Therapists for Adults in Encinitas, CA
“A real sign of progress is when we no longer punish ourselves for our imperfections” - Yung Pueblo. I believe that oftentimes our perceived “imperfections” hold stories of pain endured, and that acknowledging their existence, instead of hiding them away can be the first step towards healing. This, however, can be one of the most challenging things to do, as it requires unlearning sometimes lifetimes of messaging from the world around us. Issues such as depression, anxiety and trauma can cause us to feel off, disjointed and as though we need to “fix” the parts of us we perceive as imperfect.
“A real sign of progress is when we no longer punish ourselves for our imperfections” - Yung Pueblo. I believe that oftentimes our perceived “imperfections” hold stories of pain endured, and that acknowledging their existence, instead of hiding them away can be the first step towards healing. This, however, can be one of the most challenging things to do, as it requires unlearning sometimes lifetimes of messaging from the world around us. Issues such as depression, anxiety and trauma can cause us to feel off, disjointed and as though we need to “fix” the parts of us we perceive as imperfect.
I am accepting new clients for in person therapy!
Are you feeling stuck or disconnected from yourself? Do you struggle to identify and express your emotions, leaving you feeling alone, isolated, or hopeless? You may be longing for love, acceptance, and meaningful connection but feel unsure how to take the first step. My ideal clients are women navigating depression, anxiety, identity development, and life transitions. I am especially passionate about working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and providing affirming, inclusive care.
I am accepting new clients for in person therapy!
Are you feeling stuck or disconnected from yourself? Do you struggle to identify and express your emotions, leaving you feeling alone, isolated, or hopeless? You may be longing for love, acceptance, and meaningful connection but feel unsure how to take the first step. My ideal clients are women navigating depression, anxiety, identity development, and life transitions. I am especially passionate about working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and providing affirming, inclusive care.
Dr. Margaret A. O'Hara
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LMHC, NCC, CASAC
Online Only
Are you stressed and use alcohol, other substances, food, exercise, sex, work, spending, gambling, or screen use excessively? Do you think “I got this” after planning a strict regimen for change only to break it soon after? Do failed attempts cause you to feel down? Do you long for past times when you could enjoy these pleasures? Do you suspect there may be core issues that drive these behaviors but fear slowing down to explore them? Is there a personal or family history of trauma or emotional issues that causes anxiety? Do you feel exhausted and yearn to wake up refreshed? Are you isolating to avoid people who are concerned?
Are you stressed and use alcohol, other substances, food, exercise, sex, work, spending, gambling, or screen use excessively? Do you think “I got this” after planning a strict regimen for change only to break it soon after? Do failed attempts cause you to feel down? Do you long for past times when you could enjoy these pleasures? Do you suspect there may be core issues that drive these behaviors but fear slowing down to explore them? Is there a personal or family history of trauma or emotional issues that causes anxiety? Do you feel exhausted and yearn to wake up refreshed? Are you isolating to avoid people who are concerned?
Have you tried traditional talk therapy and felt like something was missing? Did it seem like you were talking in circles, or reached a plateau? Did it feel too rigid or surface level? Many clients come to me after having done traditional talk therapy and now they want to go deeper. So many issues like codependency, addiction, and persistent anxiety and depression are rooted in subconscious beliefs and patterns rooted in childhood pain. My work is unique because we address your subconscious mind and nervous system, in addition to cognitive process, to help you heal the past in order to move forward.
Have you tried traditional talk therapy and felt like something was missing? Did it seem like you were talking in circles, or reached a plateau? Did it feel too rigid or surface level? Many clients come to me after having done traditional talk therapy and now they want to go deeper. So many issues like codependency, addiction, and persistent anxiety and depression are rooted in subconscious beliefs and patterns rooted in childhood pain. My work is unique because we address your subconscious mind and nervous system, in addition to cognitive process, to help you heal the past in order to move forward.
With extensive experience in mental health, including trauma-informed care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Behavioral Therapy, I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents facing anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward? Do you wish you had someone to talk to who truly listens and understands? If these questions resonate with you, know that you’re not alone—and that help is available. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based practices. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and understood. I tailor each session to your unique needs, ensuring that our work together is both practical and transformative, identifying patterns, developing coping strategies, and achieving meaningful change in your life.
With extensive experience in mental health, including trauma-informed care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Behavioral Therapy, I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents facing anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward? Do you wish you had someone to talk to who truly listens and understands? If these questions resonate with you, know that you’re not alone—and that help is available. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based practices. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and understood. I tailor each session to your unique needs, ensuring that our work together is both practical and transformative, identifying patterns, developing coping strategies, and achieving meaningful change in your life.
Jamie has supported thousands of people in overcoming obstacles and making breakthroughs using a blend of clinical practices within a warm and safe environment.
Jamie has supported thousands of people in overcoming obstacles and making breakthroughs using a blend of clinical practices within a warm and safe environment.
I work with adults, couples, and teens using a personalized approach that integrates EMDR, and evidence-based modalities to meet your unique needs.
I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you can feel truly seen and heard. I approach clients from a trauma-informed lens with empathy, active listening, and humor when it serves the therapeutic process. I work from a place of curiosity, care, and deep respect for your story, while offering gentle confrontation when it supports your growth.
I work with adults, couples, and teens using a personalized approach that integrates EMDR, and evidence-based modalities to meet your unique needs.
I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you can feel truly seen and heard. I approach clients from a trauma-informed lens with empathy, active listening, and humor when it serves the therapeutic process. I work from a place of curiosity, care, and deep respect for your story, while offering gentle confrontation when it supports your growth.
Emily Elizabeth
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, MSW
2 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working with children, adults, and families in the field of mental health for over 15 years.
As a therapist and social worker, I believe our experiences shape us individually and collectively, and that healing within ourselves can strengthen our relationships and communities. With a social-justice approach centering inclusivity, anti-racism, and anti-capitalism, our work is guided toward growth that honors both your inner life and your connection to the greater whole.
My hope for our time together is to collaboratively discover your most authentic self, allowing the core of who you are to guide your healing journey. If you are seeking personal, communal, and spiritual growth, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
I have been working with children, adults, and families in the field of mental health for over 15 years.
As a therapist and social worker, I believe our experiences shape us individually and collectively, and that healing within ourselves can strengthen our relationships and communities. With a social-justice approach centering inclusivity, anti-racism, and anti-capitalism, our work is guided toward growth that honors both your inner life and your connection to the greater whole.
My hope for our time together is to collaboratively discover your most authentic self, allowing the core of who you are to guide your healing journey. If you are seeking personal, communal, and spiritual growth, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
Are you struggling to work through personal or relationship issues you've been unable to resolve on your own? Are you finally feeling ready to address the anxiety and/or depression that has been holding you back from life? There is no reason to feel alone or stuck; it is possible to work through these issues, and to feel happy again. I have experienced much success helping my clients resolve their issues, while creating a nurturing and safe environment. I incorporate humor and friendship in my practice and have found this helpful in furthering the progress and positive therapeutic experience.
Are you struggling to work through personal or relationship issues you've been unable to resolve on your own? Are you finally feeling ready to address the anxiety and/or depression that has been holding you back from life? There is no reason to feel alone or stuck; it is possible to work through these issues, and to feel happy again. I have experienced much success helping my clients resolve their issues, while creating a nurturing and safe environment. I incorporate humor and friendship in my practice and have found this helpful in furthering the progress and positive therapeutic experience.
Therapy is about the connection between you and me. This is the beginning of a profound review of one's life that points to a future with less pain. My calling is to be in this process with you to better health. My speciality is Men. In today's culture they are often left behind; yet men struggle with: lack of purpose, sadness, anxiety, trying to figure out who they are-just like anyone else. James Hollis puts it this way…“Who Am I apart from my history and the roles I have played?” Perhaps you feel the dreams of youth have been derailed or are inconsistent with where you thought you’d be now. Let’s take a look.
Therapy is about the connection between you and me. This is the beginning of a profound review of one's life that points to a future with less pain. My calling is to be in this process with you to better health. My speciality is Men. In today's culture they are often left behind; yet men struggle with: lack of purpose, sadness, anxiety, trying to figure out who they are-just like anyone else. James Hollis puts it this way…“Who Am I apart from my history and the roles I have played?” Perhaps you feel the dreams of youth have been derailed or are inconsistent with where you thought you’d be now. Let’s take a look.
I work with adults and older adults and specialize in mood issues, anxiety, and life change.
While I have worked with a wide variety of clients' needs, my approach is a good fit for anyone dealing with life changes and striving for a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world. My goal is to increase self-awareness and self-control, leading to increased empowerment and life satisfaction.
I work with adults and older adults and specialize in mood issues, anxiety, and life change.
While I have worked with a wide variety of clients' needs, my approach is a good fit for anyone dealing with life changes and striving for a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world. My goal is to increase self-awareness and self-control, leading to increased empowerment and life satisfaction.
I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, parent-child interaction, life transitions, and postpartum support. I help clients build practical coping skills in a collaborative, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment. My approach is warm and collaborative, creating a safe space to explore your challenges while equipping you with practical tools and strategies. Together, we focus on building skills you can use in everyday life to manage stress, regulate emotions, and navigate challenges confidently.
I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, parent-child interaction, life transitions, and postpartum support. I help clients build practical coping skills in a collaborative, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment. My approach is warm and collaborative, creating a safe space to explore your challenges while equipping you with practical tools and strategies. Together, we focus on building skills you can use in everyday life to manage stress, regulate emotions, and navigate challenges confidently.
I work with children, teens, and adults who may be facing emotional struggles, low self-esteem, or relational difficulties.
In sessions, I draw from evidence-based practices such as CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, and EMDR, while also integrating creative and mindfulness-based techniques like art, play, and guided reflection. Every person’s journey is unique, so therapy with me is always personalized to meet your specific needs and pace.
I work with children, teens, and adults who may be facing emotional struggles, low self-esteem, or relational difficulties.
In sessions, I draw from evidence-based practices such as CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, and EMDR, while also integrating creative and mindfulness-based techniques like art, play, and guided reflection. Every person’s journey is unique, so therapy with me is always personalized to meet your specific needs and pace.
Dr. Wu believes in Eclectic Approach. She often uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, strength-based approach and Family System Therapy to assist individuals to achieve their goals. Dr. Wu is a multilingual (English, Mandarin, & Taiwanese) psychologist who has worked with patients from a variety of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. She is culturally sensitive in providing a comprehensive range of mental health services for a diverse population. She believes Spirituality/Christianity can play an important role in mental health healing. Dr.
Dr. Wu believes in Eclectic Approach. She often uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, strength-based approach and Family System Therapy to assist individuals to achieve their goals. Dr. Wu is a multilingual (English, Mandarin, & Taiwanese) psychologist who has worked with patients from a variety of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. She is culturally sensitive in providing a comprehensive range of mental health services for a diverse population. She believes Spirituality/Christianity can play an important role in mental health healing. Dr.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 25 years of experience supporting adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families who are navigating emotional and relational challenges.
I am committed to helping clients gain insight, learn effective coping strategies, build resilience, and feel empowered to create a more balanced and fulfilling life. In our first session, we will spend time discussing what brings you to therapy and addressing any questions or concerns you may have about the process.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 25 years of experience supporting adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families who are navigating emotional and relational challenges.
I am committed to helping clients gain insight, learn effective coping strategies, build resilience, and feel empowered to create a more balanced and fulfilling life. In our first session, we will spend time discussing what brings you to therapy and addressing any questions or concerns you may have about the process.
There is no way around the fact that life throws ongoing curve balls, and sometimes those balls feel enormously overwhelming. I see therapy as a means to help people move through their suffering and finds better ways to experience their life and develop aspects of their mind that equip them to feel more joy, inner comfort, inner integration and meaning. I work empathically to build awareness of repetitive patterns, gain relief from emotional pain and help build deeper connections to oneself and others. My careful use of attunement and connecting one's core self to "parts" of the mind, one can experience deep and lasting change.
There is no way around the fact that life throws ongoing curve balls, and sometimes those balls feel enormously overwhelming. I see therapy as a means to help people move through their suffering and finds better ways to experience their life and develop aspects of their mind that equip them to feel more joy, inner comfort, inner integration and meaning. I work empathically to build awareness of repetitive patterns, gain relief from emotional pain and help build deeper connections to oneself and others. My careful use of attunement and connecting one's core self to "parts" of the mind, one can experience deep and lasting change.
I'm Jennifer Sage, a dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family therapist specializing in working with adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction.
My approach is rooted in compassion and curiosity for my clients to explore their experiences and emotions. I combine elements of acceptance, self love, mindfulness, and action-oriented strategies to develop meaningful and values driven goals. I use a combination of ACT, CBT, EMDR and various modalities in session.
I'm Jennifer Sage, a dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family therapist specializing in working with adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction.
My approach is rooted in compassion and curiosity for my clients to explore their experiences and emotions. I combine elements of acceptance, self love, mindfulness, and action-oriented strategies to develop meaningful and values driven goals. I use a combination of ACT, CBT, EMDR and various modalities in session.
Life can be challenging at times, and it can be good to know that someone is on your side. If you are looking for love, but it seems impossible to find, if you are having trouble in your romantic relationship, if you are dealing with a difficult ex-partner, or you are experiencing sexual challenges, my passion is to help you experience your best life.
Life can be challenging at times, and it can be good to know that someone is on your side. If you are looking for love, but it seems impossible to find, if you are having trouble in your romantic relationship, if you are dealing with a difficult ex-partner, or you are experiencing sexual challenges, my passion is to help you experience your best life.
Rick Erlien, LMFT. practical help results oriented. Would you like a happier life? I can help you to understand what is going wrong, your strengths, and how to find solutions. I utilize a Solution Focused approach along with Cognitive Behavior Therapy as well as in addition if you like... Music Therapy Healing (you do not have to be a musician). I can help you stop repeating old patterns, and make changes for the better, know what to do about it, and feel like you are in control. I use an integrative approach as I described above as well.
Rick Erlien, LMFT. practical help results oriented. Would you like a happier life? I can help you to understand what is going wrong, your strengths, and how to find solutions. I utilize a Solution Focused approach along with Cognitive Behavior Therapy as well as in addition if you like... Music Therapy Healing (you do not have to be a musician). I can help you stop repeating old patterns, and make changes for the better, know what to do about it, and feel like you are in control. I use an integrative approach as I described above as well.
You may be capable, responsible, and successful, yet anxious, exhausted, or never quite enough. You work harder, take care of everyone, and try not to need too much. From the outside, you seem fine. Inside, something doesn’t feel right.
Perhaps you’ve been given a diagnosis or medication that explained part of what you’re experiencing. Anxiety, overthinking, perfectionism, people-pleasing, physical symptoms, or relentless achievement may be ways you learned to manage experiences that once felt overwhelming.
Together, we can understand what’s beneath those patterns and help you feel safer, freer, and more at home in your own life.
You may be capable, responsible, and successful, yet anxious, exhausted, or never quite enough. You work harder, take care of everyone, and try not to need too much. From the outside, you seem fine. Inside, something doesn’t feel right.
Perhaps you’ve been given a diagnosis or medication that explained part of what you’re experiencing. Anxiety, overthinking, perfectionism, people-pleasing, physical symptoms, or relentless achievement may be ways you learned to manage experiences that once felt overwhelming.
Together, we can understand what’s beneath those patterns and help you feel safer, freer, and more at home in your own life.
See more therapy options for Encinitas
Nearby Adults Therapists Searches for Encinitas
- Bonsall
- Cardiff
- Cardiff By The Sea
- Del Mar
- Escondido
- La Jolla
- Oceanside
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- San Marcos
- Solana Beach
- Vista
FAQ - About Adult Counseling
Why should adults see a therapist?
Adults may benefit from therapy for a wide range of reasons—whether it’s managing symptoms of a diagnosed mental health condition like anxiety or depression, navigating life transitions, coping with grief or trauma, or simply seeking support during a challenging life period. Many adults find that therapy helps them build healthier coping skills and better process their emotions, which may lead to better relationships and reduced stress. It’s important to note that, unlike psychiatrists or primary care physicians, therapists do not prescribe psychiatric medication. However, they will often work alongside prescribing clinicians to ensure coordinated care and can provide behavioral therapy as an important addition to psychiatric medication. Mental health concerns can look different in adulthood than in childhood or adolescence, so finding a therapist with expertise working with adult clients is important. Conditions like major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for instance, may present or resurface differently in adulthood than in childhood or adolescence. Adult-specific stressors, such as job strain, caregiving responsibilities, relationship challenges, financial stress, or identity transitions, can also influence the onset and type of symptoms an individual experiences. Adult-focused therapists, therefore, are trained to understand these complexities and tailor care accordingly.
How do I know if a therapist is the right fit for me?
When seeking care, it’s important to understand a therapist’s treatment specialties and their overall approach to treatment . Some therapists focus on common adult conditions like anxiety or depression, while others specialize in areas such as trauma, substance use disorders, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. It’s also important to consider a therapist’s training when seeking care. Therapists hold various licenses depending on their training and state requirements. Common therapy credentials include Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs), Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs). Psychologists (PhD or PsyD) receive additional doctoral-level training and may focus on assessments or more specialized therapeutic approaches. All of these professionals can provide talk therapy but do not prescribe medication. When searching for a therapist, consider their credentials and training background to ensure a good fit.
How do I find a therapist who sees adults?
Psychology Today’s online directory allows you to search specifically for therapists who work with adults. Each provider profile includes key information such as clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, licensure, accepted insurance plans, languages spoken, and session fees. Reviewing these details can help you determine whether a particular provider aligns with your needs and can indicate whether they are a good match for adult clients.