A Child & Adolescent Psychologist Serving San Francisco Families

I'm a clinical psychologist serving a lively group of children, tweens, teenagers and parents. I provide child and adolescent therapy and parent consultation, both in person and via telehealth. My child and adolescent practice is currently focused on the the mental health and emotional well-being of middle and high school students. I have a wide- ranging background in child psychology, including a decade of specialization in early childhood development and learning.

Working with children and families over the last 25 + years has given me in-depth understanding of how children and teenagers think, learn and grow. The early years of life are a fascinating period of time. Specific developmental processes impact the way young people think, behave, express themselves, handle their emotions and navigate change. Active processes are in play that can prove both an advantage and a vulnerability as children and teens grow and adapt.

The practice of child and adolescent psychology is by nature a collaborative process in which a therapist, the young person and their family/support system all play a part. When we put our heads together, we often find ways to make things better. 

Personalized Mental Health Services for San Francisco Kids, Tweens and Teens

Are you concerned about your child? Would you like support for them related to their emotions, school, friendships, family issues or your divorce or joint custody? My clients include children, tweens and teenagers who:

  • Feel stressed, worried, anxious, sad/down or depressed

  • Have parents going through or who have gone through separation or divorce

  • Are dealing with challenges at school related to anxiety, learning differences, perfectionism, academic pressure, giftedness or friendship/social issues

  • Struggle with feelings of difference, issues related to identity, gender identification or sexual orientation

  • Have issues with confidence or comparison to others

  • Are having a hard time with managing and expressing their emotions

If your child’s issues are not addressed above, by all means feel free to check in with me anyhow. If I’m not able to help I’ll do my best to refer you to someone else who could be a resource.

Counseling to Nurture Your Child's Emotional Health and Well-Being

We all want to see young people happy, engaged in learning, pursuing their strengths and enjoying positive relationships. Family, friends, school and community all contribute to a young person's emotional health and well-being.

Therapy adds another layer of support. It provides encouragement for your child’s development of communication skills and healthy social relationships. It reinforces the messages that thoughts and feelings are important, that talking about challenges is a healthy way to cope and that when we struggle we connect. Young people often appreciate the chance to speak about what's on their minds in private with a non-judgmental adult outside their family.

Counseling helps young people communicate and manage feelings more skillfully, strengthen relationships and navigate challenging experiences. It can be a means to gain self understanding at this important stage of life. When it works well, family members share the benefits of a child or adolescent's therapy. 

Welcome Message for Parents

Parent Consultation in San Francisco

Want to consult with a child and adolescent psychologist, but not looking for therapy? I provide parent consultation as a stand-alone service, apart from therapy. It can be as short or as long as you need. Parenting consultation can be a way to get help for specific concerns like how to communicate with your child about a separation, divorce or other family change in a healthy way.

Let's Get Started

It's important that you find a therapist who's the right fit for your child. I'm glad to answer any questions you have about my practice, therapy or how to find help. Contact me to set up an introductory phone call.