Pediatric Care
Sexual Development, Gender Identity & Healthy Identity Development
As children and adolescents grow, questions about identity, relationships, and self-expression naturally emerge. For some children, adolescents or teens, these questions can feel confusing or overwhelming, particularly during periods of distress, uncertainty, or social challenges related to identity development.
Our practice provides personalized, evidence-based psychological care to support children and adolescents as they explore their identity development, while also helping parents better understand how to support their child with care, confidence, and compassion.
Support for Children, Adolescents, and Teens Navigating Their Identity
We provide evidence-based support for children and adolescents ages 3 - 17 who may be exploring aspects of sexual development, gender identity, or broader identity-related concerns that affect their emotional well-being, relationships, or daily functioning.
Families are an essential part of this process. We work closely with parents and caregivers to understand their questions, values, and goals, offering education and guidance to help families support their child in healthy ways.
Parents often seek care when they notice their child:
- Expresses confusion, distress, or anxiety related to identity or self-expression
- Struggles with peer relationships, acceptance, or feeling understood
- Shows changes in mood, behavior, or self-esteem connected to identity concerns
- Has questions about development, boundaries, or relationships that feel difficult to address
Support can be helpful whether concerns are emerging for the first time, evolving over time, or connected to social, developmental, or environmental changes.
Signs & Symptoms Related to Identity and Developmental Concerns
Identity- and development-related concerns can present differently for each child and may change across stages of growth.
Emotional Distress or Confusion
Worry or uncertainty about identity or self-understanding.
Changes in Self-Esteem
Shifts in confidence, self-criticism, or withdrawal.
Social Withdrawal or Peer Challenges
Avoidance of social situations or difficulty with peer relationships.
Mood or Behavior Changes
Irritability, sadness, or behavior changes linked to identity stress.
Difficulty Communicating Feelings
Trouble expressing thoughts or questions about identity.
Anxiety About Acceptance
Worry about how others may respond or react.
Increased Family Tension
Misunderstandings or conflict around expectations or communication.
Heightened Sensitivity to Feedback
Strong reactions to comments or perceived judgment.
Expert Psychological Care Designed Around Your Child
Evidence-based psychotherapy is tailored to your child and may include:
Developmentally appropriate conversations around identity, relationships, and self-understanding
Skills to support emotional regulation, self-esteem, and coping
Guidance to strengthen communication between children and caregivers
Parent support focused on education, understanding, and responsive caregiving
Care may include individual sessions, parent-focused guidance, or joint sessions when appropriate. Our goal is to help children develop a healthy sense of self, feel supported in their identity, and build resilience as they grow.
Our Process & Support
Initial Consultation
A supportive conversation where parents and children share concerns and goals to establish trust and help guide treatment decisions.
Clarifying Goals & Treatment Planning
Your clinician works with you to clarify goals and develop a supportive plan tailored to your child’s developmental stage.
Ongoing Support & Guidance
Care focuses on supporting identity development and emotional well-being over time, with guidance for families as needs evolve.