I believe that teens have unique mental health needs that often go unaddressed. While some therapists might treat teens like children, others treat them like adults. During my graduate training I focused on researching and providing psychotherapy to adolescents and young adults in need. As a teen psychologist I focus on providing individualized care to each adolescent while taking their maturity and autonomy into consideration. Psychotherapy for teenagers strikes a unique balance between working with the individual and collaborating with their family.
This complex interplay can mean that psychotherapy involves both individual and family sessions. As a psychologist for teens, I am also sensitive to the importance of providing a safe space for adolescents to explore their difficulties and emotions. I work with teens in my Pasadena office helping them with:
Processing and managing nerves
Difficulties with sadness, social withdraw, and loss