Photo of Amanda Lance-Sexton, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Amanda Lance-Sexton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92163
Waitlist for new clients
I offer an attachment-based, family systems, whole person approach to wellness that embraces individuals across the lifespan. From children to tweens, adults, couples, and families, my goal is to create a warm and inviting space where healing and growth can flourish. Drawing from attachment theory, my therapeutic approach includes exploring the importance of early relationships and how they shape our well-being. I specialize in working with life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationships, and parenting.
I offer an attachment-based, family systems, whole person approach to wellness that embraces individuals across the lifespan. From children to tweens, adults, couples, and families, my goal is to create a warm and inviting space where healing and growth can flourish. Drawing from attachment theory, my therapeutic approach includes exploring the importance of early relationships and how they shape our well-being. I specialize in working with life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationships, and parenting.
(619) 344-8532 View (619) 344-8532
Photo of Dave Fung, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Dave Fung
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I utilize EFT, an attachment-based approach that focuses on how relationships influence us.
True story: I’ve gotten my truck stuck in the same sandy desert spot on TWO different occasions - both times, thinking I knew what to do. Nope. Both times I needed help. Like with my truck, the help I have received in my life has helped me understand who I am and now it inspires me to support others in their journey. I have the privilege of supporting numerous couples, teens, and individuals, and I take an approach that is warm, constructive, and collaborative. Our time is spent understanding who you are, what is getting you stuck, and exploring what it may take to get you where you want to be.
I utilize EFT, an attachment-based approach that focuses on how relationships influence us.
True story: I’ve gotten my truck stuck in the same sandy desert spot on TWO different occasions - both times, thinking I knew what to do. Nope. Both times I needed help. Like with my truck, the help I have received in my life has helped me understand who I am and now it inspires me to support others in their journey. I have the privilege of supporting numerous couples, teens, and individuals, and I take an approach that is warm, constructive, and collaborative. Our time is spent understanding who you are, what is getting you stuck, and exploring what it may take to get you where you want to be.
(619) 404-0468 View (619) 404-0468
Photo of Meg Semler, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Meg Semler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
I help couples and individuals explore how our past experiences influence our current behaviors and relationships. I believe that a deeper understanding of the connection between past and present builds compassion for ourselves and our partners, gives us greater insight into our relational patterns, and fosters self-awareness and change. I use a trauma-informed, attachment-based approach to help couples rebuild intimacy, connection, and trust, and to help individuals heal past traumas and work to meet personal and relational goals.
I help couples and individuals explore how our past experiences influence our current behaviors and relationships. I believe that a deeper understanding of the connection between past and present builds compassion for ourselves and our partners, gives us greater insight into our relational patterns, and fosters self-awareness and change. I use a trauma-informed, attachment-based approach to help couples rebuild intimacy, connection, and trust, and to help individuals heal past traumas and work to meet personal and relational goals.
(619) 268-8266 View (619) 268-8266
Photo of Lauren Thibodeau, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Lauren Thibodeau
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
Lauren utilizes gender-affirming therapy, experiential, attachment-based interventions, somatic experiencing, and internal family systems therapies.
Lauren treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. She works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, she strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs.
Lauren utilizes gender-affirming therapy, experiential, attachment-based interventions, somatic experiencing, and internal family systems therapies.
Lauren treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. She works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, she strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs.
(657) 214-7701 View (657) 214-7701
Photo of Jessica Holzer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jessica Holzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist that supports children of all ages, teens, adults, and couples and individuals struggling with parenting. There are times in our lives where we recognize we need to nurture our growth, can feel disconnected to each other or our goals, or simply need some support. I am here to help you, your family, and your children with a challenge that might feel too big to manage on your own. I also offer clinical supervision for those therapists accruing hours towards licensure.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist that supports children of all ages, teens, adults, and couples and individuals struggling with parenting. There are times in our lives where we recognize we need to nurture our growth, can feel disconnected to each other or our goals, or simply need some support. I am here to help you, your family, and your children with a challenge that might feel too big to manage on your own. I also offer clinical supervision for those therapists accruing hours towards licensure.
(858) 302-4254 View (858) 302-4254
Photo of Toppacio Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Toppacio Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
I fundamentally use attachment-based and trauma focus lenses within my work.
Hello, my name is Toppacio Rodriguez, but you can refer to me as Topy. My pronouns are she/her (ella/ellas). As a therapist, I will follow your lead and provide suggestions and information on what options are available. I'm a big believer that having limited expectations only provide limited opportunities. I will collaborate with you to identify challenges in your path, brainstorm with you and be on your side as you see what works best. I have had the pleasure of learning from various groups and populations. I obtained experience working in Family Preservation assisting families through the reunification process.
I fundamentally use attachment-based and trauma focus lenses within my work.
Hello, my name is Toppacio Rodriguez, but you can refer to me as Topy. My pronouns are she/her (ella/ellas). As a therapist, I will follow your lead and provide suggestions and information on what options are available. I'm a big believer that having limited expectations only provide limited opportunities. I will collaborate with you to identify challenges in your path, brainstorm with you and be on your side as you see what works best. I have had the pleasure of learning from various groups and populations. I obtained experience working in Family Preservation assisting families through the reunification process.
(619) 853-3973 View (619) 853-3973
Photo of Sierra Family Therapy Center San Diego, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Sierra Family Therapy Center San Diego
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
At Sierra Family Therapy, we offer a wide range of treatment to provide deep healing and recovery. We offer Individual, Family, Couples, and Child/Adolescent treatment. We work with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, dealing with grief, loss, loneliness, interpersonal relationships, trauma work using EMDR/Brainspotting, resolving sexual difficulties, healing childhood wounds, eating disorders, learning effective communication and anger release, overcoming money and power struggles, exploring purpose and meaning in life, and freeing creativity, spontaneity and joy.
At Sierra Family Therapy, we offer a wide range of treatment to provide deep healing and recovery. We offer Individual, Family, Couples, and Child/Adolescent treatment. We work with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, dealing with grief, loss, loneliness, interpersonal relationships, trauma work using EMDR/Brainspotting, resolving sexual difficulties, healing childhood wounds, eating disorders, learning effective communication and anger release, overcoming money and power struggles, exploring purpose and meaning in life, and freeing creativity, spontaneity and joy.
(619) 329-9107 View (619) 329-9107
Photo of maria gallegos skomal, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
maria gallegos skomal
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
Deciding to come to therapy can be a difficult decision. To enter a successful therapeutic relationship you have to find the right therapist for you. I offer you a safe, caring, and nurturing environment. I was born and raised in Mexico, and greatly embrace my bi-cultural experience. Throughout my years of practice, I have helped people with a wide variety of psychological and relationship problems environment to create positive changes in your life.
Deciding to come to therapy can be a difficult decision. To enter a successful therapeutic relationship you have to find the right therapist for you. I offer you a safe, caring, and nurturing environment. I was born and raised in Mexico, and greatly embrace my bi-cultural experience. Throughout my years of practice, I have helped people with a wide variety of psychological and relationship problems environment to create positive changes in your life.
(619) 324-3945 View (619) 324-3945
Photo of Tracy Aronlee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Tracy Aronlee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92111
I am here to help! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trauma and how it impacts relationships in children, teens, adults and families. When faced with a challenge, have you ever felt like one part of you wants to shut down or hide, and another part wants to yell and scream? These are different parts of you that need our individual attention and compassion to heal. With my expertise and compassionate approach, I am dedicated to helping you learn more about these parts of you and build meaningful connections to cultivate healthy relationships and more peace in your life
I am here to help! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with trauma and how it impacts relationships in children, teens, adults and families. When faced with a challenge, have you ever felt like one part of you wants to shut down or hide, and another part wants to yell and scream? These are different parts of you that need our individual attention and compassion to heal. With my expertise and compassionate approach, I am dedicated to helping you learn more about these parts of you and build meaningful connections to cultivate healthy relationships and more peace in your life
(858) 304-7045 View (858) 304-7045
Photo of Amanda Gaddis, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Amanda Gaddis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
My name is Amanda Gaddis and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe in a strength-based approach to solving problems, renewing hope, and building new skills. I believe everyone can benefit from feeling seen, heard, and understood and that finding a therapist you can connect with is an integral part of the therapeutic process. My approach is individualized to the needs of each client. I specialize in attachment-based approaches to support with trauma and complex trauma, as well as relationship difficulties and family conflicts.
My name is Amanda Gaddis and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe in a strength-based approach to solving problems, renewing hope, and building new skills. I believe everyone can benefit from feeling seen, heard, and understood and that finding a therapist you can connect with is an integral part of the therapeutic process. My approach is individualized to the needs of each client. I specialize in attachment-based approaches to support with trauma and complex trauma, as well as relationship difficulties and family conflicts.
(650) 643-5719 View (650) 643-5719
Photo of Christina Nicole Cabral, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Christina Nicole Cabral
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Christina Cabral, LMFT137667 Specialty areas: Anxiety, life transitions, attachment issues, anger management and perinatal mental health. Works with children, teens, & young adults. Utilizes an integrative approach composed of psychodynamic, CBT, mindfulness, client-centered, and strength -based interventions. I work from a client centered approach and value connection and the therapeutic relationship. I believe a safe, positive environment fosters the setting for vulnerability and comfortability.
Christina Cabral, LMFT137667 Specialty areas: Anxiety, life transitions, attachment issues, anger management and perinatal mental health. Works with children, teens, & young adults. Utilizes an integrative approach composed of psychodynamic, CBT, mindfulness, client-centered, and strength -based interventions. I work from a client centered approach and value connection and the therapeutic relationship. I believe a safe, positive environment fosters the setting for vulnerability and comfortability.
(619) 762-3626 View (619) 762-3626
Photo of Eszter Kalman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Eszter Kalman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116
Do you find yourself on an emotional rollercoaster, feeling exhausted, irritable, and unsure of your path through parenthood? Perhaps bonding with your baby feels like an uphill battle. Maybe you're grappling with the overwhelming emotions that can follow a miscarriage, abortion, or birth trauma. Infertility may have left you feeling isolated, like no one truly understands your struggle. In these moments of uncertainty, it's easy to feel lost, confused, and sad. You might even have unsettling thoughts and images about your baby, leading to guilt and shame. It's okay to admit that sometimes, parenthood doesn't feel so joyful.
Do you find yourself on an emotional rollercoaster, feeling exhausted, irritable, and unsure of your path through parenthood? Perhaps bonding with your baby feels like an uphill battle. Maybe you're grappling with the overwhelming emotions that can follow a miscarriage, abortion, or birth trauma. Infertility may have left you feeling isolated, like no one truly understands your struggle. In these moments of uncertainty, it's easy to feel lost, confused, and sad. You might even have unsettling thoughts and images about your baby, leading to guilt and shame. It's okay to admit that sometimes, parenthood doesn't feel so joyful.
(619) 494-2830 View (619) 494-2830
Photo of Jessica Adler, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jessica Adler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist who is interested in helping people grow, learn, and heal. I am especially passionate about working with children, adolescents, young adults, and new parents/caregivers as they navigate the challenges that can come with entering a new phase of life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist who is interested in helping people grow, learn, and heal. I am especially passionate about working with children, adolescents, young adults, and new parents/caregivers as they navigate the challenges that can come with entering a new phase of life.
(619) 304-1939 View (619) 304-1939
Photo of Mariana Agostina Mesnik, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Mariana Agostina Mesnik
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I have over a decade of experience working with children, teens, and families in decreasing conflict, increasing self-esteem, and maximizing the potential to live a fuller, happier, and healthier life.
I have over a decade of experience working with children, teens, and families in decreasing conflict, increasing self-esteem, and maximizing the potential to live a fuller, happier, and healthier life.
(760) 377-9604 View (760) 377-9604
Photo of Myles Childs, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Myles Childs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
Reaching out for help? In a time of need, it can be overwhelming. I want to commend you for acknowledging that you would like some support. Through individual, couple, family, group, and other relational therapy, I provide emotional and mental support to help my clients gain, regain, and maintain a healthy life. As a therapist of color, I'm intentional about creating a safe space where diversity and cultural differences are respected and valued. I'm passionate about my clients’ wellness and aim to provide clients with space and time to be their most authentic and unapologetic selves without fear of judgment.
Reaching out for help? In a time of need, it can be overwhelming. I want to commend you for acknowledging that you would like some support. Through individual, couple, family, group, and other relational therapy, I provide emotional and mental support to help my clients gain, regain, and maintain a healthy life. As a therapist of color, I'm intentional about creating a safe space where diversity and cultural differences are respected and valued. I'm passionate about my clients’ wellness and aim to provide clients with space and time to be their most authentic and unapologetic selves without fear of judgment.
(858) 758-8038 View (858) 758-8038
Photo of Emily Essid, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Emily Essid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
I'm a compassionate psychologist specializing in individual and couples therapy for adults, with expertise in infertility/reproductive issues and maternal mental health. Tailoring my approach to each person's journey, I draw from Psychodynamic Theory to guide clients toward healing and growth. I create a space of trust and acceptance, offering empathy and gentle support through challenges. My expertise includes depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, and identity exploration, with a focus on infertility/reproductive issues and maternal mental health. I'm fluent in French, embrace diversity, and invite individuals and
I'm a compassionate psychologist specializing in individual and couples therapy for adults, with expertise in infertility/reproductive issues and maternal mental health. Tailoring my approach to each person's journey, I draw from Psychodynamic Theory to guide clients toward healing and growth. I create a space of trust and acceptance, offering empathy and gentle support through challenges. My expertise includes depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, and identity exploration, with a focus on infertility/reproductive issues and maternal mental health. I'm fluent in French, embrace diversity, and invite individuals and
(858) 567-1780 View (858) 567-1780
Photo of Allyson Ford, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Diego, CA
Allyson Ford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92113  (Online Only)
Struggling with an Eating Disorder is a complex experience that deeply impacts us psychologically, interpersonallly, physically and emotionally. In the short term, the behaviors provide a sense of relief from painful life experiences. They "dull" the effects of trauma, oppression, interpersonal distress and intense emotions. They often help us cope with core wounds around not belonging, not feeling good enough, not feeling safe in our bodies and not having a sense of agency. The process of recovery can feel terrifying- like giving up a life raft. At the same time, the life raft begins to make us feel stuck, isolated and hopeless.
Struggling with an Eating Disorder is a complex experience that deeply impacts us psychologically, interpersonallly, physically and emotionally. In the short term, the behaviors provide a sense of relief from painful life experiences. They "dull" the effects of trauma, oppression, interpersonal distress and intense emotions. They often help us cope with core wounds around not belonging, not feeling good enough, not feeling safe in our bodies and not having a sense of agency. The process of recovery can feel terrifying- like giving up a life raft. At the same time, the life raft begins to make us feel stuck, isolated and hopeless.
(619) 273-0636 View (619) 273-0636
Photo of Christin Laufik, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Christin Laufik
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Therapy is an opportunity for healing and transformation. You begin to feel better in your body and improve the quality of your life. Maybe you struggle with a painful loss, are overwhelmed by excessive worry, depression, trauma, or social anxiety. Maybe you are feeling stuck. Maybe you want a better marriage and more confidence in your parenting. You may feel shame and find that your ways of coping with avoidance, procrastination, or negative self-talk adds to your distress. I am passionate about helping you find a greater sense of connection, health, and meaning in your life. I know how to get you there!
Therapy is an opportunity for healing and transformation. You begin to feel better in your body and improve the quality of your life. Maybe you struggle with a painful loss, are overwhelmed by excessive worry, depression, trauma, or social anxiety. Maybe you are feeling stuck. Maybe you want a better marriage and more confidence in your parenting. You may feel shame and find that your ways of coping with avoidance, procrastination, or negative self-talk adds to your distress. I am passionate about helping you find a greater sense of connection, health, and meaning in your life. I know how to get you there!
(858) 290-2684 View (858) 290-2684
Photo of Kara Rubens, Counselor in San Diego, CA
Kara Rubens
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131
I'm passionate about supporting clients navigating the perinatal period, struggling with professional or parenting burnout, or seeking to regain footing during major life transitions. I aim to make therapy feel approachable. I offer trauma-sensitive, attachment/ relationship-focused care. Your identities and cultural background matter as we collaborate to choose approaches that feel meaningful to you. I draw from Mindful-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and the Expressive Arts.
I'm passionate about supporting clients navigating the perinatal period, struggling with professional or parenting burnout, or seeking to regain footing during major life transitions. I aim to make therapy feel approachable. I offer trauma-sensitive, attachment/ relationship-focused care. Your identities and cultural background matter as we collaborate to choose approaches that feel meaningful to you. I draw from Mindful-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and the Expressive Arts.
(858) 943-7057 View (858) 943-7057
Photo of Raquel Garber, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Raquel Garber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
Specializing in empowering individuals and couples, I believe therapy unlocks pathways to a more enriching life. Starting from your unique point, I foster a secure space to delve into personal challenges. As a Certified Grief Educator, I offer unparalleled support, navigating the often unspoken complexities of grief. My primary passion lies in nurturing relationships. Ellyn Bader, Ph.D., aptly noted, ‘Couples therapy not only fortifies families but also fosters profound personal evolution.’ Join me in exploring and fostering healthier, stronger connections that endure and thrive.
Specializing in empowering individuals and couples, I believe therapy unlocks pathways to a more enriching life. Starting from your unique point, I foster a secure space to delve into personal challenges. As a Certified Grief Educator, I offer unparalleled support, navigating the often unspoken complexities of grief. My primary passion lies in nurturing relationships. Ellyn Bader, Ph.D., aptly noted, ‘Couples therapy not only fortifies families but also fosters profound personal evolution.’ Join me in exploring and fostering healthier, stronger connections that endure and thrive.
(619) 292-0261 View (619) 292-0261
Attachment-based Therapists

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.