Therapy for Teenagers in Marin County
Adolescence is hard. Anxiety, OCD, social pressure, and academic stress can make it feel impossible. Reframe CBT offers evidence-based CBT and ERP therapy designed specifically for teenagers — practical, respectful, and built around how teens actually think.
Adolescence Is a Unique Stage — Therapy Should Reflect That
Teenagers are not simply older children or younger adults. They are navigating a distinct developmental stage — forming identity, negotiating independence, managing intense social dynamics, and facing academic pressure — all while their brains are still maturing.
Anxiety and OCD in teenagers often look different than in adults. Teen OCD may center on social fears, academic perfectionism, or existential doubts. Teen anxiety frequently involves social evaluation, peer rejection, and performance pressure in ways that require a therapist who understands adolescent life.
At Reframe CBT, we treat teenagers as active participants in their own care — not passive recipients of adult therapy. We build genuine rapport, respect teen autonomy, and use CBT and ERP techniques adapted to how adolescents actually think and communicate.
Teen Mental Health — Key Facts
teens experiences an anxiety disorder before age 18
of lifetime mental health conditions begin by age 14
of adults with anxiety disorders had symptoms in adolescence
of teens are affected by OCD — many go undiagnosed
Early intervention in adolescence is one of the most powerful investments a family can make. The skills teens build in CBT often last a lifetime.
Teen Concerns We Specialize In
From social anxiety to OCD to BFRBs, our therapists are trained to treat the full range of adolescent mental health concerns using evidence-based approaches.
Anxiety & Social Anxiety
Intense worry about social situations, judgment from peers, academic performance, or the future. May include avoidance of school, social events, or activities teens once enjoyed.
OCD in Teenagers
Intrusive thoughts, rituals, or compulsive behaviors that interfere with schoolwork, friendships, or daily life. Teen OCD often looks different from adult OCD and is frequently missed.
Phobias & Specific Fears
Intense, persistent fears that cause avoidance and significant distress — from fear of vomiting or illness to social phobia, driving anxiety, or fear of flying.
Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors
Hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting, or other BFRBs that teens feel unable to stop. BFRBs often intensify during adolescence due to academic and social stress.
Social & Peer Challenges
Difficulty navigating friendships, fear of rejection, social withdrawal, or struggles with identity and belonging. CBT helps teens build confidence and social skills.
Academic & Performance Anxiety
Test anxiety, perfectionism, fear of failure, or procrastination that interferes with school performance and well-being. Common in high-achieving teens facing college pressure.
What Teen Therapy at Reframe CBT Looks Like
Initial Consultation
We start with a free 20-minute phone call — often with a parent first, then with the teen — to understand what's going on, answer questions, and determine if CBT is the right fit.
Collaborative Assessment
The first sessions focus on building rapport and understanding the teen's specific concerns, triggers, and goals. We never rush into treatment before the relationship is established.
Evidence-Based CBT & ERP
Using techniques adapted for adolescents, we help teens understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors — and build practical skills to face fears and break unhelpful patterns.
Parent Involvement (Age-Appropriate)
Parents are kept informed and coached on how to support their teen at home. The level of parent involvement is calibrated to the teen's age and preference — we respect teen autonomy.
Teen Therapy in Marin County
Adolescent CBT Specialists
Our therapists are trained in CBT and ERP adapted for adolescents — not just adult techniques applied to younger clients. We understand how teen anxiety, OCD, and BFRBs present differently at this life stage.
Teen-Centered Approach
We build genuine rapport before diving into treatment. Teens are treated as capable, intelligent people — not talked down to. Autonomy and confidentiality are respected throughout.
Thoughtful Parent Involvement
We involve parents in a way that supports the teen's progress without undermining their trust. Parent coaching is part of the process — calibrated to the teen's age and the family's needs.
Co-occurring Concerns Welcome
Many teens present with overlapping concerns — anxiety and OCD, social anxiety and BFRBs, or phobias and academic avoidance. Our dual expertise allows for integrated, coordinated treatment.
Julie H., LMFT
Nicole S., Registered AMFT
Reframe CBT · San Rafael, CA
Teen Therapy Questions Answered
Have more questions about teen therapy in Marin County? Reach out — we're happy to talk through whether Reframe CBT is the right fit.
Your Teen Doesn't Have to White-Knuckle Through This
Reframe CBT offers a free 20-minute consultation to discuss your teen's concerns and answer questions about CBT and ERP treatment. In-person in San Rafael, Marin County, or telehealth anywhere in California.
Serving San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, Tiburon, Sausalito, Fairfax, Corte Madera & all of Marin County.
Telehealth available throughout California.