Youth Therapy & Teen Counseling

Adolescence is a journey full of exciting growth, but it can also be a time of intense struggle. As a parent, you want to see your child thrive, but sometimes the challenges—whether big or small—can feel overwhelming. Youth therapy provides a safe, structured, and non-judgmental space where your child or teen can gain the tools they need to navigate these years successfully.

We are here to support your family. Our specialized teen counseling services focus on the unique needs of young people ages 12-18 in California and Nevada, providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to where your child is developmentally and emotionally.

Who Youth Therapy & Adolescent Support Is For

Therapy is a proactive step, not a last resort. We provide adolescent support for young people dealing with a range of common challenges:

Teens (ages 13-18) struggling with:

  • Anxiety in teens (social anxiety, performance pressure, or general worry)
  • Depression or persistent low mood
  • Stress related to school, friendships, or romantic relationships
  • Questions about identity, self-esteem, or peer pressure
  • Major life transitions (moving, divorce, loss) or grief
  • Academic pressure or college-related stress
  • Body image concerns or social media overwhelm

Younger Children (ages 8-12) experiencing:

  • Difficulty managing “big” emotions (anger, frustration, sadness)
  • Challenges related to family changes (divorce, new siblings, moving)
  • Behavioral issues at home or school
  • Persistent worries, fears, or separation anxiety
  • Friendship difficulties or social skills development

Our Empowering Approach to Teen Counseling

Every young person is unique, and our approach is tailored to fit their needs, developmental stage, and communication style. We focus on creating a foundational sense of trust and emotional safety so that authentic healing can begin.

Our therapy for kids and teens often incorporates:

  • Talk Therapy: Providing a space to articulate thoughts and feelings without judgment, using age-appropriate language and concepts.
  • Somatic Awareness: Helping clients recognize how emotions show up in the body (tight chest, tense shoulders, butterflies) and use that mind-body connection to manage stress and anxiety.
  • Holistic Techniques: Utilizing creative expression, mindfulness practices, or play-based methods (for younger children) to support self-expression when words are hard to find.
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Strategies: Teaching practical skills to identify negative thought patterns and develop healthier responses to challenging situations.

Our goal is not just to “fix” problems, but to empower your child to feel more confident, capable, and resilient—equipped with lifelong tools for emotional wellness.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you feel your teen or child could use some extra support to navigate their current challenges and build a stronger foundation for the future, we encourage you to reach out. Early intervention can make a profound difference.

We offer a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your child’s specific needs, answer your questions, and determine if we’re the right fit for your family.

Your child deserves to feel heard, supported, and empowered. Let’s work together to help them thrive.

Your Child Deserves Support. You Deserve Peace of Mind.

Take the first step toward positive change—schedule your free consultation today.

NOTE: Due to limited in-person availability, we encourage adults and teens (12+) to explore telehealth—giving you access to more qualified practitioners while receiving the same high-quality and effective care from home.

Alexis Masters, MFT Trainee

Alexis Masters

**Accepting New Clients**

✓ Children, Teens, and Adults

✓ Couples & Family Therapy

Anxiety, Depression, Grief and loss, Relationship issues, Burnout and stress, Identity development, Family dynamics, Family conflict, Self-esteem/self-worth, LGBTQ+ mental health, Spirituality, Neurodivergence – ADHD, Sex and Intimacy, Women’s issues, Communication Skills, Parenting, Addiction and Recovery, Existential issues

Lanelle Chavez

**Accepting New Clients**

✓ Teens and Adults

 

Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Life transitions, Burnout and stress, Identity development, Family dynamics, Family conflict, Self-esteem/self-worth, Attachment issues, LGBTQ+ mental health, Racial or cultural identity, Spirituality, Attachment, Women’s issues, Communication Skills, Addiction and Recovery, Existential issues

Scott Marlin

**Accepting New Clients**

✓ Children, Teens, and Adults

✓ Couples & Family Therapy

Anxiety & Depression, Trauma & PTSD, Grief & Loss, Stress & Burnout, Relationship Issues, Life Transitions, Identity & Self-Esteem, Attachment Issues, Neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD), OCD, Existential Issues

 

Mary Raia

** Currently Full **

✓ Children, Teens, and Adults

✓ Couples Therapy

Anxiety & Depression, Trauma & PTSD, OCD, Grief & Loss, Stress & Burnout, Relationship & Family Issues, Separation/Divorce, Identity & Self-Esteem, Attachment Issues, Spirituality & Religious Trauma, Chronic Illness or Pain, Neurodivergence (ADHD), Sexuality & Intimacy, Women’s Issues & Parenting, Communication & Coping Skills, Life Transitions, Existential Issues, Learning & Educational Challenges, IPV/DV, Co-Dependency

Denise Fritz

** Currently Full **

✓ Children, Teens, and Adults

 

Anxiety, Depression, Trauma & PTSD, Grief & Loss, Relationships & Family, Life Transitions, Burnout & Stress, Identity & Self-Esteem, Attachment & Parenting, Spirituality, Separation/Divorce, Neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD), Sex & Intimacy, Women’s & Motherhood Issues, Postpartum, Communication Skills, Existential Concerns

Rachael Henze, MFT Intern

Rachael Henze

** Currently Full **

✓ Teens, and Adults

✓ Couples & Family Therapy

Anxiety & Depression, Trauma & PTSD, Grief & Loss, Stress & Burnout, Relationship & Family Issues, Life Transitions, Identity & Self-Esteem, Attachment Issues, Spirituality & Faith, Neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD), OCD, Women’s Issues, Communication Skills, Addiction & Recovery, Existential Issues

Kristen Yogi, AMFT

Kristen Yogi

** Currently Full **
Alexis Masters, MFT Trainee

Availability: Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday

Meet Alexis

I am working on finishing my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My style has more of a casual, peer-to-peer feel as I have a lot of personal experience with most of the adversity life can offer and feel this style lends itself well to building rapport and trust with my clients. I prefer a humanistic, whole person approach rather than pathologizing labels, but sometimes labels can also be helpful to name and normalize the struggles someone may go through in life. While I don’t have my master’s degree yet, I have an associate’s degree in Liberal Arts with a special certification in Addiction Treatment, a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health, a level three state certification in addiction treatment (CADC III), and am certified through UC Berkeley in Sleep Therapy. I have personal and professional experience with addiction and recovery, mild/moderate mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and panic disorder, relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ and identity navigation, stress and burnout.

I have been working in the mental/behavioral health field for about 5 years now and continue to build on my experience working with a wide range of clients. The bulk of this experience so far has been with adults of all ages, but I am excited to gain more experience with couples, families, and children. The therapeutic approaches I utilize are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, somatic work and mindfulness, spirituality, emotionally focused therapy, and internal family systems (parts work). My philosophy is that all humans need some sense of meaning and purpose to motivate them and create their personal definition of happiness and success in life, whatever that means to them. I aim to help clients achieve this by exploring their personal identity and encouraging them to take action steps.

I look forward to working with you.

Areas of Focus:

Anxiety, Depression, Grief and loss, Relationship issues, Burnout and stress, Identity development, Family dynamics, Family conflict, Self-esteem/self-worth, LGBTQ+ mental health, Spirituality, Neurodivergence – ADHD, Sex and Intimacy, Women’s issues, Communication Skills, Parenting, Addiction and Recovery, Existential issues

Approaches:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness-based Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Humanistic / Client-centered, Trauma-informed care

Populations:

Children (ages 5–12), Teens / Adolescents, Young Adults (18–25), Adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, BIPOC communities

Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey with Alexis?

Schedule your free initial call today and request Alexis as your therapist to start your path toward growth, balance, and emotional wellness.

Availability: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday

Meet Lanelle

Hello! My name is Lanelle and I am a pre licensed intern psychotherapist currently completing my graduate studies at Antioch University Santa Barbara. My approach is grounded in the belief that each person is the expert of their own lived experience and to treat each individual holistically: mind, body and soul. My deepest intention in the therapeutic dynamic is to always meet clients with compassion and curiosity regardless of where they are in their journey. In our work together, my role is not to tell you who to be or what choices to make. Rather, I strive to walk alongside you as you deepen your understanding of yourself and your experiences.

My therapeutic approach draws from Person Centered Therapy, Mindfulness Based practices, Somatic Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Object Relations Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Inner Child work. I tailor my approach to each individual, honoring the unique needs, strengths and experiences they bring into the therapeutic space.

I have experience working with children, individuals, couples, and people navigating significant life challenges including homelessness and high acuity mental health concerns such as psychosis or disruptive personality disorders. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and particularly resonate in working with individuals who identify as spiritually inclined or who wish to explore spirituality as a meaningful aspect of their healing journey.

I believe healing extends beyond the therapy room. Nature, meaningful community and authentic somatic expression can be powerful sources of growth and resilience. As appropriate, I may incorporate mindfulness practices, breathing exercises, grounding techniques and meditation to help clients cultivate greater self awareness and emotional regulation.

Beginning therapy can feel vulnerable, intimidating, or uncertain. I want you to know that you do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Whatever you may be carrying, you are not “too much.” My intention is to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported as you navigate life’s challenges and move toward greater healing, authenticity, and well being.

Areas of Focus:

Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues, Life transitions, Burnout and stress, Identity development, Family dynamics, Family conflict, Self-esteem/self-worth, Attachment issues, LGBTQ+ mental health, Racial or cultural identity, Spirituality, Attachment, Women’s issues, Communication Skills, Addiction and Recovery, Existential issues

Approaches:

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-based Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Attachment-based Therapy, Humanistic / Client-centered, Strengths-based, Trauma-informed care, Culturally responsive therapy

Populations:

Teens / Adolescents, Young Adults (18–25), Adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, BIPOC communities

Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey with Lanelle?

Schedule your free initial call today and request Lanelle as your therapist to start your path toward growth, balance, and emotional wellness.

** Full **

Meet Scott M.

I received my M.S. in Counseling with an emphasis on Nature-Based Counseling through Prescott College and have been providing therapeutic support for individuals, couples, and families since 2023. Before I stepped into my current role, I facilitated outdoor programs as a naturalist-mentor. It was during this time that I began to see how building internal skills that promote creativity and awareness can have a strong therapeutic potential. I incorporate mindfulness-based and emotionally focused practices to assist in fostering deeper sense of meaning and connection to ourselves and the world around us. I believe therapy is most beneficial when a safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative space is created between the therapist and those seeking support. It is in this environment that true growth and healing can take place. I look forward to working together to find what that looks like for you.

Areas of Focus:

Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and PTSD, Grief and loss, Relationship issues, Life transitions, Burnout and stress, Identity development, Self-esteem/self-worth, Neurodivergence – Autism, Neurodivergence – ADHD, Attachment, OCD, Existential issues

Approaches:
Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness-based Therapy, Humanistic / Client-centered, Strengths-based, Trauma-informed care, Experiential therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy
Populations Served:

Children (ages 5–12), Teens / Adolescents, Young Adults (18–25), Adults, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+ individuals, BIPOC communities

** Currently Full **

Meet Mary

Mary Raia is a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee. She helps people of all ages through life’s challenges and transitions. She works with adults, children, and teens, creating a safe space to explore thoughts, feelings, and goals at a comfortable pace.

Mary’s approach is gentle, collaborative, and empathetic. She meets each person where they are and respects their unique experiences. She believes in authentic connection and helps clients build insight, resilience, and skills to make positive changes in their lives.

Whether you are an adult managing stress, a child facing emotional struggles, or a teen finding your voice, Mary aims to foster trust, understanding, and hope in every session. 

Areas of Focus:
Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and PTSD, Grief and loss, Relationship issues, Life transitions, Burnout and stress, Identity development, Family dynamics, Family conflict, Self-esteem/self-worth, Attachment issues, Spirituality, Chronic illness or pain, Separation/Divorce, Neurodivergence – ADHD, Attachment, Religious Trauma, OCD, Sex and Intimacy, Women’s issues, Communication Skills, Parenting, Existential issues, Learning and Education Challenges, Sexuality, IPV, DV, Coping Skills , School Issues, Co-Dependency, 
Approaches:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness-based Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Attachment-based Therapy, Humanistic / Client-centered, Strengths-based, Trauma-informed care, Culturally responsive therapy, Art Therapy, Play Therapy, and Body/movement Psychotherapy 
Populations Served:

Children (ages 5–12), Teens / Adolescents, Young Adults (18–25), Adults, Couples, LGBTQ+ individuals

Meet Denise

I completed my Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy/Professional Clinical Counselor (MFT/PCC) at the University of Massachusetts Global. My passion for therapy started as I went through my own healing journey and saw the light through the darkness. Finding my own purpose through deep soul work inspired me to hold that space for others.

“Learn to light a candle in the darkest moments of someone’s life. Be the light that helps others see; it is what gives life its deepest significance.”
 Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart

We all start somewhere, and my goal is to witness your first steps wherever you enter on the healing journey. With each step into the next, the goal is to feel better and less pain than the day before. Everyone’s situation is unique, and my approach, rooted in a balanced and integrative model of therapy, seeks to bear witness to your unique journey and help guide you along the way.

Areas of Focus:

Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and PTSD, Grief and loss, Relationship issues, Life transitions, Burnout and stress, Identity development, Family conflict, Self-esteem/self-worth, Attachment issues, Spirituality, Separation/Divorce, Neurodivergence – Autism, Neurodivergence – ADHD, Attachment, Sex and Intimacy, Women’s issues, Communication Skills, Parenting, Motherhood, Postpartum, Existential issues

Approaches:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness-based Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Humanistic / Client-centered, Strengths-based, Trauma-informed care

Populations:

Children (ages 5–12), Teens / Adolescents, Young Adults (18–25), Adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, BIPOC communities

Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey with Denise?

Book your free initial call today and request Denise as your therapist to start your path toward growth, balance, and emotional wellness.

Availability: Monday – Friday

Meet Rachael

I’m an associate marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families overcome challenges and create more fulfilling, authentic lives. I specialize in supporting clients through trauma recovery, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues—focusing on strengthening the most important connections in life, including the one you have with yourself.

My approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and the belief that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for lasting change. Using evidence-based methods such as Narrative Therapy, Collaborative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I tailor each session to your unique needs, strengths, and goals. I work with children, teens, and adults in a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.

Whether you’re navigating life transitions, healing from past experiences, or looking for tools to manage stress, I’m here to support your journey toward emotional well-being and healthy, balanced relationships.

Outside of my practice, I enjoy exploring nature, reading, working on puzzles, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family.

Areas of Focus:

Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and PTSD, Grief and loss, Relationship issues, Life transitions, Burnout and stress, Identity development, Family dynamics, Self-esteem/self-worth, Attachment issues, Spirituality, Neurodivergence – Autism, Neurodivergence – ADHD, Attachment, OCD, Women’s issues, Communication Skills, Addiction and Recovery, Existential issues

Approaches:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness-based Therapy, Humanistic / Client-centered, Strengths-based, Trauma-informed care, Culturally responsive therapy
Populations Served: 
 Teens / Adolescents, Young Adults (18–25), Adults, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+ individuals, BIPOC communities

Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey with Rachael?

Book your free initial call today and request Rachael as your therapist to start your path toward growth, balance, and emotional wellness.

Kristen Yogi, AMFT
** Full **

Meet Kristen

I believe all pain stems from disconnection. Disconnection from self, others, and a greater belonging to the natural world. As a social species, we need love and support from one another to thrive and co-create a felt sense of safety. I view trauma as the fragmentation of painful experiences that get stuck within the body. Utilizing talk therapy, somatic, and mindfulness-based practices we will gently untangle what is keeping you stuck to create a more integrated sense of wholeness. Whether you are struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief and loss, relationship problems, or a life transition, I am honored to assist you in making meaningful internal and external change to co-create a life of fulfillment, connection, ease, and purpose. I value collaboration and use an integrative approach to tailor the style of therapy to fit your needs and goals. Together we will move through and learn from life’s difficulties to engender more harmony within yourself, your relationships, and your environment.

Issues Treated:

  • Anxiety
  • Coping skills
  • Depression
  • Emotional Disturbance
  • Family Conflict
  • Grief and loss
  • Life Transitions
  • Peer Relationships
  • Relationship Issues
  • Self-esteem
  • Spirituality
  • Stress
  • Trauma
  • Women’s issues