Therapists near me in San Diego, CA

Seeking therapy takes courage, and finding the right therapist is an important first step. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 37 years of behavioral health experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, grief, caregiving responsibilities, and major life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I believe therapy should be a place where you feel heard, respected, and supported while also gaining tools to make meaningful changes in your life. Together, we will identify your strengths, explore patterns that may be contributing to current challenges, and develop strategies to help you move forward with greater confidence and resilience. I work with adults from diverse backgrounds and strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where growth and healing can occur.

My name is Marissa Ruiz, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. Some of my other titles include mother, wife, sister, daughter, niece, grandmother and friend. Sharing these titles are important to me because they represent current relationships and past relationships. My past relationships include grief, trauma and growth. I survived obstacles in my life with the help of a therapist. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, empathetic, supportive, and good listener. We will be working together with to make a goal. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles.

Hello and welcome. If you are reading this, it means you are experiencing thoughts or feelings that have compelled you to take action toward healing—and I want to acknowledge your courage in taking this first step. As a therapist, I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate the heavy weights of anxiety, trauma, depression, mood disorders, and substance use or addiction. Together, we will also work through challenges surrounding self-confidence, relationship or family dynamics, and the emotional toll of chronic medical problems. My practice is deeply dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and fiercely affirming space for the LGBTQI+ community, offering compassionate support for those exploring gender identity and sexual orientation. Operating entirely via telehealth across the state of California, my goal is to meet you exactly where you are. I don't just want to help you manage your pain; I want to help you discover through the therapueitc process that brings clarity and understanding of that ah ha moment that brings you the clarity, courage, and confidence that you can that you have the power to build a life of true purpose and meaning.

I’m Craig Bissell, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy for adults and couples throughout California. After years working in intensive behavioral health and substance use treatment, I now specialize in helping people work through trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, relationship challenges, and patterns that keep them feeling stuck. My approach is direct, collaborative, and integrative, using EMDR, ACT, and insight-oriented therapy to help people understand what is driving those patterns and make meaningful, lasting changes.

Welcome! I am a couples therapist helping partners work through conflict, communication breakdowns, and emotional disconnection. I specialize in how ADHD, anxiety, attachment wounds, and emotional stress show up in relationships. I often work with couples who feel stuck in a painful cycle where one partner shuts down, avoids conflict, or becomes overwhelmed, while the other pushes harder for connection, answers, or reassurance. Many of the couples I work with love each other deeply but feel exhausted by repeated arguments, defensiveness, resentment, or feeling more like roommates than partners.

Hi, My name is Carol I have 40 years experience with the mentally ill at all levels I am very compassionate but I'm also tough I want you to Feel better as quickly as possible I'm very straightforward I will not lie to you I am World traveled and studied world cultures and world religions I have many personal life experiences I would be happy to Assist you And having a productive and happy life

I identify as a Queer, Xicana therapist. I am a step-mom to twin, teenage boys. I specialize in supporting individuals through healing journeys of trauma, anxiety, and overwhelm. I do this by offering a safe, compassionate, culturally-sensitive approach. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by us all, I work to create a safe space for healing, empowerment, and growth. My goal is to support individuals in navigating their experiences, reclaiming their strength, and building resilience for a healthier, more fulfilling life.

My name is Patrice Kane and I have been licensed since 2019. I am a compassionate clinician who works with individuals navigating trauma, relationship issues via couples therapy, anxiety, and major life transitions. My approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and focuses on helping clients feel safe, understood, and empowered as they build practical skills for emotional regulation and healing. I believe in meeting each person where they are and supporting them with collaboration, mutual respect and care.

I get satisfaction from being a voice of reasoning for others through my genuineness. I consider this a life purpose for me. I am driven by a deep desire to make a positive difference in the lives of those struggling with their mental well-being. I believe in providing a safe space with a non-judgmental stance while supporting the patient through his or her emotional well-being and encouraging autonomy.

Hello, I’m Dr. Cleveland, and I bring over 14 years of experience in the mental health field. I received my master's degree in clinical psychology with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and my doctorate degree in Applied Clinical Psychology. Throughout my career, I have served many roles, including Clinical Director and Primary Therapist at various mental health and substance treatment centers. I have been deeply involved in developing and growing treatment programs that are effective and compassionate. I have had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients, including those who are court-mandated, and I am well-versed in addressing the unique challenges they face. In addition to my clinical practice, I have worked as a professor, where I stay at the forefront of research and innovative practices in mental health treatment. My approach is grounded in evidence-based methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Whether you are dealing with specific challenges or seeking personal growth and balance, I am here to support you on your journey."

I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over a decade of experience helping clients navigate relationship challenges, self-worth concerns, and major life transitions. I provide virtual therapy in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients can better understand recurring patterns, build confidence, and create meaningful, lasting change. My approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and focused on helping you feel more secure in yourself and your relationships.

Thank you for visiting my profile. I have been in the mental health field for 35 years and have worked in many settings and with many issues throughout my career. I have a doctorate in clinical psychology, a masters in clinical social work and a masters in counseling. I am comfortable working with all populations and strive to meet my patients where they are in their process.

Hello! I am an attachment based therapist that also specializes in psychodynamic theory. I believe therapy is a process where we discover our authentic self and learn to tolerate intolerable feelings. My goal for you is to understand your needs and hopes and dreams. We work on learning to set healthy boundaries for yourself. This is essential for healthy family functioning, work and romantic relationships. Therapy takes work, but it is work well worth it. Understanding yourself is well worth it!! What could be more important than to live an authentic life, and enjoy flourishing relationships? Everyone has the innate need to be heard and seen. I help you attain that for yourself. Theres a famous quote that i encourage all my clients to remember..."We teach people how to treat us". I specialize in working with couples, and individuals. I believe therapy can and will change the trajectory of your life. You are worthy of love and respect. You are worthy of understanding, "you are enough".

Hi! My name is Alex and I'm excited about the potential of working with you in developing a sense of integration and resilience in your life. Are you feeling stuck? Dissatisfied in your relationships and/or work? Disconnected from a sense of deeper purpose? Feel that there is the potential for greater richness and joy in life, but it is just out of reach? Rooted in a compassionate curiosity, our work would explore these themes through inquiry into the dynamic between your conscious, unconscious, somatic, and relational self. Using a holistic lens we can unpack the how's and why's of your patterns; gaining insight into your emotions and experiences, and work towards greater self-awareness and well-being. From a somatic, psychodynamic approach we will focus on the connection between the body and the mind, and how emotions and past experiences can be stored in the body and affect an your mental and physical well-being. Through the use of techniques such as mindfulness, breathwork, and body-based exercises, you will become more aware of your physical sensations and how they are connected to your thoughts and emotions. This may also include exploring early childhood experiences, family dynamics, and past traumas, as well as working through issues related to relationships, self-esteem, and personal growth.

My practice is built on the belief that everyone possesses the capacity for meaningful change. I view therapy as a truly collaborative, reciprocal, and flexible alliance. My goal is to provide a steady, supportive space. Having navigated multiple career journeys, I experienced the challenges and rewards of professionally starting over. I help clients re-author their personal narratives to find lasting growth and purpose. I am grateful to be part of a healing profession that promotes self-awareness, self-acceptance, and personal growth.

I am a psychologist and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide teletherapy to adult individuals and couples residing in California. I work with clients who are dealing with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem issues, chronic illness, LGBTQ issues, career concerns, life transitions, relationship issues with partners, family members, and parent/child conflict. My methods of therapy include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Radical Acceptance, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Directed Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Interpersonal (Talk) Therapy.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in California, passionate about helping adults navigate life’s challenges with compassion and self-awareness. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relational issues, and major life transitions, providing a supportive space where they can explore their emotions, patterns, and personal growth. My approach is client-centered, meaning I tailor therapy to your unique needs, while incorporating psychodynamic therapy to help uncover how past experiences shape your present. I also utilize EMDR to support trauma processing and emotional healing. Whether you’re struggling with relationships, identity, or deep-seated emotional wounds, my goal is to help you gain clarity, heal, and move forward with confidence and inner peace.

I have been practicing in the field for over a decade. I have specialized training in trauma, addictions, relationship enhancement, marital and premarital. I work with adults, and couples. I have a heart for seeing relationships thrive. I believe Love is Enough. I will walk along side you through transitions, hurt, pain, and making sense of the present and complex situations.

Hello, I am Desiree Trinidad, a passionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I received my Masters from the University of Southern California. My journey began at USC Medical Center, where I gained invaluable experience working in the ER and Psychiatric Unit. My career has since encompassed roles in hospice care, counseling for the severe mental illnesses, and facilitating support groups for women in recovery. Each step has reinforced my love for working with diverse populations and the fulfillment I find in this work.

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with 20 years experience working with individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, anger management, miscommunication in relationships, relational breakups, life transitions and LGBTQ+ challenges. I practice an eclectic combination of person centered, collaborative and goal oriented counseling approaches as we work together, learning to identify the patterns that no longer provide you with the life you desire. Identifying and practicing new skills to make the small changes allows you to find your strengths and solutions to return you to your best self.

I am an LCSW. I provide a comfortable and relaxed environment where you can finally feel empowered to live the life you deserve. Through a variety of approaches and interventions that are customized to you and your needs, we will work together to move you in the direction of a new way of experiencing yourself. At the end of our time together, it is my hope that you will feel stronger, more grounded, with a deeper understanding of yourself. Bringing humor, empathy, and compassion, I am here to assist in honing the needed skills to heal and grow.

I have a lot of life experience and had several careers before becoming a therapist, and I have traveled extensively. There isn't much I haven't seen or at least heard about. I try to provide a calm, nonjudgmental atmosphere for clients so they can feel free to say whatever is on their mind. Believe me when I say that if you've done a thing or thought about it, someone else has too. You are not alone.

I have over 25 years as a mental health professional; including a Pupil Personnel Credential in Child Welfare and Attendance. I have worked in jails, homes, hospitals, group homes, law enforcement, school, SUD agencies. That is just geography. The goal is meet the client/family where they are, set obtainable goals and reduce recidivism in all areas of dysfunction. I am well versed in life and use those natural skills as well as professional development skills to get your life started.

Hi, I'm Jonathan. I'm so glad you stopped by to consider services with me. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy with a focus on understanding and helping you individually. Since 2010 I have provided therapy to address a wide range of issues from difficult recent adjustments to long-term, chronic issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relational distress, men's issues, substance use, and ADHD. I like to work collaboratively to find what works best for each person. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you really feel understood. I have a goal-oriented approach that offers tools, skills for coping, and clear, achievable objectives.

Hello ! I am Sergio Fernando Gueller, LCSW, I am an American citizen and love our Blessed country with all my heart; I am also an immigrant from Latin America, Argentina, who arrived to this country at age 19 (I am currently 65), "tired and poor" and escaping an unstable political environment and difficult socioeconomic perspectives. I completed my training in Europe and Latin America through my participation in many seminars and obtaining several certifications in this field, however, all my formal education took place in California and Oregon, in the USA. My approach to psychotherapy is eclectic and practical and am focused on providing immediate alleviation and crisis resolution to my clients via powerful cognitive/behavioral tools which I use daily in my practice. I am a simple person and my approach is formal and respectful, however, I use respectful/sensitive humor and levity therapeutically when appropriate as I believe it is a major part of my method.

Hello, I am so glad you are here to start this journey with me! My name is Bailey Armstead, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I have been practicing for 8 years now in multiple areas of this field, with multiple populations and diagnoses. I have a strong background in social work, crisis intervention and case management while also having experience working in behavioral health hospital settings, community settings (non-housed shelters, temporary housing locations, medical hospitals), and forensic settings. I specialize in working with those who have mood disorders, thought disorders, ADHD, anxiety and depression.

I'm so glad you found your way here. Seeking treatment is an indication of being ready for change and having a new experience of life. I'm an insight oriented therapist meaning I assist clients in illuminating their inner workings and wounds that have created struggles in their lives. I work at a level of healing and empowering with the intention to offer guidance rather than to instruct. You are the expert of your life. Together we take a look at what needs to be addressed and resolved then move into recognizing one's own strengths, value, and worth. This allows individuals to move into greater appreciation and acceptance of self. I have worked for several years with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a strong focus on personal acceptance, self-compassion, and resolution of internal conflicts based in trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, relationship strain, or lack of direction and focus in one’s life. I specialize in substance abuse and addiction treatment. Having been in recovery for 10 years myself, I understand the journey of ending the cycle of self destruction and moving to a place of healing and greater peace.

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Hi, I'm Zoe. If you’ve landed on my page you may be struggling with your relationships, dealing with unresolved issues from the past that keep you feeling stuck and experiencing feelings of stress, hopelessness, burn-out and make you contemplate your worth. If you relate to any of the above I am here to help! I work with adolescents age 16+, adult individuals & couples. I have a passion in helping those heal from these experiences and build the type of relationships with others and yourself that you desire. My background is within Attachment-based/Psychodynamic Therapy but I incorporate other modalities such as mindfulness, solution-focused, acceptance and commitment and internal family systems. For couples I am trained in the Gottman approach for couples therapy and use this to guide treatment while incorporating attachment themes. My approach is warm, compassionate and collaborative while also helping to challenge my clients in order to meet their goals. Due to an error on the system I am only available between 1:30-2:00pm PST to book a free 15 min consultation and do not have 1pm as a standing hour long appointment. Please feel free to message me in the portal if you have any questions regarding scheduling.

I am Licensed MFT and I help my client to explore their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions in a safe and confidential space. The goal is personal growth and improve mental wellbeing and navigate the client through anxiety, depression, addiction and relationship issues, through collaborative work my client able to gain the tools and insight to deal with the at hand problems and future issues. Developing rapport with my clients is a primary focus and understanding their struggles in their own words, by providing them with safe and nonjudgmental environment.

Hi! I have been in the field helping individuals, couples and families for 13 years from all walks of life and range of socioeconomical status. During the years of experience, I have found great joy in providing a safe landing spot for those ready to unpack their past traumas, navigate their current stressors and challenges, learn new strategies for coping and finding a greater meaning to their lives. To see the transformation of many individuals who felt broken to become and grow into a stronger sense of self with optimism for their future has been what drives me in my career of serving others.

As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, my personal mission is to help clients reach wholeness and fulfill their potential within their relationships. With over 20 years of experience, I offer individualized support and practical feedback in an accepting, comfortable and safe environment to help clients move forward toward renewed mental health, growth and overall wellness. The therapy that I practice is done from a psychodynamic perspective. Within this framework, I practice various techniques to deepen the therapy process including Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as well as Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples.

We are all faced with challenges. These challenges can create limitations that interfere with gaining a sense of self, forming healthy relationships, and pursuing our goals. I believe we should not allow these obstacles to dictate how we respond to the environment around us. Learning healthy coping skills, challenging negative self talk, and setting effective boundaries can facilitate desired outcomes in our daily life. Given the opportunity, I would enjoy working with you right where you are. Let’s get to work!

I help my clients to gain a deeper understanding of the behavioral issues, triggers, coping mechanisms, and traumas that may be contributing to their challenges. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your story and find healing. Your security and safety are my top priority, and I will work with you every step of the way to ensure you feel comfortable and supported. So come as you are, and let's start our healing journey together.

Are you ready to take steps towards actionable change? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy for young adults, adults, and older adults facing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and relationship concerns. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and empowered to develop resilience, gain clarity, and make positive changes in their lives.

Hello...Most of my work is Brief Emotional Therapy, 4-7 sessions, although I do have folks that have been with me for longer. I work with issues of anxiety and depression as well as relationship issues and problems with emotional intimacy, both with ourselves and others. Much of my work involves moving towards your most meaningful or valued life while accepting the pain /anxiety that inevitably comes with it I'm here to facilitate your journey on whatever you are experiencing or going through without judgment or attitude. I help manage the depressions or anxieties that come with life, cope with a crisis, or move into the growth and evolvement that are ours to have. I practice tele-therapy daily. If you see an open slot you are welcome to take it without any advance notice. Thank you, Dr. Robert Lusson

I have been in the field of mental health for 29 years. My goal as a therapist is to help you achieve ultimate happiness and peace in your life. As human beings we can not go back and change our past but we can find the tools that can help us live our lives fully and find the ways to use our full potential. I will listen to you and will try my best to support you in finding the path to happiness by practicing and using the tools and methods that are helpful and tangible.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel genuinely heard, understood, and accepted. I believe therapy should be a place where you can show up exactly as you are—without fear of judgment—and work toward meaningful change at your own pace. I have over 6 years of experience working in the mental health and substance use field across various levels of care. Throughout my career, I have supported individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, relationship difficulties, substance use, and more complex mental health conditions such as mood disorders and personality disorders. I understand how difficult it can be to seek help, especially when struggling with the fear of being seen as weak or facing the stigma that often surrounds mental health and substance use. As someone who grew up in a culture where mental health was not openly discussed, I deeply value creating an environment where clients feel safe enough to be vulnerable and empowered enough to grow. My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. I draw from evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and trauma-informed care to help clients build insight, develop healthier coping skills, strengthen self-confidence, establish healthy boundaries, and create lasting changes that improve their overall quality of life. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply looking for support during a difficult season of life, I'm here to walk alongside you. Together, we can work toward helping you feel more balanced, confident, and connected to the life you want to live.

Many of the individuals and couples I work with are at a crossroads—frustrated, sometimes burnt out, and seeking practical, workable strategies for change. Therapy offers a dedicated, supportive space to identify obstacles and map a path toward meaningful personal growth. With over 15 years of experience across healthcare, restorative justice, and outpatient settings, I provide telehealth therapy at Grow for adults and couples. My practice focuses on: *Chronic Pain & Complex Medical Issues *Anxiety & Phobias *Fertility & Family Building Support *LGBTQ+ & Gender-Affirming Care *Eating Disorder/Substance Use Step-Down Maintenance: Supporting ongoing recovery from substance use or eating disorders following higher levels of care. *Couples Therapy: Improving communication and relational dynamics (clinical outpatient focus only). Practice Boundaries & Administrative Policies To maintain a clear focus on clinical care, please review the following scope boundaries: *Legal & Forensic Services: I do not provide forensic evaluations, court-ordered treatment, litigation support, or expert witness testimony for legal proceedings, divorce, or custody disputes. *Disability & Administrative Paperwork: I do not perform disability evaluations or complete short/long-term disability claims; I do not write Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letters. *Telehealth & Medical Requirements: Virtual therapy for chronic pain, ARFID, or medical distress serves strictly as a complementary psychological service. Because virtual care lacks physical monitoring: A. Clients with ARFID or eating disorders must maintain ongoing care with an in-person physician for routine medical safety. B. Clients seeking pain reprocessing or somatic therapy must have their pain evaluated by a physician. ******If medical or psychiatric needs exceed virtual outpatient scope, I will assist with referrals to local in-person providers**************

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you and walk alongside with you in that process.

I am a client-centered professional with 15 years of experience providing broad mental health services to diverse populations of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified art therapist with specialization in utilizing multiple evidence-based modalities to address substance abuse, dual diagnoses, depression, anxiety, trauma, and domestic violence. I work with couples to increase effective communication skills in order to understand each other as well as grow emotional intimacy.

I have been providing mental health services since 2003. Throughout my career I have worked communities large and small and have provided services to client of all ages and clinical presentations. I have worked with Foster Youth struggling with attachment all the way to helping Older Adults find purpose and meaning. I specialize in trauma, particularly that which occurs in the context of the relationship. I enjoy working with couples and individuals struggling in relationships. I like to focus on promoting healthy connections with others and how to ensure this creates a lasting structure to manage life's challenges. In addition to this I encourage areas of strength to ensure our life has purpose.

I’m Kimberly M. Brooks, LCSW. I help adults and couples facing anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship strain, and emotional overwhelm find clarity and peace. My style is warm, direct, and grounding. I offer practical tools, honest insight, and optional faith-integrated support to help you heal, strengthen your relationships, and move forward with confidence. Clients often tell me they appreciate the calm space I create, the clarity that comes from honest conversations, and the steady guidance that helps them move forward.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Are you struggling in relationships or feeling numb to the enjoyment that life offers? I am committed to supporting you in overcoming the challenges that impact your ability to have a well balanced life. My style is warm, collaborative, trauma informed, interactive and process oriented. I integrate mindfulness into my work as a way to strengthen your relationship to yourself and others. I also bring creativity into discussions as a way to offer additional perspectives so you can find easier paths towards resolution. Whether you are struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse or relationship issues, I will meet you with compassion, curiosity and respect. Let’s work together to overcome your challenges.

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families to address a wide range of mental health concerns. My practice supports individuals navigating life transitions, engaging in self-exploration, or managing the everyday challenges that come with balancing responsibilities and relationships. I have extensive experience helping clients work through anxiety, depression, eating disorders, postpartum concerns, family stress, and relational difficulties. My approach is integrative and tailored to each client’s unique needs, drawing from various therapeutic modalities to create a personalized, goal-oriented path toward healing. At the core of my philosophy is the belief that every individual possesses the strength and capacity to create meaningful change. My role is to guide and support you in that process, helping you move toward greater balance, emotional well-being, and a more fulfilling life.

My name is David Haro. I am a millennial Mexican-American born and raised in Southern California and I found my passion for mental health by growing up with a family members members who suffered from serious mental health concerns. I did not know it at the time, but those years of lived familial experience, as well as my own personal struggles, shaped me into the caring, empathetic, and compassionate human I feel I have become today. I try to meet my clients where they are in order to help them grow as much as they are able to in the time that we work together. I employ a Person-centered approach where the client is the expert, and I am a guide on their journey of self-discovery and healing. I look forward to working with you!

As a licensed therapist of more than thirty years, I have the experience and expertise to work with clients on a variety of issues. I provide a safe therapeutic environment that builds trust and openness. Clients who engage in the counseling process discover new energy for life and relationships. This results in positive change and increased self-awareness. I’m actively involved in the sessions, providing guidance, structuring interventions, and setting goals. Positive change happens one step at a time, trusting that life can get better. I also have expertise in anger management/domestic violence treatment.

I received a B.A. degree in Psychology from UCLA and an M.A. degree in Counseling Psychology from Pepperdine University. Recently I received a Ph.D. in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health Policy and Practice from Northcentral University. I also have a Ph.D. (ABD) in International Psychology with a concentration in Trauma Response from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist since 1996 (LMFT 33119). Previously, I worked for UCLA's Career Counseling Center as a Psychometrist, and as a social worker for the Department of Children and Family Services. Additionally, I worked as a Children's Mental Health Clinician for San Diego County Children's Mental Health. Following my work with children, I conducted Psychiatric Evaluations for the Emergency Department at Tri-City Medical Center in Oceanside and worked at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center as an Emergency Department Patient Liaison/Analyst. More recently, I worked as the Director of Family Services for a Native American Tribe, and as a Wraparound Clinical Program Manager for foster children at a nonprofit. Currently, in addition to my private practice, I teach as an Online Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Pepperdine University.

Hello, I'm Heather, an experienced counselor providing individual, couples, and family therapy in California and Texas. With over 20 years of experience in social work and counseling, including service as a Navy veteran, I provide compassionate, client-centered care focused on helping people navigate emotional concerns, relationship difficulties, family challenges, life transitions, and personal growth. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and grounded in active listening. I strive to create a respectful, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard and supported while developing practical skills for meaningful and lasting change. In couples and family therapy, I help clients strengthen communication, navigate conflict, improve emotional connection, and better understand differing perspectives. Couples and family members do not need to be in the same location for telehealth sessions. Simply share the appointment link with the other participant, and each person can join the same session separately. I accept cash-pay clients for individual, couples, and family therapy in California and Texas. Insurance participation varies by service. I currently accept Aetna, Carelon, EAP: UAW/UMass Benefits, Sharp Health Plan, and UnitedHealthcare/Optum in California for individual therapy, and Aetna in Texas for individual therapy. These plans are not currently accepted for ongoing couples/family therapy with me through this platform. If your insurance cannot be used for the ongoing service you need, additional options may be available. When applicable, I also provide services through Cyti-Psychological, where you can inquire about continuing care with me. Visit cytipsych.com for insurance and scheduling assistance. Whether you are seeking support individually, as a couple, or as a family, I look forward to helping you work toward your goals.

I am a licensed psychologist with experience across private practice, community mental‑health settings, and correctional settings. My clinical work focuses on helping patients understand the bidirectional connection between thoughts, emotions, and physical health. I provide structured and flexible, evidence‑based therapy informed by CBT, DBT, and EMDR, behavioral health, and contemporary clinical psychology. My approach is direct and yet compassionate, collaborative and client-focused, and centered on measurable change. I help patients identify behavioral patterns, challenge distorted thinking, strengthen emotional regulation, understand the duality of the world (the tension of the opposites and how to find the fine balance in it), and build practical skills that support long‑term stability. I also integrate psychoeducation on the mind–body relationship, health behaviors, and the impact of chronic stress on psychological functioning. Evolutionary psychology and metaphors are a big part of my psycho-education as well. I work with adults 18 to 64 years old, including individuals navigating medical illness, work‑related stress, family conflict, identity development, life and career transitions, lifestyle integration in California, and trauma histories. I also have specialized experience working with personality disorders and individuals facing complex psychosocial stressors. As a naturalized, proud citizen of this country, I bring a unique perspective to therapy based on my life experiences, my work as a multicultural mental health professional, and my recognition not to take the freedom and opportunities we have in our country for granted. I’m constantly working to expand my knowledge within my scope of practice. Currently, I’m completing a post‑graduate master’s degree in clinical psychopharmacology in order to integrate medical and psychological perspectives more comprehensively. This training helps me better recognize how medical and mental‑health conditions influence one another—connections that are often overlooked. I also speak and provide therapy in Armenian and Russian.