Therapists in San Diego, CA
Qualified to provide individual and family therapy. I have gained an in-depth understanding and passion for relational and family systems, trauma-informed care and experiential interventions. I am an empathic and insightful therapist with a talent for empowering clients towards positive growth. I have a successful history of achievement in academic, training and work experiences. Trained in assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning and providing psychotherapy to adults & adolescents with a wide variety of presenting problems including, depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, self esteem, identity, relapse and addiction.
Qualified to provide individual and family therapy. I have gained an in-depth understanding and passion for relational and family systems, trauma-informed care and experiential interventions. I am an empathic and insightful therapist with a talent for empowering clients towards positive growth. I have a successful history of achievement in academic, training and work experiences. Trained in assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning and providing psychotherapy to adults & adolescents with a wide variety of presenting problems including, depression, anxiety, trauma, dual diagnosis, self esteem, identity, relapse and addiction.
Anna Ponder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92107 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about serving college students and young adults (ages 18-35). Are you feeling overwhelmed, chaotic, stuck, and purposeless? Asking yourself questions like “Who am I?” and “What do I want my life to look like?” I understand the unique challenges young adults face today. Therapy can be a helpful platform to ease emotional burden and increase balance and fulfillment in life. I want to work alongside you towards pursuing a life that inspires you as you become your favorite version of yourself.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about serving college students and young adults (ages 18-35). Are you feeling overwhelmed, chaotic, stuck, and purposeless? Asking yourself questions like “Who am I?” and “What do I want my life to look like?” I understand the unique challenges young adults face today. Therapy can be a helpful platform to ease emotional burden and increase balance and fulfillment in life. I want to work alongside you towards pursuing a life that inspires you as you become your favorite version of yourself.
Shannon J. Oliveira
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
My goal as your therapist is to help you create a meaningful and enjoyable life. Whether you come to treatment to manage a pre-existing condition/diagnosis, or are looking to improve the relationships in your life; I am happy to assist you until you get to where you would like to be. In today's society; stress, anxiety, and depression can often take over our health, wellbeing, and relationships leaving one with an unsatisfactory life. In treatment we can explore the obstacles that are causing you pain or are holding you back from your full potential, and work together towards creating happiness and contentment.
My goal as your therapist is to help you create a meaningful and enjoyable life. Whether you come to treatment to manage a pre-existing condition/diagnosis, or are looking to improve the relationships in your life; I am happy to assist you until you get to where you would like to be. In today's society; stress, anxiety, and depression can often take over our health, wellbeing, and relationships leaving one with an unsatisfactory life. In treatment we can explore the obstacles that are causing you pain or are holding you back from your full potential, and work together towards creating happiness and contentment.
Dr. Kiana Behnood is a clinical psychologist with years of experience specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Dr. Behnood earned her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University, San Diego where her dissertation research focused on bullying students with special needs. Dr. Behnood has worked in a diverse range of settings across San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles County.
Dr. Kiana Behnood is a clinical psychologist with years of experience specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Dr. Behnood earned her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University, San Diego where her dissertation research focused on bullying students with special needs. Dr. Behnood has worked in a diverse range of settings across San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles County.
I enjoy working with clients from all backgrounds. I believe therapy is a collaborative process with the overall goal to achieve healthier balance and desired goals. Life has many challenges and we can all benefit from some support and guidance during difficult times in our lives. In my practice, I have worked extensively with individuals, couples, and adolescents. I work with the insights gained in therapy so clients feel validated and accepted, in their journey to achieve the lives they want to lead.
I enjoy working with clients from all backgrounds. I believe therapy is a collaborative process with the overall goal to achieve healthier balance and desired goals. Life has many challenges and we can all benefit from some support and guidance during difficult times in our lives. In my practice, I have worked extensively with individuals, couples, and adolescents. I work with the insights gained in therapy so clients feel validated and accepted, in their journey to achieve the lives they want to lead.
I am a person-centered therapist who believes in tailoring therapy to her clients individual needs and believes in going into each session with an open mind allowing the client to take hold of each session. I believe in helping the client identify situations or behaviors that have contributed to their illnesses or struggles and together we work to change these behaviors and overcome challenges. I believe that therapy should include unconditional positive regard, compassion, genuineness, and understanding where the client is at. I specialize in working to improve individuals’ self-worth, self-esteem, and self-compassion.
I am a person-centered therapist who believes in tailoring therapy to her clients individual needs and believes in going into each session with an open mind allowing the client to take hold of each session. I believe in helping the client identify situations or behaviors that have contributed to their illnesses or struggles and together we work to change these behaviors and overcome challenges. I believe that therapy should include unconditional positive regard, compassion, genuineness, and understanding where the client is at. I specialize in working to improve individuals’ self-worth, self-esteem, and self-compassion.
Melissa J. Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104 (Online Only)
I'm now accepting new telehealth clients. Do you struggle with anxiety, trauma, emotional reactivity, or depression? My approach involves processing painful emotions through psychotherapy and mind/body exercises. Using a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing, I teach you skills to respond to life's challenges rather than reacting emotionally. This combination promotes well-being and balances the nervous system. To schedule a free 15-minute consultation go to MJTWellness.com
I'm now accepting new telehealth clients. Do you struggle with anxiety, trauma, emotional reactivity, or depression? My approach involves processing painful emotions through psychotherapy and mind/body exercises. Using a blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing, I teach you skills to respond to life's challenges rather than reacting emotionally. This combination promotes well-being and balances the nervous system. To schedule a free 15-minute consultation go to MJTWellness.com
By providing support and practical feedback I help my clients resolve current problems as well as long-standing patterns. I work very hard to create a safe space for my clients, regardless of where you are in your life journey. I will often draw upon my own experience to sensitively address your unique emotional, mental, spiritual and relational needs.
By providing support and practical feedback I help my clients resolve current problems as well as long-standing patterns. I work very hard to create a safe space for my clients, regardless of where you are in your life journey. I will often draw upon my own experience to sensitively address your unique emotional, mental, spiritual and relational needs.
Child Psych San Diego: Dr. Diana Robbins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
A young person struggling with anxiety, OCD, tics, behavior issues, or school problems can feel overwhelming. I'm here to help. I'm Dr. Diana Robbins. I am a California-licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, teens, and young adults. I strive to help young people and their families create better futures. At Child Psych San Diego, you receive high-quality evidence-based psychological services uniquely targeted to your concerns. I provide in-person services as well as telehealth via secure video conferencing. You can receive help and support in office or from the comfort and convenience of your home.
A young person struggling with anxiety, OCD, tics, behavior issues, or school problems can feel overwhelming. I'm here to help. I'm Dr. Diana Robbins. I am a California-licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, teens, and young adults. I strive to help young people and their families create better futures. At Child Psych San Diego, you receive high-quality evidence-based psychological services uniquely targeted to your concerns. I provide in-person services as well as telehealth via secure video conferencing. You can receive help and support in office or from the comfort and convenience of your home.
I can help you learn to develop and sustain the relationship you have always wanted, re-discover the love that brought you together, heal the wounds that have severed your bond re-build the trust and intimacy, communicate honestly and respectfully, handle and resolve conflicts in a way that brings you closer to one another, and build shared meaning, and purpose for you and your family. Although challenging at times, making the decision to enter into therapy may help you move beyond your relationship pain and challenges and help you live your life more confidently, more passionately and more fully.
I can help you learn to develop and sustain the relationship you have always wanted, re-discover the love that brought you together, heal the wounds that have severed your bond re-build the trust and intimacy, communicate honestly and respectfully, handle and resolve conflicts in a way that brings you closer to one another, and build shared meaning, and purpose for you and your family. Although challenging at times, making the decision to enter into therapy may help you move beyond your relationship pain and challenges and help you live your life more confidently, more passionately and more fully.
Experiencing anxiety can feel isolating, even when surrounded by caring people. You're wearing a smile on the outside; but on the inside, you feel overwhelmed. You worry that your stress is impacting those you love. You've tried different strategies to reduce it. They aren't helping. Deep inside you know there's a better way to live, but you're not sure how to do it. The idea of going to therapy feels vulnerable, but you're willing to try it at this point. You just want to feel better.
Experiencing anxiety can feel isolating, even when surrounded by caring people. You're wearing a smile on the outside; but on the inside, you feel overwhelmed. You worry that your stress is impacting those you love. You've tried different strategies to reduce it. They aren't helping. Deep inside you know there's a better way to live, but you're not sure how to do it. The idea of going to therapy feels vulnerable, but you're willing to try it at this point. You just want to feel better.
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Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122 (Online Only)
Dealing with stress and trauma can feel like navigating a maze without an exit. You might find yourself constantly battling feelings of overwhelm, making it hard to focus, connect with others, or find joy in your daily life. These challenges can seem endless, but there's a pathway forward. If you're looking for a compassionate ally to help you uncover your inner strength and regain control, you're not alone. Let's take steps towards healing and finding peace together.
Dealing with stress and trauma can feel like navigating a maze without an exit. You might find yourself constantly battling feelings of overwhelm, making it hard to focus, connect with others, or find joy in your daily life. These challenges can seem endless, but there's a pathway forward. If you're looking for a compassionate ally to help you uncover your inner strength and regain control, you're not alone. Let's take steps towards healing and finding peace together.
By promoting a safe space where you can create, and recreate the you that is well. Tapping into the strengths that live in your heart, we will gain access to your ideals and understanding and build upon them. We will awaken the part of you that will teach you to become your own coach. I will introduce you to several techniques and theoretical orientations that best suit you. I will not subject you to change through somebody elses belief systems instead of your own. With my guidance, you will find the answers to change your life and find peace.
By promoting a safe space where you can create, and recreate the you that is well. Tapping into the strengths that live in your heart, we will gain access to your ideals and understanding and build upon them. We will awaken the part of you that will teach you to become your own coach. I will introduce you to several techniques and theoretical orientations that best suit you. I will not subject you to change through somebody elses belief systems instead of your own. With my guidance, you will find the answers to change your life and find peace.
I'm very much a client-centered therapist and collaborate with my clients in defining the goals and paths of recovery. Being an immigrant myself, I work extensively with immigrants and their families, as well as families of mixed racial/cultural backgrounds. I am a strong advocate for under-served, underrepresented groups, and for victims of social injustice and domestic violence.
I'm very much a client-centered therapist and collaborate with my clients in defining the goals and paths of recovery. Being an immigrant myself, I work extensively with immigrants and their families, as well as families of mixed racial/cultural backgrounds. I am a strong advocate for under-served, underrepresented groups, and for victims of social injustice and domestic violence.
Gunjani Patel Oza
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPCC, LMHC, CISM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am passionate about my work and take great pride in the therapeutic relationships I have built overtime with my clients, which is why I believe in tailoring counseling to each individuals unique needs. Therapy is most effective when a trusting relationship exists between a counselor & the client. Some relationships hurt us while others are meant to heal. I believe that my job isn't to tell you what to do or how you live your life but to provide a safe, trusting environment where you express yourself & have an experience of being listened to without judgment & together we come up with creative solutions.
Welcome! I am passionate about my work and take great pride in the therapeutic relationships I have built overtime with my clients, which is why I believe in tailoring counseling to each individuals unique needs. Therapy is most effective when a trusting relationship exists between a counselor & the client. Some relationships hurt us while others are meant to heal. I believe that my job isn't to tell you what to do or how you live your life but to provide a safe, trusting environment where you express yourself & have an experience of being listened to without judgment & together we come up with creative solutions.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have a passion for helping adults of all ages navigate the challenges of relationships, family, work or school and life transitions. I have extensive work and life experience. Being a warm and empathic person, I provide compassionate, non-judgmental therapy in a safe space. I have an inclusive view of faith, spirituality, gender and sexuality. I use an integrative, eclectic approach. This means I will adapt elements from various therapeutic approaches that work best for your situation.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have a passion for helping adults of all ages navigate the challenges of relationships, family, work or school and life transitions. I have extensive work and life experience. Being a warm and empathic person, I provide compassionate, non-judgmental therapy in a safe space. I have an inclusive view of faith, spirituality, gender and sexuality. I use an integrative, eclectic approach. This means I will adapt elements from various therapeutic approaches that work best for your situation.
Shaylyn Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
I work with primarily with young adults with challenges such as anxiety, neurodivergence, self-esteem, and life transitions.
I work with primarily with young adults with challenges such as anxiety, neurodivergence, self-esteem, and life transitions.
I strongly believe, and studies show, that the connection between you and your therapist is one of the most important aspects of being in therapy. No matter what brings you here, trust and communication are what help you to be comfortable. My goal is to create a safe, judgement free space for whatever you want to unpack. You can do hard things and I'm here to help you.
I strongly believe, and studies show, that the connection between you and your therapist is one of the most important aspects of being in therapy. No matter what brings you here, trust and communication are what help you to be comfortable. My goal is to create a safe, judgement free space for whatever you want to unpack. You can do hard things and I'm here to help you.
Scripps Marriage Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131
Marriage therapy is the primary focus of my practice. With over 20 years of practice experience and two decades of marriage and family life, I able to provide couples with a variety of strategies and interventions. My approach to therapy is very user friendly, as I talk with clients in very clear, understandable terms and provide practice tools that can be used upon completion of the initial session. Contact my office today to begin enhancing your life through a better relationship.
Marriage therapy is the primary focus of my practice. With over 20 years of practice experience and two decades of marriage and family life, I able to provide couples with a variety of strategies and interventions. My approach to therapy is very user friendly, as I talk with clients in very clear, understandable terms and provide practice tools that can be used upon completion of the initial session. Contact my office today to begin enhancing your life through a better relationship.
Often my clients have been in traditional talk therapy but something still felt missing or unaddressed. They come to me looking to deepen their mental and emotional well being with something more. Most of my clients struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, people pleasing, and/or boundary setting. Nearly all of my clients have experienced something in their lives that's left them changed in some way such as unhealthy romantic relationships, chronic illness, or a traumatic childhood.
Often my clients have been in traditional talk therapy but something still felt missing or unaddressed. They come to me looking to deepen their mental and emotional well being with something more. Most of my clients struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, people pleasing, and/or boundary setting. Nearly all of my clients have experienced something in their lives that's left them changed in some way such as unhealthy romantic relationships, chronic illness, or a traumatic childhood.
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
$161
Therapists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
70% | Self Esteem |
66% | Coping Skills |
65% | Relationship Issues |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
62% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
82% | Aetna |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
70% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients
52% | In Person and Online | |
48% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | 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.