Therapists in San Diego, CA

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Photo of Elizabeth Sparks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elizabeth Sparks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Even when life looks stable on the outside, unresolved stress, anxiety, or past trauma can quietly take a toll, leaving you drained, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. If this sounds familiar, I want you to know you’re not alone—and healing is absolutely possible. I am licensed as a LCSW in California and Tennessee.
Even when life looks stable on the outside, unresolved stress, anxiety, or past trauma can quietly take a toll, leaving you drained, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. If this sounds familiar, I want you to know you’re not alone—and healing is absolutely possible. I am licensed as a LCSW in California and Tennessee.
(619) 745-4797 View (619) 745-4797
Photo of Sadie Rose Hechkoff, LPCC
Sadie Rose Hechkoff
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
My clinical experience has focused on supporting clients with severe trauma and acute emotional distress. I’m comfortable navigating the most complex and intense experiences, and my role is to provide a steady, safe space where you can learn to not only accept, but embrace, all parts of yourself.
My clinical experience has focused on supporting clients with severe trauma and acute emotional distress. I’m comfortable navigating the most complex and intense experiences, and my role is to provide a steady, safe space where you can learn to not only accept, but embrace, all parts of yourself.
(760) 573-2520 View (760) 573-2520
Photo of Hilary Weidig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hilary Weidig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
San Diego, CA 92103
Ready for positive change? You've come to the right place! I provide a client-centered & trauma-informed approach to therapy while focusing on self-empowerment and growth. Here to walk with you on your journey to improving your relationships and yourself! I believe in an integrated approach to therapy. I believe in fitting the therapy to you, versus fitting you to a specific modality. In my work as a crisis clinician, I am constantly required to pivot and demonstrate flexibility and meet people where they're at, and help identify what works for them!
Ready for positive change? You've come to the right place! I provide a client-centered & trauma-informed approach to therapy while focusing on self-empowerment and growth. Here to walk with you on your journey to improving your relationships and yourself! I believe in an integrated approach to therapy. I believe in fitting the therapy to you, versus fitting you to a specific modality. In my work as a crisis clinician, I am constantly required to pivot and demonstrate flexibility and meet people where they're at, and help identify what works for them!
(341) 209-6858 View (341) 209-6858
Photo of Amanda Cross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amanda Cross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Life and all of its stages are filled with change. At times those changes are welcomed, and other times they are unexpected, feel burdensome, and create worry. I will listen and will focus on understanding your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to empower you to develop a deeper understanding of yourself, set goals based on your values, and feel relief. As a clinical social worker, I focus on the whole person in their environment. I have developed a nurturing, inclusive, person-centered approach that values each individual’s unique situation and decision making process, and look forward to connecting with you.
Life and all of its stages are filled with change. At times those changes are welcomed, and other times they are unexpected, feel burdensome, and create worry. I will listen and will focus on understanding your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to empower you to develop a deeper understanding of yourself, set goals based on your values, and feel relief. As a clinical social worker, I focus on the whole person in their environment. I have developed a nurturing, inclusive, person-centered approach that values each individual’s unique situation and decision making process, and look forward to connecting with you.
(619) 350-4543 View (619) 350-4543
Photo of Dr. Joshua Morrison - The Becoming Group, Psychologist, PsyD
The Becoming Group
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
Finding and embracing an authentic self is a core mission of adult life. What too often corrupts this search, though, is the phenomenon of shame - a destructive force if there ever was one. Shame can contribute to substance use, depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, poor health outcomes, maladaptive trauma responses, and, at extremes, psychosis and suicidal ideation. Such maladies, when approached in the context of a compassionate and trusting therapeutic relationship, can be transformed into signs pointing the way toward a meaningful and fulfilling sense of self.
Finding and embracing an authentic self is a core mission of adult life. What too often corrupts this search, though, is the phenomenon of shame - a destructive force if there ever was one. Shame can contribute to substance use, depression, anxiety, interpersonal struggles, poor health outcomes, maladaptive trauma responses, and, at extremes, psychosis and suicidal ideation. Such maladies, when approached in the context of a compassionate and trusting therapeutic relationship, can be transformed into signs pointing the way toward a meaningful and fulfilling sense of self.
(619) 815-4658 View (619) 815-4658
Photo of Victoria de la Torre Cortes, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Victoria de la Torre Cortes
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
San Diego, CA 92128
Welcome! My name is Victoria and I am a family therapist in North County, San Diego. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and parents to identify and utilize different areas of structure and support from within themselves. We often times could use that extra support as we navigate life transitions, high stress daily life, trauma recovery, and a space for those much needed mental health check ins and self care.
Welcome! My name is Victoria and I am a family therapist in North County, San Diego. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and parents to identify and utilize different areas of structure and support from within themselves. We often times could use that extra support as we navigate life transitions, high stress daily life, trauma recovery, and a space for those much needed mental health check ins and self care.
(858) 358-5701 View (858) 358-5701
Photo of Max Doshay, Psychologist, PsyD
Max Doshay
Psychologist, PsyD
San Diego, CA 92111
Dr. Max Doshay believes it is of utmost importance to treat all patients holistically and examine all levels of their functioning. Incorporating a variety of evidence-based assessment methods such as the WAIS V, MMPI 3, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, TAT, Vineland Adaptive Scales, and Bender Visual Spatial Gestalt Test (and more!), Dr. Max and his team can help tailor an individualized treatment plan through Neuropsychological Evaluations that meets the patient’s specific wants and needs instead of applying a “one size fits all” therapeutic technique used by many in the mental health industry.
Dr. Max Doshay believes it is of utmost importance to treat all patients holistically and examine all levels of their functioning. Incorporating a variety of evidence-based assessment methods such as the WAIS V, MMPI 3, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, TAT, Vineland Adaptive Scales, and Bender Visual Spatial Gestalt Test (and more!), Dr. Max and his team can help tailor an individualized treatment plan through Neuropsychological Evaluations that meets the patient’s specific wants and needs instead of applying a “one size fits all” therapeutic technique used by many in the mental health industry.
(858) 346-6571 View (858) 346-6571
Photo of Deena Madrid, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Deena Madrid
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Deena! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego, California. I work with adolescents and adults statewide, via telehealth. My focus in practice is working with anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms using an integrative, collaborative, and client-centered approach.
Hi there, I'm Deena! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego, California. I work with adolescents and adults statewide, via telehealth. My focus in practice is working with anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms using an integrative, collaborative, and client-centered approach.
(310) 340-2940 View (310) 340-2940
Photo of Jan Rakoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Jan Rakoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
San Diego, CA 92130
It can be overwhelming to begin the process of therapy and takes courage to make that first contact. OFFERING VIDEO SESSIONS BECAUSE OF COVID 19. As your therapist I will engage you in becoming comfortable exploring your inner self and learning where do you get stuck and what increases your satisfaction in life. Using a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will develop a plan that addresses your issues. You will learn to look in the mirror and not the magnifying glass to improve both your self image and relationships with others. You will also learn how to set boundaries; this reduces anger and increases self esteem.
It can be overwhelming to begin the process of therapy and takes courage to make that first contact. OFFERING VIDEO SESSIONS BECAUSE OF COVID 19. As your therapist I will engage you in becoming comfortable exploring your inner self and learning where do you get stuck and what increases your satisfaction in life. Using a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will develop a plan that addresses your issues. You will learn to look in the mirror and not the magnifying glass to improve both your self image and relationships with others. You will also learn how to set boundaries; this reduces anger and increases self esteem.
(858) 376-7984 View (858) 376-7984
Photo of Kalene Khan, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kalene Khan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am here to help you build self-acceptance, practice self compassion, and better understand how to have a more peaceful relationship with yourself and others. I work with clients managing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship struggles, self esteem challenges, and life transitions. I I have specialized training in supporting survivors of sexual trauma, as well as those in the APIDA community. I can support you nwith challenging roles such as being a caregiver, parent, workplace or family leader, student, or public figure and encourage you to be kind to yourself along the way.
I am here to help you build self-acceptance, practice self compassion, and better understand how to have a more peaceful relationship with yourself and others. I work with clients managing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship struggles, self esteem challenges, and life transitions. I I have specialized training in supporting survivors of sexual trauma, as well as those in the APIDA community. I can support you nwith challenging roles such as being a caregiver, parent, workplace or family leader, student, or public figure and encourage you to be kind to yourself along the way.
(619) 393-4028 View (619) 393-4028
Photo of Victoria Savory, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Victoria Savory
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92117
You've worked hard to build a life that looks put-together—successful career, meaningful achievements, a full life. And yet, something beneath the surface feels hollow. Maybe you find yourself in relationships that leave you feeling unseen or diminished, or you've become your own harshest critic, never quite feeling like enough. I work with high-achieving individuals ready to explore what's beneath the patterns shaping their lives and relationships. This is not a quick fix—it's deep, meaningful work that leads to lasting change and a life that feels genuinely yours.
You've worked hard to build a life that looks put-together—successful career, meaningful achievements, a full life. And yet, something beneath the surface feels hollow. Maybe you find yourself in relationships that leave you feeling unseen or diminished, or you've become your own harshest critic, never quite feeling like enough. I work with high-achieving individuals ready to explore what's beneath the patterns shaping their lives and relationships. This is not a quick fix—it's deep, meaningful work that leads to lasting change and a life that feels genuinely yours.
(619) 738-6592 View (619) 738-6592
Photo of Michael McGinty, Psychologist, PsyD
Michael McGinty
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Many struggle with anxiety and depression, and this is not uncommon. Whether it be nervousness, sadness, relational difficulties, or feeling like we aren't where we are "supposed to be" in life, there are many obstacles that cause us to feel "stuck." My job as a therapist is to help you get "unstuck" by aiding you in better understanding the underlying factors contributing to these difficulties, many of which are often rooted in thinking habits and relational patterns. My primary focus is on anxiety and depression, and how the combination of unhealthy thinking and unhealthy relational patterns cause us to feel anxious and depressed.
Many struggle with anxiety and depression, and this is not uncommon. Whether it be nervousness, sadness, relational difficulties, or feeling like we aren't where we are "supposed to be" in life, there are many obstacles that cause us to feel "stuck." My job as a therapist is to help you get "unstuck" by aiding you in better understanding the underlying factors contributing to these difficulties, many of which are often rooted in thinking habits and relational patterns. My primary focus is on anxiety and depression, and how the combination of unhealthy thinking and unhealthy relational patterns cause us to feel anxious and depressed.
(858) 900-5848 View (858) 900-5848
Photo of Merissa A. Mathews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Merissa A. Mathews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
Are you experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, feeling stuck in a dark place of depression or addiction? Maybe you are experiencing challenges with feeling too needy in relationships or having difficulty connecting emotionally. Perhaps, you are wanting to be more assertive, have less stress in social situations, and have more confidence at work. Past experiences can strongly influence the way you feel about yourself and the world. Past events can be anything from experiencing emotional/physical/sexual abuse, bullying, emotional neglect, experiencing racial trauma, or not feeling accepted for being LGBTQ+.
Are you experiencing low self-esteem, anxiety, feeling stuck in a dark place of depression or addiction? Maybe you are experiencing challenges with feeling too needy in relationships or having difficulty connecting emotionally. Perhaps, you are wanting to be more assertive, have less stress in social situations, and have more confidence at work. Past experiences can strongly influence the way you feel about yourself and the world. Past events can be anything from experiencing emotional/physical/sexual abuse, bullying, emotional neglect, experiencing racial trauma, or not feeling accepted for being LGBTQ+.
(619) 393-4746 View (619) 393-4746
Photo of Gregory Ross, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Gregory Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
San Diego, CA 92130
Specialized therapy for teens and young adults: Are you the parent of a teenager who is having problems at school, with friends, and/or issues at home? Are you a college student or young adult dealing with issues relating to school, work, relationships, and/or family? I come to therapy with years of corporate business experience and my therapeutic background includes working as a mental health therapist at Los Altos High School in Los Altos, CA, teaching the Heart to Heart seminar at Stanford Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto, CA, and training at the Community Health Awareness Council (CHAC) in Mountain View, CA.
Specialized therapy for teens and young adults: Are you the parent of a teenager who is having problems at school, with friends, and/or issues at home? Are you a college student or young adult dealing with issues relating to school, work, relationships, and/or family? I come to therapy with years of corporate business experience and my therapeutic background includes working as a mental health therapist at Los Altos High School in Los Altos, CA, teaching the Heart to Heart seminar at Stanford Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto, CA, and training at the Community Health Awareness Council (CHAC) in Mountain View, CA.
(858) 333-4454 View (858) 333-4454
Photo of Stephanie Ann Massey, Psychologist, PsyD
Stephanie Ann Massey
Psychologist, PsyD
San Diego, CA 92130
I have a unique ability to connect with people. Sometimes there are people that have a hard time clarifying what their thoughts and feelings are. They get confused. They hear voices in their head. They think people are making fun of them because they are born different. It can be really hard for Their own families to help. I help their families achieve common ground . Teenagers know I am real even if I tell them things they don’t want to hear. I have assisted many young adults make the difficult transition to adulthood. Older adults know that I want to hear about their life and assist them with the challenges of getting old.
I have a unique ability to connect with people. Sometimes there are people that have a hard time clarifying what their thoughts and feelings are. They get confused. They hear voices in their head. They think people are making fun of them because they are born different. It can be really hard for Their own families to help. I help their families achieve common ground . Teenagers know I am real even if I tell them things they don’t want to hear. I have assisted many young adults make the difficult transition to adulthood. Older adults know that I want to hear about their life and assist them with the challenges of getting old.
(619) 432-3764 View (619) 432-3764
Photo of Katherine Ulanday, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Katherine Ulanday
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
San Diego, CA 92109
A lot of the people I work with feel like they “know better” but still get pulled into the same patterns whether that’s in relationships, emotional reactions, or substance use. They’re often high-functioning but feel overwhelmed, anxious, or inconsistent underneath. I help clients get to the root of these patterns, process what’s driving them, and build the ability to respond differently so they feel more grounded, in control, and aligned with how they want to show up.
A lot of the people I work with feel like they “know better” but still get pulled into the same patterns whether that’s in relationships, emotional reactions, or substance use. They’re often high-functioning but feel overwhelmed, anxious, or inconsistent underneath. I help clients get to the root of these patterns, process what’s driving them, and build the ability to respond differently so they feel more grounded, in control, and aligned with how they want to show up.
(619) 473-2458 View (619) 473-2458
Photo of Rebecca Luna, Psychologist, PsyD
Rebecca Luna
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Is ongoing stress or anxiety impacting not just your mental health and relationships, but also your sleep, energy, or physical well-being? You may appear capable and composed on the outside, while internally feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. Over time, these patterns can become deeply rooted and persist despite your best efforts. Therapy offers a space to understand them and create meaningful, lasting change.
Is ongoing stress or anxiety impacting not just your mental health and relationships, but also your sleep, energy, or physical well-being? You may appear capable and composed on the outside, while internally feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. Over time, these patterns can become deeply rooted and persist despite your best efforts. Therapy offers a space to understand them and create meaningful, lasting change.
(619) 975-2892 View (619) 975-2892
Photo of Nahied Rahimi, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Nahied Rahimi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92122
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.
(858) 358-7685 View (858) 358-7685
Photo of Dr. Hayley Carolan, Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, AMFT
Dr. Hayley Carolan
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, AMFT
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92131
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. You deserve a caring, non-judgmental space where you're truly heard and supported. I offer a holistic approach, considering your worldview, values, history, and the many aspects of your identity to understand you more deeply. My goal is to help you share, gain clarity, and connect with yourself. Whether you're navigating relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or life transitions, I will ensure you my full presence and compassion as we work together.
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. You deserve a caring, non-judgmental space where you're truly heard and supported. I offer a holistic approach, considering your worldview, values, history, and the many aspects of your identity to understand you more deeply. My goal is to help you share, gain clarity, and connect with yourself. Whether you're navigating relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or life transitions, I will ensure you my full presence and compassion as we work together.
(858) 544-2528 View (858) 544-2528
Photo of Megan McGarry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Megan McGarry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Daily work stress, relationship conflicts, past unhealed trauma, life stressors that just seem unmanageable - all of these things impact our well being and our ability to function well in many areas of our lives. I am passionate about holding a space for individuals who are struggling and finding their way back to peace and balance. I have been practicing for 13 years with a bulk of my experience in a medical setting helping people navigate emotional and physical trauma, stressful family/relationship dynamics, adjustment to illness/injury, anxiety and depression.
Daily work stress, relationship conflicts, past unhealed trauma, life stressors that just seem unmanageable - all of these things impact our well being and our ability to function well in many areas of our lives. I am passionate about holding a space for individuals who are struggling and finding their way back to peace and balance. I have been practicing for 13 years with a bulk of my experience in a medical setting helping people navigate emotional and physical trauma, stressful family/relationship dynamics, adjustment to illness/injury, anxiety and depression.
(310) 564-2742 View (310) 564-2742

See more therapy options for San Diego

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in San Diego, CA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
72% Relationship Issues
70% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress
59% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
73% Cigna and Evernorth
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients

55% Online Only
45% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in San Diego?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.