San Diego Inpatient Teen & Adolescent Depression Treatment
Compassionate Care for Teens with Depression
Key Healthcare is one of the best teenage depression treatment centers in California. We support teens in San Diego struggling with depression and other mental health challenges. We believe every teen is unique, which is why we offer a range of care levels to treat their specific condition. Our care is personalized, not generic, so your teen gets what helps in treating their unique challenges.Â
Our expert team includes psychiatrists, doctors, therapists, clinical social workers, and psychologists. All of us work together to understand the root of your teen’s depression and guide them toward healing, using evidence-based therapies. Plus, when your teen transitions out of our care, we design an aftercare plan with local resources to support their smooth transition.
Up to 100% of the Costs Covered by Insurance
We accept most major insurance plans at Key Healthcare, making it easier for your teen to receive the help they need for depression.
Insurances We Accept
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Knowledge and Expertise is Key
Our Accreditations and Affiliations
Knowledge and expertise are key to the success of our adolescent depression treatment program. This is why we seek and renew various accreditations, affiliations and certifications related to our offerings. Our hope is that patients and families can trust the care we provide.
Teen Depression Treatment for San Diego, California
What to Expect During Our San Diego Teen Depression Treatment Program
As a parent, knowing what to expect during a teen depression treatment program can help ease your apprehension and make it easier to support your teen through the same feelings. But how?
- It all starts with us providing you with clear details about the program, treatment philosophies, and admission process.
- After the initial orientation, we move toward the assessment and pre-admission stage.
- Here, we thoroughly evaluate your teen’s medical history and cultural background. We also conduct psychological tests to understand their mental health and behavior.
- As a parent, you are a key part of this process, sharing insights about your teen’s struggles.
- The results of this assessment will help us create the best treatment plan for your teen.
- Once your teen is accepted, the admission process begins. Here, we will guide you through all the steps, including paperwork, finances, and logistics.
- Our San Diego teen depression treatment program will be tailored to meet your teen’s specific needs, addressing the particular condition they are being treated for.
However, during their stay with us, here’s a list of common therapies your teen will participate in.
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
Teens will have an individual therapy session with a skilled counselor every week. During these individual therapy sessions, they'll be able to analyze their emotions, gain insight into their thoughts and behaviors, and how they can break their negative thinking pattern.
GROUP THERAPY
Group therapy is a core component of our treatment program. During these group therapy sessions, teens can share their experiences and learn from their peers in a safe and supportive environment.
HOLISTIC AND RECREATION THERAPIES
We don't just rely on conventional treatment. We take it a step further by offering a mix of holistic and experiential therapies such as yoga, art therapy, surf therapy, hiking, music therapy, and equine-assisted therapy. These activities are specially designed to help teens manage their stress, find a sense of self, build confidence, and uncover new passions.
NUTRITION AND EXERCISE
We integrate the essentials of nutrition and physical activity into each day. With daily access to 3 nutritional meals, healthy snacks, and exercise resources, we ensure every aspect of a teen's health is nurtured. It's about empowering them to take steps toward lasting wellness.
FAMILY CENTERED TREATMENT
The entire family plays a crucial role in our teen depression treatment program. Our experienced therapists help families address communication issues between their teens, build healthy boundaries, and learn new ways to cope. These steps are crucial in supporting their teen's long-term recovery.
FDA APPROVED DRUGS
Anti-depressants are proven effective for treating clinical depression. If a teen is going through the early depression stage, they are recommended for FDA-approved drug treatments. But the teen needs to be closely monitored throughout treatment about their behavioural changes and occurrence of suicidal thoughts in the early weeks of treatment.
Teen Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Our Depression Program for San Diego Teenagers
At Key Healthcare we provide multiple treatment programs for teens to help them live a successful life. During our treatment programs you can expect your child to attend individual and group therapy sessions, participate in family counseling, receive academic support, and participate in social activities. Throughout their program your teen will learn to understand the causes behind their mental health problems, and develop the coping skills to effectively manage them.
Intensive Outpatient
Our adolescent intensive outpatient program (IOP) is for teens who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy, but do not require the intensive level of care provided by PHP. This program provides structure and support that helps teens build healthy habits and become independent in their recovery.
Partial Hospitalization
Our adolescent partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a step-down from residential treatment that helps teens transition back into the community. This program provides intensive therapy services as well as academic support and social activities to help teens reintegrate into their home and school environments.
Residential Treatment
Our teen residential treatment program takes place over 45-60 days. This dual diagnosis program helps teen overcome their addiction and mental health issues through the use of evidence-based therapies. Our compassionate care allows teens to focus on their recovery in a safe and supportive environment fit for positive change.
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Additional Teen Resources in San Diego, CA
San Diego Teen Therapists & Counselors
Every session with our therapists is a step toward real growth for your teen. They learn new strategies to handle emotions, shift their mindset, and manage depression effectively. This boosts confidence, improves relationships, and builds stronger coping skills over time.
While various therapy methods can be helpful for teens in depression, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy have shown strong results in our experience. And we don’t stop at in-program care. To help teens and their parents further, we have listed local therapists & counselors holding LCSWs & LMFTs credentials in San Diego for ongoing support after completing our program.
San Diego Teen Therapist/Counselor | License & Verification | Address |
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WUTZKE, TRACY M. | License Number: 17239 | 9888 Carroll Centre Rd Ste 216 SAN DIEGO CA 92126-4515 SAN DIEGO county |
PINN, MELISSA AMY | License Number: 46333 | 5252 Balboa Ave #304 SAN DIEGO CA 92117-6906 SAN DIEGO county |
STROUT, ELIZABETH CATHERINE | License Number: 71693 | 11230 Sorrento Valley Rd Suite 220 SAN DIEGO CA 92121-1332 SAN DIEGO county |
Note: We aren’t affiliated with these therapists. But all of them are licensed by the California Board of Psychology and California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS), ensuring your teen gets top-notch medical care close to home.
We’re Here for San Diego Families
Resources and Support San Diego, CA
Emergency Response/Hotlines Information for San Diego Adolescents
In moments of crisis, having immediate access to the right hotlines can make a difference in your teen’s mental health issues. At Key Healthcare, we specialize in providing depression treatment for teens. But we also believe that parents should be prepared for every stage of their teen’s mental health journey.
That’s why we’ve compiled this list of emergency hotlines and services in San Diego so that families and parents can have the resources to respond swiftly and effectively. But before you move forward, here are some guidelines on what to do if your teen expresses suicidal thoughts:
- In times like these, every second counts. Don’t hesitate to call 911 if you suspect the symptoms of their mental health disorders are getting worse. Once you call, the police dispatcher answers your call and will transfer your call to the Fire Department or Paramedics, if required.
- Your quick action could be the difference between your teen’s life and death.
The San Diego Access & Crisis Line (ACL) is a free and confidential resource offering 24/7 support for teens in crisis. It provides expert assistance for crisis intervention and suicide prevention.
- Phone Support: Call 1-888-724-7240 (available 24/7).
- Live Chat: Accessible Monday to Friday, 4 PM to 10 PM.
- Languages: Support is available in over 200 languages for broad accessibility.
- Website:https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/
- The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a simple, 3-digit number providing immediate support for teens experiencing mental health crises.Â
- This free and confidential service offers quick, professional guidance when it’s needed most.
- Phone Support: Call or text 988 for 24/7 assistance.
- Website:https://988lifeline.org/
- Teen Line is a safe, anonymous, and confidential place for teens to get help for their mental health struggles. Teens can access personal peer-to-peer support from highly trained teens.
- These peer supporters are specially trained and always supervised by adult mental health experts.
- CALL 800-852-8336 Nationwide (6 PM - 10 PM PST) Or TEXT TEEN to 839863 (6 PM - 9 PM PST)
- Website:https://www.teenline.org/
- For over 34 years, the California Youth Crisis Line has been a trusted support system for teens throughout California, including San Diego.
- They provide assistance in multiple languages and offer a safe, compassionate space to address concerns like suicide, depression, bullying, trauma, identity struggles, and health challenges. And the best part is they are focused on listening with empathy rather than giving advice.
- Phone Support: 1-800-843-5200.
- Website:https://calyouth.org/cycl/
Support Groups for San Diego Adolescents
After completing our teen depression care program, support groups in San Diego offer teens a valuable opportunity to put into practice the coping strategies they’ve learned with us. These groups often include workshops that help boost confidence and encourage healthy ways to manage their depression. They also provide a safe, understanding space where teens can connect with others facing similar issues. Sharing experiences in this setting fosters trust, reduces feelings of isolation, and promotes a sense of belonging.
To make the next steps easier, we’ve put together a list of support groups in San Diego to help your teen find the local support they need.
- UPAC supports youth aged 5 to 20 who are facing difficulties at school, at home, or in the community. These challenges often take a toll on their mental well-being.
- That's why, as a team, they work with both youth and their caregivers. The aim is to focus on recognizing each teen's unique strengths while addressing the specific needs of the individual and their family.
- Website:https://www.upacsd.com/programs/cmh/
- Many are unaware of how often children experience grief. In California, 1 in 17 children will lose a parent or sibling before turning 18. Without the right support (grief support group), these children are at a greater risk of facing issues like problems in school, substance abuse, depression, and anxiety disorders.
- That’s why the Children’s Bereavement Program is the only one of its kind in San Diego County. Their services are free and available to all grieving children.
- Website:https://elizabethhospice.org/grief-support/children/
- NAMI San Diego offers support groups for teens who are dealing with significant mental illnesses. The groups are led by trained specialists who have faced similar challenges and understand what your teen is going through.
- Website:https://namisandiego.org/services/support-groups/
Youth Development Programs for San Diego Adolescents
Supporting San Diego teens through the challenges of depression takes more than just care; it requires a thoughtful, holistic approach. That’s why we walk alongside them throughout their journey. But how do we do this? By helping them understand their emotions, manage negative thought patterns, and develop healthy coping strategies, we provide teens with the means they need to overcome depression. Â
To help maintain progress beyond our program, we’ve compiled a list of youth programs in San Diego. These programs give teens opportunities to put their new skills into action, whether it’s making healthier decisions or exploring career interests, ensuring that what they’ve learned in our depression program becomes a lasting part of their everyday lives.
Say San Diego
- SAY San Diego recognizes that no single issue defines a child or family. Instead, their programs and partnerships address the broader needs of individuals and communities.
- By working with schools, local organizations, and government agencies, SAY helps drive positive change across San Diego. Their whole-person approach uplifts families, enriches youth, and unites communities for a stronger, healthier future.
- Website:https://www.saysandiego.org/view-by-program/youth-development/
Youth and Young Adult Development YMCA
- Youth and Family Services in San Diego is here to make a real difference in the lives of youth. Why? Because they say the future of our community depends on them. They focus on making sure each teen has what they need to succeed.
- Whether it’s workforce development to build careers, learning relational skills for better connections, internships for practical experience, or leadership programs to guide their path forward, they ensure youth are ready for what’s next.
- Website:https://www.ymcasd.org/community-support/ymca-youth-and-family-services/youth-and-young-adult-development
Star Pal United for Youth
- The purpose of Star Pal youth programs in San Diego is to prevent adolescents from making poor choices in the community that can lead to incarceration and provide mentoring to build self-confidence and personal awareness.
- Furthermore, if you want to learn more about the details of these programs? Head over to their youth programs section for all the details.
- Website:https://www.starpal.org/
Youth Entrepreneurship Employment Program (YEEP)
- You know what? YEEP in San Diego has an innovative approach for teens when it comes to entrepreneurship training and teaching leadership skills. To know more, visit their website.
- Website:https://www.harmoniumsd.org/youth-development-programs
Government Initiatives for San Diego Adolescents
Legler Benbough Teen IDEA Lab
- IDEA offers advanced technology and training programs for teens ages 12 to 18. IDEA stands for Innovation and Digital Expression Activity.
- It’s more than just a lab; it’s a starting point where teens can learn the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow.
- It’s a place where they can grow, explore, and prepare for a bright future in this 21st-century digital world.
- Website:https://www.sandiego.gov/public-library/idea/mx
Recreation, Reading Programs, and Community Centers for Teens In San Diego, CA
San Diego is a great place for teens who are going through depression. It has 63 parks, recreation centers, and programs where teens can swim, play sports, hang out at community centers, and try fun activities. These places provide friendly spaces and give teens a chance to relax, meet others, and feel supported.
Here, your teens can try new things, challenge themselves, and enjoy moments that make them feel proud and happy. These activities help boost their mood and give them healthy coping methods for depression.
The San Diego Public Library also helps in a meaningful way. It’s not just about books; it’s a place where teens can hear inspiring stories about people who’ve faced depression and made it through. It builds a sense of community, where teens feel less alone and more supported by others who understand what they’re going through.
High School Counseling Resources for San Diego Adolescents
High school counselors do a lot more than help teens pick classes or plan for college. They’re also trained to understand how teens feel and can often spot early signs of depression or other mental health issues.
These counselors spend time with your teen and help keep everyone in the loop, parents, teachers, and sometimes even friends, so your teen feels supported from all sides. Their help is important before, during, and even after our depression treatment program.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of San Diego high schools along with their counselor information. Stay in touch with them, they can share updates about your teen’s school life, therapy progress, and other helpful means to not only help your teen overcome depression but also keep them up with their studies.
Note: The schools mentioned are solely for informational purposes. Key Healthcare is not affiliated with them. In curating the list of schools, we have considered test scores, equity, feedback from parents, and the school curricula factors.
School | Counseling Details |
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Clairemont High School | Counseling Information |
Crawford High School | Counseling Information |
Canyon Hills High School | Counseling Information |
Note: The schools mentioned are solely for informational purposes. Key Healthcare is not affiliated with them. In curating the list of schools, we have considered test scores, equity, feedback from parents, and the school curricula factors.
Find Your Teenager's Fitness Flow in San Diego, CA
One of the most helpful therapies in our program is surf therapy. We use surfing because the ocean has a calming effect, and being out on the water helps teens feel more focused and full of energy. It’s not just about having fun, surfing teaches teens how to handle stress, lower anxiety, and deal with depression in a healthy way.
Surf therapy also builds confidence, helps teens bounce back from tough times, and encourages them to keep trying. And the benefits don’t end after one session. It’s important for teens to keep going, whether that’s more surf therapy or other physical activities like dance, yoga, or going to the gym.
Staying active helps teens manage their emotions, feel more balanced, and continue the progress they made in our depression treatment program. That’s why we’ve made a list of teen-friendly fitness spots in San Diego, to help them stay strong, both inside and out.
Note: (All of these centers are paid).
Fitness Spot | Official Website |
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North Park Fitness | https://northparkfitness.com/ |
Church ATA Martial Arts | https://churchsmartialarts.com/ |
UTC Super-Sport Gym | https://www.24hourfitness.com/gyms/san-diego-ca/utc-super-sport |
Culture Shock San Diego | https://cultureshocksandiego.org/ |
Note: (All of these centers are paid).
MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT
Our programs help treat a variety of adolescent mental health conditions.
AVAILABLE THERAPIES
We utilize various evidence-based therapies to treat your teen’s condition.
VERIFY YOUR INSURANCE
We accept most private health insurance plans.
FAQs about Teen Depression Treatment:
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Which age group experiences the highest rate of depression?
- According to the studies and revealed data, adolescents aged between 12-17 years have the highest rate of depression, i.e., 14.4%, followed by young adults aged between 18-25 years with 13.8%.
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My child’s school mentor asked me to get some advice for Teen Depression Treatment for my son. Can you please suggest to me the best center or program for teens in San Diego?
- If your child is experiencing some early signs of depression, then Key Healthcare's Teen Depression Treatment program for San Diego teens will help improve their situation through different levels of care and proven therapies.
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Is it necessary to go for antidepressants during depression treatment?
- Teen Depression is a severe medical condition that requires urgent clinical attention. A combination of medication and therapies can dramatically help a teenager improve their life within the least possible time, saving the adult years of your teen’s precious life.
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Can a teen recover from depression without getting teen depression treatment?
- Once a teen experiences depression, there's a good chance they might face it again in the future. If not addressed early, untreated depression can lead to severe consequences. And in some cases, it can be fatal. That's why treating depression is crucial for preventing these dangerous outcomes.
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What can happen if major depression in teens is left untreated?
- If major depression is left untreated, it persists for weeks, months, or even years. It affects not just a teen's emotions but also their behavior, physical health, and relationships. This problem can worsen when a teen is also dealing with other mental health challenges, such as conduct disorder or substance use disorder. Boys in their teen years are especially vulnerable to these risks.
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How can I help prevent major depressive disorder (MDD) in my teen?
- As a parent, you may not be able to prevent major depressive disorder (MDD) in your teen. But there are steps you can take, as suggested by our therapists, to reduce the symptoms. Begin by creating a safe and supportive environment at home. Know what are the risk factors of MDD. Spot them early. Help your teen develop healthy habits, including stress management, self-care, regular exercise, and a good sleep schedule. Encourage open and honest conversations, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if the symptoms persist or worsen.
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OUR TEEN TREATMENT CENTERS
Our Locations
Key Healthcare Adolescent Outpatient Program
- (800) 421-4364
- 2233 Corinth Ave Los Angeles, CA 90064
- Key Outpatient Certification #190047 (Expiration 5/31/2024)
Key Healthcare Corporate Office
- (800) 421-4364
- 10990 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024
Key Healthcare Adolescent Extended Care
- 3396 Manning Court Los Angeles 90064
- Key Housing Number: 198209664 (Effective Date 9/13/2019)
Key Healthcare Adolescent Residential Treatment Center
- 6270 Zumirez Dr Malibu, CA 90265
- Key Treatment 1, LLC Facility Number: 198209773 (Effective Date 3/12/2023)