Teen & Family Mental Health, With a Doctor Who Knows Your Family

The teenage years are hard, for teens and for the parents watching them. Mood swings, school pressure, social media, sleep that's all over the place. It can be tough to tell what's normal and what needs help. At Empowered Health DPC, Dr. Frank Aliganga helps families sort it out, from our offices in West Deptford, NJ and Old City Philadelphia.

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If your child or anyone in your family is in crisis or thinking about self-harm, call or text 988 now, or call 911.

You're not imagining it

In 2023, 40% of U.S. high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, including more than half of high school girls, according to the CDC's Youth Risk Behavior Survey. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that children and teens be screened for anxiety starting at age 8, and for depression starting at age 12.

Signs worth a conversation

Pulling away from friends, family or activities they used to love
Big changes in sleep, appetite or grades
Irritability or anger that seems out of proportion
Constant worry, stomachaches or headaches before school
Spending most of their time alone or online
Talking about feeling hopeless or like a burden

How we help families

Unhurried visits where teens can talk, with time for parents too
Screening for anxiety and depression, and a clear plan
Help with sleep, screens, stress and school pressure
Coordination with your child's pediatrician, school counselor, therapist or psychiatrist
Care for parents too: your own stress, sleep and mood matter

We explain up front how privacy works for teens, so they feel safe being honest and you stay appropriately informed.

Working alongside your pediatrician

For children and teens, we can work alongside your child's pediatrician as a doctor who knows your family, for everyday questions, sick visits and coordination; or become your child's primary care physician. We don't give vaccines yet, so kids on a vaccine schedule should keep an office that provides them.

One doctor for the whole family

When the same doctor knows your teen, you, your partner and sometimes your parents, the pieces connect. Family memberships make that simple. See rates

Meet your doctor

Frank Aliganga, MD, FAAFP is double board certified in family medicine and obesity medicine. He serves as Treasurer of the New Jersey Academy of Family Physicians and is licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Read more

Common questions

Will my teen's visits be private?

We'll talk with you and your teen about privacy at the first visit. Teens are more open when they trust their doctor, and we'll always involve parents when safety is a concern.

Does my child still need a pediatrician?

Not necessarily. We can work alongside your pediatrician or be your child's primary care physician. Kids on a vaccine schedule should still keep an office that provides vaccines.

Are visits included in the membership?

Yes. Membership covers visits and messaging, with no copays or per-visit fees, ever. Medications and labs are billed separately. See rates

What if it's an emergency?

Call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911. Don't wait for a message reply.

Let's talk about your family

Text "Tell me more" to 609-678-3299, or send us a message.

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Medically reviewed by Frank Aliganga, MD, FAAFP · Last reviewed November 2026. This page is educational and isn't medical advice.