Therapy for teenage depression in Pasadena and Northeast LA
If you’re noticing your teen withdrawing, feeling hopeless, or just “not like themselves,” you’re not alone and neither are they. Teenage depression can affect even the most resilient, high-achieving kids, and it often shows up in ways adults might not expect. Whether it’s irritability, low energy, or simply a loss of interest in things they used to love, these signs matter.
In case you’re new here, I’m Cristina Lugo, a trauma-informed therapist based in Pasadena. I specialize in therapy for young adults and teens , helping them navigate depression, anxiety, and identity with warmth, cultural awareness, and evidence-based care. Let’s explore what depression in teens looks like, how therapy can help, and what your next steps might be.
What is therapy for teenage depression?
Therapy for teenage depression provides a compassionate space where teens can explore their feelings, understand the root of their emotional pain, and learn strategies to feel more in control. In my practice, I work closely with teens to gently unpack what’s been weighing them down, whether it’s school pressure, family dynamics, identity questions, or social isolation.
Using a trauma-informed and culturally responsive lens, I integrate talk therapy, creative methods, mindfulness, and somatic awareness to meet teens exactly where they are. This isn’t about fixing them- it’s about walking alongside them as they begin to reconnect with their voice, their body, and their sense of self.
Most common symptoms of teenage depression
- Persistent sadness or tearfulness
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities
- Fatigue or low energy, even after resting
- Irritability or anger outbursts
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Difficulty concentrating or finishing tasks
- Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
- Talking or thinking about death or self-harm
How do I know if my teen is depressed?
Depression in teens can be hard to spot, sometimes it doesn’t look like sadness at all. Here are a few questions to consider:
- Has my teen stopped doing things they used to enjoy? This may signal a loss of interest or pleasure, a common symptom of depression.
- Are they more isolated or spending a lot of time in their room? Withdrawal is often how teens try to cope with overwhelming emotions.
- Do they seem unusually tired, irritable, or disengaged? Depression can drain energy and make even simple things feel exhausting.
- Are they struggling in school, even if they used to do well? Changes in performance or focus can be emotional, not just academic.
- Do they express feeling hopeless, stuck, or making suicidal comments? These are serious red flags that deserve immediate attention.
If you’ve noticed more than one of these signs, it’s worth reaching out for support. Therapy can help teens put words to what they’re going through and find healthier ways to cope.
How I treat teenage depression in Pasadena
In therapy with teens, I use a relationship-centered, flexible approach that allows them to express themselves authentically- no forced eye contact or awkward small talk required. My tools include:
- EMDR to gently process painful memories and emotional wounds
- Creative and expressive therapies like journaling, drawing, or storytelling
- Mindfulness and somatic tools to help regulate emotions and feel safe in the body
- Support with identity exploration, school stress, and social dynamics
Each session is shaped by the teen’s pace, voice, and needs. My role is to offer stability and care while they discover their own inner strength.
What topics can we talk about in therapy for teenage depression?
- Processing grief, breakups, or big life changes
- Managing academic pressure or future anxiety
- Navigating identity, culture, and gender
- Building emotional literacy and self-compassion
- Reconnecting with joy, rest, and creativity
- Developing routines and habits that support healing
Ready to get started?
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Our first session together is called the intake session
It’s a little longer than our regular 50 minute sessions so we have more time to get to know each other and talk about what brings you to therapy. I will ask you questions about your life, school, work, friends, history and more. There’s no pressure to share any of the really hard stuff on the first day, I just want to get an initial picture of who you are and what you are needing support with. If you’re a minor, I usually have one parent join us for the first 10 or 15 minutes of the intake so we can all talk together about how I will work to help you and introduce myself to your parent too. Then I will meet one on one with you for the rest of the time and for future sessions as well.
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Together we’ll create a personalized treatment plan with your therapy goals.
The plan will include goals and tools such as EMDR, art, talk therapy or mindfulness. These goals are completely up to you and can be changed at any time. We will both keep your goals in mind as we meet together so we can stay on track.
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Week by week, we’ll work through what’s been holding you back
So you can feel calmer, more confident, and more like you. Whether it’s navigating friendships, family, anxiety, or big emotions, you’ll build real skills to handle it all.
Teenage depression therapy specialist in Pasadena, CA
I’m Cristina Lugo, LCSW and a trauma-informed therapist supporting teens and young adults in Pasadena, California. I specialize in helping teenagers navigate depression, anxiety, identity, and life transitions through culturally grounded care. If your teen is struggling, you don’t have to carry this alone. Let’s help them feel seen, supported, and empowered.
Tips & resources for coping with teenage depression
- Encourage daily movement, even light walks or stretching
- Make space for creative expression (drawing, writing, music)
- Limit screen time and increase real-life connection when possible
- Help teens build routines that prioritize sleep and nourishment
- Listen without judgment—sometimes presence is more powerful than advice
Hi there, I'm Cristina Lugo, LCSW
Trauma-informed therapist for teens & young adults
I help sensitive, curious, and creative young people navigate anxiety, identity, and life transitions with compassion and evidence-based care. My work is grounded in cultural awareness, empowerment, and deep belief in the human capacity to heal.
Download my free guide
Book your first session
❋ Rates: $215 per 50 minute in person or virtual session
❋ $250 per 60 minute intake session
❋ $140 for 30 minute parent consultation (virtual, phone or in person)
❋ Superbills are available for PPO reimbursement
FAQ
What are therapy activities for teens with depression?
Activities often include journaling, drawing, guided mindfulness exercises, and story-based reflection. These methods help teens connect with their emotions in a way that feels safe and accessible. We might also explore music, movement, or creative prompts—whatever supports their unique way of expressing themselves.
How can I help a teen who is depressed?
Start by listening without jumping in to fix things. Let them know they’re not a burden and that you’re here to support them. Encourage professional help, and if you’re unsure where to begin, reach out together. Small gestures- checking in, sitting beside them, offering stability can make a huge difference.
What is the best form of therapy for a teen with depression?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but integrative approaches that combine talk therapy, creative expression, and somatic practices are often most effective. In my work, EMDR and mindfulness help address deeper roots of distress, while narrative therapy and relational support offer a path toward hope and healing.
What triggers depression in teenagers?
Triggers can include academic stress, bullying, identity struggles, family conflict, trauma, or social comparison (especially through social media). Even unprocessed grief or sudden change can contribute. Therapy helps uncover these roots and gently address them in a safe space.
Does teenage depression go away?
Yes- with the right support, teens can and do recover from depression. Healing doesn’t always happen overnight, but with consistent care, emotional tools, and community, it’s absolutely possible to feel better. Therapy helps teens not only manage symptoms but also build resilience that lasts into adulthood.
Do you take insurance?
I am considered an out-of-network provider and do not bill your insurance. However, if you have a PPO plan, you may be able to get partial reimbursement of your therapy costs which is a great way to make therapy more affordable to you. I can provide you with superbills each month which you can then submit online to your insurance company and they would issue you a reimbursement check directly. Check with your plan to determine the percentage reimbursement you qualify for.
What is your cancellation policy?
I require 24 hours notice in order to cancel an appointment without charge. If something comes up for you, I can offer you reschedule options within the same week. If we are unable to reschedule then I will still need to charge the cancellation fee which is the full fee for our time.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical and mental health care will cost.
Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the expected charges for medical services, including psychotherapy services.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, including psychotherapy services.
You can ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule a service.
If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.
For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate,
visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call (800) 985-3059.
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