Neurodivergent Therapists in Escondido, CA

Melissa Lally
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Saturday & Sunday Teletherapy - heal from home. Do you look "fine" on the outside but feel tired, numb, or stuck on the inside? Do you stay busy just to avoid feeling? If you're a trauma survivor, a woman healing from a hard childhood or relationship, or someone worn out from overthinking, anxiety, or family stress, you're not alone. Many people come to us after talk therapy didn't quite get to the root of things. They're tired of just surviving and ready to feel like themselves again. What you have been through matters and healing is possible. You don't need it all figured out - just bring yourself and we'll take it from there.
Saturday & Sunday Teletherapy - heal from home. Do you look "fine" on the outside but feel tired, numb, or stuck on the inside? Do you stay busy just to avoid feeling? If you're a trauma survivor, a woman healing from a hard childhood or relationship, or someone worn out from overthinking, anxiety, or family stress, you're not alone. Many people come to us after talk therapy didn't quite get to the root of things. They're tired of just surviving and ready to feel like themselves again. What you have been through matters and healing is possible. You don't need it all figured out - just bring yourself and we'll take it from there.
(619) 330-5345 View (619) 330-5345
Wenonah Washington
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Wenonah is a licensed therapist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has several years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults, and she specializes in helping students and young adults manage anxiety, depression and ADHD. Wenonah utilizes evidence-based practices and maintains a trauma-informed, warm, and collaborative approach in her clinical work.
Wenonah is a licensed therapist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has several years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults, and she specializes in helping students and young adults manage anxiety, depression and ADHD. Wenonah utilizes evidence-based practices and maintains a trauma-informed, warm, and collaborative approach in her clinical work.
(760) 462-3909 View (760) 462-3909
Carly Shaul
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, neurodivergence, confusion about life, sexual health curiosities, relationship stress, or major life transitions, I’m ready to meet you with warmth and care.
Many of my young LGBTQ2S+ and neurodivergent clients struggle with being kinder to themselves and want to liberate themselves from feeling "not normal." I’m passionate about supporting my clients by using systems frameworks, parts work, and EMDR to help them feel more capable of caring for themselves and move towards areas of joy in their lives.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, neurodivergence, confusion about life, sexual health curiosities, relationship stress, or major life transitions, I’m ready to meet you with warmth and care.
Many of my young LGBTQ2S+ and neurodivergent clients struggle with being kinder to themselves and want to liberate themselves from feeling "not normal." I’m passionate about supporting my clients by using systems frameworks, parts work, and EMDR to help them feel more capable of caring for themselves and move towards areas of joy in their lives.
(619) 792-1536 View (619) 792-1536
Sharon Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, supporting clients through challenges such as trauma, anxiety, emotional regulation, life transitions, and interpersonal difficulties. I’m especially passionate about helping individuals and families build stronger connections and healthier patterns of communication.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, supporting clients through challenges such as trauma, anxiety, emotional regulation, life transitions, and interpersonal difficulties. I’m especially passionate about helping individuals and families build stronger connections and healthier patterns of communication.
(760) 825-7906 View (760) 825-7906
Heidi Posson
Counselor, LPC, LPCC, CCMHC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Escondido, CA 92025
Heidi's clients include men, women, and adolescents who are struggling with difficult transitions, trauma, childhood abuse and/or emotional neglect. Many clients express loneliness or disconnection in their relationships and describe patterns of behavior that reoccur despite trying to change. These patterns are more noticeable in close relationships but may show up at work or school. Already knowing these patterns, clients may struggle to control their behaviors, manage feelings, communicate effectively, and feel tremendous shame and difficulty around setting boundaries and connecting with others
Heidi's clients include men, women, and adolescents who are struggling with difficult transitions, trauma, childhood abuse and/or emotional neglect. Many clients express loneliness or disconnection in their relationships and describe patterns of behavior that reoccur despite trying to change. These patterns are more noticeable in close relationships but may show up at work or school. Already knowing these patterns, clients may struggle to control their behaviors, manage feelings, communicate effectively, and feel tremendous shame and difficulty around setting boundaries and connecting with others
(442) 342-8925 View (442) 342-8925
Tanya Dorocak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
Tanya Dorocak is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who has been practicing since 2006. Tanya works with individuals, children and families who wish to improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand her clients holistically, including their backgrounds and strengths they already possess, to provide an individualized approach to well-being. Tanya believes that our emotional connections in our interpersonal relationships is one of the most important aspects of our mental health, and she will strive to establish a strong alliance with her clients to create lasting changes.
Tanya Dorocak is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who has been practicing since 2006. Tanya works with individuals, children and families who wish to improve their quality of life. She seeks to understand her clients holistically, including their backgrounds and strengths they already possess, to provide an individualized approach to well-being. Tanya believes that our emotional connections in our interpersonal relationships is one of the most important aspects of our mental health, and she will strive to establish a strong alliance with her clients to create lasting changes.
(760) 463-9511 View (760) 463-9511
Michelle D. Motta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Serves Area
Life can feel overwhelming with day to day stressors, and difficulties can be compounded when you are carrying the weight of past painful experiences. Whether you're navigating current challenges or processing deeper wounds, I offer a safe, supportive space to heal and grow. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and depression. I find as awareness increases and coping skills improve, there is a decrease in anxiety and depression, and an overall improvement in life experiences.
Life can feel overwhelming with day to day stressors, and difficulties can be compounded when you are carrying the weight of past painful experiences. Whether you're navigating current challenges or processing deeper wounds, I offer a safe, supportive space to heal and grow. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and depression. I find as awareness increases and coping skills improve, there is a decrease in anxiety and depression, and an overall improvement in life experiences.
(858) 386-7299 View (858) 386-7299
Tre'von Peoples
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I'd say my upbringing inspired me from my home to school. I have seen and heard mental health being mentioned as important and encouraged to take care of. I'd say full circle of having gone to therapy, becoming a therapist, and providing therapy is rewarding in itself, I'd have to put a paragraph explaining why, so I'll leave it as that. I look at therapy as a unique relationship that both mirrors and overlaps qualities of a good friend, parent, sibling, partner, etc., where both the therapist and client focus on tackling the concerns he/she presents in therapy.
I'd say my upbringing inspired me from my home to school. I have seen and heard mental health being mentioned as important and encouraged to take care of. I'd say full circle of having gone to therapy, becoming a therapist, and providing therapy is rewarding in itself, I'd have to put a paragraph explaining why, so I'll leave it as that. I look at therapy as a unique relationship that both mirrors and overlaps qualities of a good friend, parent, sibling, partner, etc., where both the therapist and client focus on tackling the concerns he/she presents in therapy.
(760) 284-7590 View (760) 284-7590
Karen Morones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
If you are feeling alone, depressed, stressed, anxious and/or overwhelmed with life, I can help guide you through this time in your life. With empathy, compassion and years of experience, it is my aim to help you feel more equipped to face life's challenges and increase your self confidence.
If you are feeling alone, depressed, stressed, anxious and/or overwhelmed with life, I can help guide you through this time in your life. With empathy, compassion and years of experience, it is my aim to help you feel more equipped to face life's challenges and increase your self confidence.
(760) 589-5136 View (760) 589-5136
Yasmin Saadatzadeh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I am pleased to be a part of the Rula community. My areas of focus include mood disorders, stressful life events, and supporting individuals experiencing psychosis. In my therapeutic practice, I take a holistic approach, considering each person as a whole and providing guidance as they navigate their unique challenges. I take a warm, holistic, and client-centered approach to therapy, seeing each person as a whole—mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to create a safe and empathetic space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to explore your own solutions.
I am pleased to be a part of the Rula community. My areas of focus include mood disorders, stressful life events, and supporting individuals experiencing psychosis. In my therapeutic practice, I take a holistic approach, considering each person as a whole and providing guidance as they navigate their unique challenges. I take a warm, holistic, and client-centered approach to therapy, seeing each person as a whole—mind, body, and spirit. My goal is to create a safe and empathetic space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to explore your own solutions.
(619) 558-0920 View (619) 558-0920
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
Letjan Lecarnaque
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I am bilingual in English and Spanish and support Latinx, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent clients, children, teens, and young adults.
Do you find yourself overthinking every conversation, feeling responsible for everyone else’s emotions, or wondering why you still don’t feel like you belong? You may look like you’re holding it all together, while inside you feel anxious, disconnected, overwhelmed, or unsure where you belong. Whether you’re carrying trauma, navigating relationship challenges, facing a major life transition, or exploring your deeper identity, you deserve a space where you don’t have to carry everything alone. I offer warm, empowering, culturally responsive therapy where you can feel truly seen, understood, and supported as your whole self.
I am bilingual in English and Spanish and support Latinx, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent clients, children, teens, and young adults.
Do you find yourself overthinking every conversation, feeling responsible for everyone else’s emotions, or wondering why you still don’t feel like you belong? You may look like you’re holding it all together, while inside you feel anxious, disconnected, overwhelmed, or unsure where you belong. Whether you’re carrying trauma, navigating relationship challenges, facing a major life transition, or exploring your deeper identity, you deserve a space where you don’t have to carry everything alone. I offer warm, empowering, culturally responsive therapy where you can feel truly seen, understood, and supported as your whole self.
(760) 493-6154 View (760) 493-6154
Noele Clayton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am a client-centered therapist who borrows from various treatment modalities depending on the client's needs. I meet you where you are in your journey as you are the expert on your life. My specialty is with mood issues, the LGBTQ+ population, and trauma, but I have a lot of experience with many other issues as well. It would be lovely to meet you!
I am a client-centered therapist who borrows from various treatment modalities depending on the client's needs. I meet you where you are in your journey as you are the expert on your life. My specialty is with mood issues, the LGBTQ+ population, and trauma, but I have a lot of experience with many other issues as well. It would be lovely to meet you!
(559) 550-6687 View (559) 550-6687
Dr. Sarah Straus
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPCC, NCC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I support couples navigating parenting transitions, neurodivergence (ADHD/autism), military life, addiction recovery, and betrayal, with a focus on rebuilding communication, trust, and closeness.
I use the Gottman Method with a structured start: assessment, feedback, and a clear roadmap. Sessions are practical and skills-based, with guided practice in-session and tailored homework to support progress between sessions. My style is warm, direct, and collaborative.
I support couples navigating parenting transitions, neurodivergence (ADHD/autism), military life, addiction recovery, and betrayal, with a focus on rebuilding communication, trust, and closeness.
I use the Gottman Method with a structured start: assessment, feedback, and a clear roadmap. Sessions are practical and skills-based, with guided practice in-session and tailored homework to support progress between sessions. My style is warm, direct, and collaborative.
(858) 808-2537 View (858) 808-2537
Jean Sullivan
Psychologist, PhD
Escondido, CA 92025
I have been helping others improve their mental and emotional well-being for over 25 years. I enjoy working with all ages (infancy through adulthood and old age). I am equipped to handle severe mental illness and crises as well as difficult life transitions and stressful times. As a former Navy Psychologist I work exceptionally well in areas related to military service and traumatic stress and substance use disorders. I work in a collaborative way to find the most effective treatment for you. By the end of your first session, we have identified the problems to work on and a plan to help.
I have been helping others improve their mental and emotional well-being for over 25 years. I enjoy working with all ages (infancy through adulthood and old age). I am equipped to handle severe mental illness and crises as well as difficult life transitions and stressful times. As a former Navy Psychologist I work exceptionally well in areas related to military service and traumatic stress and substance use disorders. I work in a collaborative way to find the most effective treatment for you. By the end of your first session, we have identified the problems to work on and a plan to help.
(858) 207-3856 View (858) 207-3856
Vincenzo Roma
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Tired of feeling burned out? I am an expert in treating anxiety, trauma, addictions, sleep problems, but also qualified to evaluate a range of commonly co-occurring mental health conditions like depression. I do more than just talk therapy! At every visit, I teach evidenced-based skills that have been rigorously tested. I have developed a consultation style to therapy based on my experiences as a psychologist integrated in medical teams. This style allows me to consider treatment from multiple perspectives and this generally leads to earlier improvement, fewer overall visits, faster feedback and treatment.
Tired of feeling burned out? I am an expert in treating anxiety, trauma, addictions, sleep problems, but also qualified to evaluate a range of commonly co-occurring mental health conditions like depression. I do more than just talk therapy! At every visit, I teach evidenced-based skills that have been rigorously tested. I have developed a consultation style to therapy based on my experiences as a psychologist integrated in medical teams. This style allows me to consider treatment from multiple perspectives and this generally leads to earlier improvement, fewer overall visits, faster feedback and treatment.
(760) 372-0406 View (760) 372-0406
Amanda Warren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Escondido, CA 92029
Hi there, I'm Amanda! Welcome, you found me on your journey. I consider myself a therapist who identifies as unconventional. I can be messy and loud, but my work is to help you be authentically you and stop fitting into the world's boxes. I am open-minded and quirky and like to work with people who have struggled to "fit in". My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each patient I work with. I most frequently utilize an Integrative approach, solution-focused, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, client-centered, mindfulness-based therapy, Humanistic, and DBT-trained.
Hi there, I'm Amanda! Welcome, you found me on your journey. I consider myself a therapist who identifies as unconventional. I can be messy and loud, but my work is to help you be authentically you and stop fitting into the world's boxes. I am open-minded and quirky and like to work with people who have struggled to "fit in". My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each patient I work with. I most frequently utilize an Integrative approach, solution-focused, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, client-centered, mindfulness-based therapy, Humanistic, and DBT-trained.
(760) 463-9563 View (760) 463-9563
Ariana Zepeda
Counselor, LPCC
Escondido, CA 92026
I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I utilize a person-centered approach, meeting individuals where they are and actively listening to their needs. My approches integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and self-compassion strategies to provide tailored support and promote growth. Trauma-Informed to help with individuals with depression and anxiety.
I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I utilize a person-centered approach, meeting individuals where they are and actively listening to their needs. My approches integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and self-compassion strategies to provide tailored support and promote growth. Trauma-Informed to help with individuals with depression and anxiety.
(510) 804-0563 View (510) 804-0563
Steven T Griggs
Psychologist, PhD
Escondido, CA 92025
I'm an informal, low-keyed warm fuzzy type. I deal directly with problems, using CBT, emphasizing support/non-judgment. I've completed 15 ebooks. The subjects are Assertiveness, How To Change Children's Behavior (Quickly), How to Assess and Treat ADHD (Children and Adults), Self Esteem, Why Relationships Fail, How to diagnose and Treat Anxiety, Anger Management, Types I and II,, Kids and Divorce, Child Visitation and Self-Esteem, How To Change Teenagers Behavior, The Psychology of Procrastination, The Psychology of Guilt, The Psychology of Forgiveness and Weight Loss (Free), The Psychology of All Addictions and How to Diagnose and Treat Mood Disorders.
I'm an informal, low-keyed warm fuzzy type. I deal directly with problems, using CBT, emphasizing support/non-judgment. I've completed 15 ebooks. The subjects are Assertiveness, How To Change Children's Behavior (Quickly), How to Assess and Treat ADHD (Children and Adults), Self Esteem, Why Relationships Fail, How to diagnose and Treat Anxiety, Anger Management, Types I and II,, Kids and Divorce, Child Visitation and Self-Esteem, How To Change Teenagers Behavior, The Psychology of Procrastination, The Psychology of Guilt, The Psychology of Forgiveness and Weight Loss (Free), The Psychology of All Addictions and How to Diagnose and Treat Mood Disorders.
(760) 746-8355 View (760) 746-8355
Kevin A Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Escondido, CA 92025
I offer a judgment free environment to explore your concerns, troubles, dreams, and questions. We will be on this journey together: I particularly like working with anxiety, stress, and career challenges. I also enjoy processing through spiritual questions and angst. Together, we will identify, clarify, and process emotions and ideas that are causing you discomfort. Just as importantly, we'll set goals together so you can effectively understand the progress you've made.
I offer a judgment free environment to explore your concerns, troubles, dreams, and questions. We will be on this journey together: I particularly like working with anxiety, stress, and career challenges. I also enjoy processing through spiritual questions and angst. Together, we will identify, clarify, and process emotions and ideas that are causing you discomfort. Just as importantly, we'll set goals together so you can effectively understand the progress you've made.
(619) 404-6737 View (619) 404-6737

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FAQ - Neurodivergent Counselling
What does neurodivergent mean?
Neurodivergent is a broad term used to describe people whose brains process, learn, or respond to information in ways that differ from what is considered “typical.” Neurodivergence can include autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, Tourette syndrome, and other forms of neurological difference. The term comes from the idea of neurodiversity, which recognizes that differences in brain function are a natural part of human variation. Rather than viewing neurodivergence only through the lens of neurological disorders, this perspective acknowledges that neurodivergent people may experience both strengths and challenges. For example, a person may be very creative and intelligent, while also needing support with sensory sensitivity or learning differences.

What issues do neurodivergent people commonly bring to therapy?
Neurodivergent people often seek therapy for many of the same reasons as anyone else, including anxiety, depression, stress, relationship concerns, or major life transitions. They may also want support with challenges specifically related to neurodivergence; for example, therapy may help with executive functioning, social communication, sensory sensitivity, school/learning stress, or the experience of feeling misunderstood in society. Therapists can also help individuals and families diagnose conditions, as well as distinguish regular challenges associated with childhood and/or adolescence from more enduring conditions. When needed, a therapist may also provide referrals to additional specialists, such as occupational therapists or psychiatrists who can prescribe psychiatric medication.

What therapeutic approaches work well for neurodivergent clients?
Therapy for neurodivergent clients is often most helpful when it is flexible and affirming. Rather than expecting every client to fit one standard model of therapy, neurodivergent-affirming therapists may adapt sessions to each person’s needs and therapy goals. Often, this includes visual aids, movement breaks, or other therapy supports. Common structured therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be useful for some neurodivergent clients, but the approach may need to be modified to avoid feeling overly rigid or focused on changing traits that are part of a person’s natural neurodivergence. Other approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness-based approaches, may also be helpful depending on the client’s needs.

Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of neurodivergent therapists?
Psychology Today’s directory of neurodivergent therapists includes professionals who self-identify as neurodivergent, as well as therapists who describe their work as neurodivergent-affirming or who specialize in areas such as ADHD, autism, learning differences, or sensory processing concerns. When reviewing a therapist’s profile, look at their bio, listed specialties, treatment approach, and experience working with neurodivergent clients. You may also want to consider whether they offer supports that matter to you, such as online therapy, accessible office space, or familiarity with specific concerns like anxiety, depression, or trauma.