmosphere that will assist you in identifying and changing the thoughts, the behaviors, and the interpersonal styles that are no longer effective for you. I offer confidential, supportive and caring environment free of judgment that will facilitate your journey through difficulties and challenges.
(628) 244-9011 View (628) 244-9011
Photo of Crystal Barrera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Crystal Barrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
I offer services to adults, teen, children, couples and families.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has a passion for helping clients develop a better understanding of themselves and their lives. I am bilingual in English and Spanish and provide a culturally sensitive environment.
I offer services to adults, teen, children, couples and families.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has a passion for helping clients develop a better understanding of themselves and their lives. I am bilingual in English and Spanish and provide a culturally sensitive environment.
(415) 903-9997 View (415) 903-9997
Photo of Ronald 'max' Yusim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ronald 'max' Yusim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
In particular, I led over two dozen workshops on the subject of "how to teach your teenager more responsibility.
I am strong in treating people with depression, OCD and anxiety issues. That being said, my true expertise is in the area of alcohol and addiction therapies. I am a recovering alcoholic and love educating folks on the principles of addiction and recovery. I've even had the fascinating experience of leading drug and alcohol group therapy for inmates at San Quentin State Prison. I believe there is no distinction between the many forms of addiction: alcohol, drugs, sex, internet porn, eating, working, video games, social media or gambling"¦all of these are triggered by the same things: fear, stress, and anxiety. And ALL are treatable.
In particular, I led over two dozen workshops on the subject of "how to teach your teenager more responsibility.
I am strong in treating people with depression, OCD and anxiety issues. That being said, my true expertise is in the area of alcohol and addiction therapies. I am a recovering alcoholic and love educating folks on the principles of addiction and recovery. I've even had the fascinating experience of leading drug and alcohol group therapy for inmates at San Quentin State Prison. I believe there is no distinction between the many forms of addiction: alcohol, drugs, sex, internet porn, eating, working, video games, social media or gambling"¦all of these are triggered by the same things: fear, stress, and anxiety. And ALL are treatable.
(628) 225-4560 View (628) 225-4560
Photo of Wendy Von Wiederhold, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Wendy Von Wiederhold
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I provide consultation to parents with concerns regarding their child or adolescent.
Emotions can sometimes be difficult to bear-sadness, worries about yourself and others, fears, painful recurrent interactions and relationships. Working with an understanding professional to explore feelings and expectations about yourself and your relationships can be the key to clarifying troubling emotional states. These feelings can cause recurrent painful states, or push us toward repetitive or self-destructive behaviors. Exploring these feelings in a safe relationship can cause feelings about yourself and others to shift, opening to new ways of thinking and behaving. This allows for greater flexibility, enhanced creativity, a better relationship with yourself, and better connections and relationships.
I provide consultation to parents with concerns regarding their child or adolescent.
Emotions can sometimes be difficult to bear-sadness, worries about yourself and others, fears, painful recurrent interactions and relationships. Working with an understanding professional to explore feelings and expectations about yourself and your relationships can be the key to clarifying troubling emotional states. These feelings can cause recurrent painful states, or push us toward repetitive or self-destructive behaviors. Exploring these feelings in a safe relationship can cause feelings about yourself and others to shift, opening to new ways of thinking and behaving. This allows for greater flexibility, enhanced creativity, a better relationship with yourself, and better connections and relationships.
(415) 322-0318 View (415) 322-0318
Photo of Karla Fakhouri, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Karla Fakhouri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, SOMATIC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
As an adolescent immigrant, I faced great challenges in balancing life in two disparate worlds.
As your therapist, I maintain curiosity about your unique perspective, assessing your threshold for growth within your cultural context. I work with you, tailoring the work to your need. I utilize various modalities, including somatic, art and play therapy. I work with you in the present moment, accessing and resolving past traumatic experiences. I work with individuals, couples, families and children.
As an adolescent immigrant, I faced great challenges in balancing life in two disparate worlds.
As your therapist, I maintain curiosity about your unique perspective, assessing your threshold for growth within your cultural context. I work with you, tailoring the work to your need. I utilize various modalities, including somatic, art and play therapy. I work with you in the present moment, accessing and resolving past traumatic experiences. I work with individuals, couples, families and children.
(650) 336-5252 View (650) 336-5252
Photo of Dr. Diana L Wong, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Diana L Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94132
Waitlist for new clients
As a bicultural & multilingual licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California & Ohio, I provide individual (celebrity & adult), children, & couples therapy in private practice & in outpatient settings. I received my Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology/Alliant International University. I have completed an APA-accredited doctoral internship at UCSF, Child & Adolescent Services Multicultural Training Program at San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in marriage & family therapy from USF.
As a bicultural & multilingual licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California & Ohio, I provide individual (celebrity & adult), children, & couples therapy in private practice & in outpatient settings. I received my Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology/Alliant International University. I have completed an APA-accredited doctoral internship at UCSF, Child & Adolescent Services Multicultural Training Program at San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in marriage & family therapy from USF.
(415) 942-9287 View (415) 942-9287
Photo of Jan S. Cehn, LCSW,BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jan S. Cehn, LCSW,BCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Preteen and teen years can be particularly stressful for the entire family.
I am an experienced therapist who has been working with teens, individuals, couples and families for over 30 years. I see therapy as a partnership: you enter this process with your particular issues and uniqueness and together, through building trust, being curious and using specialized techniques, you progress. My approach is based on my client's personal history and their needs and, in general, I am quite interactive. I provide short-term as well as long-term treatment.
Preteen and teen years can be particularly stressful for the entire family.
I am an experienced therapist who has been working with teens, individuals, couples and families for over 30 years. I see therapy as a partnership: you enter this process with your particular issues and uniqueness and together, through building trust, being curious and using specialized techniques, you progress. My approach is based on my client's personal history and their needs and, in general, I am quite interactive. I provide short-term as well as long-term treatment.
(415) 889-8965 View (415) 889-8965
Photo of Taylor Langley, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Taylor Langley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
I am here to help you find some peace and calm in this storm of life. Although that sounds a bit cliche, life seems to be getting more complicated by the day- I want to support you in whatever way you or your family need. My experience is with a range of issues, ages, and cultural diversities, including working through family conflict, helping with behavior modification for your young child or learning how to connect with your teen. I also work with adults dealing with job stress, relationship issues, or those struggling to find passion and drive.
I am here to help you find some peace and calm in this storm of life. Although that sounds a bit cliche, life seems to be getting more complicated by the day- I want to support you in whatever way you or your family need. My experience is with a range of issues, ages, and cultural diversities, including working through family conflict, helping with behavior modification for your young child or learning how to connect with your teen. I also work with adults dealing with job stress, relationship issues, or those struggling to find passion and drive.
(628) 209-5303 View (628) 209-5303
Zena Vevaina
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Hi and welcome! I would like to offer my hand in your journey. Often, people seek therapy when they are in a crisis such as a challenge in marriage, infidelity, difficulty with an adolescent, a transition, depression, anxiety, psychosis, or struggling with substance abuse. Sometimes people seek therapy when they need someone to help them reframe an issue or offer a different perspective. I value and respect each individual I work with. I work with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families using many different theoretical approaches tailored to match your unique needs and personality.
Hi and welcome! I would like to offer my hand in your journey. Often, people seek therapy when they are in a crisis such as a challenge in marriage, infidelity, difficulty with an adolescent, a transition, depression, anxiety, psychosis, or struggling with substance abuse. Sometimes people seek therapy when they need someone to help them reframe an issue or offer a different perspective. I value and respect each individual I work with. I work with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families using many different theoretical approaches tailored to match your unique needs and personality.
(415) 936-1595 View (415) 936-1595

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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.