Therapists for Teens in San Luis Obispo, CA

Photo of Tom Buckley, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in San Luis Obispo, CA
Tom Buckley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCIII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Aspires utilizes multiple theoretical orientations when treating our teen and adult clients including, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and Relapse Prevention to name a few.
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
Aspires utilizes multiple theoretical orientations when treating our teen and adult clients including, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and Relapse Prevention to name a few.
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
(805) 549-5989 View (805) 549-5989
Photo of Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Psychologist, PhD, MEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
If you’re a parent or caregiver looking for mental health treatment for your child or teen, we’re here to help. The CCAMH Treatment Center specializes in evidence-based treatments that have been extensively researched and shown to be effective. We will do a full assessment and evaluation to determine the best treatment to address the young person's specific condition. We use evidence-based treatments for anxiety disorders and OCD, depression and mood disorders, attention deficit and behavior disorders and trauma. We work with the entire family and provide support and tools for parents including monthly virtual parent-drop in groups.
If you’re a parent or caregiver looking for mental health treatment for your child or teen, we’re here to help. The CCAMH Treatment Center specializes in evidence-based treatments that have been extensively researched and shown to be effective. We will do a full assessment and evaluation to determine the best treatment to address the young person's specific condition. We use evidence-based treatments for anxiety disorders and OCD, depression and mood disorders, attention deficit and behavior disorders and trauma. We work with the entire family and provide support and tools for parents including monthly virtual parent-drop in groups.
(805) 307-3328 View (805) 307-3328
Photo of Daniel Zacarias Messiter, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo, CA
Daniel Zacarias Messiter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
 He specializes in teen issues, grief, depression and anxiety.
Life is like a river of emotions, and sometimes the current can become unpredictable and overwhelming. Navigating this river can be exhausting, and when we try to block the flow, pressure builds, and builds and until it feels like there is too much to face alone. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for his clients to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, to finding new insight and resolution to the difficulties in your life.
 He specializes in teen issues, grief, depression and anxiety.
Life is like a river of emotions, and sometimes the current can become unpredictable and overwhelming. Navigating this river can be exhausting, and when we try to block the flow, pressure builds, and builds and until it feels like there is too much to face alone. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for his clients to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, to finding new insight and resolution to the difficulties in your life.
(805) 516-0921 View (805) 516-0921
Photo of Benjamin Rea, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Benjamin Rea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Thank you for exploring my profile. I am accepting new clients. I see clients both in person and virtually. Licensed for 16 years, my training and experience is specialized towards working with couples and families, as well as adolescent and adult men. I utilize a direct, no-nonsense approach with notable success in treating addictions, family issues, anxiety (generalized, social, panic, etc), depression, trauma, and relationship problems. I am one of the only practitioners in San Luis Obispo County who specializes in working with men and who does family therapy.
Thank you for exploring my profile. I am accepting new clients. I see clients both in person and virtually. Licensed for 16 years, my training and experience is specialized towards working with couples and families, as well as adolescent and adult men. I utilize a direct, no-nonsense approach with notable success in treating addictions, family issues, anxiety (generalized, social, panic, etc), depression, trauma, and relationship problems. I am one of the only practitioners in San Luis Obispo County who specializes in working with men and who does family therapy.
(415) 787-3932 View (415) 787-3932
Photo of Jessica (Jessie) Shorts, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Jessica (Jessie) Shorts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you hoping for change, but feel stuck and keep hitting a wall? Are you an adolescent, adult, family, or a Mother in her motherhood journey? You may benefit from a holistic approach to psychotherapy, which considers the heart (emotions), mind (thoughts), body, and soul, and how they interact with each other. You might need a gentle and compassionate approach to work through hard things (past, present, and future). If life is overwhelming and leaving you drained, you deserve to have a more life-giving and abundant life.
Are you hoping for change, but feel stuck and keep hitting a wall? Are you an adolescent, adult, family, or a Mother in her motherhood journey? You may benefit from a holistic approach to psychotherapy, which considers the heart (emotions), mind (thoughts), body, and soul, and how they interact with each other. You might need a gentle and compassionate approach to work through hard things (past, present, and future). If life is overwhelming and leaving you drained, you deserve to have a more life-giving and abundant life.
(805) 590-7003 View (805) 590-7003
Photo of Stacy Guisse, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Stacy Guisse
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93403
My journey in the healing arts is a wonderful one and involves working with clients of all ages and stages of life. I have an integrated therapy approach with a specific focus on intermodal therapies, life transitions, community building, and family/group work. I work with clients who can be experiencing anxiety, adolescent anxiety, depression, substance abuse, significant life adjustments/transitions, post traumatic stress, blended family dynamics, grief/loss, adjustment to motherhood, and couples communication challenges. In our work together we are transforming life challenges into growth opportunities and creative action in your life.
My journey in the healing arts is a wonderful one and involves working with clients of all ages and stages of life. I have an integrated therapy approach with a specific focus on intermodal therapies, life transitions, community building, and family/group work. I work with clients who can be experiencing anxiety, adolescent anxiety, depression, substance abuse, significant life adjustments/transitions, post traumatic stress, blended family dynamics, grief/loss, adjustment to motherhood, and couples communication challenges. In our work together we are transforming life challenges into growth opportunities and creative action in your life.
(805) 669-9081 View (805) 669-9081
Photo of Sara Anne Powers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo, CA
Sara Anne Powers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BA, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
As a parent, if your child/teen is struggling, you can often feel helpless, not knowing what you can or "should" do to help them. Therapy offers a space for your child/teen to work through difficult feelings that are getting in the way of them being able to move through the developmental tasks, that allow them to grow up confident and strong. While talk therapy is a part of my practice, for most children, and even teens, play is their primary language. Your child/teen will have the safe space they need to work through their issues, in a way that feels comfortable and accessible to them, while building skills and confidence.
As a parent, if your child/teen is struggling, you can often feel helpless, not knowing what you can or "should" do to help them. Therapy offers a space for your child/teen to work through difficult feelings that are getting in the way of them being able to move through the developmental tasks, that allow them to grow up confident and strong. While talk therapy is a part of my practice, for most children, and even teens, play is their primary language. Your child/teen will have the safe space they need to work through their issues, in a way that feels comfortable and accessible to them, while building skills and confidence.
(805) 590-2976 View (805) 590-2976
Photo of Jaime J Christensen, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Jaime J Christensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I have worked with various client concerns including interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, anger, stress, parent/ teen conflict, and divorce.
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** **Evening appointments available ** I specialize in building positive relationships with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. I take an active and collaborative role in therapy, and utilize strong skills in communication to establish your individual needs and to prepare and deliver appropriate treatment and therapy plans accordingly. I draw from many therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused.
I have worked with various client concerns including interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, anger, stress, parent/ teen conflict, and divorce.
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** **Evening appointments available ** I specialize in building positive relationships with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. I take an active and collaborative role in therapy, and utilize strong skills in communication to establish your individual needs and to prepare and deliver appropriate treatment and therapy plans accordingly. I draw from many therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused.
(805) 514-2957 View (805) 514-2957
Photo of John Siemens, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
John Siemens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
There comes a time when we need help. I appreciate the courage anyone demonstrates when they make that call. I hope to create a space where individuals and families can receive that trusted assistance. I have been a therapist for thirty years. I was a tennis pro for ten years before that. I am aware of the process of change. There is a timing when an individual, or family, is ready to make those adjustments. In working with children, I involve the whole family. I especially enjoy the travels that the adolescent makes, and the perplexing attempts parents make in adjusting to this challenging phase. I work with addictions.
There comes a time when we need help. I appreciate the courage anyone demonstrates when they make that call. I hope to create a space where individuals and families can receive that trusted assistance. I have been a therapist for thirty years. I was a tennis pro for ten years before that. I am aware of the process of change. There is a timing when an individual, or family, is ready to make those adjustments. In working with children, I involve the whole family. I especially enjoy the travels that the adolescent makes, and the perplexing attempts parents make in adjusting to this challenging phase. I work with addictions.
(805) 250-4117 View (805) 250-4117
Photo of Amy R Overby, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Amy R Overby
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
You are here so you already making progress and are ready to make a change! You want your child to be happy and successful and are doing your best to help him. You'd like to have less arguing and enjoy your family more. Parenting is such a difficult job. It can really help to have someone with experience look at your situation from the outside and help you to see alternative ways of interacting. You have what it takes to improve your family relationships, but you could use a guide. Your child or teen may need to learn how to cope with new situations. I would like to help you to bring out the strengths in you and your family.
You are here so you already making progress and are ready to make a change! You want your child to be happy and successful and are doing your best to help him. You'd like to have less arguing and enjoy your family more. Parenting is such a difficult job. It can really help to have someone with experience look at your situation from the outside and help you to see alternative ways of interacting. You have what it takes to improve your family relationships, but you could use a guide. Your child or teen may need to learn how to cope with new situations. I would like to help you to bring out the strengths in you and your family.
(805) 804-3753 View (805) 804-3753
Photo of Emerald McLeod in San Luis Obispo, CA
Emerald McLeod
FNP
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
My passion is to help you gain confidence and have support in whatever you are going through- addiction, depression, relationships, work, social difficulties, complex family dynamics, parenting, teen struggles- anxiety related to it all. My approach is compassionate as we work on sifting through trauma and how that plays out in your every day life. I give you practical tools and use techniques that help you move from being unstuck to living a full authentic life.
My passion is to help you gain confidence and have support in whatever you are going through- addiction, depression, relationships, work, social difficulties, complex family dynamics, parenting, teen struggles- anxiety related to it all. My approach is compassionate as we work on sifting through trauma and how that plays out in your every day life. I give you practical tools and use techniques that help you move from being unstuck to living a full authentic life.
(805) 819-2941 View (805) 819-2941
Photo of Lisa Slover, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Lisa Slover
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you pregnant or in the post-partum period and mentally struggling? I am a mom of four and a perinatal mental health certified clinician. A few unique subspecialties that I have experience working with are: Nicu stays, traumatic births, miscarriage, stillbirth, infant loss, and infertility. Are you a teen or college student and feeling overwhelmed? I've been in your shoes and I can help. Visit www.ascentpsych.com/make-an-appointment to book now. There is healing powers in being validated and supported through difficult times. I believe that by sharing our painful thoughts and feelings in a caring environment, we begin to heal.
Are you pregnant or in the post-partum period and mentally struggling? I am a mom of four and a perinatal mental health certified clinician. A few unique subspecialties that I have experience working with are: Nicu stays, traumatic births, miscarriage, stillbirth, infant loss, and infertility. Are you a teen or college student and feeling overwhelmed? I've been in your shoes and I can help. Visit www.ascentpsych.com/make-an-appointment to book now. There is healing powers in being validated and supported through difficult times. I believe that by sharing our painful thoughts and feelings in a caring environment, we begin to heal.
(805) 608-4346 View (805) 608-4346
Photo of Central Coast Nurturing Minds, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Central Coast Nurturing Minds
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you a parent, teen, or child struggling with anxiety, depression, communication issues, or life transitions? You're not alone. At Central Coast Nurturing Minds, our team of experienced therapists provides a supportive and compassionate environment to help you navigate life's challenges and reach your full potential.
Are you a parent, teen, or child struggling with anxiety, depression, communication issues, or life transitions? You're not alone. At Central Coast Nurturing Minds, our team of experienced therapists provides a supportive and compassionate environment to help you navigate life's challenges and reach your full potential.
(805) 703-1435 View (805) 703-1435
Photo of Karen A Akre, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Karen A Akre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Seeking therapy is a brave and vulnerable choice. My hope is you will feel my office provides a safe haven to be your authentic self. Working together we will ensure your treatment is tailored to your individual needs and goals. I will provide unconditional acceptance and support while you process through the emotions and circumstances which led you to seek out therapy.
Seeking therapy is a brave and vulnerable choice. My hope is you will feel my office provides a safe haven to be your authentic self. Working together we will ensure your treatment is tailored to your individual needs and goals. I will provide unconditional acceptance and support while you process through the emotions and circumstances which led you to seek out therapy.
(805) 242-4092 View (805) 242-4092
Photo of Bridges Therapy Group of CA, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Bridges Therapy Group of CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
(805) 424-8416 View (805) 424-8416
Photo of Trinity Berguia, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Trinity Berguia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Trinity works primarily with women who are navigating early adulthood. This often includes adjusting to college, life after college, marriage, motherhood, and breaking toxic family cycles. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe haven for you to explore your deepest inner wounds, and develop a sense of peace so that you may have healthy, secure relationships.
Trinity works primarily with women who are navigating early adulthood. This often includes adjusting to college, life after college, marriage, motherhood, and breaking toxic family cycles. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe haven for you to explore your deepest inner wounds, and develop a sense of peace so that you may have healthy, secure relationships.
(805) 723-3283 View (805) 723-3283
Photo of Hannah Roberts, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Hannah Roberts
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Openings available this week with my team of therapists at Thrive SLO. I work with college students and adults feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and/or anxious. Need balance in your life? Facing grief, past trauma, or coping with difficult family situations? Or maybe you are thinking about coming out to your family and friends? I offer expertise, guidance and support for you to navigate these challenges. I'm passionate about the personal transformation that comes through therapy. I love working with curious individuals who want to better understand themselves, their emotions, & their relationships.
Openings available this week with my team of therapists at Thrive SLO. I work with college students and adults feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and/or anxious. Need balance in your life? Facing grief, past trauma, or coping with difficult family situations? Or maybe you are thinking about coming out to your family and friends? I offer expertise, guidance and support for you to navigate these challenges. I'm passionate about the personal transformation that comes through therapy. I love working with curious individuals who want to better understand themselves, their emotions, & their relationships.
(805) 284-0451 View (805) 284-0451
Photo of Laurel Olvera, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Laurel Olvera
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 23 years of professional work experience. My mission is to deliver life-changing care to teens, adults, families, couples and geriatric individuals who experience a wide array of mental health conditions and current life challenges. Such as: traumatic stress, struggles with feeling scattered and not accomplishing your goals, managing emotions, challenging negative thinking, and reducing stress and anxiety. Today's world can be intense and stressful, and it's taking an unprecedented toll on kids, teens, adults, couples and families.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California with 23 years of professional work experience. My mission is to deliver life-changing care to teens, adults, families, couples and geriatric individuals who experience a wide array of mental health conditions and current life challenges. Such as: traumatic stress, struggles with feeling scattered and not accomplishing your goals, managing emotions, challenging negative thinking, and reducing stress and anxiety. Today's world can be intense and stressful, and it's taking an unprecedented toll on kids, teens, adults, couples and families.
(805) 500-7803 View (805) 500-7803
Photo of Amber Gambel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Amber Gambel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Navigating life is exhausting and complex, it makes total sense that you are seeking support in managing life's stressors and how to cope with the changing world and society's expectations. You may be finding yourself living a life with extensive pressure, guilt, shame and difficulty living the life you want to live. I work with individuals who are often exhausted by their current situations in unhealthy relationships with themselves and others. However, we will work together in smashing societies expectations and creating your own, setting boundaries, learning to love yourself, and exploring and living within your value system.
Navigating life is exhausting and complex, it makes total sense that you are seeking support in managing life's stressors and how to cope with the changing world and society's expectations. You may be finding yourself living a life with extensive pressure, guilt, shame and difficulty living the life you want to live. I work with individuals who are often exhausted by their current situations in unhealthy relationships with themselves and others. However, we will work together in smashing societies expectations and creating your own, setting boundaries, learning to love yourself, and exploring and living within your value system.
(805) 633-3126 x93445 View (805) 633-3126 x93445
Photo of Matthew R Chirman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo, CA
Matthew R Chirman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For the 22 last years I have worked successfully with adult clients dealing with a wide range of issues including marital and relationship problems, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, abuse issues, personality issues and mental health concerns. I believe a trusting relationship between the therapist and client is the foundation for all growth and change. However, the relationship itself is typically not sufficient. I will help you set goals for your therapy based upon what you would like to have different in your life, and together we will explore and change the blocks which have prevented you from achieving your goals.
For the 22 last years I have worked successfully with adult clients dealing with a wide range of issues including marital and relationship problems, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, abuse issues, personality issues and mental health concerns. I believe a trusting relationship between the therapist and client is the foundation for all growth and change. However, the relationship itself is typically not sufficient. I will help you set goals for your therapy based upon what you would like to have different in your life, and together we will explore and change the blocks which have prevented you from achieving your goals.
(805) 791-2566 View (805) 791-2566

See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo

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.