Therapists in San Diego, CA
You aren’t looking for traditional talk therapy; you’re looking to resolve the physiological aftermath of high-stakes stress. Whether you are a First Responder, Veteran, or survivor of complex trauma, "white-knuckling" your way through the day isn't working. I specialize in high-acuity trauma recovery, moving beyond simple conversation into neurological resolution.
With 13+ years of experience, I use EMDR and Brainspotting to target distress where it lives: in the nervous system. My approach is direct, clinical, and built for those who have seen the unthinkable.
You aren’t looking for traditional talk therapy; you’re looking to resolve the physiological aftermath of high-stakes stress. Whether you are a First Responder, Veteran, or survivor of complex trauma, "white-knuckling" your way through the day isn't working. I specialize in high-acuity trauma recovery, moving beyond simple conversation into neurological resolution.
With 13+ years of experience, I use EMDR and Brainspotting to target distress where it lives: in the nervous system. My approach is direct, clinical, and built for those who have seen the unthinkable.
I am a biracial Afro-American. I have been a licensed professional clinical counselor and licensed marriage and family therapist for over a decade. I bring both my license from clinical, relational professional perspectives. I work from a trauma-focused lens to treat anxiety, depression, the stress of life transitions, divorce, grief and loss, infidelity, empty nest syndrome, racial issues, anger management/emotional regulation, work-life balance, burnout, dual diagnosis, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
I am a biracial Afro-American. I have been a licensed professional clinical counselor and licensed marriage and family therapist for over a decade. I bring both my license from clinical, relational professional perspectives. I work from a trauma-focused lens to treat anxiety, depression, the stress of life transitions, divorce, grief and loss, infidelity, empty nest syndrome, racial issues, anger management/emotional regulation, work-life balance, burnout, dual diagnosis, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Do you long for a sense of peace and freedom? Trauma, abuse, anxiety or depression can leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and sometimes in cycles of exhaustion or disconnection. These feelings can impact how you relate to people you are close to, or find joy and meaning in your daily life. I'm here to help you navigate and heal from wounds of the past, help you reclaim your sense of self, and build a more fulfilling future. Whether you’re coping with emotional wounds, divorce, relationship struggles, codependency, or unresolved pain, together we can work toward healing, clarity, and a future filled with connection and purpose.
Do you long for a sense of peace and freedom? Trauma, abuse, anxiety or depression can leave you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and sometimes in cycles of exhaustion or disconnection. These feelings can impact how you relate to people you are close to, or find joy and meaning in your daily life. I'm here to help you navigate and heal from wounds of the past, help you reclaim your sense of self, and build a more fulfilling future. Whether you’re coping with emotional wounds, divorce, relationship struggles, codependency, or unresolved pain, together we can work toward healing, clarity, and a future filled with connection and purpose.
My name is Jennifer Phelps. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 138186) as well as an Art Therapist (P-ATR 21-224). I live and work in San Diego and see clients throughout California through Telehealth. I utilize a person-centered approach where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences.
My name is Jennifer Phelps. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 138186) as well as an Art Therapist (P-ATR 21-224). I live and work in San Diego and see clients throughout California through Telehealth. I utilize a person-centered approach where clients feel empowered to explore their experiences.
I am hopeful that you perceive me as warm, easy to talk to, and a good listener. I am committed to making it safe for you to express your feelings, explore issues, solve problems, and to pursue personal goals. I believe that I offer a depth of experience along with understanding, empathy and compassion. My goal is to provide you with tools to gain awareness and insight into your issues so that negative feelings and self-limiting behaviors can be confronted and resolved. In learning healthier coping skills, you will ultimately gain a greater sense of personal satisfaction in your relationships and in your life!
I am hopeful that you perceive me as warm, easy to talk to, and a good listener. I am committed to making it safe for you to express your feelings, explore issues, solve problems, and to pursue personal goals. I believe that I offer a depth of experience along with understanding, empathy and compassion. My goal is to provide you with tools to gain awareness and insight into your issues so that negative feelings and self-limiting behaviors can be confronted and resolved. In learning healthier coping skills, you will ultimately gain a greater sense of personal satisfaction in your relationships and in your life!
I help couples to establish and restore stronger connections and emotional responsiveness in their relationship. You might be able to get reimbursed for out-of-network therapy! Check here: mentaya.co/b/hdcUtx4cKvCTPGOegtTW
I help couples to establish and restore stronger connections and emotional responsiveness in their relationship. You might be able to get reimbursed for out-of-network therapy! Check here: mentaya.co/b/hdcUtx4cKvCTPGOegtTW
I earned my MSW from the University of Southern California in 2021, and my passion for mental health work has only deepened since then. I work with teens and adults (ages 12 and up) who are navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and the often-complicated layers beneath them. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing—not as a one-size-fits-all plan, but as tools we can use together to meet your needs and goals. In session, I show up with curiosity, care, and respect for your lived experience. You don’t have to go through this alone.
I earned my MSW from the University of Southern California in 2021, and my passion for mental health work has only deepened since then. I work with teens and adults (ages 12 and up) who are navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and the often-complicated layers beneath them. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing—not as a one-size-fits-all plan, but as tools we can use together to meet your needs and goals. In session, I show up with curiosity, care, and respect for your lived experience. You don’t have to go through this alone.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer therapy in a non-judgmental, confidential, and empowering environment. Therapy can help you heal from past traumas, gain healthy coping skills to deal with stress, life transitions, and relationship issues, and decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression. My primary and preferred modalities are Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy, as these therapies promote healing as opposed to just skill building. However, skill building can be helpful as well, so I can integrate Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer therapy in a non-judgmental, confidential, and empowering environment. Therapy can help you heal from past traumas, gain healthy coping skills to deal with stress, life transitions, and relationship issues, and decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression. My primary and preferred modalities are Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy, as these therapies promote healing as opposed to just skill building. However, skill building can be helpful as well, so I can integrate Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Anxiety, depression, and trauma can quietly reshape how you see yourself and relate to the world—leaving you feeling stuck, disconnected, or just not like yourself. You might be doing your best to keep it all together, while underneath, you're overwhelmed by racing thoughts, heavy emotions, or past experiences that still linger. I support adults who are ready to slow down, reflect, and begin making sense of what’s felt too heavy to carry alone.
Anxiety, depression, and trauma can quietly reshape how you see yourself and relate to the world—leaving you feeling stuck, disconnected, or just not like yourself. You might be doing your best to keep it all together, while underneath, you're overwhelmed by racing thoughts, heavy emotions, or past experiences that still linger. I support adults who are ready to slow down, reflect, and begin making sense of what’s felt too heavy to carry alone.
Affirming Therapy Center (ATC) offers therapy for individuals and couples seeking clarity, connection, and well-being. You may feel uncertain, anxious, or hesitant to share your desires, identity, or relationship choices—especially if they don’t fit traditional expectations. We help clients navigate intimacy challenges, sexual functioning, mismatched desire, and transitions in their relationships. Our team provides professional, nonjudgmental care for life changes and sexual health, including kink/BDSM, polyamory, ethical non-monogamy (ENM), and sexual identity exploration.
Affirming Therapy Center (ATC) offers therapy for individuals and couples seeking clarity, connection, and well-being. You may feel uncertain, anxious, or hesitant to share your desires, identity, or relationship choices—especially if they don’t fit traditional expectations. We help clients navigate intimacy challenges, sexual functioning, mismatched desire, and transitions in their relationships. Our team provides professional, nonjudgmental care for life changes and sexual health, including kink/BDSM, polyamory, ethical non-monogamy (ENM), and sexual identity exploration.
A lot of the men I work with are high functioning on the outside. They show up for work, family, and responsibility, yet internally, they’re carrying stress, anger, anxiety, identity pressure, or relationship tension they’ve never really had space to unpack. Many were taught to perform, not process.
A lot of the men I work with are high functioning on the outside. They show up for work, family, and responsibility, yet internally, they’re carrying stress, anger, anxiety, identity pressure, or relationship tension they’ve never really had space to unpack. Many were taught to perform, not process.
I am an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with over 22 years of experience as a Firefighter/Paramedic. My unique background provides me with a deep understanding of trauma, both primary and vicarious, having witnessed and responded to countless critical incidents. I have proficient expertise working with clients who have suffered with PTSD.
I am an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with over 22 years of experience as a Firefighter/Paramedic. My unique background provides me with a deep understanding of trauma, both primary and vicarious, having witnessed and responded to countless critical incidents. I have proficient expertise working with clients who have suffered with PTSD.
I am a trauma-informed therapist who specializes in working with moderate to severe mental health populations. I utilize evidence-based modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma-informed care to support clients in healing from trauma. I bring extensive experience working with high-acuity individuals navigating complex trauma, severe mood disorders, and significant life stressors. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on helping clients build lasting emotional resilience and stability.
I am a trauma-informed therapist who specializes in working with moderate to severe mental health populations. I utilize evidence-based modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma-informed care to support clients in healing from trauma. I bring extensive experience working with high-acuity individuals navigating complex trauma, severe mood disorders, and significant life stressors. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on helping clients build lasting emotional resilience and stability.
I work with couples during any stage of life that you may be in, whether that is being engaged, recently married, welcoming a new baby and navigating the change kids create, married for a few years or many, even if you may be thinking about separation. You spend nearly everyday with the person you chose to be with, and my goal is to help you have a happy and fulfilling relationship even when the rough times occur.
I also work with individuals (or even the couple) that may be experiencing postpartum mood disorders. As well as individuals that may be experiencing anxiety and depressive feelings.
I work with couples during any stage of life that you may be in, whether that is being engaged, recently married, welcoming a new baby and navigating the change kids create, married for a few years or many, even if you may be thinking about separation. You spend nearly everyday with the person you chose to be with, and my goal is to help you have a happy and fulfilling relationship even when the rough times occur.
I also work with individuals (or even the couple) that may be experiencing postpartum mood disorders. As well as individuals that may be experiencing anxiety and depressive feelings.
Forensic evaluations and assessments are sometimes necessary in criminal, civil, professional, and military court cases. When cases have legal issues with a psychological component, Dr. Lunceford uses the science of psychology to assess and evaluate the issue, writing comprehensive psychological reports to assist counsel with the case at hand. Evaluations range from civil assessments, criminal assessments, mental health diversion, workers' comp, and Independent Medical Evaluations such as DBA claims.
Forensic evaluations and assessments are sometimes necessary in criminal, civil, professional, and military court cases. When cases have legal issues with a psychological component, Dr. Lunceford uses the science of psychology to assess and evaluate the issue, writing comprehensive psychological reports to assist counsel with the case at hand. Evaluations range from civil assessments, criminal assessments, mental health diversion, workers' comp, and Independent Medical Evaluations such as DBA claims.
I use an in-depth focus that has a practical application. I understand past and present difficulties within the context of family relationships. I think of each person as dynamic and changeable. When a person comes to me for help, I understand that person to be stuck in ways that are out of their conscious awareness. Work and/or relationship functioning can easily be blocked or limited. Changing is complex and requires the assistance of a skilled and caring professional. If you are ready to face the deeper issues interfering with your personal success, it is time to contact me.
I use an in-depth focus that has a practical application. I understand past and present difficulties within the context of family relationships. I think of each person as dynamic and changeable. When a person comes to me for help, I understand that person to be stuck in ways that are out of their conscious awareness. Work and/or relationship functioning can easily be blocked or limited. Changing is complex and requires the assistance of a skilled and caring professional. If you are ready to face the deeper issues interfering with your personal success, it is time to contact me.
You may feel lonely, disconnected, or like no one truly understands your experiences—especially when cultural values, stigma, or internalized beliefs make it hard to reach out or even make sense of your own thoughts and feelings. As a confidant, advocate, and guide, I’ll hold space for you so you can feel truly seen, heard, and accepted without judgment. This foundation creates the safety needed to navigate life’s obstacles, explore your emotions, and strengthen your sense of self, honoring your pace on the journey toward healing & growth.
You may feel lonely, disconnected, or like no one truly understands your experiences—especially when cultural values, stigma, or internalized beliefs make it hard to reach out or even make sense of your own thoughts and feelings. As a confidant, advocate, and guide, I’ll hold space for you so you can feel truly seen, heard, and accepted without judgment. This foundation creates the safety needed to navigate life’s obstacles, explore your emotions, and strengthen your sense of self, honoring your pace on the journey toward healing & growth.
Healing is an integral part of our journeys, and everyone deserves to live with a sense of peace & purpose. Yet many find it difficult to reflect on whether they are living in alignment with themselves and what they truly value. I have worked alongside individuals from all walks of life navigating through addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, and various life transitions. I also help adults and couples navigate through their journeys of infertility, pregnancy, adoption, and fostering. I would love to meet you, learn about you, and walk this journey with you as you find your path towards healing through peace & purpose.
Healing is an integral part of our journeys, and everyone deserves to live with a sense of peace & purpose. Yet many find it difficult to reflect on whether they are living in alignment with themselves and what they truly value. I have worked alongside individuals from all walks of life navigating through addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, and various life transitions. I also help adults and couples navigate through their journeys of infertility, pregnancy, adoption, and fostering. I would love to meet you, learn about you, and walk this journey with you as you find your path towards healing through peace & purpose.
My style is very directive offering advice and teaching you skills that offer rapid and long-term change. Because of my extensive experience (more than 20 years in social work), I have many tools in my tool belt to share with you and help you not only feel better but build a life that is sustainably happier for you.
My style is very directive offering advice and teaching you skills that offer rapid and long-term change. Because of my extensive experience (more than 20 years in social work), I have many tools in my tool belt to share with you and help you not only feel better but build a life that is sustainably happier for you.
It can take time to find someone you feel comfortable opening up to. Therapy often asks for the same things that healing requires: vulnerability, curiosity, and space to explore at your own pace. My role is to help you reconnect with that inner clarity, notice patterns that no longer serve you, and support you as you try new ways of being. I support adults navigating anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, trauma, and life transitions. Before becoming a therapist, I spent over a decade as an engineer in the medical device field, and I bring a perspective that honors both emotional experience and the systems that shape it.
It can take time to find someone you feel comfortable opening up to. Therapy often asks for the same things that healing requires: vulnerability, curiosity, and space to explore at your own pace. My role is to help you reconnect with that inner clarity, notice patterns that no longer serve you, and support you as you try new ways of being. I support adults navigating anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, trauma, and life transitions. Before becoming a therapist, I spent over a decade as an engineer in the medical device field, and I bring a perspective that honors both emotional experience and the systems that shape it.
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
$174
Therapists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
| 93% | Anxiety |
| 93% | Social Anxiety |
| 93% | Health Anxiety |
| 93% | Driving Anxiety |
| 86% | Depression |
| 71% | Relationship Issues |
| 69% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 88% | Aetna |
| 73% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 57% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients
| 55% | Online Only | |
| 45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
| 80% | Female | |
| 18% | 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
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.
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.
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.


