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Surfing Lesson

“When I approach a child, he inspires in me two sentiments — tenderness for what he is and respect for what he may become.”
Louis Pasteur

Childhood is meant to be a time of discoveryof learning who you are, how you fit into the world, and what it feels like to belong. Every child approaches this journey differently. Some move into adolescence with ease, while others experience it in starts and stops, with big feelings and moments of uncertainty along the way. In today’s world of rising demands and constant comparison, it’s no wonder that both children and parents can feel overwhelmed by the challenges of growing up. If you or your child are feeling stuck, discouraged, or weighed down, child therapy can offer a space to reset, reconnect, and move forward with confidence.

My Approach

As a child and teen therapist, I begin with the belief that every young person already has the potential to grow and thrive. My role is to help bring that potential to the surface. Through curiosity, warmth, and a trusting therapeutic relationship, I create a space where children feel safe to explore who they are and how they want to be in the world.

Therapy may look different for each child — for some, it’s about building self-regulation skills; for others, it’s about discovering values and setting meaningful goals. No matter the focus, I keep the process playful, collaborative, and affirming. This kind of safe, supportive environment can boost self-worth, increase confidence, and help reduce the anxiety, sadness, or frustration that may be getting in the way.

My Experience

I’ve had the privilege of working extensively with pre-adolescents and teens in both private practice and a school-based setting. At North Star Families, I specialize in supporting boys navigating challenges with self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, depression, and neurodivergence, including autism, giftedness, and ADHD. Before that, at Burbank High School’s Care Center, I provided crisis intervention and group therapy for teens facing bullying, identity struggles, family stress, LGBTQ+ concerns, and trauma.

Across all settings, my approach is rooted in a simple belief: children are inherently good, resilient, and deserving of respect. I’ve seen how being met with this belief in therapy can spark a young person’s ability to adapt, grow, and thrive.

If your child is struggling, I would be honored to help them uncover their resilience, creativity, and strength — and to walk alongside you as they take steps toward a more confident, grounded sense of self.

Fee for Service: $300 per session

Sliding scale/reduced fee based on need available. Inquire Directly.

Superbills can be provided for insurance purposes.

Beverly Hills 

6310 San Vicente Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90048

Silver Lake

2808 Glendale Boulevard

Silver Lake, CA 90039

South Pasadena

1015 Fremont Avenue

South Pasadena, CA 91030

mvitalelmft@gmail.com

Tel: (424) 652-8851


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© 2025 Michael Vitale, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #149692

Beyond Psychology Network
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