Depression Therapy for Children, Teens & Young Adults in Sarasota
Compassionate, evidence-based depression therapy in Sarasota, FL. Christine Murawski, M.A., LMHC helps children, teens, and young adults overcome depression and rediscover hope.
Understanding Depression in Children, Teens & Young Adults
Depression affects people of all ages, including children, teenagers, and young adults. At Therapy SRQ in Sarasota and Venice, FL, Christine Murawski, M.A., LMHC provides compassionate, evidence-based depression therapy tailored to the unique needs of young people. Furthermore, whether your child is experiencing persistent sadness, withdrawal from activities, or changes in sleep and appetite, professional therapy can help them find their way back to feeling like themselves.
Recognizing Depression in Young People
In fact, depression in children and teens often looks different than in adults. Warning signs to watch for include:
- Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or irritability
- Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
- Changes in sleep patterns — sleeping too much or too little
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty concentrating or declining academic performance
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Fatigue or low energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Physical complaints such as headaches or stomachaches
Therefore, if your child or teen is exhibiting several of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it may be time to seek professional help. In fact, early intervention leads to better outcomes.
Evidence-Based Depression Treatment in Sarasota
At Therapy SRQ, we use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), the gold standard for treating depression in young people. Specifically, CBT helps children and teens identify negative thought patterns, challenge distorted thinking, and develop healthier coping strategies. Additionally, for younger children, we incorporate Play Therapy techniques to help them express and process their emotions in developmentally appropriate ways.
Additionally, we work closely with parents and families to build a supportive home environment that reinforces therapeutic progress. Therefore, our approach addresses the whole child — emotional, social, and behavioral — to promote lasting recovery.
Depressive Disorders We Treat — ICD-10 Codes
Specifically, our therapy practice in Sarasota and Venice treats a range of depressive conditions in children, teens, and young adults. The following ICD-10 diagnostic codes represent conditions commonly addressed in our depression therapy program:
- F32.0 — Major Depressive Disorder, Single Episode, Mild: Depressive symptoms that impact daily functioning but allow the individual to maintain some normal activities
- F32.1 — Major Depressive Disorder, Single Episode, Moderate: More significant depressive symptoms affecting school, social life, and family relationships
- F32.9 — Major Depressive Disorder, Single Episode, Unspecified: Depressive episode meeting criteria but severity not yet determined
- F33.0 — Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, Mild: Return of depressive episodes after a period of recovery
- F34.1 — Dysthymic Disorder (Persistent Depressive Disorder): Chronic low mood lasting two or more years in adults, or one year in children and adolescents
- F32.A — Depression, Unspecified: Depressive symptoms warranting clinical attention, commonly used for adolescent presentations
- F43.21 — Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood: Depressive symptoms developing in response to a significant life stressor
Getting the Right Depression Diagnosis for Your Child
In fact, accurate diagnosis guides effective treatment. Our licensed therapist conducts a thorough clinical assessment to determine the most appropriate therapeutic approach for your child or teen’s specific needs.
How common is depression in children and teens?
Depression is more common in young people than many parents realize. The CDC reports that approximately 4.4% of children aged 3-17 have been diagnosed with depression. The rate increases significantly during adolescence, with the NIMH noting that an estimated 20% of teens experience depression before reaching adulthood. Early identification and treatment at our Sarasota or Venice office can significantly improve outcomes.
What does depression therapy look like for a child or teen?
Depression therapy at Therapy SRQ is tailored to your child’s age and developmental stage. For younger children, we may use Play Therapy and creative activities to help them express emotions. Teens typically engage in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which the American Psychological Association recognizes as a highly effective treatment for depression. Sessions are designed to be supportive, engaging, and empowering — not intimidating.
How long does depression therapy typically take?
The duration of therapy depends on the severity of depression and your child’s individual response to treatment. Many young people show improvement within 12 to 16 sessions of CBT. The Child Mind Institute emphasizes that consistent attendance and practice of skills between sessions contribute to better outcomes. Our therapist will regularly assess progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Can depression in children be treated without medication?
Yes, therapy alone is often effective for mild to moderate depression in children and teens. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) recommends CBT as a first-line treatment. For more severe cases, a combination of therapy and medication may be recommended. Our therapist can help you understand the options and connect you with a prescriber if medication is appropriate for your child’s situation.
Help Your Child Overcome Depression
Depression does not have to define your child’s life. Therapy SRQ serves families in Sarasota, Venice, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, North Port, and Osprey.
Depression Therapy Near You in Sarasota County
Therapy SRQ provides depression therapy for children, teens, and young adults throughout the Suncoast region. Our offices in Sarasota and Venice, FL serve families from Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, North Port, Osprey, Nokomis, Siesta Key, and surrounding Sarasota and Manatee County communities.