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Therapists for Teens & Preteens

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Therapists for Teens More Resources

Advice about Specific Conditions

2008 Recommendations

May 2008

I'm helping a friend look for a therapist for her 12-year-old son. The parents are divorced and their son now seems ''ready to talk'' about that and various other family and school issues. They have a short list of therapists who are covered by their insurance plan and considered ''good'' by their behavioral pediatrician: Mary C. Heller (Piedmont Ave. in Oakland), Lenora Poe (Blake St. in Berkeley), Joan Wenters (Solano in Albany)
Do any of you know anything about any of these three? Can you make a recommendation one way or another? Any info would be appreciated! Dana


Dana, Consider an appointment for a brief interview to get a feel for the therapist, before you pick one. Also, I noticed that your choices were three women. You might add to your list Stephen Wright (Berkeley office, 925-284-8280/work). He helped a young musician (13) very successfully overcome some restrictive social issues. Good luck. Nathan
April 2008

My 17 year old son is a wonderful, expressive, thoughtful young man who is sad and depressed a lot of the time. I love him very much but find that I become frustrated and probably make the situation worse (''what do you have to be depressed about!?) He is willing to talk to a therapist. I have looked over the archived therapists/counselors but didn't see much. We are looking for someone in the El Cerrito/Albany/Berkeley border area. Please let us know who has been helpful to your teen. I realize that we will probably end up having some family sessions as well. Thank you all!


My daughter and I have worked with Meira Salmon and find her to be outstanding. Gets right down to the feelings, no messing around with ''he said/she said.'' Very sensitive, intuitive and kind. Without a doubt the best therapist I've ever seen. She can be reached at (510) 548- 5160. Her office is in Berkeley near Herrick Hospital.
Jim Sparks is a wonderful therapist in El Cerrito. My son had other issues, not depression -- but Jim was insightful and engaging and very kind. A very significant plus was that he is also on the list of therapists for our health plan. His phone number is 433-7477. anonymous
March 2008

My daughter is a freshman at Campolindo High. She has a severe anxiety disorder. Campo is very academically demanding and my daughter's anxiety and sleep problems are skyrocketing (4 to 5 hours of homework a night, multiple tests each week, hours of work on the weekends). I know aerobic exercise is good for her. My daughter is in track, which she loves. She may quit due to stress over homework. She is in individual therapy and sees a Kaiser psychiatrist. So far medication is not working, due to side effects. I know my daughter needs help and I am not sure what to do. Can anyone recommend a child psychiatrist who specializes in anxiety disorders and who actually monitors his/her patients/ Also, anyone have ideas for working with the school? My daughter has a 504; it is not worth the paper it is written on. The school is very hard- nosed and resistant to making any accommodations. Finally, I am looking for an advocate. anonymous


I recommend Dr. M. Randy Bloch who practices in Walnut Creek. He is a psychiatrist who specializes in psycho-pharmacology. I think he'd help you and your daughter figure out a good drug regimen to reduce your daughter's anxiety. Monitoring his patients is taken seriously. He is a sympathetic, (very) smart and kind person. I wish you great luck. Carol
Dear anonymous, my teen also has Panic Disorder with onset in 8th grade (I also have had it my whole life). For both of us, the best, most effective and long-lasting treatment (without side effects--I was on meds, too at one point) is cognitive behavioral therapy. My daughter saw Melinda White on Solano Avenue in Berkeley and it worked really well for her. You could also find out more about cognitive at the SF Bay Area Center for Cognitive Therapy in Rockridge. Good luck. A Berkeley Mom
Dr. Brad Engwall, is a psychiatrist who works with kids with anxiety. We've just started seeing him for my son with an anxiety disorder. He came highly recommended. He's young, friendly, has a great dog and, I'm told, is great at figuring out the right treatment for the situation. He ordered an EEG for my son so he could look at his brain waves and tell whta meds or supplements he needed. His e-mail is bengwall@gmail.com He's in Albany. good luck, anon mom
I can recommend a couple of people. First is a psychiatrist, Dr. Ross Andelman, 510 527 9615. He has an office in Berkeley, but works for Contra Costa County also. He is very attentive and thoughtful.

The second is Maria Antoniadis. She is a psychologist who works with families to negotiate the school maze, public and private. She has a lot of knowledge and experience and forceful. She's a great advocate. She also runs social skills groups in Berkeley. Some of the kids in the groups are from your side of the hills. Her number is 510 649 3399.

Good luck! another mom


Feb 2008

My husband and I are in the process of dissolving our marriage. We are still living together but are essentially separated. It is amicable at this point. My daughter is about to leave for college in the fall and is clearly struggling with her feelings. I am trying to be supportive but she needs more than her parents to talk to. Anyone have recommendations for a therapist good with teen girls and divorcing families. anon


My daughter saw Kirsten Beuthin 510-652-0990 last year when she was a high school senior. Definitely good with teen girls in an important transition year and with divorcing families. grateful mom
Jan 2008

I'm looking for more recent recommendations for a family therapist used to working with families with teen rebellion issues. Also helpful would be a support group/empathetic moms/dads who might be willing to commiserate occasionally, since none of our friends are having such serious issues with their teens. desperate mom of rebellious teen


Our young adult son is struggling with mental illness that emerged in middle school as what we thought then was 'rebellion,' and we have a whole team assisting our son and us. Margaret Rossoff (658-0389 in Berkeley) is our family therapist, and Deborah Scott (925 256-6451 with offices in Walnut Creek and Berkeley) provides me individual support. They're colleagues, and both have expertise with troubled teens (including addiction) and family issues.

We're also working with the Bodin group of consultants who work with teens & young adults and their families www.bodingroup.com - you can email them or call them (website has contact info.), and they'll put you in touch with an appropriate consultant; ours are Lexy Spett and Shayna Abraham, and they're both terrific. Bodin's speciality is placement in residential treatment (placement, monitoring, parent support, coordination with parents' therapists etc.), but they provide other services as well.

Finally, there are some resources on http://groups.yahoo.com/group/schoolsnotforboys/messages. This group no longer meets or posts at this site, but the resources are still relevant. You might consider resurrecting this group, because there are so many parents and kids out there with a lot of challenges.

Warm wishes, mom of struggling son in residential treatment


Jan 2008

Re: therapist for my teen daughter
I highly recommend Kirsten Beuthin to see your teenager alone or with you in family therapy. She appears to be young (though I'm not sure about her age), but is quite wise and seems to really get teens. Mine felt very comfortable with her, and therefore able to work through some very tough times and get back on track. Kirsten's number is 510-652-0990. anon


2007 Recommendations

Dec 2007

My daughter turned into a teenager all of a sudden this summer, and we've been having a really difficult time. She was doing well in school early in the year, in spite of her insistence that her classes were boring and her teachers were terrible, but her grades have slipped, partly because she can't seem to hand in her assignments. She says that she doesn't care, but it's clear that she is upset when she does poorly on a test or gets a bad grade. Her behavior toward us runs the gamut: she's angry, sullen, withdrawn or miserable much of the time. She has lost interest in many of her old friends, and although she admits to having made new friends at school, she seldom makes the effort to spend time with anyone outside of school. She's snotty and unpleasant, with occasional rare lapses into pleasant communication that remind us that she's human. In other words, she's a teenager; still, she reminds me of my own miserable youth and I worry when she collapses in misery or turns into an unresponsive but clearly unhappy lump. We've taken her to a therapist, but she refuses to engage, and has told me that she thinks the therapy is boring and that she would prefer to see someone younger.


I highly recommend Kirsten Beuthin at 510 652 0990. She worked with my 13 year old, awhile ago, who needed someone outside the family to talk with. It seemed like Kirsten really got my daughter. Good luck. parent of teen girl
2 suggestions for adolescent therapy resources that could offer a sliding fee scale and potentially younger therapists. **Womens Therapy Center in El Cerrito 510-524-8288 www.womenstherapy.org **Bay Area Psychotherapy Training Institute in Lafayette www.bapti.org I am a Marriage Family Therapist Intern at both of these locations and work with adolescents and their families. Caroline
I can recommend a adolescent psychiatrist named Anthony DiGiovanni,MD. I don't have his phone number off hand, but look it up. I work with him at a hospital and he's wonderful, young, and great with teens!! Hope that you find some help! Anon
Our daughter was a depressed and bi-polar sophmore at Berkeley High Independent Study when, upon recommendation of a couple therapists, she started attending the Hyde School, a co-ed boarding school in Maine.This may seem like a long way to go, literally and figuratively, but she is now a thriving senior and looking forward to college. Hyde is truly a unique place that educates the whole family. Not enough space here to elucidate so check out www.hyde.edu if this seems appropriate. There are about 40 Bay Area families attending the campuses in Maine or Connecticut. There will be an informational tea in Berkeley in May '08. Hyde parent
Your daughter is right a normal therapeutic session is boring. But there is hope, I would suggest that you contact Berkeley Mental Health which has a child and adolescent section and ask about their services. Also know that when you do find a therapist you have the power to choose the gender and suggest the setting in which the therapy is conducted (going out to do an activity or have food etc.). Anita
May 2007

Re: Very unhappy 17-year-old son
I'm so sorry for you and your son. Our son went through the same thing when he as about 17. I wore myself out trying to find a therapist for him. He would go once or twice and refuse to go back. He just didn't like all of the ''talking''. I finally took him to a psychiatrist (David Ritvo) who prescribed anti-depressants. I know that they are not always the best route for teenagers, but my son was nearly suicidal. They really helped, and he did not mind ''talking'' with Dr. Ritvo. We really had to pay very close attention to his every mood. You might consider medical intervention. Worried Mom


I would recommend Dr. Rosemary Bower. She is a very gifted therapist--very astute and bright. She is in her 60's and has raised four children and is one of the few clinical psychologists in the area that takes Health Net (MHN, which she does because she does not think therapy is just for wealthy people. She helped me work through some very difficult issues with my family and through some depression I was having difficulty breaking out of. I know she works with a lot of young people as well as adults. Her office is a little out of the way (El Cerrito), but there is plenty of parking. She can be reached at 233-8655. Been there
I thought it was interesting in one reply that they took their son to a psychiatrist and that was successful. We eventually took our teen daughter to a psychiatrist after several tries with other therapists. It wasn't my first choice. However...it turned out to be fantastic. Not just because he gave her antidepressants which have worked so well, but because she started talking to him and has continued to do so. I told her she had to see a psychiatrist to get a prescription, and would have to see him several times to make sure the drugs were ok for her. It turned out to be a way to get her into therapy, kind of through the back door. I just wanted to add this for those who feel like I did, initially not wanting to go the psychiatrist route. anonymous
May 2007

My daughter often says she feels very sad and lonely, sometimes overwhelmingly so. Although I know such feelings are normal, particularly in adolescence, they bother my daughter a great deal and sometimes interfere with her ability to do normal things such as pay attention in class or enjoy hanging out with friends. She has seen a therapist before, briefly, but things were different then. We need to find someone new, preferably someone who is good with teenagers. Can anyone recommend someone? Even better if the person takes HealthNet insurance. My daughter will be leaving for college in August. Thanks. Worried


My daughter really liked Susan San Roman. She wanted someone she could relate to, youngish. Susan is in her thirtys. My daughter went to her for almost two years, and she helped her immensely. Susan was an intern when my daughter began, but has since begun a private practice. After interviewing many therapists on the phone, Susan seemed like the right choice. I don't know which insurance she takes now. She was on College Ave. in Oakland, phone number 510-452-6156. Mother of 17 year old girl
Mathilda St. John is a thoughtful, smart, hip, insightful, and well trained therapist. My daughter(now 19) has seen her off and on for several years and continues to find her a great support and resource. She is part of a group called Psyche that works with women of all ages. Their motto: ''Not your mother's therapist.'' I don't know if she accepts Health Net. anon
Jan 2007

I am seeking recommendations for a female therapist for my 12 year old daughter. We live in Lafayette but I'm willing to go to Berkeley or Oakland as well if there is someone who can really connect with her. She does not want to see a counselor but is becoming increasingly sullen, angry, resentful and disrespectful. mother seeking recommendations


Hello, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with an office in Lafayette and Albany; I am also a mother of a pre-teen and a teenager. I support your desire in finding a therapist for your daughter to connect with. It is so important for the teen to feel like they have some ''say'' over the therapy; sometimes it is helpful for the parents to ''screen'' a few therapist for their teen while having a more informal first meeting so the teen can have a sense of the therapist before moving forward.

This can all be difficult when a teen is resistant to therapy in the first place. Saying something like We need to get some help, let's try to meet _______ and see what we think, or it has been a difficult time, it may be helpful to have someone to talk too. If there is someone close to your daughter who might have more luck in communicating the importance of getting help, that could work or asking the school counselor to talk with her.


2006 Recommendations

Dec 2006

I have a big order for an African American therapist for my teenage daughter (13) who is very angry and hostile most of the time. She is on ADHD medication which she must take for school. She does get ''medication holidays''. Her behavior has escalated over the past few months and has begun to be so disruptive that I suspect something other than teenage acting out. Does anyone have any recommendations. We have Kaiser insurance and can use medi-cal for 2nd opinions (She is adopted) How does one differentiate between bipolor disease and adolescent acting out?


Check the web for symptoms of bipolar. Try NAMI, National Alliance on Mental Illness. http://www.nami.org/ Does your daughter get much sleep? Who prescribed the ADHD medication? Ask them about the diagnosis of ADHD vs bipolar. Does she have times of depression? Does she exhibit risky behavior such as drugs, sex or money? Talk to the Kaiser Mental Health advice line Anon
If you are willing to use your medi-cal, it is fairly easy to obtain an African American therapist and psychiatrist. spider
This is not a direct response to your request, but I'm wondering whether you've also considered the possibility that, if your daughter is menstruating, she might be suffering from severe PMS or even PMDD? Joan
Oct 2006

Our 19 year old daughter has dropped out of community college and now works about 20+ hours week at a retail store, lives at home and pays us ''rent'' to cover some expenses. We would like to see her find more direction toward her future. We think we/she could use outside help, but we don't know if she would benefit from seeing a therapist, an educational psychologist (she is quite smart and capable when interested, but has had problems with depression and had some learning issues), a career counselor, a life coach. I know the parent's network has some of this advice archived, but I would be particularly appreciative recommendations of anyone who works specifically with young adults in this situation Concerned Mom


Try Kathryn Hirt. She is fantastic with young adults, and self- proclaims them as a specialty of hers and people she loves working with, and it is evident in her work. She is very real, down-to-earth, and also warm, and sometimes, funny, which really reaches kids that age. She was an incredible help to our son who is 21, helping him find direction in ways that were in tune with who he is. 510-220-3558 is her contact #. Good luck to you and your child! Paul
Oct 2006

My 17 year old daughter needs a therapist in Berkeley area to help her with believing she is interesting enough, attractive enough etc. that any desirable boy she is involved with will not instantly leave her at the first opportunity. This is probably partially an adoption (abandonment) issue, probably other things too. She just broke up (again) with a very sweet young man because she didn't ''trust'' that he wouldn't leave her for someone else, just as they were getting into a pattern of going places, having fun, spending time with each others' family occasions, etc. She insists he did absolutely nothing to make her suspicious--just can't stop thinking that ''if someone else wants him, they'll just get him, she doesn't stand a chance.'' She acknowledges this is her problem and she needs help. She has a history of problems with self- confidence--probably mostly because of learning disability and body image issues, as well as the adoption component. Most recommendations on the website are years old or for other types of problems, so I'd appreciate your recommendations. Anonymous


I highly recommend Patricia Contaxis for your 17 yr old daughter. she works primarily with adolescents and can really relate to them. my daughter has been seeing her for over a year and has been very beneficial for her. Great with self confidence issues. She's on Solano. her # is 510-524-5028. Good luck B.'s mom
I would recommend that you seek a therapist with experience in adoption issues as this often affects self-esteem (confidence and trust in relationships with others). I would highly recommend Kirsten Beuthin who specializes in teens and their families as well as adoption issues. She is in Oakland and SF. 510-652-0990 or 415-401-7180 anonymous
Re: 17-year-old daughter needs help with stealing
I understand how painful your situation is, and I recommend Margaret Rossoff 658 0389, a family therapist in S. Berkeley with extensive experience with troubled kids. I realize that you're requesting a therapist for your daughter, not a family therapist, but in our experience a kid's recovery is not possible without family therapy, and Margaret can help you find a separate therapist for your daughter. Your daughter's behavior sounds like compulsive (essentially addictive) behavior, and our son suffers from quite similar compulsions/addictions. Our son has seen several therapists (each briefly - he was not open to treatment), and no one was able to help. Now my husband and I see Margaret, and our son is in intensive residential rehab. Your daughter may not need such an intervention if she's open to treatment, but Margaret is very knowledgeable about programs if it becomes necessary. I've also found -Anon groups essential to my own recovery, and a 12 step program essential to your daughter's recovery. A theme in 12 step programs is (as you suggest) that the addict make amends to those they've hurt as a way of (re)building personal integrity and responsibility. Our son may wind up in jail even after rehab, but we have bailed him out of far too many situations, and doing so has not changed him one bit. It may feel loving in some ways, but, based on our experience, the outcome is no change or even worse behavior, so the best way to love a troubled kid is ensure that they address the situation and struggle with the consequences of their actions. Believe me, I understand the pain of all this, and I wish you and your daughter and your ex the very best. In much the same situation
June 2006

Hello, Could someone recommend a therapist for a teenager? We are going through hard time with our 16 y.o. daughter. Thanks!


Kirsten Beuthin does exceptional work with teenagers. Her number is 652-0990. Good luck been there
My 16 year old was having a very hard time a few months ago and we decided together that we would find her a therapist. She was also very explicit that she wanted someone somewhat ''hip'' - meaning, explicitly, NOT someone who was as old as her mother. We found Kristin Beuthin 510-652-0990 through BPN. Her office is right across the street from Rockridge Bart so it is easy to get to both by bus or BART for a teenager. I had a very good conversation with Kristin when I called to make the initial appointment and then she did a great job at the first appointment making it really clear to my daughter that she was there for her and that really gave my daughter ownership of the therapy and great trust in the confidentiality. It has been a few months now and my daughter likes working with Kristin very much Anon.
May 2006

Looking for a therapist experienced in anxiety, adoption, loss issues for a young teen girl. An Asian woman would be ideal. Mom C


Lili Suzuki, MFT might be a good fit for your daughter. She specializes in work with adoption issues. She is also trained as an art therapist. 510-233-7555, ext. 18 Laura Soble, MFT, REAT, Oakland
Heather Noone (MFT intern) works quite well with teens, though she has no experience with adoption issues. You can contact her via http://www.earthcirclescenter.com/. Good Luck
I highly recommend Alexandra Howells. She specializes in working with Teens and she is a very compassionate and warm person who is very skilled and has a great connection with young people. Her number is 510-869-4394. Her email is alex[at]howells.com Priscilla
April 2006

Re: Anxious 11-year-old wants a therapist

I wish you and your son the best. I have a daughter who also suffered from fear and anxiety. She was beginning to do some compulsive behaviors trying to eliminate it and was even more anxious at night than during the day. She saw Ellen Singer Phd at the reccomendation of a psychiatrist at Childrens. Ellen was able to help her (and us) feel much more secure. Her number is 525-1975. anonymous


Regarding your anxious 11 yr old son, I highly recommend the Cognitive Therapy group in Rockridge. Michael Tompkins would be terrific but if he is not available, you can trust the other members of the group. I know of several families who have successfully worked with a cognitive approach, It makes a lot of sense for teens and preteens. mom of teen boys
It's wonderful that your son is able to articulate his needs as you've described. That bodes well for him.

I strongly recommend Michelle Horton, Ph.D. (985-2958). She is a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with kids like yours, does great work in therapy with them and is an expert in learning and emotional issues -- which are often quite interconnected. She's located on College Ave. near Broadway, which fits your geographic desires. She also can recommend other options or therapists who may fit your needs.


I recommend you call John Sprinson, he has an office in Oakland on Glen Eden (off Piedmont Ave.). His number is in the white pages. He is kind, smart, has a wonderful calm presence and will give you and your son an honest assessment of your son's needs and a course of treatment. been there
Jan 2006

My daughter wants to see a psychiatrist or a psychologist due to her continuing depression. She is 16yrs old and has been to couseling before, but felt the psychologist was not too understanding of her generation. She would like to work with someone who is closer to her generation 30ish, maybe. Thanks. Any suggestions would be helpful. Cathy


I know an amazing therapist for adolescent and teen youth. She has many years of experience, and really connects with young people. In addition to having a private practice, she works at an East Bay High School part time as a counselor. Her name is Fay Dillof, and her number is 510-333-6693. Judy

2005 Recommendations

March 2005

I am looking for a therapist that my 17 year old son will feel comfortable with. My son is shy, sensitive & gets frustrated easily. We have been to three therapists all women and all over 45 and he said he didn't feel comfortable opening up to them. I thought they were all fine--patient and sensitive, but therapy won't work unless he feels ok talking. Can anyone reccomend a young hip therapist that can connect with teenagers. If possible we would prefer the Albany/Berkeley area. My son said it doesn't matter if they are male or female. concerned parent

Recommended:

  • Greg Alter
  • Alf Johnson
  • Daniel Lesny
  • Leonard Levis
  • Pay Rose
    Jan 2005

    I am looking for a good family therapist in the Albany/Berkeley area. We want to find someone that has a lot of experience working with teens, especially with sensitive boys. I have already looked at the previous referrals and they were either in Oakland or several years old.
    trying to put our family back together

    Recommendations received:

  • Monica Frame
  • Jill Shugart
  • Betty Tharpe

    2004 Recommendations

    Dec 2004

    Our son has been struggling for years in school and in life, and we're looking for a therapist for him. We think he needs both medication and therapy, so we're looking for a psychiatrist who monitors medication and provides therapy, or a psychiatrist who works with a psychologist or MFCC as a duo. Over the past several years, he has seen two therapists in Berkeley who were not helpful, but he wasn't ready to be helped, and now he is maturing, identifying his challenges, and expressing interest in working on them. He believes he has ADD, which of course is widely over-diagnosed, but, as I read about it, is starting to make sense. He does poorly in school, doesn't follow through with almost anything, and is highly impulsive - buys things he shouldn't, and engages in all sorts of risk taking as well as addictive behavior that I can't comfortably describe here. He is quite immature -- many of his friends are still in high school. He is such a nice kid but struggling in so many ways, and we don't know where to turn. Advice and referrals will be so appreciated. Thanks.
    Looking forward to your advice

    Recommended:

  • Pay Rose
  • Marlene Winell

    Other advice:

    I also do a free class for parents of children or teens with (or wonder if they have) ADHD. The next series starts on Jan. 8th at 9:30Am at Kaiser in Richmond. Join us if you want to learn more. If you leave a message at 307-2539 with your address I will send you the class flyer. The best of luck to you and your son. Rona


    Sept 2004

    My fifteen year old son and I are feuding big time. He has alot of repressed anger towards me and despite his looming 8 inch advantage over me, he says he is scared of me. I do admit to being a screamer, but hey, I feel I have mellowed out in my middle age.But we and especially ME needs help. We hope to find someone in North Berkeley, accessible from BHS.We are both quick thinkers and verbal and need someone who can challenge us. Also I'm looking for hopefully cognitive type of therapy rather than analysis. I'd appreciate any advise.
    Harried Mother of 15 yearold

    Recommended:

  • Mick Hausauer Piedmont Av
    Aug 2004 Does anyone have any recommendations for a therapist/counselor who works with teenagers, especially with females. Preferably references from people who have first hand experiences. Thanks.

    Recommended:

  • Gail Alter
  • Kirsten Beuthin Berkeley
  • Yvonne Beyer Oakland
  • Valata Jenkins-Monroe Rockridge
    May 2004 My 14 year old daughter has dropped in her grades in school and is just acting pretty nasty. Her dad and I are divorced for 12 years and have done ok with the coparenting thing but are now at a huge impass at what to do. I feel that I want to direct my daughter toward feeling better about herself and find herself in the context of highschool and what interests her. Her dad feels that he wants to strong arm her and do things like show up at her school and walk her to her classes so she will be so embarrassed that she will straighten up so he won't come again. He has done this already which only made her dig her heels in even more. She has always wanted to spend time equally between homes but now will only stay with me. Now I am getting constant emails from dad about what I have to do with my kid and how to do it. I am totally stressed out and so is everyone else invloved. Any suggestions on a class, mediation, anything we can go to to help us out. The main focus, for me, is the support my kid, but with all of the turmoil - I think she is flying below the radar and just existing. Thanks for any referrals.

    Recommedations received:

  • Kristen Carey
  • Mediation Services Parent-Teen Mediation
    April 2004

    My teen is showing the signs of stress! We are in the Hayward area and I would like some referrals to East Bay counselors with an expertise in Teens. FYI, I already tried Girls Inc, they are backed up a few months. Also, we have Kaiser but she is afraid that her stepmom (Kaiser employee) will have access to her records. Thank you! anonymous


    The Women's Therapy Center in El Cerrito has an adolescent girls clinic 527-3562. Rebecca Palley (848-7764) and Cynthia Ferari (581-1274) both work in Castro Valley. You might also try calling the Community Counseling Center at Cal State, Hayward. Mary Ann
    Feb. 2004

    I've looked at the site recommendations but they are pretty dated. Can anyone wholeheartedly recommend a therapist for my 16 year old niece? She has expressed the desire to see one (I'm thrilled). She is *very* smart and, on the whole, very well adjusted. She moved here this past August and her parents are going through a messy divorce - the culmination of her whole life of watching her parents be horribly dysfunctional. Her father is seriously awful.

    Recommendations received:

  • Kirsten Beuthin
  • Janet Long

    2003 Recommendations

    Sept. 2003

    Does anybody know of a therapist who specializes in 13 year old girls with problems of the sort depicted in the movie ''THIRTEEN''? The film is a dead on look at what it's like to be a 13 yr old girl in school today. The lead, Tracy, is obcessed with social status and dependent on peer acceptance leading to fast track recklessness with drugs, sex, clothes, money, and getting in trouble. The film depicts the plight of one girls alienation from her parents and her free fall into self destructive behaviors that are not survivable without intervention. Is there a therapy or discipline of psychiatry that specializes in 13 yr old teen girls of the sort described above? george

    Recommendations:

  • Peter August
  • Kirsten Beuthin

    Other advice:

    My daughter was very similar to the children portayed in the movie ''Thirteen,'' so I know what you're going through. Unfortunately once or even 2x weekly therapy may not be enough. One of our therapists told us that this area is just toxic to some kids. Our daughter was one of them, and your daughter sounds like another. We tried all kinds of therapy with all kids of therapists without success. What worked was getting her into a therapeutic boarding school out of state (in California, BTW, any kid 16 or older can walk out the door of any program and there is nothing you can do about it, which is why a lot of these places are located in states where you have to be 18 to do that). Special schools/programs are not an area into which to venture armed only with an Internet browser. If you elect to go that route, you need to work with an educational consultant. There are a lot of good therapeutic schools with committed staff out there, but there are also lots of charlatans and problem schools & camps and the consultants know which are which. We used Elizabeth McGhee at Viginia Reiss Associates in Larkspur (phone 415-461-4788)if you want to talk with her. A lot of people reporting to this site have good things to say about the Hyde School in Maine, which has an excellent reputation. Our daughter is at Island View-RTC in Utah, which also has an excellent progam, and makes the kids resonsible both to themselves and a team, so their behavior deoesn't affect just themselves, which helps drive home important points very quickly. These places are quite expensive, although if you carry mental health insurance, it can cover some of the costs (and there are educational loans that can be arranged; use the college money now if you need to). Also, there was a law on the books for a while (can't recall if it had a sunset date or not) that required medical insurers in California to cover the costs of such schools for children who were formally medically diagnosed with bi- polar disease. If that law is still applicable and if your daughter is bi-polar, that could help, cost-wise. The therapeutic schools have the kids in all kinds of therapy (individual, group, substance abuse, etc.)constantly and the people there have seen it all, so most kids learn pretty fast that they can't progress by BS-ing or finessing their way out. Therapy-wise, you need to look for someone who has didactic therapeutic training, but the results are much better if you get your kid out of this environment into a controlled one, because as long as it's an option, kids can just elect not to participate in the therapy (that was one of the things that happened to us). It's only when the element of choice gets removed that you can start making headway. My heart goes out to you. It's just a wrenching situation to be in.


    April 2003

    My 12 year old daughter approached me about getting counseling. I have gone over the website and got a few names, and have two names from the school couselor, but I am looking for a few more. I think she is more comfortable talking with a woman, and probably a younger woman (not to be age-ist!). My daughter is not that talkative or open with new people. A counseler that she saw in the past did some playing, but mostly talked. I think that my daughter would benefit from someone who works with writing and art as therapy, and someone who can also discuss different philosophys/ religions (buddhism, for instance) as tools for understanding and dealing the world and its stresses. She is a very thoughful, deep, and philosophical child and has been since she could talk! My daughter is pretty in tune with herself and her feelings most of the time, but is struggling right now. She told me she wants to discuss how she's feeling in general, not something specific. If someone can recommend a young woman therapist that they have had a direct relationship with (or rather their kids have), I would greatly appreciate it! Thanks, listening mom

    Recommendations received:

  • Kirsten Beuthin
    Feb. 2003

    Any recommendations for local therapists Lamorinda, Walnut Creek, North Berkeley for a 13 year old girl? She is continually in conflict either with us the parents or her sisters. She pushes all the wrong buttons, provokes, demands, screams and cries every day. Everything we say is an attack on her, she can't stand her family, most of the people of authority (teachers, coaches) are idiots. She would just like to move out and live on her own without all the stupid rules and regulations. Or at least send me to an expensive boarding school. She feels she should have a lot of rights but is not willing to give anything in return. Even when we set the rules together and contracts are drawn she breaks them right away. She is very smart, does pretty well at school though puts in minimal work, has some friends. She has a high sense of justice (for herself) and entitlement. We are willing to participate in some sort of family therapy though having two other daughters with whom we have a very positive relationship we know we are not such lousy parents as she would make us to be. At the end of my rope

    Recommended:

  • Kirsten Beuthin

    Other advice:

    The first step you should take is to read, ''The Explosive Child.'' Even if your 13-year old is not explosive, this book helps with understanding and coping with intense kids. We also found a therapist who works based on the same principles as the book, and the combination has been great. These kids are intense for good reasons, and once you get a handle on what's going on, it's much easier to cope. Everyone benefits. Good luck. Parent of another intense teen


    2002 and earlier

    April 2002

    Hello Parents, If you know any good adolescent therapy for a 15 years girls in San Jose area, please recommend. My daughter has run away 4 times, and my family is falling apart because of her. She was a straight A student until last year when she got in boy/girl friends relationship then things changed. I am apprecitate any recommendations from you. Thanks.

    Recommendations received:

  • Karen Hollinger Jackson
    Aug. 2002

    Looking for a counselor or therapist for our son who is good natured, well behaved, but has a very poor time expressing himself verbally or in writing. Although he is bright, he is falling behind academically because of his weaknesses. He is also becoming socially isolated. Any suggestions for someone in or around Berkeley? Thanks.

    Recommendations received:

  • Kenneth Benau
  • Kaiser therapists for teens (2)
    April 2002

    I am looking for recommendations of a woman therapist who is experienced/skilled at dealing with a teen's feelings around coping with learning differences, and experienced with helping a teen develop a self-knowing, positive coping strategy for the long term. It wouldn't hurt if the same therapist is experienced with/recommended by adoptive and multi-racial families, though these are not major issues on the table at this time. My daughter says she is not interested in any kind of group therapy. Our insurance is Kaiser, but we realize we will probably need to go outside of Kaiser. It would be helpful to know the basic session cost, if you know. Thanks. Anonymous Recommendations:

  • Berkeley Therapy Institute
  • Alicia Barrett-Singer Kaiser
    Sept 2001

    My son has been experiencing anxiety attacks for some time which now have forced him to drop out of school and are limiting his ability to find and keep a regular job. I would appreciate any recomandation for a psychiatrist who takes Blue Cross, she/he doesn't need to be specialized in teenagers, even though that would be nice. I prefer the Contra Costa area, but anything in the East Bay will work also. Thanks.


    My recent experience with both psychiatry and psychology unfortunately has led me to believe that the best ones out there don't take insurance. And, like everything in life, you have to find someone that suits your own style. If you are able to submit a bill to your insurance company I highly recommend Dr. Michael Loose, MD. (click for full recommendations)
    We however, use a psychologist for weekly visits, and see Dr. Loose for medication. Sounds like anti-anxiety drugs might be of great benefit to your son.
    March 2002

    Anyone know any of these therapists well enough to recommend one? This is for my daughter at Cal. These are on my insurance plan (HealthNet). Nancy

    Recommendations received:

  • Diane Cohen
  • Ruth Fallenbaum (2)
  • Ruth Hill
  • Jeanne Menary
  • Kathleen Ranlett Mock

    Other advice:

    Good luck. Keep asking everyone you know. I also asked the professionals who were recommended to me if they could recommend someone else. And, keep asking MHN for names. They're very stingy about handing them out. Sally


    April 2000

    Does anyone have any recommendations for a therapist/counselor who works with teenagers, especially with females. I only want references if people have first hand experiences. Thanks.

    Recommendations received:

  • David Akullian
  • Anna Berger
  • Bob Heavner
  • Colorado Kagan
  • Lenny Levis
  • Phyllis Mace
  • Pepper Sbarbaro
  • Michael Simon
  • Betty Tharpe
  • Gail Alter
  • Preston Parsons Alvarez
  • Jan Dombrower
  • Jennifer Freeman
  • Bob Heavner
  • Katya Hope
  • Candice Kunz
  • Lenny Levis
  • Paul Moore
  • Elayne Savage
  • Michael Simon
  • West Coast Childrens Center
    Additional advice:

    Glad to see postings of good therapists for teens. To me, this seems an underexplored avenue for many teens and so benefitial when the right therapist and teen can match up. In our case, we were lucky to find a therapist that our teen hit it off with right away.

    It mattered a lot for our teen to like and feel accepted by a therapist--even more important than for an adult--because acceptance is the stuff of teen identity. It was also important for our teen to build a trusting relationship with an adult, and bridge the generations for a source of advice in addition to peers. From this experience, I would suggest interviewing several therapists to find the right fit, and not be afraid to change the therapist if that right fit, for whatever reason, isn't there. I can recommend , for one, Dr. Anna Berger , who is warm, savvy, and wise. 848-3050. (April 2000)


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