CHILD & TEEN THERAPY IN SAN MATEO COUNTY & THE BAY AREA
You Can See Something's Wrong — But Can't Quite Name It
They may still be going to school, doing their activities, holding it together. But you can tell something has shifted — and it hasn't shifted back.
Reaching out for your child can come with its own mix of relief, uncertainty, and hope. That's a completely natural place to start.
FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN
Therapy for Children
Children often express distress through behavior and changes in connection long before they can put feelings into words. You may notice big emotions, clinginess, withdrawal, worry, or changes that feel out of character.
Through play-based, developmentally sensitive work, children build emotional awareness and strengthen coping skills within a steady, supportive relationship.
Parent collaboration is an essential part of this work. You are the expert on your child. Together, we slow down and listen to what emotions and behaviors are communicating — supporting both your child and your relationship.
Common concerns we may address include:
Anxiety, worries & emotional overwhelm
Helping children feel steadier with big emotions
Emotional regulation & coping skills
Building tools for big emotions
School-related stress & learning challenges
Supporting confidence and resilience at school
Confidence, self-esteem & social connection
Encouraging a grounded sense of self and belonging
Childhood trauma & stress
Strengthening safety, regulation, and trust over time
FOR TEENAGERS
Therapy for Teens
The teen years are a powerful in-between — no longer a child, not yet an adult. During this time, identity, relationships, school, and pressure can feel like they're happening all at once. Even those who seem capable on the outside may feel unsure, overwhelmed, or alone on the inside.
This work offers a space to slow down and be understood.
Working with teens involves building trust with them first. Parents are kept informed and involved in a way that respects the teen's need for a private space to be honest.
Support for teens may include:
Anxiety, low mood & emotional stress
Feeling steadier when emotions run high
Academic pressure & burnout
Creating balance around school and expectations
Friendships, belonging & peer dynamics
Building confidence and connection with others
Identity, self-esteem, & self-trust
Exploring who they are and strengthening self-worth
Emotional regulation & resilience
Learning tools to move through stress and feelings
For children and teens, therapy centers on safety, connection, and steady growth — helping young people feel more grounded and families feel supported along the way. If you're wondering what the process looks like, visit What to Expect. When you're ready, begin with a conversation— you're in the right place.