Therapists for Children in San Diego, CA
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist that supports children of all ages, teens, adults, and couples and individuals struggling with parenting.
Through a Solution Focused Approach, I explore each challenge through a lens of systemic, humanistic, attachment based, trauma informed, client centered care. I incorporate play, art, experiential, and creative interventions to help you and your family reach your goals. My office is a safe place where all are welcome and treated with respect and compassion.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist that supports children of all ages, teens, adults, and couples and individuals struggling with parenting.
Through a Solution Focused Approach, I explore each challenge through a lens of systemic, humanistic, attachment based, trauma informed, client centered care. I incorporate play, art, experiential, and creative interventions to help you and your family reach your goals. My office is a safe place where all are welcome and treated with respect and compassion.
You’re doing your best to hold everything together, your relationships, family, work, and sense of self, but life feels out of rhythm. Maybe communication feels hard, anxiety keeps you on edge, or parenting feels overwhelming. You might be navigating neurodivergence, feeling misunderstood, or longing for more connection and calm. You want relief, balance, and a sense of confidence in who you are and how you relate to others.
You’re doing your best to hold everything together, your relationships, family, work, and sense of self, but life feels out of rhythm. Maybe communication feels hard, anxiety keeps you on edge, or parenting feels overwhelming. You might be navigating neurodivergence, feeling misunderstood, or longing for more connection and calm. You want relief, balance, and a sense of confidence in who you are and how you relate to others.
Depression and anxiety can make it hard to see a way forward—especially for adolescents trying to figure out who they are in the midst of life’s pressures and changes. I earned my MSW from Cal State University San Marcos in 2020, and I’ve always known I wanted to be in a profession where I could help others navigate those challenges. Being alongside my clients as a source of support, guidance, and compassion is an incredible privilege, and I’m continually inspired by their courage to show up for themselves, do the hard work of healing, and grow into the person they want to become.
Depression and anxiety can make it hard to see a way forward—especially for adolescents trying to figure out who they are in the midst of life’s pressures and changes. I earned my MSW from Cal State University San Marcos in 2020, and I’ve always known I wanted to be in a profession where I could help others navigate those challenges. Being alongside my clients as a source of support, guidance, and compassion is an incredible privilege, and I’m continually inspired by their courage to show up for themselves, do the hard work of healing, and grow into the person they want to become.
Hello, I'm Taylor, a registered AMFT who supports children, adolescents, young adults, and families in navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship dynamics, and developing a healthier body image and relationship with food.
I help clients cultivate self-awareness, foster self-compassion, and move towards desired change. I am committed to providing culturally attuned and trauma-informed care that honors each client’s intersecting identities and lived experiences.
Hello, I'm Taylor, a registered AMFT who supports children, adolescents, young adults, and families in navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship dynamics, and developing a healthier body image and relationship with food.
I help clients cultivate self-awareness, foster self-compassion, and move towards desired change. I am committed to providing culturally attuned and trauma-informed care that honors each client’s intersecting identities and lived experiences.
I work with adults, couples, and children/teens who feel stagnant in patterns of anxiety, abuse, addiction, overthinking, emotional and mental overwhelm, and other trauma-related responses.
I provide evidence-based therapy with specialization in anxiety, trauma, CPTSD, ADHD, OCD, Autism, mood and personality disorders, substance use, and relational friction. I have expertise identifying schemas and systems that keep clients stuck. I integrate EMDR, Schema and Attachment Therapy for deep processing of emotional and behavioral patterns.
I work with adults, couples, and children/teens who feel stagnant in patterns of anxiety, abuse, addiction, overthinking, emotional and mental overwhelm, and other trauma-related responses.
I provide evidence-based therapy with specialization in anxiety, trauma, CPTSD, ADHD, OCD, Autism, mood and personality disorders, substance use, and relational friction. I have expertise identifying schemas and systems that keep clients stuck. I integrate EMDR, Schema and Attachment Therapy for deep processing of emotional and behavioral patterns.
Hello my name is Josie Cannon. I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have over 20 years of experience working in social Service with individuals and families, as well as working in the community.
Hello my name is Josie Cannon. I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have over 20 years of experience working in social Service with individuals and families, as well as working in the community.
I am a child and adolescent Marriage & Family Therapist at Aloha Psych Associates.
I use evidence-based modalities, such as CBT, DBT, ERP, solution-focused, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, to effectively help clients learn to manage distressing emotions and events. Clients are received with genuine care, kindness, and compassion. I prioritize a supportive space that honors each person’s unique strengths, values, and identities.
I am a child and adolescent Marriage & Family Therapist at Aloha Psych Associates.
I use evidence-based modalities, such as CBT, DBT, ERP, solution-focused, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, to effectively help clients learn to manage distressing emotions and events. Clients are received with genuine care, kindness, and compassion. I prioritize a supportive space that honors each person’s unique strengths, values, and identities.
Positive Change Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PsyD, LCSW, LPCC
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
Whether you would like to attend therapy on your own, with your partner or spouse, as a family, or have your child participate, our therapists are ready to support you.
Positive Change Counseling Center provides an opportunity for you to explore and discuss your personal concerns related to mental health, school, relationships, work and family.
Our multi-disciplinary staff of Licensed Mental Health Clinicians offer a variety of specialties to support you or your child throughout the therapy process.
Whether you would like to attend therapy on your own, with your partner or spouse, as a family, or have your child participate, our therapists are ready to support you.
Positive Change Counseling Center provides an opportunity for you to explore and discuss your personal concerns related to mental health, school, relationships, work and family.
Our multi-disciplinary staff of Licensed Mental Health Clinicians offer a variety of specialties to support you or your child throughout the therapy process.
I’m especially passionate about working with kids, teens, young adults, and families and am here to walk with you on your healing journey.
Hi, I'm Nina! I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, and I create a safe, judgment-free space for you to simply be yourself. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent clients, but whether you are dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or depression, we will work collaboratively to find healing and growth that feels authentic to you. I also have a unique understanding of school-related issues as a former teacher of 13 plus years.
I’m especially passionate about working with kids, teens, young adults, and families and am here to walk with you on your healing journey.
Hi, I'm Nina! I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, and I create a safe, judgment-free space for you to simply be yourself. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent clients, but whether you are dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or depression, we will work collaboratively to find healing and growth that feels authentic to you. I also have a unique understanding of school-related issues as a former teacher of 13 plus years.
Talk About It.. with Erin Spittal
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
I support children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions.
Therapy for Anxiety, Life Transitions & Self-Esteem in California
It takes courage to pause and seek support, especially when you’ve spent so much time questioning yourself or putting others first. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, heartbreak, low self-esteem, codependency, or navigating a major life transition, you’re not alone. I offer a supportive, collaborative space to help you better understand yourself, build confidence, strengthen boundaries, and reconnect with a sense of purpose. Together, we’ll work toward healing, self-acceptance, and meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.
I support children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions.
Therapy for Anxiety, Life Transitions & Self-Esteem in California
It takes courage to pause and seek support, especially when you’ve spent so much time questioning yourself or putting others first. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, heartbreak, low self-esteem, codependency, or navigating a major life transition, you’re not alone. I offer a supportive, collaborative space to help you better understand yourself, build confidence, strengthen boundaries, and reconnect with a sense of purpose. Together, we’ll work toward healing, self-acceptance, and meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.
If your child or teen is struggling and you’re feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
I work with clients facing many different life challenges, including school and job stress, career transitions, relationship concerns, divorce, and family conflict. I take a person-centered approach and adapt therapeutic tools such as CBT, DBT, SFBT, and family systems work to fit each individual rather than using a one size fits all approach.
If your child or teen is struggling and you’re feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
I work with clients facing many different life challenges, including school and job stress, career transitions, relationship concerns, divorce, and family conflict. I take a person-centered approach and adapt therapeutic tools such as CBT, DBT, SFBT, and family systems work to fit each individual rather than using a one size fits all approach.
Candidate in children and adolescents psychoanalysis
Bilingual (Spanish & English) services– Life can be difficult sometimes, when we experience anxiety, stress, sadness, and continuous disappointment or failure. Sometimes we manage to overcome them and other times we get used to living with those difficult emotions and negative thoughts, which negatively impact the way we perceive ourselves and the world. It shouldn't be like this! Suffering is inherent to life, however, it should not be greater than growth and satisfaction.
Candidate in children and adolescents psychoanalysis
Bilingual (Spanish & English) services– Life can be difficult sometimes, when we experience anxiety, stress, sadness, and continuous disappointment or failure. Sometimes we manage to overcome them and other times we get used to living with those difficult emotions and negative thoughts, which negatively impact the way we perceive ourselves and the world. It shouldn't be like this! Suffering is inherent to life, however, it should not be greater than growth and satisfaction.
Many parents come to us when their child is facing challenges at school or at home, seeking clear answers and practical guidance.
Sarah and Karen specialize in strength-based school neuropsychological assessments in the areas of autism, learning disabilities, ADHD, giftedness. We collaborate with parents, specialists, and school teams to ensure our clients receive the support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Many parents come to us when their child is facing challenges at school or at home, seeking clear answers and practical guidance.
Sarah and Karen specialize in strength-based school neuropsychological assessments in the areas of autism, learning disabilities, ADHD, giftedness. We collaborate with parents, specialists, and school teams to ensure our clients receive the support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Every person is valuable and deserves dignity and healing. I believe the soul gravitates toward wholeness and that each of us holds answers that lead to growth. When you are given a safe space to explore your authentic self, real change becomes possible. My role is to create that space—grounded in trust, acceptance and compassion—so you can be fully seen and understood.
Every person is valuable and deserves dignity and healing. I believe the soul gravitates toward wholeness and that each of us holds answers that lead to growth. When you are given a safe space to explore your authentic self, real change becomes possible. My role is to create that space—grounded in trust, acceptance and compassion—so you can be fully seen and understood.
Do you remember that children's song about going on a bear hunt?
I work with individuals and families, including children (ages 4 and above) and adolescents, adults, and their caregivers. My role is to help individuals and families experiencing challenges due to (or associated with) autism, bipolar, depression, ADHD, separation anxiety, school anxiety, and symptoms related to trauma.
Do you remember that children's song about going on a bear hunt?
I work with individuals and families, including children (ages 4 and above) and adolescents, adults, and their caregivers. My role is to help individuals and families experiencing challenges due to (or associated with) autism, bipolar, depression, ADHD, separation anxiety, school anxiety, and symptoms related to trauma.
PURPOSE THERAPY GROUP is a place you can come to support any counseling need you have – physically, mentally, and emotionally. We at PURPOSE have specific skills that allow you find a practitioner that matches your unique and whole self. Our mission is to support you with finding Purpose where you are currently blocked. Whether it is for your body, heart, mind, or relationship – when you find Purpose, you get CLARITY on your WHY, the blockage clears leading you to trust, grow, and thrive. We consider all aspects: type of therapy, availability, finances, and overall counseling needs, including holistic and alternative approaches.
PURPOSE THERAPY GROUP is a place you can come to support any counseling need you have – physically, mentally, and emotionally. We at PURPOSE have specific skills that allow you find a practitioner that matches your unique and whole self. Our mission is to support you with finding Purpose where you are currently blocked. Whether it is for your body, heart, mind, or relationship – when you find Purpose, you get CLARITY on your WHY, the blockage clears leading you to trust, grow, and thrive. We consider all aspects: type of therapy, availability, finances, and overall counseling needs, including holistic and alternative approaches.
I am passionate about childhood mental health as I believe intervening early will help your child meet their full potential and grow up to be an emotionally healthy, confident adult.
My work is primarily with children who have behavioral challenges, trauma history, depression, anxiety, or who struggle in school or social settings. I also work with parents who struggle to connect with their children. I believe caregivers are vital to the child's success.
I am passionate about childhood mental health as I believe intervening early will help your child meet their full potential and grow up to be an emotionally healthy, confident adult.
My work is primarily with children who have behavioral challenges, trauma history, depression, anxiety, or who struggle in school or social settings. I also work with parents who struggle to connect with their children. I believe caregivers are vital to the child's success.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I find it a privilege and honor to hold space for individuals as they work towards finding peace and understanding in whatever ailments have brought them to ask for help. My focused areas of practice include psychodynamic, Narrative, behavioral therapies, trauma-informed care, IFS, and family and couples therapy. My approach to goal setting with clients is one of collaboration and non-judgment. Goals can always be modified, extinguished, or added depending on life and what sessions bring. In our first session, we can decide if we are a good fit, there are no hard feelings with me.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I find it a privilege and honor to hold space for individuals as they work towards finding peace and understanding in whatever ailments have brought them to ask for help. My focused areas of practice include psychodynamic, Narrative, behavioral therapies, trauma-informed care, IFS, and family and couples therapy. My approach to goal setting with clients is one of collaboration and non-judgment. Goals can always be modified, extinguished, or added depending on life and what sessions bring. In our first session, we can decide if we are a good fit, there are no hard feelings with me.
I care...Let me help. We will create a safe, non-judgmental space from which to begin the process of healing. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who have challenges in substance abuse, anxiety, depression, borderline personality issues and relationship problems. I also enjoy working with the LGBT community, specifically with Transgender people and their families. My rich life experience (fancy language for I'm older) allows me to truly align with partners and families that have members who are transgender and to be an ally with transgender individuals as they transition.
I care...Let me help. We will create a safe, non-judgmental space from which to begin the process of healing. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who have challenges in substance abuse, anxiety, depression, borderline personality issues and relationship problems. I also enjoy working with the LGBT community, specifically with Transgender people and their families. My rich life experience (fancy language for I'm older) allows me to truly align with partners and families that have members who are transgender and to be an ally with transgender individuals as they transition.
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Solution Focused therapist with over 30 years of experience providing services to children, teens, young adults and families dealing with stress/anxiety, improving self esteem, managing with ADHD, and dealing with school issues.
In addition to virtual or in office individual or family psychotherapy services, I offer very thorough ADHD assessment services that include a school observation and teacher consultation as well as parent and child interviews. I am available to attend 504 and IEP school meetings as well.
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Solution Focused therapist with over 30 years of experience providing services to children, teens, young adults and families dealing with stress/anxiety, improving self esteem, managing with ADHD, and dealing with school issues.
In addition to virtual or in office individual or family psychotherapy services, I offer very thorough ADHD assessment services that include a school observation and teacher consultation as well as parent and child interviews. I am available to attend 504 and IEP school meetings as well.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Children Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- Imperial Beach
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lakeside
- Lemon Grove
- National City
- Santee
- Spring Valley
FAQ - About Child Therapy
When does a child need to see a therapist?
Children naturally experience emotional ups and downs. Sometimes, though, they need support from a professional. A child may benefit from therapy if their emotions or behaviors change significantly within a short period of time. For example, if a child usually spends time with friends after school but begins isolating in their room, further inquiry is warranted. Other areas for concern include altered sleep patterns, lack of appetite, intense anger, irritability, or hopelessness, or developmental regression in young children (bedwetting, thumb-sucking).
What can a child therapist help with?
A therapist can help with any difficult experience a child may encounter growing up, including learning problems or anxiety related to school, relationship challenges with friends or parents, bullying, intense emotions or phobias, divorce and family dynamics, or the death of a pet or loved one. A therapist can help children process their experience and develop coping skills in an age-appropriate way
What therapy types are most suitable for children?
Children can benefit from different forms of therapy, including family therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and exposure therapy, depending on their condition. Play therapy is a great option for younger children who may not be able to fully articulate their feelings. In this approach, kids play with toys and games while a therapist observes and helps the child express their emotions and develop coping skills.
Do I need to attend therapy with my child?
Parents are an integral part of a child’s therapy, but the specifics of their involvement vary. If your child is young, you may attend most or all sessions; if your child is older, you may attend a few sessions or none; sometimes a therapist may ask you to have a session on your own. Whatever the arrangement, you should expect to work collaboratively with the therapist, your child, and your family members to take steps to help support your child.
How can I tell if a therapist is a good fit for my child?
A child needs to feel comfortable opening up about their thoughts and feelings, so if your child feels a sense of comfort, ease, and trust with their therapist, that’s a great sign. In addition, a therapist is a good fit for your child if the two can communicate well together; a clinician should be able to communicate clearly, effectively, and in an age-appropriate manner.