Psychosis Therapists in Carlsbad, CA

Gina Mendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Gina Mendez helps children, teens, adults, and seniors build stability, insight, and resilience when mental health challenges disrupt daily life. She provides compassionate, clinically grounded therapy to individuals and families across California, supporting clients as they navigate complex emotional, behavioral, and relational concerns. Gina is known for creating a safe, collaborative environment where clients feel empowered to engage in treatment and take meaningful steps toward long-term well-being.
Gina Mendez helps children, teens, adults, and seniors build stability, insight, and resilience when mental health challenges disrupt daily life. She provides compassionate, clinically grounded therapy to individuals and families across California, supporting clients as they navigate complex emotional, behavioral, and relational concerns. Gina is known for creating a safe, collaborative environment where clients feel empowered to engage in treatment and take meaningful steps toward long-term well-being.
(760) 840-2433 View (760) 840-2433
Dr. Nancy Tokar
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
Dr. Tokar is particularly passionate about treating individuals dealing with trauma, midlife transitions, and grief. Drawing on decades of experience, she helps clients navigate complex life challenges, empowering them to find clarity and peace. Her work with trauma, including PTSD, provides a safe and supportive space for those seeking to process their experiences and reclaim their well-being. For individuals facing midlife transitions or the loss of a loved one, Dr. Tokar offers thoughtful, compassionate guidance to help them move forward with confidence and hope. In her practice, Dr.
Dr. Tokar is particularly passionate about treating individuals dealing with trauma, midlife transitions, and grief. Drawing on decades of experience, she helps clients navigate complex life challenges, empowering them to find clarity and peace. Her work with trauma, including PTSD, provides a safe and supportive space for those seeking to process their experiences and reclaim their well-being. For individuals facing midlife transitions or the loss of a loved one, Dr. Tokar offers thoughtful, compassionate guidance to help them move forward with confidence and hope. In her practice, Dr.
(760) 361-6814 View (760) 361-6814
Joanne Talbot
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Joanne works with depression, anxiety, mood and personality disorders and is experienced working with suicidal & self-harming behaviors, psychosis, sexual assault, domestic violence, and substance abuse.
Joanne utilizes an integrative approach to therapy that brings together solution focused, cognitive, and behavioral approaches to improve daily functioning. This approach helps individuals improve symptoms of depression and anxiety, reduces dysfunctional patterns of behavior, and teaches healthy strategies to manage mental health issues and life stress.
Joanne works with depression, anxiety, mood and personality disorders and is experienced working with suicidal & self-harming behaviors, psychosis, sexual assault, domestic violence, and substance abuse.
Joanne utilizes an integrative approach to therapy that brings together solution focused, cognitive, and behavioral approaches to improve daily functioning. This approach helps individuals improve symptoms of depression and anxiety, reduces dysfunctional patterns of behavior, and teaches healthy strategies to manage mental health issues and life stress.
(949) 541-9876 View (949) 541-9876
Carlsbad Assessment Center for Children
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Dr. MacArthur specializes in providing psychological and neuropsychological assessments for children ages 2-18 in a variety of areas, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (especially in possible masking and subtle presentations), ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Behavioral Challenges, and Social-Emotional Concerns. Dr. MacArthur helps children and families identify strengths and areas of obstacles in order to provide the best path forward to help your child thrive. Dr. MacArthur uses a neurodiversity-affirming approach and makes the assessment process a positive experience for the child and family.
Dr. MacArthur specializes in providing psychological and neuropsychological assessments for children ages 2-18 in a variety of areas, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (especially in possible masking and subtle presentations), ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Behavioral Challenges, and Social-Emotional Concerns. Dr. MacArthur helps children and families identify strengths and areas of obstacles in order to provide the best path forward to help your child thrive. Dr. MacArthur uses a neurodiversity-affirming approach and makes the assessment process a positive experience for the child and family.
(442) 233-8161 View (442) 233-8161
Kathleen Byrne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I am a compassionate and caring licensed professional therapist, with many years of combined personal and professional experience working in various capacities with children, teens, and adults. As a hard working mother who raised four children (two boys and two girls), I understand the stressors that families go through in this journey we call "life." Although children and teens may be hesitant to meet with a therapist, you will find that they will warm up to me quickly. I have ways to connect with children and teens through a variety of interventions, including therapy-type games and casual and relaxed conversation.
I am a compassionate and caring licensed professional therapist, with many years of combined personal and professional experience working in various capacities with children, teens, and adults. As a hard working mother who raised four children (two boys and two girls), I understand the stressors that families go through in this journey we call "life." Although children and teens may be hesitant to meet with a therapist, you will find that they will warm up to me quickly. I have ways to connect with children and teens through a variety of interventions, including therapy-type games and casual and relaxed conversation.
(760) 515-4401 View (760) 515-4401
David J Cain
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, CGP
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I prefer to work with adults and couples who are invested in learning more about themselves and their relationships as a means to address the problems they currently experience. I view problems as opportunities for growth and see my role as helping you draw on your personal resources to become the person you wish to be. I have worked with all age groups and a wide range of problems in clinical, university, and private practice settings. Professional activities include teaching and supervising psychology graduate students and professional therapists, writing, editing, conducting workshops and presentations, and serving my profession.
I prefer to work with adults and couples who are invested in learning more about themselves and their relationships as a means to address the problems they currently experience. I view problems as opportunities for growth and see my role as helping you draw on your personal resources to become the person you wish to be. I have worked with all age groups and a wide range of problems in clinical, university, and private practice settings. Professional activities include teaching and supervising psychology graduate students and professional therapists, writing, editing, conducting workshops and presentations, and serving my profession.
(760) 533-9066 View (760) 533-9066
Heide Hamelberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Carlsbad, CA 92008
"To work and to love successfully" is Heinz Kohut's definition of mental health. With this goal in mind I work with a diverse group of clients helping each individual to define his/her priorities in life, and design realistic steps to achieve their desired goal. I work psychodynamically to help explore, work through intrusive troublesome memories, in order to resolve them, heal and move on. I work with cognitive behavioral techniques to assist with problem solving of here-and-now conflicts at work and/or in interpersonal behavioral relationships. For an appt. call my confidential # (310) 487-7640, please do not email.
"To work and to love successfully" is Heinz Kohut's definition of mental health. With this goal in mind I work with a diverse group of clients helping each individual to define his/her priorities in life, and design realistic steps to achieve their desired goal. I work psychodynamically to help explore, work through intrusive troublesome memories, in order to resolve them, heal and move on. I work with cognitive behavioral techniques to assist with problem solving of here-and-now conflicts at work and/or in interpersonal behavioral relationships. For an appt. call my confidential # (310) 487-7640, please do not email.
(424) 625-2964 View (424) 625-2964
Maria Scali
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
As a psychotherapist, I am passionate & dedicated to working with individuals who struggle with issues impacting emotional wellness- including depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, bipolar disorder, & relationship issues. I have over 20 years experience in treating addiction & trauma. I use a psychodynamic & attachment lens- exploring the relationship you have with yourself & others. Together, we can take a look at what factors make sense & contribute to what you're struggling with. The work to resolve these struggles is an amazing process & truly a gift to give yourself. I am always privileged to be on that journey with you.
As a psychotherapist, I am passionate & dedicated to working with individuals who struggle with issues impacting emotional wellness- including depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, bipolar disorder, & relationship issues. I have over 20 years experience in treating addiction & trauma. I use a psychodynamic & attachment lens- exploring the relationship you have with yourself & others. Together, we can take a look at what factors make sense & contribute to what you're struggling with. The work to resolve these struggles is an amazing process & truly a gift to give yourself. I am always privileged to be on that journey with you.
(442) 200-0499 View (442) 200-0499
Melissa Collins-Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
3 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Hello! I’m Mel and I’m so glad you’re here. When you walk into my office, my goal is for you to feel accepted just as you are. You’ll be met with warmth, curiosity, and respect. I leave my own values at the door, because this space is about helping you live in alignment with your values. We all exist on a spectrum of mental health, and your struggles are simply part of being human. My work is rooted in attachment-based and psychodynamic theories, drawing from Jung, Rogers, Frankl, Klein, and Satir. I most often use Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting, and ACT, but tailor treatment to the client's needs and preferences.
Hello! I’m Mel and I’m so glad you’re here. When you walk into my office, my goal is for you to feel accepted just as you are. You’ll be met with warmth, curiosity, and respect. I leave my own values at the door, because this space is about helping you live in alignment with your values. We all exist on a spectrum of mental health, and your struggles are simply part of being human. My work is rooted in attachment-based and psychodynamic theories, drawing from Jung, Rogers, Frankl, Klein, and Satir. I most often use Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting, and ACT, but tailor treatment to the client's needs and preferences.
(442) 435-4330 View (442) 435-4330
L.j. Lumpkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Online Only
While working with a diverse group of clients who suffer from social anxiety to schizophrenia, I have noticed that stress and anxiety are always a factor.
Pain and suffering does not need to be a normal way of life. Have you been numbing the symptoms, but not healing the root pain? By letting go of judgment and finding your authentic self, I can help you feel empowered, in finding your own sense of healing. While cultivating an authentic relationship, we can create a healthier way to approach life. I incorporate an integrative model that is rooted in mindfulness practices and can be tailored to your individual needs. By helping you find awareness around the mind-body connection, you can experience life in a more fulfilling way, free of past traumas.
While working with a diverse group of clients who suffer from social anxiety to schizophrenia, I have noticed that stress and anxiety are always a factor.
Pain and suffering does not need to be a normal way of life. Have you been numbing the symptoms, but not healing the root pain? By letting go of judgment and finding your authentic self, I can help you feel empowered, in finding your own sense of healing. While cultivating an authentic relationship, we can create a healthier way to approach life. I incorporate an integrative model that is rooted in mindfulness practices and can be tailored to your individual needs. By helping you find awareness around the mind-body connection, you can experience life in a more fulfilling way, free of past traumas.
(831) 291-5515 View (831) 291-5515
Jenny Li
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, NCC, C-EXRP
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Waitlist for new clients
You do not need "big trauma" to feel overwhelmed. Many people carry the weight of complex experiences, perfectionism, family dynamics, and shame, without naming it. Or you have always felt ‘not enough,’ even when things look fine on the outside. Whether you feel stuck, overthink, are on edge, or caught in painful patterns that do not make sense, we will explore how past experiences shape your relationships, reactions, and self-protection. I can help you make sense of old patterns, reduce internal pressure, and reconnect with yourself.
You do not need "big trauma" to feel overwhelmed. Many people carry the weight of complex experiences, perfectionism, family dynamics, and shame, without naming it. Or you have always felt ‘not enough,’ even when things look fine on the outside. Whether you feel stuck, overthink, are on edge, or caught in painful patterns that do not make sense, we will explore how past experiences shape your relationships, reactions, and self-protection. I can help you make sense of old patterns, reduce internal pressure, and reconnect with yourself.
(442) 259-8211 View (442) 259-8211
Katie McCowan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
By being here, you’ve already taken a powerful step toward clarity & connection—not just with others, but with yourself. Therapy is where that transformation begins. It’s a space to untangle the patterns that no longer serve you, explore who you are beyond the roles you’ve taken on, and step into a kind of independence that feels secure and whole. It's natural to feel lost - doubting yourself, searching for validation, picking up the pieces from profound connections lost, and feeling unsure of where to go next. Together, we'll work to heal and integrate your experiences into wisdom and greater perspective.
By being here, you’ve already taken a powerful step toward clarity & connection—not just with others, but with yourself. Therapy is where that transformation begins. It’s a space to untangle the patterns that no longer serve you, explore who you are beyond the roles you’ve taken on, and step into a kind of independence that feels secure and whole. It's natural to feel lost - doubting yourself, searching for validation, picking up the pieces from profound connections lost, and feeling unsure of where to go next. Together, we'll work to heal and integrate your experiences into wisdom and greater perspective.
(951) 477-4877 View (951) 477-4877
Kirstyn Odle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Do you ever sit back and think about the you, you once were? Or the couple you once were? Do you ever sit and think to yourself, “how did I get here?” Is your kiddo struggling with BIG emotions too? Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, anxious and lonely? Let’s work together, in a safe space and answer those questions. Let’s work toward paving a road where you can move through those dark, scary, unknown places and foster the best version of yourself. Let’s work together to strengthen your relationships and reach your goals.
Do you ever sit back and think about the you, you once were? Or the couple you once were? Do you ever sit and think to yourself, “how did I get here?” Is your kiddo struggling with BIG emotions too? Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, anxious and lonely? Let’s work together, in a safe space and answer those questions. Let’s work toward paving a road where you can move through those dark, scary, unknown places and foster the best version of yourself. Let’s work together to strengthen your relationships and reach your goals.
(760) 493-7432 View (760) 493-7432
Kristen Hashioka, PsyD
Psychologist, BSN, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
We all have moments in life when we could use help processing our feelings and emotional pain. We have times when we feel alone and believe that no one else could possibly understand what we’re going through. Talking with a therapist, someone who’s objective, who will work with you in a way that is meaningful and relevant to you, can be beneficial during these times. I believe good therapy can offer a space where you feel valued, heard, gain insight, learn skills and self-acceptance. Using a collaborative and integrative approach, we can work through negative thoughts, painful emotions, and unresolved problems. I am here to help.
We all have moments in life when we could use help processing our feelings and emotional pain. We have times when we feel alone and believe that no one else could possibly understand what we’re going through. Talking with a therapist, someone who’s objective, who will work with you in a way that is meaningful and relevant to you, can be beneficial during these times. I believe good therapy can offer a space where you feel valued, heard, gain insight, learn skills and self-acceptance. Using a collaborative and integrative approach, we can work through negative thoughts, painful emotions, and unresolved problems. I am here to help.
(760) 699-2177 View (760) 699-2177
Cindy Bollman
Psychologist, PhD
Carlsbad, CA 92008
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, it is important to find a therapist with whom you feel safe and comfortable....a good fit for you. I have been in practice for over 30 years with an emphasis on early trauma and its effects on daily living. However, life can throw out curveballs and may have nothing to do with earlier childhood experiences. My approach is to get to the problem, agree on the goals, and work collaboratively to live in the solution. I focus on the “here and now” and welcome feedback along the way, positive and negative!
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or relationship issues, it is important to find a therapist with whom you feel safe and comfortable....a good fit for you. I have been in practice for over 30 years with an emphasis on early trauma and its effects on daily living. However, life can throw out curveballs and may have nothing to do with earlier childhood experiences. My approach is to get to the problem, agree on the goals, and work collaboratively to live in the solution. I focus on the “here and now” and welcome feedback along the way, positive and negative!
(760) 637-5006 View (760) 637-5006
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, broken relationships, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, financial recklessness, and gambling. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, broken relationships, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, financial recklessness, and gambling. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(760) 491-6639 View (760) 491-6639
Joanne Talbot
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I graduated from the University of Luton in England and continued her education, earning her Master’s Degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from the University of Phoenix. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a background in crisis intervention. I began my career as an MFT, working in an emergency shelter program for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking with substance abuse and severe mental health issues. I provided individual and group therapy in residential and outpatient transitional housing programs.
I graduated from the University of Luton in England and continued her education, earning her Master’s Degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from the University of Phoenix. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a background in crisis intervention. I began my career as an MFT, working in an emergency shelter program for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking with substance abuse and severe mental health issues. I provided individual and group therapy in residential and outpatient transitional housing programs.
(408) 668-0391 View (408) 668-0391
Yadira Acosta
Psychological Associate, PhD
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I specialize in helping clients work through self-doubt, depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges - especially when rooted in childhood or family dynamics. Many of the people I work with are navigating major life changes, career crossroads, health issues, or healing from unresolved trauma. Together, we explore what’s holding you back and build lasting confidence, clarity, and a deep sense of connection with who you truly are. Although I hold certifications in CBT, DBT, hypnotherapy, and other evidence-based methods, I’ve developed my own integrative system tailored to each client.
I specialize in helping clients work through self-doubt, depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges - especially when rooted in childhood or family dynamics. Many of the people I work with are navigating major life changes, career crossroads, health issues, or healing from unresolved trauma. Together, we explore what’s holding you back and build lasting confidence, clarity, and a deep sense of connection with who you truly are. Although I hold certifications in CBT, DBT, hypnotherapy, and other evidence-based methods, I’ve developed my own integrative system tailored to each client.
(858) 258-5663 View (858) 258-5663
Trish Eileen Vernazza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Trish Vernazza, M.A. is an experienced, caring professional who can assist you in achieving a fully integrated life by focusing on your strengths and potential. Achieving a healthy and positive balance in our lives is the key to understanding our own mental, emotional, spiritual, physical health along with personal relationships. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, confidential environment while assisting you to experience, identify and understand the personal barriers which are getting in your way. Working with many clients of many ethnic and culture backgrounds and alternative lifestyles I provide a environment that helps develop personal insight.
Trish Vernazza, M.A. is an experienced, caring professional who can assist you in achieving a fully integrated life by focusing on your strengths and potential. Achieving a healthy and positive balance in our lives is the key to understanding our own mental, emotional, spiritual, physical health along with personal relationships. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, confidential environment while assisting you to experience, identify and understand the personal barriers which are getting in your way. Working with many clients of many ethnic and culture backgrounds and alternative lifestyles I provide a environment that helps develop personal insight.
(760) 684-8302 View (760) 684-8302
Sheri R. Curtis, Ph.D.
Psychologist
2 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Emerson wrote, "What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." This quote resonates with me because although people have endured very painful events in their lives and may face difficult days ahead, the strength of the human spirit never ceases to amaze me with its resiliency. When people enter into treatment, I consider it a privilege to help them through difficult times in their lives. Whether the problem is a personal, marital, or parenting difficulty, I meet them where they are at and work alongside them to increase awareness, personal empowerment, and life satisfaction.
Emerson wrote, "What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." This quote resonates with me because although people have endured very painful events in their lives and may face difficult days ahead, the strength of the human spirit never ceases to amaze me with its resiliency. When people enter into treatment, I consider it a privilege to help them through difficult times in their lives. Whether the problem is a personal, marital, or parenting difficulty, I meet them where they are at and work alongside them to increase awareness, personal empowerment, and life satisfaction.
(951) 338-9639 View (951) 338-9639

See more therapy options for Carlsbad

Psychosis Therapists
What’s the most effective treatment for psychosis?
The most effective treatment for psychosis is coordinated specialty care. In this model, a team of professionals works with a patient to address all aspects of the underlying disorder. This approach incorporates individual or group therapy, employment and education support, family support and education, medication management (which often involves low doses of antipsychotics), and case management to facilitate problem-solving as needed.

When should people seek treatment for psychosis?
People should seek immediate treatment at the earliest indication of psychosis. Symptoms include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized or blocked speech, and agitated body movements. Early signs that a person may be developing a disorder that will lead to psychosis include suspiciousness of others, memory problems and distractibility, an inability to think clearly, rapid or nonsensical speech, withdrawal from friends or family, aggression toward others, and sensitivity to bright lights or noises.

What if psychosis is left untreated?
Without treatment, psychosis can have significant repercussions, including injuries, job loss, homelessness, financial or legal trouble, ruptured relationships, and suffering for the person and their family. While early treatment for psychosis often yields the best results, there is no point past which it becomes useless to seek treatment. At any point, treatment can make a difference.

How do I get someone else to seek treatment for psychosis?
It’s extremely difficult to watch a loved one suffer from hallucinations, delusions, and other elements of psychosis—sometimes exacerbated by their fears of treatment. Have a conversation with them in a quiet space and maintain a calm, supportive tone. Share your concerns about behaviors you’ve observed, suggest treatment, and explain the potential benefits. Listen carefully to their responses. The person may not be ready after one conversation, but with time, they may come around.