Therapists for Teens in San Diego, CA

You are an adult, teen or couple dealing with trauma, life transition, grief, anxiety, relationship strain or emotional pain from your past or present.
I am a former professor, national expert, and author. I have deep knowledge of the neuroscience of stress, anxiety, trauma, & relationship challenges. I may use Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Mindfulness-Based therapy, or EMDR therapy for trauma. My brain-mind-body-relationship focus helps you calm fight/flight/freeze reactions & move forward.
You are an adult, teen or couple dealing with trauma, life transition, grief, anxiety, relationship strain or emotional pain from your past or present.
I am a former professor, national expert, and author. I have deep knowledge of the neuroscience of stress, anxiety, trauma, & relationship challenges. I may use Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Mindfulness-Based therapy, or EMDR therapy for trauma. My brain-mind-body-relationship focus helps you calm fight/flight/freeze reactions & move forward.

Reyes has years of experience in the field of psychology and has had extensive training in the treatment of child and adolescent issues.
Dr. Reyes formulates an individualized treatment plan for each of his clients, understanding that each person is unique. He typically takes a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy approach to conceptualization and treatment of psychological disorders but also uses other modalities as appropriate.
Reyes has years of experience in the field of psychology and has had extensive training in the treatment of child and adolescent issues.
Dr. Reyes formulates an individualized treatment plan for each of his clients, understanding that each person is unique. He typically takes a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy approach to conceptualization and treatment of psychological disorders but also uses other modalities as appropriate.

Whether you are an adult, adolescent or couple I can help you understand your individual response to life's challenges, and through a collaborative working relationship, I can assist you in making crucial changes that will enhance your life.
Dr. Brody has over 18 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families striving to achieve mental wellness. Areas of focus include:
Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Relationship Issues, Infertility Challenges, Major Milestone Transitions, Trauma and PTSD, Military Family Challenges, Interfaith Pre-marital/Marital Therapy, Parenting and Addictions.
Whether you are an adult, adolescent or couple I can help you understand your individual response to life's challenges, and through a collaborative working relationship, I can assist you in making crucial changes that will enhance your life.
Dr. Brody has over 18 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families striving to achieve mental wellness. Areas of focus include:
Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Relationship Issues, Infertility Challenges, Major Milestone Transitions, Trauma and PTSD, Military Family Challenges, Interfaith Pre-marital/Marital Therapy, Parenting and Addictions.

Whelan is an experienced clinical psychologist who provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to adult and adolescent patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions.
memory impairment, TBI/concussion, bariatric surgery and organ transplant candidacy, learning disorders, etc. Dr. W provides individualized evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindful self-compassion (MSC). She helps her
Whelan is an experienced clinical psychologist who provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to adult and adolescent patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions.
memory impairment, TBI/concussion, bariatric surgery and organ transplant candidacy, learning disorders, etc. Dr. W provides individualized evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindful self-compassion (MSC). She helps her

Whether you're navigating a big change, feeling lost, or watching your teen struggle, therapy can help.
I specialize in working with young adults, teens, and children navigating anxiety, life transitions, perfectionism, family/ relationship issues, mild eating disorders, and trauma. I use an integrative approach—ACT, CBT, play therapy—to meet each client where they are. I take on limited child cases (10 and under) for phobias, trauma, BFRB, and anxiety.
Whether you're navigating a big change, feeling lost, or watching your teen struggle, therapy can help.
I specialize in working with young adults, teens, and children navigating anxiety, life transitions, perfectionism, family/ relationship issues, mild eating disorders, and trauma. I use an integrative approach—ACT, CBT, play therapy—to meet each client where they are. I take on limited child cases (10 and under) for phobias, trauma, BFRB, and anxiety.

Are you a teen, adult, or child, struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges?
As a Licensed Clinical Therapist (LMFT), I blend CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Triple P parenting strategies. With experience in schools, clinics, and community settings, I create a supportive space where humor and authenticity drive healing. Your journey will focus on practical skills and self-discovery.
Are you a teen, adult, or child, struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges?
As a Licensed Clinical Therapist (LMFT), I blend CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Triple P parenting strategies. With experience in schools, clinics, and community settings, I create a supportive space where humor and authenticity drive healing. Your journey will focus on practical skills and self-discovery.

Welcome, my name is Vanessa Villasenor and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who has experience providing child, teen and adult therapy in San Diego.
I use evidence-based practices including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, behavior modification, and trauma therapy when providing therapy. I work with individuals who struggle with depression & mood disorders, anxiet, childhood trauma & post-traumatic stress disorder, life transitions, military life, relational challenges & more.
Welcome, my name is Vanessa Villasenor and I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who has experience providing child, teen and adult therapy in San Diego.
I use evidence-based practices including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, behavior modification, and trauma therapy when providing therapy. I work with individuals who struggle with depression & mood disorders, anxiet, childhood trauma & post-traumatic stress disorder, life transitions, military life, relational challenges & more.

My training background is in child, adolescent, and adult individual and group therapy, as well as in neuropsychology from teaching hospitals: Brown, Harvard, and NYU; I completed my postdoctoral training at Kaiser Permanente Northern California.
I have a relational style and draw from psychodynamic, attachment, systems, strength-focused, narrative, and CBT/DBT models. My areas of specialty include intergenerational conflict, parent-child conflict, acculturation/assimilation challenges, anxiety, depression, and adjustment stressors (due to transitions, moves, and medical conditions).
My training background is in child, adolescent, and adult individual and group therapy, as well as in neuropsychology from teaching hospitals: Brown, Harvard, and NYU; I completed my postdoctoral training at Kaiser Permanente Northern California.
I have a relational style and draw from psychodynamic, attachment, systems, strength-focused, narrative, and CBT/DBT models. My areas of specialty include intergenerational conflict, parent-child conflict, acculturation/assimilation challenges, anxiety, depression, and adjustment stressors (due to transitions, moves, and medical conditions).

Additionally, I have been employed with Sharp Mesa Vista Mental Hospital, Child and Adolescent unit for 25years.
Hello and welcome! I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who is compassionate, insightful and intuitive about people and their issues. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples and families navigate the challenges of life, and achieve their goals for mental health and wellness. I realize seeking therapy can be a difficult decision, and I commend you for taking the step towards improving your emotional well-being. My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts.
Additionally, I have been employed with Sharp Mesa Vista Mental Hospital, Child and Adolescent unit for 25years.
Hello and welcome! I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who is compassionate, insightful and intuitive about people and their issues. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples and families navigate the challenges of life, and achieve their goals for mental health and wellness. I realize seeking therapy can be a difficult decision, and I commend you for taking the step towards improving your emotional well-being. My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable sharing your thoughts.

His experience has allowed him to work well with child and adolescent clients, as well as adults, couples, and families to address a variety of challenges and life transitions.
Christopher Schell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego, California and works with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from National University. Christopher works with children, adolescents and adults and specializes in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. His passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing. Christopher's approach to his work is always centered around the specific needs of the client.
His experience has allowed him to work well with child and adolescent clients, as well as adults, couples, and families to address a variety of challenges and life transitions.
Christopher Schell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego, California and works with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from National University. Christopher works with children, adolescents and adults and specializes in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. His passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing. Christopher's approach to his work is always centered around the specific needs of the client.

Jordan Moore @ Grow Through Life Counseling
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
Many of the families I support are seeking a safe, collaborative space where their child or teen can grow emotionally and feel understood.
I offer person-centered, collaborative therapy for children, teens, and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and Autism Spectrum support, using CBT, DBT, play therapy, and other creative, developmentally informed approaches.
Many of the families I support are seeking a safe, collaborative space where their child or teen can grow emotionally and feel understood.
I offer person-centered, collaborative therapy for children, teens, and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and Autism Spectrum support, using CBT, DBT, play therapy, and other creative, developmentally informed approaches.

Becoming a teen father taught me adaptability and the profound value of relationships—lessons that have shaped my personal life and my professional philosophy.
To be honest, I really loathe writing these things but I will state this from the heart: my work and focus is to go above and beyond cookie-cutter therapy approaches that do not consider your uniqueness, the context in which you live and relate, and the personal struggles and triumphs you experience; I hope I can do better than what has become "normal" therapy. As a narrative therapist I invite my clients into the magic of the "everyday ordinary", recapturing the joy of living in the face of what you are up-against. My aim is to restore hope, dignity and agency in the lives of those who consult with me.
Becoming a teen father taught me adaptability and the profound value of relationships—lessons that have shaped my personal life and my professional philosophy.
To be honest, I really loathe writing these things but I will state this from the heart: my work and focus is to go above and beyond cookie-cutter therapy approaches that do not consider your uniqueness, the context in which you live and relate, and the personal struggles and triumphs you experience; I hope I can do better than what has become "normal" therapy. As a narrative therapist I invite my clients into the magic of the "everyday ordinary", recapturing the joy of living in the face of what you are up-against. My aim is to restore hope, dignity and agency in the lives of those who consult with me.

If you would like help with any of the following you are in the right place: Adoption concerns, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, and Phobias, Depression, Children’s Behavior Disorders, Adolescent Struggles, Parenting Concerns, and Relationship Challenges.
Background: Family Relations Counselor in the Family Services Unit, the Judicial Branch, Connecticut, worked on custody, & family violence cases, Therapist at Catholic Family Services, and the Family Study Center, addressing a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, couples conflict, children and teens behavior, family and parenting concerns.
If you would like help with any of the following you are in the right place: Adoption concerns, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, and Phobias, Depression, Children’s Behavior Disorders, Adolescent Struggles, Parenting Concerns, and Relationship Challenges.
Background: Family Relations Counselor in the Family Services Unit, the Judicial Branch, Connecticut, worked on custody, & family violence cases, Therapist at Catholic Family Services, and the Family Study Center, addressing a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, couples conflict, children and teens behavior, family and parenting concerns.

We will work with you and or your child/ teen step-by-step to address your goals and truly believe that practice makes perfect.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology from UCLA. I also hold a master’s and doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and have over 20 years of experience working with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and a variety of other presenting issues. For the past several years, I have served as a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Psychology.
We will work with you and or your child/ teen step-by-step to address your goals and truly believe that practice makes perfect.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology from UCLA. I also hold a master’s and doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and have over 20 years of experience working with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and a variety of other presenting issues. For the past several years, I have served as a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Psychology.

The main issues I can help with: managing sensory issues, navigating communication differences, demand avoidance, accommodations, advocacy, confidence, parenting, teen related issues, sexuality/intimacy, dating, burn out, stress management, attachment issues, substance use, LGBTQ and gender/sexual identity.
Welcome! I work with autistic people and those who love them! I have personal experience in this area, I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autistic/PDA) therapist who is a parent to a "neurospicy" PDA chid. PDA is pathological demand avoidance, or as I like to call it “persistent drive for autonomy". Although not yet an official diagnosis in the US, my goal is to create community and support around folks who identify themselves with these traits. I support pre-teens, teens, adults, and couples/families around autism, PDA and ADHD and better understanding and communicating their needs to others.
The main issues I can help with: managing sensory issues, navigating communication differences, demand avoidance, accommodations, advocacy, confidence, parenting, teen related issues, sexuality/intimacy, dating, burn out, stress management, attachment issues, substance use, LGBTQ and gender/sexual identity.
Welcome! I work with autistic people and those who love them! I have personal experience in this area, I am a neurodivergent (ADHD, Autistic/PDA) therapist who is a parent to a "neurospicy" PDA chid. PDA is pathological demand avoidance, or as I like to call it “persistent drive for autonomy". Although not yet an official diagnosis in the US, my goal is to create community and support around folks who identify themselves with these traits. I support pre-teens, teens, adults, and couples/families around autism, PDA and ADHD and better understanding and communicating their needs to others.

By working collaboratively with parents, schools, and other professionals, we gain a comprehensive understanding of the child or teen, allowing us to create effective, tailored strategies that foster real and lasting change.
We specialize in evaluations and multi-modal therapies for ADHD, ASD, Learning Disabilities, mood and anxiety disorders, and emotional regulation. Additionally, we provide behavioral support plans, social-emotional learning, occupational therapy, parenting guidance, IEP assistance, and educational therapy.
By working collaboratively with parents, schools, and other professionals, we gain a comprehensive understanding of the child or teen, allowing us to create effective, tailored strategies that foster real and lasting change.
We specialize in evaluations and multi-modal therapies for ADHD, ASD, Learning Disabilities, mood and anxiety disorders, and emotional regulation. Additionally, we provide behavioral support plans, social-emotional learning, occupational therapy, parenting guidance, IEP assistance, and educational therapy.

I will see you (or you and your partner, or your teen) as the powerful, unique individuals that you are.
Are you noticing that unresolved trauma from the past is affecting you now, negatively impacting your life and relationships? My clients are those who recognize that talk therapy alone will not solve their current issues. They recognize that a holistic approach to healing is essential to living a life that feels more free and aligned. My clients are usually curious about, or already utilizing holistic healing modalities and want support and tools to reduce their current mental health symptoms.
I will see you (or you and your partner, or your teen) as the powerful, unique individuals that you are.
Are you noticing that unresolved trauma from the past is affecting you now, negatively impacting your life and relationships? My clients are those who recognize that talk therapy alone will not solve their current issues. They recognize that a holistic approach to healing is essential to living a life that feels more free and aligned. My clients are usually curious about, or already utilizing holistic healing modalities and want support and tools to reduce their current mental health symptoms.

I conduct CBT therapy and I specialize in depression, anxiety, eating disorders, weight management, grief/loss, substance abuse, LGBT issues, adolescent issues (school, emotional, behavioral/family), young adult issues (career, transition, relationships), and personal growth.
I am a clinical psychologist who provides psychotherapy in a safe, nonjudgmental, and respectful where my clients are able to work through their difficult issues. My goal is to promote positive and lasting changes for my clients by helping them to develop insight and providing them with real tools and coping skills. I strive to help my clients to feel good about themselves, their relationships, and their place in this world. I conduct secure online video sessions, or telehealth psychotherapy services. Telehealth psychotherapy allows my clients to participate in therapy in the comfort and convenience of their own home.
I conduct CBT therapy and I specialize in depression, anxiety, eating disorders, weight management, grief/loss, substance abuse, LGBT issues, adolescent issues (school, emotional, behavioral/family), young adult issues (career, transition, relationships), and personal growth.
I am a clinical psychologist who provides psychotherapy in a safe, nonjudgmental, and respectful where my clients are able to work through their difficult issues. My goal is to promote positive and lasting changes for my clients by helping them to develop insight and providing them with real tools and coping skills. I strive to help my clients to feel good about themselves, their relationships, and their place in this world. I conduct secure online video sessions, or telehealth psychotherapy services. Telehealth psychotherapy allows my clients to participate in therapy in the comfort and convenience of their own home.
For twenty-seven years I have practiced full-time in San Diego (Rancho Bernardo office), providing psychotherapy for emotional and relationship difficulties. My specialty is working with marital and family problems: Communication, conflict, sexual problems: parent¡ªchild or teen problems: divorce and step-family issues. I am also successful with individual problems of depression and anxiety using cognitive behavioral and interpersonal treatments. I provide emergency services and have daytime and evening hours, sliding scale fees or insurance billing when appropriate. I will be glad to answer questions about my experience and approach. Please call to arrange a meeting.
For twenty-seven years I have practiced full-time in San Diego (Rancho Bernardo office), providing psychotherapy for emotional and relationship difficulties. My specialty is working with marital and family problems: Communication, conflict, sexual problems: parent¡ªchild or teen problems: divorce and step-family issues. I am also successful with individual problems of depression and anxiety using cognitive behavioral and interpersonal treatments. I provide emergency services and have daytime and evening hours, sliding scale fees or insurance billing when appropriate. I will be glad to answer questions about my experience and approach. Please call to arrange a meeting.

Adolescent self harm, bullying and OCD.
Some common approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Gestalt and Solution Focused Therapy. However, the best approach for your needs will be decided collaboratively.
Adolescent self harm, bullying and OCD.
Some common approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Gestalt and Solution Focused Therapy. However, the best approach for your needs will be decided collaboratively.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Teen Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- El Cajon
- Imperial Beach
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lemon Grove
- National City
- San Ysidro
- Santee
- Spring Valley
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.