Depression Therapy for Children & Teens in Venice, FL
Compassionate, evidence-based depression treatment for young people at our Venice, Florida office.
Therapy SRQ provides specialized depression therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults at our Venice, Florida office. Christine Murawski, M.A., LMHC works with young people and their families to address the emotional, behavioral, and social effects of depression through individualized, evidence-based treatment. Our Venice location at 200 Capri Isles Blvd., Ste. 7G serves families throughout Venice, South Venice, Nokomis, Osprey, Englewood, North Port, Warm Mineral Springs, and the surrounding Gulf Coast communities.
Depression in children and teens often looks different than it does in adults. Rather than expressing sadness directly, young people may become irritable, withdraw from friends and activities, struggle academically, or exhibit behavioral changes that can be mistaken for defiance or laziness. Early identification and professional intervention can prevent depression from deepening and affecting long-term development.
What Is Childhood & Adolescent Depression?
Depression is more than temporary sadness or a bad mood. In children and adolescents, depression is a clinical condition characterized by persistent changes in mood, thinking, and behavior that interfere with daily functioning. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that approximately 5.0% of adolescents aged 12 to 17 experienced a major depressive episode with severe impairment in the past year.
At our Venice practice, we use a combination of therapeutic approaches tailored to each child’s developmental stage and unique needs. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps young people identify and challenge negative thought patterns, and Play Therapy for younger children who may not yet have the language to express their emotions verbally. We also incorporate family therapy techniques to strengthen the support system around the child.
Families in Venice and neighboring communities like Englewood, North Port, Wellen Park, and Port Charlotte trust Therapy SRQ because we take the time to understand each young person’s individual experience and create a treatment approach that addresses the root causes of their depression rather than just managing symptoms.
Signs of Depression in Children & Teens
Depression in young people does not always present as obvious sadness. Venice area parents should watch for the following signs that may indicate their child is struggling with depression:
- Persistent sadness, irritability, or emotional flatness lasting two weeks or longer
- Loss of interest in activities, hobbies, or friendships they previously enjoyed
- Changes in appetite or weight — either significant increase or decrease
- Sleep disturbances including insomnia, excessive sleeping, or frequent nightmares
- Declining academic performance or refusal to attend school
- Social withdrawal and isolation from family and peers
- Frequent complaints of headaches, stomachaches, or other physical symptoms without medical cause
- Expressions of worthlessness, excessive guilt, or hopelessness
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Increased anger, agitation, or emotional outbursts
- Talk of death or self-harm, even if it seems casual or indirect
If you notice several of these signs persisting for more than two weeks, it is important to seek a professional evaluation. The earlier depression is identified, the more responsive it tends to be to treatment.
Conditions We Treat with Depression Therapy in Venice
Our Venice depression therapists work with children and adolescents experiencing a range of depressive conditions, including:
F32.0 — Major Depressive Disorder, Single Episode, Mild: A first episode of depression with symptoms that are present but manageable, often including low mood, fatigue, and reduced interest in daily activities.
F32.1 — Major Depressive Disorder, Single Episode, Moderate: A depressive episode with more pronounced symptoms that noticeably interfere with school, social activities, and family relationships.
F33.0 — Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, Mild: Multiple episodes of depression with milder symptoms, indicating an ongoing pattern that benefits from consistent therapeutic support.
F33.1 — Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, Moderate: Recurring depressive episodes with moderate symptom severity, often requiring sustained treatment to prevent relapse.
F34.1 — Dysthymic Disorder (Persistent Depressive Disorder): A chronic, low-grade depression lasting at least one year in children and adolescents, often described as feeling consistently down or irritable without a clear episode pattern.
F43.21 — Adjustment Disorder with Depressed Mood: Depressive symptoms that develop in response to a specific life stressor such as a family move, parental divorce, loss of a loved one, or school transition.
F34.81 — Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD): Severe, recurrent temper outbursts combined with a persistently irritable or angry mood between outbursts, often diagnosed in children who were previously considered for bipolar disorder.
Each treatment plan is individually designed to address the specific type, severity, and contributing factors of the child’s depression. We work closely with parents and, when appropriate, coordinate with schools and pediatricians in the Venice area.
How do I know if my child is depressed or just going through a phase?
It is normal for children and teens to experience periods of moodiness, but clinical depression is different in both duration and intensity. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) advises parents to seek professional evaluation when mood or behavioral changes persist for more than two weeks, interfere with daily functioning at home or school, or represent a significant departure from the child’s typical personality. A licensed therapist can conduct a thorough assessment to distinguish between typical developmental mood fluctuations and a condition that would benefit from treatment.
What therapy approaches do you use for childhood depression at your Venice office?
At our Venice location, we primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy, both of which have strong evidence supporting their effectiveness for childhood and adolescent depression. CBT helps older children and teens identify negative thinking patterns and develop healthier coping strategies. Play Therapy allows younger children to express and process their emotions through the natural language of play. We also integrate family therapy techniques to help parents understand their child’s experience and build a supportive home environment. The American Psychological Association (APA) recognizes these approaches as effective frontline treatments for youth depression.
How long does depression therapy typically take for children and teens?
The duration of treatment varies depending on the severity of the depression, the child’s age, and how the child responds to therapy. Many children and teens begin to show improvement within 8 to 12 weekly sessions, though some may benefit from longer-term support, particularly if the depression is recurrent or co-occurs with other conditions like anxiety or ADHD. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) emphasizes that consistent participation in therapy and a strong therapeutic relationship are key factors in achieving lasting improvement. We set measurable goals from the start and regularly review progress with parents.
Should my child take medication for depression, or is therapy enough?
For mild to moderate depression, therapy alone is often effective and is generally recommended as the first line of treatment for children and adolescents. The AACAP Treatment Guidelines suggest that a combination of therapy and medication may be considered for moderate to severe depression or when therapy alone has not produced sufficient improvement. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Christine Murawski does not prescribe medication but can coordinate with your child’s pediatrician or a psychiatrist if medication evaluation is warranted. The decision is always made collaboratively with the family.
Does insurance cover depression therapy for children at your Venice location?
Many insurance plans provide coverage for mental health services, including depression therapy for children and adolescents. Our Venice office accepts a variety of major insurance providers. We recommend contacting your insurance company to verify your behavioral health benefits, including copays and session limits. Our team can provide the diagnostic and billing codes needed to help you navigate the insurance process. For families without insurance coverage or who prefer not to use insurance, we offer self-pay options and can discuss sliding scale arrangements.
Begin Depression Therapy in Venice Today
If your child or teen is struggling with depression, early intervention can make a significant difference. Our Venice therapy team provides the compassionate, expert care your family needs.
Call or text to schedule your appointment today.
Our Office Locations
Venice Office
200 Capri Isles Blvd., Ste. 7G
Venice, FL 34292
Phone: (941) 202-3432
Sarasota Office
1608 Oak St
Sarasota, FL 34236
Phone: (941) 202-3432
Serving families in Venice, South Venice, Nokomis, Osprey, Englewood, North Port, Warm Mineral Springs, Port Charlotte, Wellen Park, Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Palmer Ranch, Siesta Key, and Longboat Key.