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Depression in Children & Teens

Depression care designed for growing minds.

Pediatric-specialized depression evaluations and treatment for kids and teens ages 5 to 18. Evidence-based care from clinicians who understand how depression shows up in developing minds.

Recognize the signs

Depression in kids often doesn't look like sadness.

Children and teens express depression differently than adults. Watch for these patterns, especially if they persist for more than two weeks.

Social withdrawal

Pulling away from family and friends. Spending more time alone, not answering texts, avoiding gatherings.

Loss of interest

Quitting sports, dropping hobbies, not wanting to see friends. The things they used to love just don't matter anymore.

Fatigue & low energy

Always tired, sleeping too much or too little, struggling to get through the day.

Changes in appetite

Eating much more or much less than usual. Noticeable weight changes without trying.

Persistent sadness or irritability

More than just a bad day. Ongoing sadness, tearfulness, or unusual irritability that doesn't lift.

Academic decline

Grades dropping, missing assignments, trouble concentrating. Teachers may notice before parents do.

Evidence-based depression care, built around your child.

Evidence-based, pediatric-focused depression treatment tailored to your child's specific needs and developmental stage.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Recommended as first-line treatment for pediatric depression per AAP and AACAP guidelines. Structured sessions that help your child identify negative thought patterns and build real coping skills.

  • Evidence-based CBT techniques for childhood depression
  • Behavioral activation to rebuild enjoyable activities
  • Interpersonal therapy for relationship struggles
  • Parent and family involvement in the treatment process
  • Safety planning when needed

Medication Management

When therapy alone isn't enough, medication can make a real difference. We start low, adjust carefully, and monitor closely.

  • FDA-approved SSRI options for pediatric depression
  • Careful dose titration based on response
  • Side effect monitoring at every visit
  • Enhanced monitoring in the first weeks of treatment
  • Coordination with your child's school and other providers
Common Questions

What parents ask most.

How do I know if it's depression or just a phase?

If your child's mood, behavior, or functioning has changed significantly for more than two weeks, it's worth having them evaluated. You know your child best. Trust your instincts.

Is medication safe for kids with depression?

Yes. There are FDA-approved SSRI options for pediatric depression with strong safety data. We monitor closely, especially in the first few weeks, following all safety guidelines for young patients.

What if my child says they don't need help?

Very common with depression. We work with parents to create a supportive path to treatment, and our providers are experienced at building trust with reluctant teens.

What ages do you treat?

We see children and teens ages 5 to 18. For patients under 18, a parent or guardian must consent to treatment and attend part of the initial evaluation.

How long does treatment usually take?

Most kids start feeling better within 4 to 8 weeks of starting treatment. We recommend at least 6 to 9 months of continued treatment to prevent relapse.

Do you handle crisis situations?

We provide safety planning and ongoing monitoring. For immediate emergencies, families should call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or go to the nearest ER.

We're opening soon.

Be the first to know when we start taking patients. Launching first in California, with plans to expand to additional states. We accept insurance.