Life Transitions Therapists in Poway, CA

Nesreen Hutoczki
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At the core of healing and growth is a solid and caring relationship with oneself and others. I aim to foster this while addressing your specific needs. I honor each individual I meet with and take a uniquely tailored and collaborative approach to therapy. Pursuing your goals with creativity, compassion and humor can help make the "work" of therapy flow more naturally and comfortably. I can help you gain insight in addressing various aspects of your individualized healing process holistically, which may include expressive art therapy, nature therapy, relational-cultural therapy as well as more traditional approaches.
At the core of healing and growth is a solid and caring relationship with oneself and others. I aim to foster this while addressing your specific needs. I honor each individual I meet with and take a uniquely tailored and collaborative approach to therapy. Pursuing your goals with creativity, compassion and humor can help make the "work" of therapy flow more naturally and comfortably. I can help you gain insight in addressing various aspects of your individualized healing process holistically, which may include expressive art therapy, nature therapy, relational-cultural therapy as well as more traditional approaches.
(858) 212-0929 View (858) 212-0929
Mariah Rideaux
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , LMFT
5 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I work with clients navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma-related concerns.
Are you feeling stuck in the same painful arguments, emotional disconnection, or overwhelming distress—even when you're trying so hard to make things better? Whether you're struggling individually or in your relationship, lasting change begins by understanding what lies beneath the surface. I help individuals and couples uncover the underlying emotions and unmet attachment needs driving these patterns. We'll work together to understand your experiences, heal old wounds, and create more secure, connected relationships—with yourself and the people who matter most.
I work with clients navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma-related concerns.
Are you feeling stuck in the same painful arguments, emotional disconnection, or overwhelming distress—even when you're trying so hard to make things better? Whether you're struggling individually or in your relationship, lasting change begins by understanding what lies beneath the surface. I help individuals and couples uncover the underlying emotions and unmet attachment needs driving these patterns. We'll work together to understand your experiences, heal old wounds, and create more secure, connected relationships—with yourself and the people who matter most.
(619) 404-5968 View (619) 404-5968
Garet Bedrosian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CiRT, MFEC, CBT, CET
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Is your relationship in trouble? Does your relationship feel dull and lifeless? Are you at the beginning of a new relationship and want to make sure this one works out? We all need to learn how to make relationships work. There are a few things you need to know. 1. All relationships go through a cycle, and one of those cycles includes conflict. Yes, conflict is supposed to happen because it helps us grow and heal. 2. All those great feelings you had at the beginning were because of hormones, and they don't last. 3. You are in this relationship because you hold the key to each other's healing. I can help create a safe environment.
Is your relationship in trouble? Does your relationship feel dull and lifeless? Are you at the beginning of a new relationship and want to make sure this one works out? We all need to learn how to make relationships work. There are a few things you need to know. 1. All relationships go through a cycle, and one of those cycles includes conflict. Yes, conflict is supposed to happen because it helps us grow and heal. 2. All those great feelings you had at the beginning were because of hormones, and they don't last. 3. You are in this relationship because you hold the key to each other's healing. I can help create a safe environment.
(619) 432-3260 View (619) 432-3260
Katie C. Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I have extensive experience working with a wide range of challenges and needs, including anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness, school-related concerns and collaboration with schools, and life transitions.
My goal as a therapist is to create a relationship with my clients based on collaboration, compassion, and trust. I focus on meaningful connection with my clients and will work alongside you to navigate life's challenges and create positive and long-term changes. My treatment approach is varied depending on your individual needs.
I have extensive experience working with a wide range of challenges and needs, including anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness, school-related concerns and collaboration with schools, and life transitions.
My goal as a therapist is to create a relationship with my clients based on collaboration, compassion, and trust. I focus on meaningful connection with my clients and will work alongside you to navigate life's challenges and create positive and long-term changes. My treatment approach is varied depending on your individual needs.
(619) 480-2151 View (619) 480-2151
Allison Patch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with teens, emerging adults, and adults navigating developmental stages and life transitions.
I see therapy as a collaborative process that should adapt to what you need. I integrate CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Clinical Art Therapy with compassion, creativity, and practical skill-building. Together, we identify what may be getting in the way, build on the strengths you already have, and develop strategies that feel realistic for your life.
I work with teens, emerging adults, and adults navigating developmental stages and life transitions.
I see therapy as a collaborative process that should adapt to what you need. I integrate CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Clinical Art Therapy with compassion, creativity, and practical skill-building. Together, we identify what may be getting in the way, build on the strengths you already have, and develop strategies that feel realistic for your life.
(424) 543-1820 View (424) 543-1820
Dave Fung
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, MA
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
True story: I’ve gotten my truck stuck in the same sandy desert spot on TWO different occasions - both times, thinking I knew what to do. Nope. Both times I needed help. Like with my truck, the help I've received in my life has helped me understand who I am and now it inspires me to support others in their journey. I have the privilege of supporting numerous couples, teens, and individuals, and I take an approach that is warm, constructive, and collaborative. Our time is spent understanding who you are, what is getting you stuck, and exploring what it may take to get you where you want to be.
True story: I’ve gotten my truck stuck in the same sandy desert spot on TWO different occasions - both times, thinking I knew what to do. Nope. Both times I needed help. Like with my truck, the help I've received in my life has helped me understand who I am and now it inspires me to support others in their journey. I have the privilege of supporting numerous couples, teens, and individuals, and I take an approach that is warm, constructive, and collaborative. Our time is spent understanding who you are, what is getting you stuck, and exploring what it may take to get you where you want to be.
(619) 404-0468 View (619) 404-0468
Francine M Martinez
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
Developmentally, we change with every new experience and I enjoy helping individuals take life transitions to new heights.
My objective in therapy is to assist clients regain a sense of balance and well-being that brings with it a sense of personal empowerment. As adults we all have life challenges, whether it be the loss of a loved one, ending of a marriage/relationship, or the challenges of work and parenting. I see myself as a guide to help you to once again feel in control of your life.
Developmentally, we change with every new experience and I enjoy helping individuals take life transitions to new heights.
My objective in therapy is to assist clients regain a sense of balance and well-being that brings with it a sense of personal empowerment. As adults we all have life challenges, whether it be the loss of a loved one, ending of a marriage/relationship, or the challenges of work and parenting. I see myself as a guide to help you to once again feel in control of your life.
(858) 376-7935 View (858) 376-7935
Tracy M Johnson
Counselor, LPCC, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have worked with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, stress, relationships, self-esteem, adoption, grief, and loss.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. I provide a supportive, collaborative space where you can slow things down, make sense of what’s happening, and build tools that actually fit your life. Together, we’ll work toward greater clarity, self-trust, and emotional balance—at a pace that feels right for you.
I have worked with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, stress, relationships, self-esteem, adoption, grief, and loss.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. I provide a supportive, collaborative space where you can slow things down, make sense of what’s happening, and build tools that actually fit your life. Together, we’ll work toward greater clarity, self-trust, and emotional balance—at a pace that feels right for you.
(858) 463-5969 View (858) 463-5969
Jasmine McMeeking
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, REAT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with couples navigating major life transitions, especially new and expectant parents who are consciously building relationships on their own terms.
You just became a parent, or you're about to. Everything you thought you knew about your relationship is shifting. The dynamic that worked before doesn't quite fit anymore, and you're both trying to figure out who you are to each other now. Maybe you're managing more than you ever have, holding each other at a distance without meaning to, or fighting in ways that feel unfamiliar and a little scary. You not only want to this transition, you want to stay connected to each other, too.
I work with couples navigating major life transitions, especially new and expectant parents who are consciously building relationships on their own terms.
You just became a parent, or you're about to. Everything you thought you knew about your relationship is shifting. The dynamic that worked before doesn't quite fit anymore, and you're both trying to figure out who you are to each other now. Maybe you're managing more than you ever have, holding each other at a distance without meaning to, or fighting in ways that feel unfamiliar and a little scary. You not only want to this transition, you want to stay connected to each other, too.
(213) 885-4674 View (213) 885-4674
Samantha Dunlap
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with adults, teens, and couples navigating grief, anxiety, major life transitions, ADHD, infertility, and relationships.
Grief is a meaningful part of my work. With specialized training, I support people navigating many forms of loss, including the death of a loved one, a beloved pet, caregiving, infertility, health changes, relationships, and trauma. Grief isn't one-size-fits-all and you don't have to minimize your experience just because others might not understand it.
I work with adults, teens, and couples navigating grief, anxiety, major life transitions, ADHD, infertility, and relationships.
Grief is a meaningful part of my work. With specialized training, I support people navigating many forms of loss, including the death of a loved one, a beloved pet, caregiving, infertility, health changes, relationships, and trauma. Grief isn't one-size-fits-all and you don't have to minimize your experience just because others might not understand it.
(858) 544-5235 View (858) 544-5235
Retta Parker Stevenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I provide telehealth services in the state of California and specialize in treating trauma, as well as issues relating to life transitions and late-diagnosed neurodivergence.
I tend to focus on finding a collaborative approach to therapeutic goal setting. We will start with your self-identified goals and refine them as therapy progresses.
I provide telehealth services in the state of California and specialize in treating trauma, as well as issues relating to life transitions and late-diagnosed neurodivergence.
I tend to focus on finding a collaborative approach to therapeutic goal setting. We will start with your self-identified goals and refine them as therapy progresses.
(949) 603-0039 View (949) 603-0039
Mary Karlan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Mary Karla, and I am licensed in CA, FL, NY, MA, and CT. I practice a collaborative approach to therapy as I believe this empowers my clients to obtain what they desire regarding therapeutic goals. I specialize in Couples and family therapy. I did postgraduate training for couples and family therapy at Ackerman Institute for the Family in NYC. I use the Ackerman Relational Model for my work with this population. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with individuals, especially when presenting with symptoms of anxiety and mood disorders. Other modalities offered are Solution Focused Therapy, DBT, and ACT.
Hello! My name is Mary Karla, and I am licensed in CA, FL, NY, MA, and CT. I practice a collaborative approach to therapy as I believe this empowers my clients to obtain what they desire regarding therapeutic goals. I specialize in Couples and family therapy. I did postgraduate training for couples and family therapy at Ackerman Institute for the Family in NYC. I use the Ackerman Relational Model for my work with this population. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with individuals, especially when presenting with symptoms of anxiety and mood disorders. Other modalities offered are Solution Focused Therapy, DBT, and ACT.
(626) 507-3256 View (626) 507-3256
Tara Gehler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
Life transitions and stress can bring unexpected changes in mood, identity, relationships, and emotional resilience.
You may not feel it or believe it right now, but you truly are the expert in your own life. Are you a parent worried about your child, or stressed and overwhelmed in relationships, not feeling like yourself, juggling it all and trying to keep it together? I’m here to help. My professional experience is based on over 15 years of working with individuals and families suffering from anxiety, substance use, grief, loss, depression, and trauma. I’ve dedicated my life and career to helping people navigate strenuous life situations while showing them that there is hope and a solution for everything.
Life transitions and stress can bring unexpected changes in mood, identity, relationships, and emotional resilience.
You may not feel it or believe it right now, but you truly are the expert in your own life. Are you a parent worried about your child, or stressed and overwhelmed in relationships, not feeling like yourself, juggling it all and trying to keep it together? I’m here to help. My professional experience is based on over 15 years of working with individuals and families suffering from anxiety, substance use, grief, loss, depression, and trauma. I’ve dedicated my life and career to helping people navigate strenuous life situations while showing them that there is hope and a solution for everything.
(760) 960-5990 View (760) 960-5990
Jessica Keane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
I became a therapist to encourage self growth and reflection and promote change for a better state of mind. I welcome individuals who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, loss of self, and those who are searching for more meaningful relationships. I enjoy working with individuals who are interested in finding additional support in their relationships.
I became a therapist to encourage self growth and reflection and promote change for a better state of mind. I welcome individuals who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, loss of self, and those who are searching for more meaningful relationships. I enjoy working with individuals who are interested in finding additional support in their relationships.
(858) 283-3119 View (858) 283-3119
Integrative Trauma & Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I believe every client deserves a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space to explore challenges, discover strengths, and create meaningful change.
I believe every client deserves a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space to explore challenges, discover strengths, and create meaningful change.
(858) 462-5856 View (858) 462-5856
Vivienne Hickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Poway, CA 92064
Her work also extends to women’s issues, postpartum depression and anxiety, and life transitions, where she offers compassionate support during times of change and adjustment
In her practice, Vivienne draws on a wide range of interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness techniques, and CBT for Insomnia. She also incorporates parenting skills, faith-based treatment, and exposure therapy when appropriate.In her practice, Vivienne draws on a wide range of interventions i
Her work also extends to women’s issues, postpartum depression and anxiety, and life transitions, where she offers compassionate support during times of change and adjustment
In her practice, Vivienne draws on a wide range of interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness techniques, and CBT for Insomnia. She also incorporates parenting skills, faith-based treatment, and exposure therapy when appropriate.In her practice, Vivienne draws on a wide range of interventions i
(858) 434-8002 View (858) 434-8002
Charlene Villegas-Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I know reaching out for support can feel difficult, especially if you’ve been used to handling things on your own. I believe therapy offers a safe, supportive space to explore life’s challenges. Seeking help is a sign of strength, it’s a meaningful step toward healing and growth. Clients often seek my help with challenges like adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and compassion fatigue. I offer support for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.
I know reaching out for support can feel difficult, especially if you’ve been used to handling things on your own. I believe therapy offers a safe, supportive space to explore life’s challenges. Seeking help is a sign of strength, it’s a meaningful step toward healing and growth. Clients often seek my help with challenges like adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and compassion fatigue. I offer support for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.
(858) 808-1957 View (858) 808-1957
Caryn Cole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I also specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions and interpersonal relationships.
Do you feel lost, hopeless, or stuck? Do you find yourself worried and self-conscious? Are you experiencing conflict with family members, co-workers, or other important relationships in your life? Are you a parent wanting extra support? You are not alone. My style is nurturing, kind, empathetic, and patient. I am here to establish a safe environment where you will be respected, heard, and validated. Therapy sessions are tailored to your individual needs. I meet clients where they are at and work at their pace to achieve hope, empowerment, and growth.
I also specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions and interpersonal relationships.
Do you feel lost, hopeless, or stuck? Do you find yourself worried and self-conscious? Are you experiencing conflict with family members, co-workers, or other important relationships in your life? Are you a parent wanting extra support? You are not alone. My style is nurturing, kind, empathetic, and patient. I am here to establish a safe environment where you will be respected, heard, and validated. Therapy sessions are tailored to your individual needs. I meet clients where they are at and work at their pace to achieve hope, empowerment, and growth.
(858) 244-9443 View (858) 244-9443
Nela Cavelis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
" Together, we'll address the emotional, cognitive, and nervous system impacts of illness, injury, and major life transitions.
I provide a warm, supportive space where you can slow down, feel heard, and make sense of what you're going through. I help people with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life changes, and recovery from illness or injury. Together, we build practical skills to manage stress, understand emotions, and feel more connected to yourself and your life.
" Together, we'll address the emotional, cognitive, and nervous system impacts of illness, injury, and major life transitions.
I provide a warm, supportive space where you can slow down, feel heard, and make sense of what you're going through. I help people with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life changes, and recovery from illness or injury. Together, we build practical skills to manage stress, understand emotions, and feel more connected to yourself and your life.
(858) 321-8162 View (858) 321-8162
Richelle Rojas-Basuil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from San Diego, CA providing telehealth therapy services throughout California. I have years of experience primarily working with children and adolescents in a variety of settings (school, residential/group homes, crisis stabilization unit, in-home, and telehealth).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from San Diego, CA providing telehealth therapy services throughout California. I have years of experience primarily working with children and adolescents in a variety of settings (school, residential/group homes, crisis stabilization unit, in-home, and telehealth).
(341) 217-6620 View (341) 217-6620

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FAQ - Life Transitions Counseling
What counts as a life transition?
A life transition is any change in life circumstances that requires a person to adapt, whether in their relationships, identity, responsibilities, or daily routine. Major life transitions may include getting married, starting a new career, becoming a parent, navigating the loss of a close loved one, retiring, experiencing a major change in health, or moving to a new area. Life transitions can also be smaller or more gradual, such as graduating to a new school, recovering from an injury, taking on more responsibility at work, or adjusting to a new phase of life. Both major and minor transitions can affect mental health, especially when they involve uncertainty, stress, grief, or changes in how a person sees themselves.

How do I know if I need therapy for a life transition?
Life transitions can bring up a wide range of emotions, and it is normal for someone to feel anxious, confused, stressed, sad, or emotionally unsteady. These reactions may be especially common in the weeks or months following a major change. However, if these feelings begin to interfere with daily life, relationships, sleep, work, or a person’s ability to care for themselves, it may be worth seeking support. A person does not need to wait until symptoms feel severe to ask for help; in fact, many people seek therapy proactively to prepare for a major life transition. For example, couples may see a therapist ahead of expecting their first child as a way to strengthen their relationship prior to becoming parents.

How can therapy help with life transitions?
Therapy can help you cope with both expected and unexpected life transitions by providing a space to process how a change is affecting your life, relationships, identity, or emotional well-being. For example, someone who has recently become a parent may use therapy to talk through changes in their identity, stress in their relationship, or feelings of overwhelm. A therapist can also help you make sense of what you are feeling, identify the root causes of stress, and develop coping strategies for managing the uncertainty that can come from major life changes.

What therapeutic approaches work best for life transitions?
The best therapeutic approach depends on what you are struggling with most. If intrusive thoughts or anxiety are the main concern, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help people identify painful thought patterns and develop coping strategies to manage them. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help people make space for painful emotions and accepting their circumstances while reconnecting with their values. For those navigating major relationship changes, couples or family counseling may be a good option. Lastly, for someone navigating career-related concerns, career counselors or coaches may be a good option. When considering what type of therapy may be best, consider the logistical components. For instance, CBT is often limited to a specified number of sessions, whereas more traditional talk therapy approaches can go on for years. In addition, consider whether you will be seeking online or in-person therapy; if you are in the process of moving or seeking a therapist for support around a topic that is not available in your immediate area, online therapy may be a good fit.

How do I find a therapist for life transition counseling?
The Psychology Today Therapist Directory allows people to search for therapists who specialize in life transitions. Use the “Specialties” filter and select “Life transitions” to find therapists who have indicated experience in life transitions. You may also select filters related to a specific transition, such as career counseling, divorce, grief, premarital counseling, or parenting. When comparing options, it is helpful to look for therapists whose profiles specifically mention experience with life transitions or specific types of transitions. Practical factors such as insurance, location, and online or in-person availability are also important. Once you have identified a few therapists who seem like a good fit, reach out to schedule an initial consultation.