Therapy for teens

Online & In-person in Temecula Ages 12-18

The teenage years can be tough: for them and for you.

Check out our 10 week teen emotional regulation program

Becoming a teenager means navigating the tricky balance between independence and growing responsibilities. It’s a time filled with emotional, social, and physical changes that can feel overwhelming for both teens and parents. While some moodiness and independence are normal, sometimes the challenges become too much to handle alone.

Maybe you’re noticing your teen:

  • Spending too much time on social media or video games

  • Engaging in substance use, cutting, or other destructive actions

  • Sudden outbursts of anger, frustration, or frequent mood changes

  • Sleeping too much or too little, often staying up late and having trouble waking up in the morning

  • A noticeable drop in grades, lack of motivation for schoolwork, or skipping classes

  • Avoiding friends, family gatherings, or activities they once enjoyed

Therapy offers a safe space for teens to understand their emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and thrive during these challenging years

our approach to working with teens

We understand that the teenage years come with unique challenges. Our therapists create a safe, non-judgmental space where teens can express their emotions openly and honestly.

We use evidence-based approaches, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques, to help teens develop healthy coping strategies.

Our goal is to empower teens to build resilience, improve communication, and navigate this transitional stage with confidence. We also collaborate with parents to ensure the support extends beyond the therapy room, fostering growth and understanding at home.

What we’ll work on

Therapy can help your teen:

  • Manage intense emotions like anger, anxiety, and sadness.

  • Learn healthy strategies to deal with difficult life events

  • Improve communication with parents and peers

  • Boost their confidence and self-worth

  • Think critically and find solutions to their challenges

We’re here to support your teen as they grow into new phases of life.

Meet Our Team

  • Elliott Alcala, LCSW 74235

    Chief Clinical Officer & Clinical Supervisor

    Elliott is the Chief Clinical Officer and Clinical Supervisor at Generational Wellness, specializing in trauma, addiction, and EMDR. With a deep commitment to mentoring early-career therapists.

  • Brandi Kulikov, MA, PhD, LMFT 134149

    Clinical Supervisor

    Brandi is a Clinical Supervisor at Generational Wellness with over a decade of experience in child and family therapy, perinatal mental health, and trauma-informed care.

  • Carolina Schubert, AMFT 154106, APCC 19041

    Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

    Supervised by Brandi Kulikov-Ramirez LMFT 134149

    Carolina specializing in helping teens, couples, and families heal from trauma, emotional dysregulation, and relationship challenges.

  • Nicole Johnson, ACSW 120658

    Associate Social Worker

    Supervised by Brandi Kulikov-Ramirez LMFT 134149

    Nicole specializes in helping children, teens, and families navigate anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges. With a client-centered approach using CBT, DBT, and Acceptance Therapy.

  • Mark Weinfurter, ACSW 124487

    Associate Clinical Social Worker

    Supervised by Elliott Alcala LCSW 74235

    Mark is a therapist who helps individuals navigate grief, recovery, and life transitions with compassion and evidence-based care.

  • Jani Dix, MSW

    Associate Social Worker (Pending Registration Number)

    Supervised by Elliott Alcala, LCSW74235

    Jani specializes in supporting children, teens, and families facing anxiety, trauma, and relationship challenges. With a trauma-informed and client-centered approach.

  • Allie Chapman, MSW

    Associate Social Worker (Pending Registration Number)

    Supervised by Brandi Kulikov-Ramirez LMFT 13149

    Allie is a trauma-informed therapist who supports adolescents, families, and individuals by combining ACT, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness to build resilience and lasting change.

  • Lex Stopsen, PCC Intern

    Professional Clinical Counselor Student

    Supervised by Elliott Alcala, LCSW74325

    Lex specializes in supporting teen girls and women navigating the emotional challenges of adolescence, motherhood, and postpartum life, offering compassionate & empowering care.

FAQS

Common questions about therapy for teens

  • While therapy is a space for your teen to express themselves freely, parent involvement may be necessary at times. The therapist will advise you when it's helpful to engage in sessions or discussions to support your teen’s progress.

  • Therapy equips teens with tools to manage school-related stress, handle peer pressure, and build self-confidence. It helps them develop healthier ways to cope with challenges and feel more empowered.

  • In the first session, the therapist will focus on building rapport with your teen, asking about their life, challenges, and goals. It’s an opportunity for your teen to feel comfortable, and for the therapist to assess how best to support them.