Personality Disorders Therapists in Encinitas, CA

Dr. Nastassia Riser
Psychologist, MS, PhD
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
Riser has over 13 years of experience providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and various other evidence-based approaches for the treatment of mood, anxiety, and personality disorders with special interest in emotion regulation, self-harm, and suicidality.
Dr. Riser has worked as a DBT research therapist in an NIMH clinical trial at The University of Chicago. She has also worked in inpatient, outpatient, primary care, hospital, VA, and forensic settings. She has presented at national and international conferences and authored papers in the areas of emotion regulation, personality disorders and forensics.
Riser has over 13 years of experience providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and various other evidence-based approaches for the treatment of mood, anxiety, and personality disorders with special interest in emotion regulation, self-harm, and suicidality.
Dr. Riser has worked as a DBT research therapist in an NIMH clinical trial at The University of Chicago. She has also worked in inpatient, outpatient, primary care, hospital, VA, and forensic settings. She has presented at national and international conferences and authored papers in the areas of emotion regulation, personality disorders and forensics.
(760) 280-7340 View (760) 280-7340
Dallas Boyce
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in CA and NV working with children, teens, and adults in therapy, helping manage current reactions to childhood and adult traumatic experiences. I also provide comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological evaluations to assess for emotional, cognitive, academic, social, and executive functioning difficulties. Within my practice I utilize a trauma-informed and culturally-informed approach to foster a space that will help us meet your treatment or evaluation goals. Through the use of evidence-based interventions, I support others in living a fulfilling life, whatever that means for them.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in CA and NV working with children, teens, and adults in therapy, helping manage current reactions to childhood and adult traumatic experiences. I also provide comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological evaluations to assess for emotional, cognitive, academic, social, and executive functioning difficulties. Within my practice I utilize a trauma-informed and culturally-informed approach to foster a space that will help us meet your treatment or evaluation goals. Through the use of evidence-based interventions, I support others in living a fulfilling life, whatever that means for them.
(858) 592-0995 x106 View (858) 592-0995 x106
Michael R Seskin
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
(858) 224-9530 View (858) 224-9530
EmotionFit
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
Palōmi provides psychodynamic therapy for trauma, mood and personality disorders, and culturally-attuned care.
EmotionFit is an evidence-based, depth-focused therapy practice offering care for individuals, couples, and families seeking to achieve meaningful, lasting change as efficiently as possible. We specialize in addressing treatment-resistant symptoms, including trauma, anxiety, OCD, addiction, depression, grief, chronic pain, and spiritual and religious issues. All pre-licensed clinicians are supervised by Dr. Matthew Jarvinen, Ph.D. (29459). Psychiatric consultation is available with Dr. Kevin Ing, M.D. In-person therapy is available in Encinitas and telehealth services are offered across California.
Palōmi provides psychodynamic therapy for trauma, mood and personality disorders, and culturally-attuned care.
EmotionFit is an evidence-based, depth-focused therapy practice offering care for individuals, couples, and families seeking to achieve meaningful, lasting change as efficiently as possible. We specialize in addressing treatment-resistant symptoms, including trauma, anxiety, OCD, addiction, depression, grief, chronic pain, and spiritual and religious issues. All pre-licensed clinicians are supervised by Dr. Matthew Jarvinen, Ph.D. (29459). Psychiatric consultation is available with Dr. Kevin Ing, M.D. In-person therapy is available in Encinitas and telehealth services are offered across California.
(760) 313-3262 View (760) 313-3262
The Halliday Center for Psychotherapy & Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD
6 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
We're hiring! The Halliday Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness is seeking Licensed Clinical Psychologists to join our established group practice in Encinitas and Carmel Valley. This opportunity is ideal for clinicians who value strong clinical work, consultation, and the flexibility of private practice. We offer a hybrid model, flexible scheduling, and full administrative support, including referrals, billing, and credentialing. Join a collaborative, collegial team committed to ethical care and professional growth. To apply, please email me your CV and a letter of interest.
We're hiring! The Halliday Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness is seeking Licensed Clinical Psychologists to join our established group practice in Encinitas and Carmel Valley. This opportunity is ideal for clinicians who value strong clinical work, consultation, and the flexibility of private practice. We offer a hybrid model, flexible scheduling, and full administrative support, including referrals, billing, and credentialing. Join a collaborative, collegial team committed to ethical care and professional growth. To apply, please email me your CV and a letter of interest.
(760) 635-3310 View (760) 635-3310
Jacqlyn Q Wax Creviston
Psychologist, PsyD
Encinitas, CA 92024
From early development to late adulthood, we are in a continuous state of physiological, environmental, social, interpersonal, educational, and professional change. With change, tools are necessary to strengthen adversity, opportunity, autonomy, and life balance. All things considered, humans are social creatures and the need to connect with the self and others is essential for optimizing fulfillment in our lives.
From early development to late adulthood, we are in a continuous state of physiological, environmental, social, interpersonal, educational, and professional change. With change, tools are necessary to strengthen adversity, opportunity, autonomy, and life balance. All things considered, humans are social creatures and the need to connect with the self and others is essential for optimizing fulfillment in our lives.
(217) 688-9816 View (217) 688-9816
Cristina M Brill
Psychologist, PsyD
Encinitas, CA 92024
When considering therapy, it is natural to feel a bit intimidated by the process. As a psychologist specializing in issues of young adulthood such as relationship concerns, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders, I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment for individuals or couples to explore the issues they find challenging in their lives.
When considering therapy, it is natural to feel a bit intimidated by the process. As a psychologist specializing in issues of young adulthood such as relationship concerns, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders, I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment for individuals or couples to explore the issues they find challenging in their lives.
(619) 659-7055 View (619) 659-7055
Transformative Marriage and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Encinitas, CA 92024
You may appear to be functioning well on the outside, yet internally feel anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, or caught in painful relationship patterns. Many of my clients struggle with betrayal trauma, codependency, love addiction, emotional neglect, or the effects of addiction within the family. You might feel exhausted from repeating the same cycles, doubting your reality, or losing yourself while trying to care for others. With 28 years as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I offer a structured, compassionate, and direct approach. My work focuses on developmental trauma, attachment repair, boundaries, self-worth, and relationshi
You may appear to be functioning well on the outside, yet internally feel anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, or caught in painful relationship patterns. Many of my clients struggle with betrayal trauma, codependency, love addiction, emotional neglect, or the effects of addiction within the family. You might feel exhausted from repeating the same cycles, doubting your reality, or losing yourself while trying to care for others. With 28 years as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I offer a structured, compassionate, and direct approach. My work focuses on developmental trauma, attachment repair, boundaries, self-worth, and relationshi
(760) 618-1909 View (760) 618-1909
Aaron Kurtz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Not every problem can be handled on our own. In these times, it's important to seek the aid of those who have an extensive understanding of overwhelming stress, depression, and anxiety. As a LCSW and psychotherapist, I know healing is possible and happens everyday. I have a passion for mental health and enjoy watching people become the best version of themselves.
Not every problem can be handled on our own. In these times, it's important to seek the aid of those who have an extensive understanding of overwhelming stress, depression, and anxiety. As a LCSW and psychotherapist, I know healing is possible and happens everyday. I have a passion for mental health and enjoy watching people become the best version of themselves.
(760) 428-1497 View (760) 428-1497
Thomas Paulus Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Encinitas, CA 92024
We all have suffering in our lives-- it's part of human experience. Too often, however, there is a layer of unnecessary psychological pain caused by unconscious defenses. We often resist painful feelings and the realities they point to. When we get stuck in our resistance we get emotionally sick and our suffering increases. I work together with patients to honestly and compassionately untangle, face, and accept the truths they've tended avoid on their own.
We all have suffering in our lives-- it's part of human experience. Too often, however, there is a layer of unnecessary psychological pain caused by unconscious defenses. We often resist painful feelings and the realities they point to. When we get stuck in our resistance we get emotionally sick and our suffering increases. I work together with patients to honestly and compassionately untangle, face, and accept the truths they've tended avoid on their own.
(760) 652-8365 View (760) 652-8365
Petrea Huynh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
In my therapy practice, I seek to hold space for clients, the space in which it is safe to explore previously hidden aspects of self. It is my greatest passion in life to see clients heal from the inside out. I see the act of seeking therapy, in order to embark on a path toward personal-growth and greater effectiveness in all aspects of life, as a sign of strength and health. I believe that through acceptance, many issues may be better resolved as they are brought into the light of awareness.
In my therapy practice, I seek to hold space for clients, the space in which it is safe to explore previously hidden aspects of self. It is my greatest passion in life to see clients heal from the inside out. I see the act of seeking therapy, in order to embark on a path toward personal-growth and greater effectiveness in all aspects of life, as a sign of strength and health. I believe that through acceptance, many issues may be better resolved as they are brought into the light of awareness.
(619) 912-0158 View (619) 912-0158
Christiana Rigopoulos
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
6 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
Hello and welcome! I'm Christiana, Christi if you prefer. I’m honored to join you in your therapeutic journey by co-creating a space of safety, empathy, and respect. My approach to therapy is strength-based and meaning-centered. Together, I want to build upon your strengths, grow your sense of self and autonomy, and explore what is most meaningful to you. In short—I want to know what it’s like to be you and I want to celebrate your commitment to yourself, which I know requires a lot of heart. My goal as your therapist is to make you feel seen, heard, and known, where no need goes unaddressed and no feelings are deemed unimportant.
Hello and welcome! I'm Christiana, Christi if you prefer. I’m honored to join you in your therapeutic journey by co-creating a space of safety, empathy, and respect. My approach to therapy is strength-based and meaning-centered. Together, I want to build upon your strengths, grow your sense of self and autonomy, and explore what is most meaningful to you. In short—I want to know what it’s like to be you and I want to celebrate your commitment to yourself, which I know requires a lot of heart. My goal as your therapist is to make you feel seen, heard, and known, where no need goes unaddressed and no feelings are deemed unimportant.
(442) 269-4509 View (442) 269-4509
Diana Ashton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My name is Diana Ashton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, CA. I work with adolescents and adults with a variety of presenting issues using psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and short-term solution-focused therapeutic techniques to help my clients find the answers that they are looking for. I grew up in a family with some trauma and I believe that I emerged wanting to not only heal myself but to help others heal as well. I have always had the ability to see a person as a whole picture and am not afraid to reach out and offer help.
My name is Diana Ashton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, CA. I work with adolescents and adults with a variety of presenting issues using psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and short-term solution-focused therapeutic techniques to help my clients find the answers that they are looking for. I grew up in a family with some trauma and I believe that I emerged wanting to not only heal myself but to help others heal as well. I have always had the ability to see a person as a whole picture and am not afraid to reach out and offer help.
(747) 346-1017 View (747) 346-1017
Alan L Switzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Encinitas, CA 92024
This is me at the beach with Shannon, our 25 year-old daughter. My wife Vicki and I had the good fortune to raise her here in beautiful San Diego North County, where she has had the opportunity to become an accomplished surfer, sailor, diver, and nature photographer. Vicki and I are a Marriage and Family Therapist team in private practice here for 20+ years in Encinitas, California. As well as seeing couples and families, I have specialized in treating anxiety disorders and phobias, depression, alcohol and substance abuse, and adolescents. I completed my B.A.degree at the University of Connecticut and graduate training at Purdue University. Using an eclectic approach, I combine elements of cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, client-centered and mindfulness therapies in my practice. I am also certified in Clinical Hypnosis for use in weight loss, smoking cessation, habit control and anxiety reduction. I began focusing on treating adolescents very early in my career, and I have always enjoyed working with their youthful energy. Helping parents to work more closely together and develope simple and effective parenting skills can transform a stressful, contentious family life i
This is me at the beach with Shannon, our 25 year-old daughter. My wife Vicki and I had the good fortune to raise her here in beautiful San Diego North County, where she has had the opportunity to become an accomplished surfer, sailor, diver, and nature photographer. Vicki and I are a Marriage and Family Therapist team in private practice here for 20+ years in Encinitas, California. As well as seeing couples and families, I have specialized in treating anxiety disorders and phobias, depression, alcohol and substance abuse, and adolescents. I completed my B.A.degree at the University of Connecticut and graduate training at Purdue University. Using an eclectic approach, I combine elements of cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, client-centered and mindfulness therapies in my practice. I am also certified in Clinical Hypnosis for use in weight loss, smoking cessation, habit control and anxiety reduction. I began focusing on treating adolescents very early in my career, and I have always enjoyed working with their youthful energy. Helping parents to work more closely together and develope simple and effective parenting skills can transform a stressful, contentious family life i
(760) 718-1930 View (760) 718-1930
Grayson Wallen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, CGT, NCC, BC-TMH
12 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
Couples tell me their relationship started strong but is now full of conflict and distance. As a Certified Gottman Therapist, I help you find your way back. They are not sure the relationship can still work, but are willing to give counseling a try and don’t know what else to do.
Couples tell me their relationship started strong but is now full of conflict and distance. As a Certified Gottman Therapist, I help you find your way back. They are not sure the relationship can still work, but are willing to give counseling a try and don’t know what else to do.
(760) 417-6768 View (760) 417-6768
Healing Hearts Counseling Center
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Encinitas, CA 92024
Our overall mission is to promote behavioral health and wellness for our clients to obtain a high quality of life within themselves, their family, and their community. We work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that include assessment, short-term solution focused interventions, consultation with other providers, and crisis intervention. If you are feeling stuck, stressed from life circumstances, or having trouble adjusting to new transitions, then please contact us. We are here for you!
Our overall mission is to promote behavioral health and wellness for our clients to obtain a high quality of life within themselves, their family, and their community. We work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that include assessment, short-term solution focused interventions, consultation with other providers, and crisis intervention. If you are feeling stuck, stressed from life circumstances, or having trouble adjusting to new transitions, then please contact us. We are here for you!
(760) 648-4057 View (760) 648-4057
Sunshine Inside Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
You're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected or stuck in patterns that aren't working. Maybe your teen is anxious, your child is struggling with bullying, your relationship feels strained, or food and body image are taking up too much space. You want relief, clarity, stronger relationships, and tools that actually work. Your kids want to feel calmer more confident, and more connected at home, at school and in their relationships. We are a group practice in Encinitas serving children, teens, adults, couples families throughout North County San Diego. We blend evidence-based therapy with warm human connection.
You're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected or stuck in patterns that aren't working. Maybe your teen is anxious, your child is struggling with bullying, your relationship feels strained, or food and body image are taking up too much space. You want relief, clarity, stronger relationships, and tools that actually work. Your kids want to feel calmer more confident, and more connected at home, at school and in their relationships. We are a group practice in Encinitas serving children, teens, adults, couples families throughout North County San Diego. We blend evidence-based therapy with warm human connection.
(760) 849-4790 View (760) 849-4790
Dr. Jennifer Semmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Online Only
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.
(760) 973-5906 View (760) 973-5906
Poorang Aurasteh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
As a psychotherapist, I use a holistic approach that blends clinical research with Eastern wisdom. I have trained extensively for a decade with renowned Psychiatrist, Dr. Jeffery M. Schwartz in his Four Step Method, which combines Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy with the Buddhist principle of Mindfulness. Although, the Four Steps was originally created to treat OCD, my recent collaboration in the advancement of the Four Steps has shown that it is also successful for various circumstances including anxiety, depression, phobias, addiction, and eating disorders. My work is highlighted in Dr. Jeffrey M. Schwartz's new book, "You Are Not Your Brain".
As a psychotherapist, I use a holistic approach that blends clinical research with Eastern wisdom. I have trained extensively for a decade with renowned Psychiatrist, Dr. Jeffery M. Schwartz in his Four Step Method, which combines Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy with the Buddhist principle of Mindfulness. Although, the Four Steps was originally created to treat OCD, my recent collaboration in the advancement of the Four Steps has shown that it is also successful for various circumstances including anxiety, depression, phobias, addiction, and eating disorders. My work is highlighted in Dr. Jeffrey M. Schwartz's new book, "You Are Not Your Brain".
(760) 642-2804 View (760) 642-2804
Monica Melchor Alvarez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Encinitas, CA 92024
Taking the first step to seek support and find healing can be incredibly challenging. I want to validate the fact that you have made it this far! In this space, you belong, and I am here to listen, to guide and support you. Building a healthy and positive relationship with my clients is an important key to therapy. The space that we create is one that will allow for identity exploration, growth and aid in developing a healthy relationship with yourself and those around you. My approach to therapy is through a strength-based, client-centered and trauma-informed lens.
Taking the first step to seek support and find healing can be incredibly challenging. I want to validate the fact that you have made it this far! In this space, you belong, and I am here to listen, to guide and support you. Building a healthy and positive relationship with my clients is an important key to therapy. The space that we create is one that will allow for identity exploration, growth and aid in developing a healthy relationship with yourself and those around you. My approach to therapy is through a strength-based, client-centered and trauma-informed lens.
(760) 452-9845 View (760) 452-9845

See more therapy options for Encinitas

Personality Disorders Therapists
What are the common treatment options for personality disorders?
Personality disorders are typically treated with psychotherapy, sometimes in conjunction with medication. Therapy can help people with personality disorders develop skills to tolerate difficult emotions, navigate interpersonal relationships, and solidify their sense of self. Medications can treat symptoms that co-occur with the disorder, such as depression, anger, aggression, and impulsivity.

When to seek treatment for personality disorders?
Even though treatment for personality disorders can be an uphill battle, it’s best to seek help if you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with one, because personality disorders can create substantial problems in life. Symptoms depend on the specific disorder, but overall signs of personality disorders include consistent difficulty maintaining close relationships, dramatic variations in self-esteem, and an unstable sense of identity.

How long does therapy take for personality disorders?
The timeline for treating personality disorders isn’t as clear-cut as it is for other disorders. Change can be difficult, taking from around one year to five, 10, or more. The key is finding a therapist who has extensive experience treating the relevant disorder. For example, a psychologist who specializes in narcissistic personality disorder has specific communication strategies that allow them to sustain the relationship and be more effective with narcissistic patients.

Can therapy help people with personality disorders?
Research suggests that for those who are motivated to address concerns or interpersonal conflict related to a personality disorder, therapy is far more effective than no treatment, and that most people in therapy see improvements. However, since personality disorders involve entrenched elements of identity, they are less responsive to treatment than are other mental health conditions. Finding an expert who has extensive experience working with a given personality disorder is one factor that increases the likelihood of successful treatment.