Arab and Middle Eastern Therapists in La Jolla, CA
Growing up in the Iranian community gave me firsthand insight into the cultural stigma that can make seeking support feel difficult.
I have experience working with diverse populations and ages, including teens, young adults, college students, adults, military personnel, older adults, and middle eastern communities. To meet my patients’ needs I utilize an integrative approach primarily drawing from Psychodynamic therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Growing up in the Iranian community gave me firsthand insight into the cultural stigma that can make seeking support feel difficult.
I have experience working with diverse populations and ages, including teens, young adults, college students, adults, military personnel, older adults, and middle eastern communities. To meet my patients’ needs I utilize an integrative approach primarily drawing from Psychodynamic therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I welcome people of all backgrounds, identities, cultures, beliefs, and lived experiences. My hope is that you will feel respected, understood, and comfortable showing up exactly as you are. Finding your way through often requires someone by your side who understands these intricacies and meets you with genuine empathy. My goal is to be that person: to meet you where you are and tailor our work to your specific needs.
I welcome people of all backgrounds, identities, cultures, beliefs, and lived experiences. My hope is that you will feel respected, understood, and comfortable showing up exactly as you are. Finding your way through often requires someone by your side who understands these intricacies and meets you with genuine empathy. My goal is to be that person: to meet you where you are and tailor our work to your specific needs.
Life is a journey and it is all about how you navigate the ups and downs of this journey. I would be honored to assist you along your path and help navigate the difficult decisions along the way. Are you at a crossroads in your life or work or relationships? Not feeling joy in most areas of your life? Can you not be your true, authentic self with others and loved ones? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, please reach out and take your first step in making yourself a priority! You are not alone.
Life is a journey and it is all about how you navigate the ups and downs of this journey. I would be honored to assist you along your path and help navigate the difficult decisions along the way. Are you at a crossroads in your life or work or relationships? Not feeling joy in most areas of your life? Can you not be your true, authentic self with others and loved ones? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, please reach out and take your first step in making yourself a priority! You are not alone.
For over 18 years, I've helped people feel truly heard and understood as they pursue meaningful personal growth. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, grief, and relationship challenges. I work particularly well with motivated, high-achieving individuals who value personal development and are committed to creating meaningful change. My advanced training at the master's and doctoral levels allows me to provide deeper insight and individualized care, helping clients achieve both immediate relief and lasting growth.
For over 18 years, I've helped people feel truly heard and understood as they pursue meaningful personal growth. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, grief, and relationship challenges. I work particularly well with motivated, high-achieving individuals who value personal development and are committed to creating meaningful change. My advanced training at the master's and doctoral levels allows me to provide deeper insight and individualized care, helping clients achieve both immediate relief and lasting growth.
I have a special interest in helping individuals who have experienced cultural transitions, war, immigration and trauma with years of experience helping families from different socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. I am multilingual and provided two years of live TV show in a local TV station in Orange County offering psychoeducation to Farsi speaking communities around the world to decrease stigma about mental illness and empower and inspire families and individuals to recognize mental illness and seek professional help when needed.
I have a special interest in helping individuals who have experienced cultural transitions, war, immigration and trauma with years of experience helping families from different socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. I am multilingual and provided two years of live TV show in a local TV station in Orange County offering psychoeducation to Farsi speaking communities around the world to decrease stigma about mental illness and empower and inspire families and individuals to recognize mental illness and seek professional help when needed.
You may have reached a point where what you’ve been doing is no longer working. Perhaps you feel disconnected from your partner, stuck in recurring conflicts, overwhelmed by life’s demands, grieving a loss, or navigating a significant transition. Maybe you find yourself carrying the weight of everyone else’s needs while quietly wondering what happened to your own. Whatever brings you here, you do not have to navigate it alone. Therapy can help you make sense of what feels overwhelming, reconnect with what matters most, and begin moving toward the life and relationships you want.
You may have reached a point where what you’ve been doing is no longer working. Perhaps you feel disconnected from your partner, stuck in recurring conflicts, overwhelmed by life’s demands, grieving a loss, or navigating a significant transition. Maybe you find yourself carrying the weight of everyone else’s needs while quietly wondering what happened to your own. Whatever brings you here, you do not have to navigate it alone. Therapy can help you make sense of what feels overwhelming, reconnect with what matters most, and begin moving toward the life and relationships you want.
I work with adults navigating big life transitions—endings, beginnings, and the in-between spaces where old patterns no longer fit and new possibilities are emerging. Clients describe me as warm and direct. I care deeply, ask clarifying questions, and may suggest practices between sessions. I draw from both research and timeless approaches, viewing depression, anxiety, and trauma not as pathologies but as signals from the psyche. I enjoy helping clients find clarity, resilience, and renewed purpose.
I work with adults navigating big life transitions—endings, beginnings, and the in-between spaces where old patterns no longer fit and new possibilities are emerging. Clients describe me as warm and direct. I care deeply, ask clarifying questions, and may suggest practices between sessions. I draw from both research and timeless approaches, viewing depression, anxiety, and trauma not as pathologies but as signals from the psyche. I enjoy helping clients find clarity, resilience, and renewed purpose.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating a life transition that has left you searching for greater peace and balance. Perhaps you’re struggling with relationships, self-doubt, or difficult decisions and want a space where you can feel understood, supported, and empowered. You might be carrying emotional weight you haven't had the chance to fully process, or feel disconnected from yourself and others. You may feel emotionally exhausted or unsure of your next steps, yet motivated to create meaningful change with clarity and confidence.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or navigating a life transition that has left you searching for greater peace and balance. Perhaps you’re struggling with relationships, self-doubt, or difficult decisions and want a space where you can feel understood, supported, and empowered. You might be carrying emotional weight you haven't had the chance to fully process, or feel disconnected from yourself and others. You may feel emotionally exhausted or unsure of your next steps, yet motivated to create meaningful change with clarity and confidence.
I’m happy you’ve made it here, and am ready to offer support, whether you’ve been on the path of healing & growth for years, or you just recently began exploring your options. I work with children, teens, adults, and families, in-person at one of my practice's peaceful offices in La Jolla, Mission Valley, and Pacific Beach, and via telehealth for all California residents. Text, call, or send me a message through Psychology Today to get started. In our first session we'll get to know each other, decide if it's a good fit, and talk about your hopes and goals for our work together.
I’m happy you’ve made it here, and am ready to offer support, whether you’ve been on the path of healing & growth for years, or you just recently began exploring your options. I work with children, teens, adults, and families, in-person at one of my practice's peaceful offices in La Jolla, Mission Valley, and Pacific Beach, and via telehealth for all California residents. Text, call, or send me a message through Psychology Today to get started. In our first session we'll get to know each other, decide if it's a good fit, and talk about your hopes and goals for our work together.
You may be someone others rely on: responsible, driven, capable, and seemingly able to hold everything together. Yet when it comes to relationships, sex, or intimacy, you may find yourself overthinking, disconnected from your body, struggling to slow down, or wondering why desire and connection do not come as naturally as you think they should. Many of the clients I work with are high-achieving adults and working professionals who are used to functioning well, even when they are struggling internally.
You may be someone others rely on: responsible, driven, capable, and seemingly able to hold everything together. Yet when it comes to relationships, sex, or intimacy, you may find yourself overthinking, disconnected from your body, struggling to slow down, or wondering why desire and connection do not come as naturally as you think they should. Many of the clients I work with are high-achieving adults and working professionals who are used to functioning well, even when they are struggling internally.
Dr. Farah Giovannelli is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with adults experiencing a range of concerns, including depression and anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem/self-confidence, relationship and dating concerns, family of origin issues, disordered eating and body image, experiences with cultural and gender identity, as well as general dissatisfaction with life. Dr. Gio offers an empathic and compassionate space in which she strives to empower all of her clients to thrive and embrace their authentic selves.
Dr. Farah Giovannelli is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with adults experiencing a range of concerns, including depression and anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem/self-confidence, relationship and dating concerns, family of origin issues, disordered eating and body image, experiences with cultural and gender identity, as well as general dissatisfaction with life. Dr. Gio offers an empathic and compassionate space in which she strives to empower all of her clients to thrive and embrace their authentic selves.
Trust that gut instinct telling you something needs to change. With over 10 years of experience helping individuals, families, and couples navigate life’s challenges, my specialties include ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Trauma, and Relationship Issues. I focus on building self-esteem and creating stronger, healthier connections—starting with the most important relationship of all: the one you have with yourself.
In our work together, I will support you in discovering your strengths, understanding your unique needs, and developing the tools to improve your life and relationships.
Trust that gut instinct telling you something needs to change. With over 10 years of experience helping individuals, families, and couples navigate life’s challenges, my specialties include ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Trauma, and Relationship Issues. I focus on building self-esteem and creating stronger, healthier connections—starting with the most important relationship of all: the one you have with yourself.
In our work together, I will support you in discovering your strengths, understanding your unique needs, and developing the tools to improve your life and relationships.
Welcome. I'm so glad you're here. Perhaps you're carrying something that feels too heavy to hold alone, or simply sensing that life could feel more connected, meaningful, or more like yourself. Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you're returning in a new season of life, I'm glad you're taking this step.
I believe each of us has an innate capacity for healing, growth, and connection. Sometimes that capacity becomes hidden beneath trauma, loss, or the ways we've learned to protect ourselves. A safe, compassionate, and deeply attuned therapeutic relationship can help you reconnect with your vitality & truest self.
Welcome. I'm so glad you're here. Perhaps you're carrying something that feels too heavy to hold alone, or simply sensing that life could feel more connected, meaningful, or more like yourself. Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you're returning in a new season of life, I'm glad you're taking this step.
I believe each of us has an innate capacity for healing, growth, and connection. Sometimes that capacity becomes hidden beneath trauma, loss, or the ways we've learned to protect ourselves. A safe, compassionate, and deeply attuned therapeutic relationship can help you reconnect with your vitality & truest self.
Are you tired of feeling alone navigating your medical conditions? Overwhelmed around keeping track of so many appointments, isolated from the impacts of medical/health trauma, or maybe even physically isolated due to pain and fatigue? You don't have to do it all alone. As someone living with longtime chronic pain and illnesses, I understand the real mental health impacts which come along with living in a struggling body (and, for many of us, a neurodivergent mind). Through therapy, I will actively engage you in gentle reflections and practices to best support your well-being.
Are you tired of feeling alone navigating your medical conditions? Overwhelmed around keeping track of so many appointments, isolated from the impacts of medical/health trauma, or maybe even physically isolated due to pain and fatigue? You don't have to do it all alone. As someone living with longtime chronic pain and illnesses, I understand the real mental health impacts which come along with living in a struggling body (and, for many of us, a neurodivergent mind). Through therapy, I will actively engage you in gentle reflections and practices to best support your well-being.
Most of my clients are thoughtful, high-functioning people who find themselves stuck in painful relationship patterns, whether in love, family, or friendships. They may be navigating conflict, disconnection, infidelity, or the aftermath of loss or divorce.
I work with individuals and couples to uncover the deeper dynamics beneath these struggles, especially around intimacy, attachment, and sex or love addiction, so they can break cycles, rebuild trust, and create relationships that feel secure, honest, and alive.
Most of my clients are thoughtful, high-functioning people who find themselves stuck in painful relationship patterns, whether in love, family, or friendships. They may be navigating conflict, disconnection, infidelity, or the aftermath of loss or divorce.
I work with individuals and couples to uncover the deeper dynamics beneath these struggles, especially around intimacy, attachment, and sex or love addiction, so they can break cycles, rebuild trust, and create relationships that feel secure, honest, and alive.
I believe much of our past influences how we experience the present, especially in our relationships, our self esteem, and the ways we choose to cope. Sometimes the patterns we learned earlier in life helped us get through difficult seasons, but now they may be keeping us stuck. Therapy is an opportunity to process what has been carried beneath the surface so you can begin to unlearn the habits that no longer support the life you want. Clients I work with seek support for relationship issues, grief, self esteem, family problems, inner child work, major life transitions, and depression.
I believe much of our past influences how we experience the present, especially in our relationships, our self esteem, and the ways we choose to cope. Sometimes the patterns we learned earlier in life helped us get through difficult seasons, but now they may be keeping us stuck. Therapy is an opportunity to process what has been carried beneath the surface so you can begin to unlearn the habits that no longer support the life you want. Clients I work with seek support for relationship issues, grief, self esteem, family problems, inner child work, major life transitions, and depression.
You might look fine on the outside, but inside you feel anxious, unsettled, or quietly disconnected.
Maybe you’ve spent years doubting yourself - your perceptions, your needs, your instincts. Maybe relationships feel confusing or draining, and you’re tired of losing yourself to keep the peace. Or maybe you carry a sense that something happened - something subtle, hard to name, not quite “trauma” - yet it changed how safe you feel being yourself.
You don’t want to relive your past over and over. You want a way forward that feels steady, respectful, and real.
You might look fine on the outside, but inside you feel anxious, unsettled, or quietly disconnected.
Maybe you’ve spent years doubting yourself - your perceptions, your needs, your instincts. Maybe relationships feel confusing or draining, and you’re tired of losing yourself to keep the peace. Or maybe you carry a sense that something happened - something subtle, hard to name, not quite “trauma” - yet it changed how safe you feel being yourself.
You don’t want to relive your past over and over. You want a way forward that feels steady, respectful, and real.
You’ve built a life you’re proud of. You’re capable, thoughtful, and have so much to offer. And yet, when it comes to relationships, something still feels unsettled.
Whether you’re single and searching for your person, or partnered and wanting deeper connection, you feel stuck in patterns that don’t serve you.
You question your standards, overthink decisions, and feel the quiet pressure of timing, family-building, or life stage expectations. You don’t just want a relationship — you want one that feels secure, aligned, and lasting.
You’ve built a life you’re proud of. You’re capable, thoughtful, and have so much to offer. And yet, when it comes to relationships, something still feels unsettled.
Whether you’re single and searching for your person, or partnered and wanting deeper connection, you feel stuck in patterns that don’t serve you.
You question your standards, overthink decisions, and feel the quiet pressure of timing, family-building, or life stage expectations. You don’t just want a relationship — you want one that feels secure, aligned, and lasting.
I believe our psychological & emotional well-being is just as important as our physical well-being. With over 10 years of experience, I have worked alongside individuals from different walks of life; navigating through substance use, anxiety, major depression, trauma, & various life transitions. I have also helped women navigate through their journeys of infertility, pregnancy & postpartum. Coming from a multicultural & multireligious background, I am sure to be culturally sensitive & inquisitive. Taking the first step to seeking help can be hard, but I am here to support you every step of the way.
I believe our psychological & emotional well-being is just as important as our physical well-being. With over 10 years of experience, I have worked alongside individuals from different walks of life; navigating through substance use, anxiety, major depression, trauma, & various life transitions. I have also helped women navigate through their journeys of infertility, pregnancy & postpartum. Coming from a multicultural & multireligious background, I am sure to be culturally sensitive & inquisitive. Taking the first step to seeking help can be hard, but I am here to support you every step of the way.
People often come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand—whether related to anxiety, relationships, perfectionism, or major life transitions. Often there is a sense that something deeper is driving these struggles, even if it’s hard to put into words. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, eating disorders, body image concerns, perfectionism, and women’s issues. I help clients better understand the emotional patterns shaping their experiences while developing a healthier relationship with food, their bodies, and themselves.
People often come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand—whether related to anxiety, relationships, perfectionism, or major life transitions. Often there is a sense that something deeper is driving these struggles, even if it’s hard to put into words. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, eating disorders, body image concerns, perfectionism, and women’s issues. I help clients better understand the emotional patterns shaping their experiences while developing a healthier relationship with food, their bodies, and themselves.
See more therapy options for La Jolla
Nearby Arab and Middle Eastern Therapists Searches for La Jolla
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- Encinitas
- Escondido
- Oceanside
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- San Marcos
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FAQ - Arab and Middle Eastern Counseling
What can an Arab and Middle Eastern therapist help with?
An Arab and Middle Eastern therapist can support clients with a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, grief, and major life transitions. However, what may make their approach unique is their ability to integrate an understanding of the cultural, family, and social factors that may be shaping your mental health concerns. If you identify with a Middle Eastern background, such as Arab, North African, Lebanese, Syrian, Iraqi, or Palestinian, working with a therapist who is familiar with values surrounding family loyalty, community expectations, religion, marriage, and caregiving responsibilities can help reduce the need to explain yourself in sessions and better support your healing in the context of your background.
How does cultural background influence the therapy experience?
A therapist who personally identifies as Arab or Middle Eastern may offer a deeper understanding of cultural norms, family dynamics, religious beliefs, migration experiences, and the stigma that may surround mental health in some communities. This shared cultural framework can make it easier to build trust and focus more directly on healing. It is also important to note that a therapist does not have to share your background to provide effective therapy. In some cases, finding a culturally competent therapist may be just as important as finding one who shares your background.
What role can language play in therapy?
Language plays a central role in how people process and express emotions. Even for individuals who are fluent in English, certain feelings, memories, or experiences may be easier to describe in the language they grew up speaking or thinking in, such as Arabic, Farsi, Hebrew, Kurdish, or Turkish. Clients may feel more comfortable expressing themselves without having to translate their thoughts, which can reduce the risk of losing meaning or nuance. For many Arab and Middle Eastern clients, language is also closely tied to family relationships. Being able to move between English and your native language in therapy can help reflect real-life dynamics, such as communicating with family members in one language and navigating work or school in another. This flexibility to move between languages in sessions can make therapy feel more natural and relevant to daily life.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience with Arab and Middle Eastern clients?
If cultural background is important to you in therapy, it can be helpful to ask a prospective therapist whether they have experience working with Arab and Middle Eastern clients. In initial conversations with potential therapists, you might ask whether they have worked with concerns related to cultural identity, immigration, family expectations, intergenerational conflict, discrimination, or stigma around mental health. As sessions begin, it can be helpful to notice how the therapist responds to your concerns. A strong therapeutic alliance does not necessarily require a therapist to share your background, but they should respond to your concerns with respect and cultural humility. If you feel dismissed, misunderstood, or find yourself having to explain your background constantly, it may be worth considering another therapist.
Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of Arab and Middle Eastern therapists?
The directory of Arab and Middle Eastern therapists includes professionals who have shared their ethnicity in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist who can provide a cultural match. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their ethnicity in their profiles, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. When the number of therapists who have personally identified as Arab or Middle Eastern is limited, the directory may also show therapists with experience working with clients from relevant backgrounds.