Lesbian Therapists in Camp Pendleton, CA

Shauntis L. Bussey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
So you’ve known for a while that you needed to talk to a therapist, but you’re not sure who will actually get you. Glad you found me. Maybe you’ve held it together so well that even you started believing your struggles weren’t “that bad.” You’ve learned to go it alone, carry all the responsibility, and push through. For a while, it worked: you checked the boxes, hit the milestones, got the bag. But now you’re exhausted, overthinking, and wondering why a life that looks fine on paper still feels so hard and empty.
So you’ve known for a while that you needed to talk to a therapist, but you’re not sure who will actually get you. Glad you found me. Maybe you’ve held it together so well that even you started believing your struggles weren’t “that bad.” You’ve learned to go it alone, carry all the responsibility, and push through. For a while, it worked: you checked the boxes, hit the milestones, got the bag. But now you’re exhausted, overthinking, and wondering why a life that looks fine on paper still feels so hard and empty.
(951) 262-7841 View (951) 262-7841
Amy Leigh Fernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hey there! Deciding to start the journey of therapy is something people come to for so many reasons. To heal trauma. To grieve. To vent. To find the way through a huge life transition. To discover who they are. To learn better ways to cope. To find a way to become un-stuck when things just aren’t working. It is about sitting through feelings in a safe space where you can develop new patterns and experience emotional wellness and healing. I practice from a variety of theoretical frameworks, drawing on aspects of Cognitive-Behavioral and Psychodynamic approaches through a trauma-informed lens.
Hey there! Deciding to start the journey of therapy is something people come to for so many reasons. To heal trauma. To grieve. To vent. To find the way through a huge life transition. To discover who they are. To learn better ways to cope. To find a way to become un-stuck when things just aren’t working. It is about sitting through feelings in a safe space where you can develop new patterns and experience emotional wellness and healing. I practice from a variety of theoretical frameworks, drawing on aspects of Cognitive-Behavioral and Psychodynamic approaches through a trauma-informed lens.
(951) 447-8926 View (951) 447-8926
Dr. Rodger S. Questin
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting the responsibility to change isn’t easy, but it becomes deeply rewarding once you take the first step. Together, we’ll navigate obstacles and reshape your future with clarity and purpose. By exploring what is and isn’t working, we’ll co-create practical strategies tailored to your unique needs and challenges. Our work will help you break through stagnation, fostering a meaningful relationship with yourself and others. You’ll build self-awareness and resilience—empowering you to manifest new possibilities. Through this collaborative process, you’ll create shifts that turn obstacles into opportunities for growth and healing.
Accepting the responsibility to change isn’t easy, but it becomes deeply rewarding once you take the first step. Together, we’ll navigate obstacles and reshape your future with clarity and purpose. By exploring what is and isn’t working, we’ll co-create practical strategies tailored to your unique needs and challenges. Our work will help you break through stagnation, fostering a meaningful relationship with yourself and others. You’ll build self-awareness and resilience—empowering you to manifest new possibilities. Through this collaborative process, you’ll create shifts that turn obstacles into opportunities for growth and healing.
(858) 304-2932 View (858) 304-2932
Stephanie Raducha Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma-related concerns. I have extensive experience working with trauma survivors, individuals with eating disorders and substance use disorders, and active-duty Service Members and Veterans. My ideal clients are motivated to create meaningful change through learning new coping skills and processing their experiences in a supportive, collaborative environment. Clients often appreciate my empathic, straightforward approach to therapy.
I specialize in helping adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma-related concerns. I have extensive experience working with trauma survivors, individuals with eating disorders and substance use disorders, and active-duty Service Members and Veterans. My ideal clients are motivated to create meaningful change through learning new coping skills and processing their experiences in a supportive, collaborative environment. Clients often appreciate my empathic, straightforward approach to therapy.
(760) 840-2138 View (760) 840-2138

More Therapists Nearby

Couples Therapy - Atti Moricelli
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
The couples who find me are rarely struggling because they don't love one another. More often, they've become trapped in a relationship that no longer reflects who they want to be together. They may be successful in every other area of life yet feel defeated at home. I work with couples navigating parenthood, infertility, betrayal, emotional distance, recurring conflict, discernment, conscious uncoupling, and poly/ENM transitions. What unites them is the feeling of being trapped in a relationship pattern they no longer know how to change.
The couples who find me are rarely struggling because they don't love one another. More often, they've become trapped in a relationship that no longer reflects who they want to be together. They may be successful in every other area of life yet feel defeated at home. I work with couples navigating parenthood, infertility, betrayal, emotional distance, recurring conflict, discernment, conscious uncoupling, and poly/ENM transitions. What unites them is the feeling of being trapped in a relationship pattern they no longer know how to change.
(714) 410-5683 View (714) 410-5683
Bianca Dancy
Marriage & Family Therapist, Bianca Dancy, MS, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a queer therapist who works with couples and individuals looking to improve their quality of life, sense of wellbeing, and relationships with themselves and their loved ones. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, or burnout, working to build healthy relationships, accommodating neurodivergence, or navigating relational trauma, I can support you in developing self-awareness and emotional regulation techniques, improving communication and conflict resolution skills, building empathy and emotional intimacy, and challenging negative relationship patterns. I have extensive experience supporting LGBTQIA+ folks.
I am a queer therapist who works with couples and individuals looking to improve their quality of life, sense of wellbeing, and relationships with themselves and their loved ones. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, or burnout, working to build healthy relationships, accommodating neurodivergence, or navigating relational trauma, I can support you in developing self-awareness and emotional regulation techniques, improving communication and conflict resolution skills, building empathy and emotional intimacy, and challenging negative relationship patterns. I have extensive experience supporting LGBTQIA+ folks.
(562) 837-2248 View (562) 837-2248
Rachael Stracka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
1 Endorsed
Escondido, CA 92025
Tired of feeling anxious, overwhelmed? Like you don't know where else to turn? We all have a story to tell, but not everyone feels empowered to share theirs. There are ALWAYS reasons why you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, chronically stressed, angry, or depressed. We will uncover each and every one of your symptoms and put the pieces of the puzzle together so that you can feel content and secure - inside and out.
Tired of feeling anxious, overwhelmed? Like you don't know where else to turn? We all have a story to tell, but not everyone feels empowered to share theirs. There are ALWAYS reasons why you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, chronically stressed, angry, or depressed. We will uncover each and every one of your symptoms and put the pieces of the puzzle together so that you can feel content and secure - inside and out.
(442) 379-1285 View (442) 379-1285
Lisette Montañez
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
Understanding our emotions can sometimes feel like navigating a maze without a map. From the earliest moments of our lives, our relationships shape who we are and how we relate to the world. I'm Dr. Lisette Montañez, a licensed psychologist at Coastal Therapy Group in Carlsbad and Vista. I help teens, adults, and couples untangle the emotional threads that weave through their past and present. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, navigating relationship dynamics, processing trauma, or exploring your identity, I offer a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings at your own pace. I am actively taking new patients 4/1/2026.
Understanding our emotions can sometimes feel like navigating a maze without a map. From the earliest moments of our lives, our relationships shape who we are and how we relate to the world. I'm Dr. Lisette Montañez, a licensed psychologist at Coastal Therapy Group in Carlsbad and Vista. I help teens, adults, and couples untangle the emotional threads that weave through their past and present. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, navigating relationship dynamics, processing trauma, or exploring your identity, I offer a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings at your own pace. I am actively taking new patients 4/1/2026.
(442) 200-2795 View (442) 200-2795
Merissa A. Mathews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Murrieta, CA 92562
Are you experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, feeling stuck in a dark place of depression or addiction? Maybe you are experiencing challenges with feeling too needy in relationships or having difficulty connecting emotionally. Perhaps, you are wanting to be more assertive, have less stress in social situations, and have more confidence at work. Past experiences can strongly influence the way you feel about yourself and the world. Past events can be anything from experiencing emotional/physical/sexual abuse, bullying, emotional neglect, experiencing racial trauma, or not feeling accepted for being LGBTQ+.
Are you experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, feeling stuck in a dark place of depression or addiction? Maybe you are experiencing challenges with feeling too needy in relationships or having difficulty connecting emotionally. Perhaps, you are wanting to be more assertive, have less stress in social situations, and have more confidence at work. Past experiences can strongly influence the way you feel about yourself and the world. Past events can be anything from experiencing emotional/physical/sexual abuse, bullying, emotional neglect, experiencing racial trauma, or not feeling accepted for being LGBTQ+.
(619) 393-4746 View (619) 393-4746
Live With Ease Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC, AMFT, APCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Live With Ease Wellness Center is a group psychotherapy practice with 6 different clinicians conducting in-person sessions in our Long Beach office, as well as telehealth services across California. We strive to provide a warm, compassionate, and inclusive environment for people to feel supported and understood. We are diversity-affirming, sensitive and informed to cultural differences and uniqueness. We embrace and celebrate the various identities that make you who you are. We serve individuals from all racial, ethnic, gender identity, sexual identity, religious backgrounds, and abilities.
Live With Ease Wellness Center is a group psychotherapy practice with 6 different clinicians conducting in-person sessions in our Long Beach office, as well as telehealth services across California. We strive to provide a warm, compassionate, and inclusive environment for people to feel supported and understood. We are diversity-affirming, sensitive and informed to cultural differences and uniqueness. We embrace and celebrate the various identities that make you who you are. We serve individuals from all racial, ethnic, gender identity, sexual identity, religious backgrounds, and abilities.
(562) 445-3729 View (562) 445-3729
Samantha Howell
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals navigating anxiety and depression, especially those who feel like their brain just works differently. These clients are insightful, self-aware, and still feel stuck repeating the same emotional cyclesIf your mind feels like it never shuts off, you overthink everything, replay conversations, or get stuck in negative thought loops, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come in feeling anxious, drained, or disconnected from themselves, despite their best efforts.. Together, we’ll identify the patterns that are keeping you stuck and build tools to shift these thinking patterns.
I work with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals navigating anxiety and depression, especially those who feel like their brain just works differently. These clients are insightful, self-aware, and still feel stuck repeating the same emotional cyclesIf your mind feels like it never shuts off, you overthink everything, replay conversations, or get stuck in negative thought loops, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come in feeling anxious, drained, or disconnected from themselves, despite their best efforts.. Together, we’ll identify the patterns that are keeping you stuck and build tools to shift these thinking patterns.
(951) 465-4011 View (951) 465-4011
Lauren Thibodeau
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Serves Area
Lauren is a Trans Male therapist who treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. He works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, he strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs. Some of his specialties include working with ADHD, Autism Spectrum, OCD, collaborative care for complex health conditions and PTSD. He also works well with domestic violence survivors and those looking to take back their power and find ways to use their voice.
Lauren is a Trans Male therapist who treats adults, couples, families, and adolescents, and is especially passionate in providing resources and care to the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. He works with various clients, and while trained in a range of treatment types, he strives to tailor her therapeutic approach to each person and their unique, individual needs. Some of his specialties include working with ADHD, Autism Spectrum, OCD, collaborative care for complex health conditions and PTSD. He also works well with domestic violence survivors and those looking to take back their power and find ways to use their voice.
(657) 214-7701 View (657) 214-7701
Jill Diamond de Porras
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Welcome! Let's talk if obsessive, poor body image, eating disorders & disordered eating are holding you back from living a full, content life. I'd love for you to reach out if you need a specialist in identifying and finding solutions to issues blocking you or your child's best academic, sports, & professional performance such as poor concentration or motivation. You'll find me authentic, warm, & approachable. I offer a professional, respectful & laid back space to support you forward on your journey to building a life & relationships where you can finally breathe deeply & live to your full, individual potential.
Welcome! Let's talk if obsessive, poor body image, eating disorders & disordered eating are holding you back from living a full, content life. I'd love for you to reach out if you need a specialist in identifying and finding solutions to issues blocking you or your child's best academic, sports, & professional performance such as poor concentration or motivation. You'll find me authentic, warm, & approachable. I offer a professional, respectful & laid back space to support you forward on your journey to building a life & relationships where you can finally breathe deeply & live to your full, individual potential.
(951) 339-2485 View (951) 339-2485
Vanessa Morgan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you and your partner feeling disconnected, stuck in destructive cycles, or struggling to find intimacy and trust? Relationships can feel isolating when you’re caught in patterns that lead to pain instead of connection. I help couples heal, rebuild, and rediscover each other. Using a science-backed approach, I work with couples facing reactivity, crisis recovery, trauma, betrayal, and challenges around core values. I also support couples through major life transitions, including becoming new parents, navigating infertility, and bridging parenting differences.
Are you and your partner feeling disconnected, stuck in destructive cycles, or struggling to find intimacy and trust? Relationships can feel isolating when you’re caught in patterns that lead to pain instead of connection. I help couples heal, rebuild, and rediscover each other. Using a science-backed approach, I work with couples facing reactivity, crisis recovery, trauma, betrayal, and challenges around core values. I also support couples through major life transitions, including becoming new parents, navigating infertility, and bridging parenting differences.
(949) 565-2638 View (949) 565-2638
Tanyshia Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is ambitious, capable, and ready for more, but feels stuck between where they are and where they know they could be. They’re juggling too many priorities, second-guessing key decisions, and frustrated by inconsistent results. They don’t lack intelligence or drive; they lack clarity, structure, and a focused path forward. They want momentum, confidence, and a strategy that actually works. They want to feel in control.
My ideal client is ambitious, capable, and ready for more, but feels stuck between where they are and where they know they could be. They’re juggling too many priorities, second-guessing key decisions, and frustrated by inconsistent results. They don’t lack intelligence or drive; they lack clarity, structure, and a focused path forward. They want momentum, confidence, and a strategy that actually works. They want to feel in control.
(951) 319-2481 View (951) 319-2481
Merissa Mathews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Murrieta, CA 92562
Are you experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, feeling stuck in a dark place of depression or addiction? Maybe you are experiencing challenges with feeling too needy in relationships or having difficulty connecting emotionally. Perhaps, you are wanting to be more assertive, have less stress in social situations, and have more confidence at work. Past experiences can strongly influence the way you feel about yourself and the world. Past events can be anything from experiencing emotional/physical/sexual abuse, bullying, emotional neglect, experiencing racial trauma, or not feeling accepted for being LGBTQ+.
Are you experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, feeling stuck in a dark place of depression or addiction? Maybe you are experiencing challenges with feeling too needy in relationships or having difficulty connecting emotionally. Perhaps, you are wanting to be more assertive, have less stress in social situations, and have more confidence at work. Past experiences can strongly influence the way you feel about yourself and the world. Past events can be anything from experiencing emotional/physical/sexual abuse, bullying, emotional neglect, experiencing racial trauma, or not feeling accepted for being LGBTQ+.
(951) 330-7321 View (951) 330-7321
America Islas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe you deserve more than just therapy—you deserve a space where you are celebrated, understood, and truly safe. My work in LGBTQI2-S Affirmative Care is rooted in the belief that everyone, regardless of identity or expression, should have access to healing that fosters resilience and self-acceptance. Whether I’m working with an adult, a couple, or a family, my focus is on building the trust we need to navigate life's dynamics and move toward a more fulfilling, joyful life.
I believe you deserve more than just therapy—you deserve a space where you are celebrated, understood, and truly safe. My work in LGBTQI2-S Affirmative Care is rooted in the belief that everyone, regardless of identity or expression, should have access to healing that fosters resilience and self-acceptance. Whether I’m working with an adult, a couple, or a family, my focus is on building the trust we need to navigate life's dynamics and move toward a more fulfilling, joyful life.
(657) 679-5824 View (657) 679-5824
Hannah Friesen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may be the one who holds everything together for everyone else, yet inside you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, or simply exhausted. Maybe you've spent years adapting to others, trying to meet expectations, or being who you thought you needed to be, only to lose touch with yourself along the way. You don't have to keep carrying it all alone. Therapy can be a space to slow down, untangle the chaos, and better understand yourself with curiosity and compassion. Together, we can explore the deeper roots of your struggles so you can heal, grow, and feel more like yourself again.
You may be the one who holds everything together for everyone else, yet inside you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, or simply exhausted. Maybe you've spent years adapting to others, trying to meet expectations, or being who you thought you needed to be, only to lose touch with yourself along the way. You don't have to keep carrying it all alone. Therapy can be a space to slow down, untangle the chaos, and better understand yourself with curiosity and compassion. Together, we can explore the deeper roots of your struggles so you can heal, grow, and feel more like yourself again.
(619) 815-4179 View (619) 815-4179
Erin Kownacki
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, RYT
6 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Are you seeking a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for you or your teen to manage anxiety, explore your identity or increase relationship skills? You are in the right place. I specialize in supporting teens, couples, and individuals with healing, reconnecting, and learning to trust themselves again. If you are ready to grow and looking to go deeper in therapy, my direct and collaborative approach might be what you are looking for. I know this process can be difficult and I want you to know that it takes courage to seek out support. I am supervised by Karolyn Johnson, LMFT 81409.
Are you seeking a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for you or your teen to manage anxiety, explore your identity or increase relationship skills? You are in the right place. I specialize in supporting teens, couples, and individuals with healing, reconnecting, and learning to trust themselves again. If you are ready to grow and looking to go deeper in therapy, my direct and collaborative approach might be what you are looking for. I know this process can be difficult and I want you to know that it takes courage to seek out support. I am supervised by Karolyn Johnson, LMFT 81409.
(858) 293-4950 View (858) 293-4950
Heather Marriatori
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Serves Area
I'm a Psychologist in CA and MN who believes each person has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I'm LGBTQIA+-Affirming & provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I'm MAP-Informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive.
I'm a Psychologist in CA and MN who believes each person has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I'm LGBTQIA+-Affirming & provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I'm MAP-Informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive.
(619) 648-3167 View (619) 648-3167

See more therapy options for Camp Pendleton

Lesbian Therapists
What is lesbian-affirming therapy?
Lesbian-affirming therapy is a type of mental health support that fully affirms and reflects a client's lesbian identity. It is rooted in acceptance and does not attempt to change or question an individual's sexual orientation. In this type of therapy, clients work with a therapist who understands the unique experiences of lesbian women. This support is especially important, as research shows that lesbian individuals face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges compared to heterosexual populations. Lesbian-affirming therapy acknowledges that lesbian individuals may encounter specific stressors—such as coming out challenges, family rejection, workplace discrimination, and minority stress—that require specialized understanding and intervention. Lesbian-affirming therapists often work with clients across all age groups, from adolescents navigating their emerging identity to adults and older individuals addressing life transitions and relationship concerns. Many therapists also provide couples therapy for lesbian partners, helping them navigate relationship dynamics, communication challenges, or external stressors that may impact their relationship. It is important to note that therapists provide talk therapy and counseling services but do not prescribe medication—if medication is needed for conditions like depression or anxiety, they will coordinate care with a psychiatrist or primary care physician who can provide psychiatric medication management alongside therapeutic support.

Why should I see a lesbian therapist?
Some clients prefer to work with lesbian therapists who may bring personal lived experience to the therapeutic relationship. Choosing to work with a lesbian therapist can offer a deeper sense of connection, comfort, and shared understanding. A therapist who identifies as lesbian may require clients to give less background explanation—whether it’s about navigating romantic relationships, feeling unseen in certain spaces, or processing the impact of past relationship challenges. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. Additionally, many lesbian-affirming therapists can connect clients to other providers or community-based resources—such as bisexual support groups or LGBTQ+ organizations—that offer additional affirming spaces for connection.

How do I find a lesbian therapist?
The Psychology Today online directory is a helpful tool for finding lesbian-affirming therapists. You can use search filters to identify therapists who specialize in LGBTQ+ care and work specifically with bisexual clients. You can also filter by clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, accepted insurance, session costs, and languages spoken to find the right fit. Look for profiles where therapists explicitly mention working with lesbian clients, or where they describe their approach as identity-affirming, inclusive, or trauma-informed. Many providers will also list their own identities, which may help you find someone with shared lived experience if that is important to you. You can also look for credentials or continuing education in areas such as LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma-informed care, and intersectionality.