Children & Teen Therapy
We offer mental health therapy for children and teens in Petaluma and San Diego.
Mood swings, anxiety, academic struggles, and social withdrawal may signal a need for help.
We provide support for changes like divorce, loss, relocation, or family adjustments.
We Love Working with Children and Teens
At the Family Guidance & Therapy Center, we believe in fostering strong, trusting relationships between therapists and families. Our therapists use evidence-based techniques to help children and teens develop resilience and lifelong coping skills. Whether your child or teen needs support in Petaluma or San Diego, we are here to provide compassionate care and effective strategies to help them thrive.
When children struggle with their emotions and behavior, it can be an overwhelming and concerning time for parents. At the Family Guidance & Therapy Center, we provide compassionate and professional mental health services for children and teens in Petaluma and San Diego. You don’t have to go through this alone. We are here to support your family with therapy solutions tailored to your child’s needs.
Children experience mental health challenges differently than adults, and symptoms can often go unnoticed. Many children do not recognize the need for therapy, but when daily life becomes more challenging, it might be time to seek help. Our expert therapists in Petaluma and San Diego specialize in working with children and teens, helping them navigate their emotions and develop effective coping strategies.
Signs Your Child or Teen May Benefit from Therapy
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Irritability or mood swings
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Anger or aggression
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Difficulty concentrating
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Anxiety or excessive fearfulness
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Persistent negative outlook
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Declining grades or struggles with schoolwork
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Behavioral issues at school
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"Acting out" at home or in social settings
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Frequent arguments with family members
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Social withdrawal or lack of invitations from friends
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Separation anxiety, school refusal, or clinginess
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Engaging in risky behaviors (smoking, drinking, or sexual activity)
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Increased sadness or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed
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Sudden changes in appetite
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Struggles with responsibility or organization
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Difficulty making and maintaining friendships
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Rigid thinking, bossiness, or need for control
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Slowed growth or developmental concerns
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Thoughts or talk about death, suicide, or violence
It's normal for children to have tough days, but consistent patterns of these behaviors may indicate a deeper concern.
Supporting Your Child or Teen Through Life's Transitions
Life changes can be challenging for children and teens. If your family is experiencing any of the following transitions, therapy can help provide support and guidance:
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Divorce or separation
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Loss of a loved one
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Parent remarrying or blending families
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Moving to a new home, city, or school
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Adjusting to a sibling with special needs
PHONE/TEXT
Phone: 619-600-0683
Text: 619-607-1230
Quick Links
Telehealth Options
We make mental health support accessible through the convenience of telehealth services. Telehealth offers the same compassionate, high-quality care as in-person sessions, tailored to meet the needs of individuals, couples, and families. With flexible scheduling and the ability to access therapy from any device, telehealth ensures that getting the help you need is simple, convenient, and stress-free.
Need More Info?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are your fees?
We strive to make therapy affordable for every individual and family. For detailed information on fees, please visit their Rates & Insurance page. If you require special arrangements, please call us.
Do you accept my insurance?
We accept various insurance plans and handle the process by verifying coverage up front. Different clinicians are able to provide services through different insurance plans. We currently provide coverage via Cigna, Anthem, Magellan, Aetna, Blue Shield, FEP Blue Shield, Community Health Group and Blue Shield Promise.
If your insurance isn't listed, please call 619-600-0683 to verify coverage.
How long does therapy take?
Therapy sessions typically last 50 minutes, though some families and couples may benefit from 75-minute sessions. Most clients begin with weekly sessions and gradually decrease frequency as they achieve their goals. The total number of sessions varies, with most individuals attending between 6 to 24 sessions, depending on factors like goals, financial situation, time, and progress.
How can I pay for therapy sessions?
We accept digital payment methods, including Visa, Mastercard, and more. Payments can be made on the day of therapy or automatically billed at the end of the month via credit card, depending on your preference.
What types of therapy do you offer?
The Family Guidance & Therapy Center provides a range of services, including individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and specialized treatments for autism spectrum disorders. We offer assessment and re-assessment services as well.
How do I make an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment through three convenient methods:
- Online: Submit a request via this page.
- Phone: Call 619-600-0683.
- Text: Send a message to 619-607-1230.
Where are your offices located?
We offer multiple locations, including:
- Point Loma Office: 3555 Kenyon St, Suite 101, San Diego, CA 92110.
- San Diego Community Program: 3593 5th Avenue, Suite A, San Diego, CA 92110.
- Petaluma Office: 135 Keller St. Suite C, Petaluma, CA 94952.
We also offer Telehealth across California.
What should I expect during my first therapy session?
During your initial session, you'll discuss your concerns and goals with a therapist who will collaborate with you to create a personalized treatment plan. We emphasize a collaborative approach that incorporates your values, the latest research, and our expertise to ensure the best outcomes for you and your family.