TEEN DEPRESSION
WHEN THEY DO NOT SEEM LIKE THEMSELVES ANYMORE.
Maybe they are sleeping more, talking less, losing interest, snapping at everyone, or moving through the day with very little energy. Depression in teens can be obvious — or it can hide behind irritability and “I’m fine.”
Support built for where they are right now.
RECOGNIZABLE PATTERNS
THIS MIGHT LOOK LIKE…
- •They spend much more time alone and seem harder to reach.
- •Things they used to enjoy feel like too much effort or no longer matter to them.
- •Motivation drops, schoolwork piles up, and simple tasks feel unusually heavy.
- •They are sleeping much more, sleeping poorly, or struggling to keep a normal routine.
- •Irritability, numbness, or a flat “whatever” response replaces the personality you are used to seeing.
- •They make hopeless, self-critical, or “what is the point?” comments that stay with you.
HOW THERAPY CAN HELP
Therapy can help your teen reconnect with emotion, routines, relationships, motivation, and a sense that movement is possible even when they do not feel like doing much.
WHAT MAY BE GOING ON
There is rarely one simple reason a teen gets stuck. Development, stress, temperament, relationships, school, sleep, attention, past experiences, family patterns, and biology can all play a role. We focus on understanding the pattern well enough to know what may actually help — not on attaching a label as quickly as possible.
HOW WE APPROACH IT
We start by understanding what has changed and what keeps the low-mood cycle going — isolation, sleep, stress, self-criticism, conflict, loss, anxiety, or other factors. Therapy may include behavioral activation, CBT, DBT/ACT skills, relational work, and trauma-focused approaches when they fit.
CLINICAL MATCH
THERAPISTS WHO WORK WITH THIS CONCERN
The concern matters. The relationship does too. We can help you think through which therapist may fit your teen's personality, needs, and preferences.
Jen, LMFT
Clinical Director & Teen Specialist
Direct, warm, and grounded — especially effective with high-pressure students and teens who shut down when pushed.
Daniel, LMFT
Teen & Young Adult Specialist
Relaxed, authentic, and perceptive — connects naturally with male teens, ADHD brains, and teens skeptical of therapy.
Sara, AMCC
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor
Empathetic, creative, and gentle — creates deep safety for sensitive teens, social anxiety, and emotional overwhelm.
FAQ
QUESTIONS PARENTS OFTEN ASK
How do I know if this is depression or just a phase?
A phase tends to move. Depression is more concerning when changes in mood, interest, motivation, sleep, functioning, or connection persist and interfere with daily life.
What if my teen says nothing is wrong?
You can still reach out based on what you are observing. Teens do not always have the words — or the desire — to describe what is happening.
Will therapy make them talk about feelings all session?
Not necessarily. Good teen therapy can include practical problem-solving, routines, relationships, school, identity, coping, and whatever helps the teen engage.
What if I am worried about safety?
If you have immediate concerns about your teen’s safety, use emergency/crisis resources rather than waiting for a routine website inquiry. For non-immediate concerns, tell us directly when you contact us so we can discuss the appropriate next step.
NOT SURE THIS IS THE RIGHT LABEL?
You do not need to be sure. Tell us what you are seeing and we can help you think through whether this concern, another issue, or a combination may be the better fit.