Child Mental Health Therapists in Santa Monica, California

Children can be affected by many of the same mental health challenges as adults, such as anxiety or depression. These problems can be difficult to identify in children, who may not have the communication skills to express how they are feeling. However, the diagnosis of other mental health conditions are unique to childhood, such as oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder. Symptoms of neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), are also often diagnosed in childhood, as they are commonly first noticed during this time. Early identification and treatment of mental health and neurodevelopment conditions can make a huge difference to the wellbeing of these individuals throughout their lives.

Many types of therapy can help improve the wellbeing of children, but treatment is best provided by a clinician who specializes in working with children and young people. Some types of therapy involve the child alone, such as talk therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or play therapies, such as sand tray therapy. Other therapeutic approaches might focus on working with parents or the whole family. Regardless, most therapy types require that parents incorporate learnings from therapy sessions into the home environment, where children spend the most time.

Find therapists in Santa Monica who specialize in child mental health below. Therapists have been vetted by the Zencare team for clinically rigorous, quality care. Visit their profiles to watch an introductory video and book a free initial call to find a good fit!