Depression Treatment for Teens

At AWA, we provide life-changing care for teens experiencing depressive disorders and support their families through the healing process.

GET IN TOUCH WITH AWA TODAY

**Note we are not a crisis hotline. In case of an emergency, please call 911.

By completing this form you provide express written consent indicating a willingness for us to call you or contact you via SMS no more than 4 times per month. Standard messaging and data rates apply. Text STOP to opt out anytime. We will never share your information. Please see our privacy policy.

AWA does not support Medicaid, KidsCare, or Sunshine and does not offer residential or 1-on-1 therapy.

For Teens Ages 13-17 and Their Families

Available Day Program or Afterschool Program

In-Network with All Major Insurance Providers

Hablamos Español

Table of Contents

The Adolescent Wellness Academy & Treatment Programs
Getting Started
What Parents ❤️ About AWA
Why Choose AWA
Verify Insurance

Depression Treatment Locations
Our Dedicated Team
What Makes Us Different
Our Programs Demystify Mental Health
Depression Therapy

Benefits for Teens
Reach Out to Us Today!
Depression Signs
Teen Depression
Frequently Asked Questions

The Adolescent Wellness Academy

We help troubled teens with depression feel safe, loved, and cared for as they heal.

Through our program, teens receive personalized support in a safe and nurturing environment, empowering them to overcome depression and thrive.

Holistic Understanding: We approach depression as a multifaceted issue, addressing its psychological, emotional, and social dimensions.
Evidence-Based Therapies: Our program incorporates proven therapeutic techniques tailored to each teen’s needs.
Family-Centered Support: We involve the entire family in healing, fostering communication and collaboration for lasting positive change.

Depression Treatment Programs

Therapeutic Day Program

Our teen depression therapeutic day program is a comprehensive full-day program covering 4-5 hours of treatment daily and 2-3 hours of educational support to ensure your teen stays on track in school.

Weekly psychiatric assessment
1 hour of individual therapy per week
4 hours of daily therapeutic groups
On-site school support

Clinical support for crisis management
Weekly Parent Support Group
Nutritional support as required

Intensive Outpatient Program

Our IOP afterschool program is designed to address the challenges of teen depression. With 3 hours of dedicated treatment sessions offered 3 to 5 days a week, we provide a supportive environment where teens can openly discuss their struggles and work toward healing.

1 hour of individual therapy per week
3 hours of daily therapeutic groups

Clinical support for crisis management
Weekly Parent Support Group
Nutritional support as required

Getting Started

Reach Out

Call or email us, and we will get to know your concerns. Our Admissions team will recommend treatment options for your teen. We will verify your insurance coverage and work with you to find a solution that will help you with your financial situation.

Complete Assessment

An assessment process is designed to gather information about the teenager’s mental health history, symptoms, triggers, and any previous treatment experiences. This assessment helps in tailoring the therapy program to address specific needs effectively.

Schedule First Session

After completing the assessment, clients can schedule their initial therapy session. This session allows the therapist to evaluate the teenager’s condition further, establish rapport, set treatment goals, and discuss the overall therapy plan moving forward.

What Parents ❤️ About AWA

95% of parents and teens recommend AWA.

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Lauren Weissberg 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We are so grateful to have found Adolescent Wellness Academy. The entire staff was incredibly helpful, professional, and welcoming from our first phone call. Anny got us in right away, Frank immediately connected with our daughter, and all of the therapists made her feel heard and understood. She was "keyed out" and has maintained the skills and strategies she learned there. While our daughter was able to get the help she so badly needed, Mike's parent groups were a lifeline for my husband and me during our family's crisis. We find ourselves referencing Mike's words of wisdom on a weekly basis. We will continue to recommend Adolescent Wellness Academy to parents of teens who are struggling.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Clara Sanchez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was very fortunate to find the Principles recovery Teen Wellness Center when I did. They took my daughter in and we went through the 10week program.  With their help, she learned to take accountability for her actions.  They helped me and my husband as the parents teacher our daughter how to cope with anxiety and mental stress.  There so many things teens go through that are in the mental stress bag.  From anxiety to self harm to drugs, etc.  it was hard to go through it but we came out of it with new knowledge with a respectful child that wants a second chance and a family that can repair the relationship and heal together.  I recommend the program and staff to all parents that have a child going through mental stress of any kind.  Contact the program and they will guide you.  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts❤️
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Yaikelys Reyes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. No tengo palabras para describir nuestra experiencia en este centro de rehabilitación, después de más de 2 años buscando ayuda por la adiccion a la marihuana para mi hijo adolescentes de 17 años encontramos este que si pudiera le diera más de 5 estrellas, no solo lo ayudaron a poder dejar la adiccion si no que hicieron que mi hijo sintiera amor propio y encontrarle sentido a la vida, mi hijo pudo graduarse y estamos muy contentos con esta institución la recomendaría 1000 veces, nos han ayudado mucho como familia, incluso después de graduarse siguen preocupados y le siguen dando seguimiento a sus pacientes, todos los empleados tienen muy buena actitud y siempre están dispuestos ayudar desde,  el dueño, los terapistas en especial Mike y Ben  y Anny la directora de admisión son especiales, sin duda el mejor Centro de Rehabiliacion muyyyyyy sastusfecha.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   K Anderson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The staff here is excellent-very experienced in working with teens and very responsive to parents. I think it’s a productive approach to therapy in that it involves both the parents and the kids, and also allows the kids to share with their peers in a safe place.  Also focuses on the roots of issues rather than just the symptoms.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Lina M Herrera 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My daughter was a trouble teenager, she suffered from depression, self harm, low self esteem. Looking thru places for her for help I’ve found this academy in which I love that it’s a everyday therapy not just for her but for parents too
Their staff are lovely, experienced and on point in every subject. They even offered referrals to continue therapy after their sessions.

I would recommend this place to anyone. The help is not just for the trouble person, their help is for the whole family
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Serena Diaco 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Elga Monteiro 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Can't thank them enough for what they have done with my son. The staff really cares and it shows by their dedication of helping each client with tools to get them in a better place mentally. My son went in for anxiety and depression and by the end of it he was confident and excited about his future. He was given tools and resources to continue to get better. I don't know what would have happened if I didn't find this place. Best decision I made for my son.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mayra Zapata 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I don’t have enough words of how thankful my family is with the center for helping us with my son. We where struggling with my adolescent with anxiety, depression, gaming addiction, and trouble cooping at school. The team is so professional, they really understand this age, but mostly of all they provide the tools and follow up for a successful recovery. My son is back in track, and mostly of all he is happy. Thank you Ben, Frank, Mike, Alyssa, Annie, and the rest of the team. We are very grateful.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Brad Edwards 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I believe Adolescent Wellness Academy is the best help teenagers in Broward County can get.  Their therapists are really top-notch and care.  Highly recommended!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Veronica Lesmes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Principles Recovery Center/ Adolescent Wellness Academy
has been critical in the progress my loved one has made. He has graduated from the program after 5 months with the tools and confidence to continue a path of sobriety and mental health. From the intake interview with Frank, to the parent support meetings with Mike, and the communication and follow through from Sophie- I cannot say enough good things about this Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for adolescents.  Their ability to capture the interest of teenagers FIRST by building a community of their peers was instrumental in the progress of my family member and my family overall. My family member was held accountable by not only staff members but more importantly his peers. I have been a professional educator for decades and have now recommended this program to families who struggle with teenage substance abuse or mental health issues. Their clinical approach is research-based and consistent. But most significant is a personal touch and human connection that is genuine and authentic. They really care about these kids and it shows in the outcomes. Forever grateful I took the recommendation from staff member Rebecca ( a friend of my best friend) to enroll in the program. I remain optimistic that while there will always be bumps in the road when raising teenagers, we will all be better able to navigate and deal with what lies ahead.

Dottie Eger

2 years ago

Finding AWA was a life changing experience for my daughter (and myself). I didn’t know where to turn and when I spoke with Anny on the phone (followed up by an in person visit), a sense of relief and calm washed over me. She was able to speak with my daughter on a human level, no judgment, no anger, just love and support. The program mixes individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, psychiatry and community to help the teens accept, understand and move forward from whatever brought them to the program. From a parent’s perspective, I felt tremendous support from the entire staff. Never once did either of us feel like we weren’t loved or cared for. From Anny to Dr Jackie to Dr Maria to Carol to the therapists and everyone else that plays a part, the care is extraordinary. Mental health is a struggle and AWA is a safe community for teens to learn how to adapt, overcome and cope in healthy ways. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Marlene Velasco

2 years ago

There are many good things to say about AWA. In December 2024, my 17-year-old daughter was having serious behavioral problems, AS, and was making an attempt on her life😢. When I spoke to the place they gave me an immediate appointment and when I arrived at the center Anie welcomed my husband, my daughter and me. She was very clear, respectful but with a lot of character (something that I appreciate 1000%), she scolded the three of us, she told us the problems that we as parents allow with our little girl, She spoke to us so loud and clear that I immediately assumed that we had a serious problem with our daughter but at the same time I felt a lot of peace because I realized that we were in the right place (God gave us this group of Angels dressed as people) and that was how my daughter decided for herself that she should take this path, The three of us attended each week for my daughter's start, and I must say that each of the people called: Reception, Therapists, floor hangers, coaches, etc. Each of them always received us with a smile and we never felt in their eyes that they were being judged or criticized for the situation. Every Thursday there is a parent meeting in a help section and it is something so healthy for our Souls and minds that this therapy helps us so much to understand the part that we did wrong and what we should not continue doing. To date, I must say that my daughter has recovered 200%, she is clean, she is happy with her life and with her family, she has goals, other friends, she is in better shape talking about nutrition since she had bulimia problems, she was in AWA almost four months and I must say that she is now living happily and we as parents continue working and our daughter also continues in therapy only once a week to reinforce everything she learned at AWA. So if you ask me if I recommend this divine place? Yes 10000% 🥰 Thank you so much to everyone for your great support and help. ♥️ we will always be indebted to you!!!🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

Mas 57 La Voz Colombianos por el mundo.

2 years ago

They have been a great help for my daughter, God's love is definitely in this place. Thank you so much !!!

Aleicia G

2 years ago

AWA is a great place for teens trying to cope with the different challenges they face as they navigate the teenage years. A caring team awaits you at AWA. One of the first persons you will probably interact with is Anny Smulevich. Anny does set the tone for the care and service you will receive. From the very first interaction you get the feeling that you are in a safe , non-judgmental space. Your teens will love her. You will feel as if you are not alone on this journey . Thank you Anny, thank you AWA !

matthew langford

2 years ago

I have the pleasure of working with Anny, as she effectively takes care of our referrals from our facility. I always recommend their programs and facility to families and community , they have a caring staff and strong programs. I highly recommend their services and im proud to call them a community partner and a referral partner.

Danielle Worthalter

2 years ago

AWA is great! They have wonderful staff who genuinely care about their clients. I specifically loved Anny and how welcoming/compassionate she was at every step of the way!

Mika Fabre

2 years ago

Kicked me out for no reason other than “they don’t work with suicidal people” How can someone treat their issues if they can’t talk about them? Also demanded I drop my psychologist to be a part of their program and we’re insanely rude to her when she called to see what happened.

Ivette OrtA

2 years ago

This place is wonderful, it helped us change our lives and that of our son, Anny is a being of light, God bless you!!!

Why Choose AWA

Our program’s positive impact and strong outcomes are the driving force behind our work. Seeing families thriving and witnessing the transformation of the teens fills us with a sense of purpose.

Satisfaction with staff & program

96%

Significant reduction of depression levels

91%

Program completion rate

86%

Your care is
covered here

We understand that you have pressing concerns right now and that the cost of your teen’s mental health should not be one of them.

We are in network with all major commercial insurance providers in Florida.

We’d like to handle the insurance details so that you can focus on what truly matters.

Our Teen Depression Treatment Locations

Facilities for depression treatment and therapies are available at the following locations:

Broward

Miami-Dade

Boca Raton

Our dedicated team

Our compassionate team goes above and beyond to support you and your troubled teen on the healing journey.

We have an experienced clinical team with several mental health experts and multiple specializations.

Here, your family is in great hands!

What Makes Adolescent Wellness Academy Different

When you join our therapy or afterschool programs, you enter a caring and non-judgmental community. This support network involves teens, their families and peers, and our team. Together, everyone plays a role in supporting each other while our clinicians create a safe space for this supportive community to flourish. At AWA, we help teens:

Build resilience
Foster self-discovery and awareness
Go beyond managing symptoms to experience transformative healing and lasting change

Engage in creative and experiential activities
Develop an understanding of mental health
Strengthen family connections

Our programs demystify mental health

At Adolescent Wellness Academy, we specialize in connecting with troubled teens and their families, making mental health support more accessible and approachable. Our clinicians break down barriers, speaking a language that both teens and parents resonate with, to provide meaningful support for adolescent depression.

Take the first step toward support with a free consultation.

What AWA Depression Therapy Treats

Depression can have a wide range of causes. For many teens, a complicated combination of factors affects their mental health, including issues at school and home, relationships with peers, physical health, and self-image. It’s also the case that many teens with depression suffer from overlapping mental health issues, such as anxiety or disordered eating. At AWA, we look at the whole person and develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific physical, mental, and emotional needs.

How to tell if your child may be suffering from depression

What to look for:

Worsening performance in school
Feelings of excessive guilt or low self-worth
Hopelessness about the future
Thoughts about dying or suicide
Not enjoying things they used to enjoy

Symptoms your child may be experiencing:

Disrupted sleep
Changes in appetite or weight
Feeling very tired or low in energy
Aches and pains
Sad or bad mood

If you notice any of these depression signs in your child, it’s essential to take action. While seeking professional help is crucial, there are steps you can take in the meantime to support your child.

First, please make sure to communicate with your child. Let them know you’re there to listen and support them without judgment. Encourage them to express their feelings and concerns.

Also, maintain a stable and nurturing environment at home. Routine, healthy meals, regular sleep patterns, and physical activity can positively impact mood and overall well-being.

Consider enrolling your child in programs like Adolescent Wellness Academy that support young individuals with mental health challenges.

Reach out to us today! You'll never be alone again.

All calls are confidential.
We accept most insurance but do not take Medicaid at this time.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Name(Required)

Email(Required)

Phone(Required)

Insurance Company Name

Policy Number (optional)

Message(Required)

Benefits for teens receiving treatment at AWA

Teens receive educational support to ensure they stay on track in school while pursuing their therapeutic goals.
We recognize that personal growth involves self-discovery, and the pace of this journey varies for each individual. Teens participate in the program for 4-12 weeks and then drop down to our lower level of care (IOP).

Each client has an individualized treatment plan developed by a multidisciplinary treatment team. Our program offers a mix of individual and group therapy, and we involve families in the healing process.

Our program offers a community where troubled teens (and parents) experience a sense of belonging. In groups, teens learn from each other, interact with teens going through similar challenges, practice compassion, and develop social skills. This is where the real magic happens.

Of high school students report feeling persistent sadness/hopelessness

0 %

Teen Depression Facts

The Adolescent Wellness Academy addresses the escalating crisis of teen mental health. In 2023, the CDC reported that 39.7% of high school students reported persistent sadness, with 15.1% of teens experiencing a major depressive episode in 2025. About 20% of high school students have seriously considered suicide. Half of lifetime mental illness cases begin by age 14.

Our programs for troubled teens aim to bridge the gap between the complex world of mental health care and the everyday lives of teenagers and their families, making support accessible and practical.

We offer comprehensive programs for troubled teens, including a Therapeutic Day Program and an Intensive Outpatient Program, tailored to meet the unique needs of adolescents struggling with depression and other mental health issues.

By focusing on early intervention, personalized care, and a family-centered approach, we strive to foster resilience, personal growth, and lasting recovery, ensuring a supportive community for teens and their families on their journey toward wellness.

Of teens experienced a major depressive episode in 2025

0 %

Of teens seriously considered suicide in 2023

0 %

Of lifetime cases of mental illness begin at 14 years of age

0 %

Of teens with major depression received treatment

0 %

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my teenager needs therapy for depression?

Signs that your teenager may need therapy for depression include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating, irritability, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. If you notice any of these symptoms lasting for an extended period, it’s essential to seek professional help.

How long do teen depression therapy programs typically last?

The duration of teen depression therapy programs can vary depending on the severity of the depression, the effectiveness of the treatment, and the individual progress of the teenager. Some programs may last for a few weeks to several months, while others may extend for a year or longer.

Will my teenager need to take medication as part of the therapy program?

In some cases, medication may be recommended as part of the treatment for teen depression, particularly if the depression is severe or not responding to therapy alone. However, medication is not always necessary, and the decision to prescribe medication will be made by our psychiatrist in consultation with the family.

What role do parents play in teen depression therapy programs?

Parents often play a crucial role in supporting their teenager’s participation in therapy and facilitating their recovery from depression. This may involve attending family therapy sessions, providing emotional support at home, helping to implement strategies learned in therapy, and collaborating with the therapist to create a supportive environment for their teenager.

How can I find a reputable teen depression therapy program for my teenager?

It’s essential to research and evaluate teen depression therapy programs carefully to ensure they meet the needs of your teenager. You can start by asking for recommendations from your child’s pediatrician, school counselor, or mental health professionals in your community. Additionally, you can research online, read reviews, and schedule consultations with therapists or program directors to learn more about their approach and credentials.

What should I do if my teenager refuses to participate in therapy?

It’s not uncommon for teenagers to be resistant to therapy, especially if they’re feeling overwhelmed or ashamed about their depression. In such cases, it’s essential to have open and honest conversations with your teenager about the importance of getting help and addressing their concerns or reservations about therapy. You may also consider involving a trusted family member, friend, or mental health professional to help encourage your teenager to participate in therapy.

How can I support my teenager after they complete a depression therapy program?

Supporting your teenager’s recovery from depression doesn’t end when they complete our therapy program. It’s essential to continue providing love, understanding, and encouragement, as well as helping them practice the coping skills and strategies they learned in therapy. Additionally, staying connected with AWA through our alumni program can help ensure ongoing support and follow-up care as needed.

What is teen depression therapy?

Teen depression therapy refers to specialized programs or interventions designed to help teenagers cope with and overcome feelings of depression. These programs often include counseling, psychotherapy, and other therapeutic techniques tailored to the needs of adolescents.