Therapists in San Diego, CA
Are you worried about your child's sadness or withdrawal? Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from joy? Struggling to find meaningful connections with others or even yourself? As an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I help children, teenagers, and adults heal from depression, trauma, and relationship struggles. By using a trauma informed approach, and modalities like EMDR, CBT, and DBT I guide clients toward emotional healing and a renewed sense of purpose.
Are you worried about your child's sadness or withdrawal? Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from joy? Struggling to find meaningful connections with others or even yourself? As an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I help children, teenagers, and adults heal from depression, trauma, and relationship struggles. By using a trauma informed approach, and modalities like EMDR, CBT, and DBT I guide clients toward emotional healing and a renewed sense of purpose.
Parenting while managing anxiety or ADHD can feel like a constant juggling act—trying to stay present and patient while internally bracing for the next meltdown, deadline, or wave of self-doubt. It’s exhausting to feel like you’re never doing enough, especially when you're already giving your all. With an MS from Loma Linda University and training in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and mindfulness-based approaches, I support adults and parents who are ready to build more effective coping tools, strengthen self-trust, and feel less alone in the chaos.
Parenting while managing anxiety or ADHD can feel like a constant juggling act—trying to stay present and patient while internally bracing for the next meltdown, deadline, or wave of self-doubt. It’s exhausting to feel like you’re never doing enough, especially when you're already giving your all. With an MS from Loma Linda University and training in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and mindfulness-based approaches, I support adults and parents who are ready to build more effective coping tools, strengthen self-trust, and feel less alone in the chaos.
My passion lies in assisting individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, identity issues, relational challenges, and existential inquiries. I bring extensive experience in working with adults grappling with various addictions, eating disorders, personality disorders, emotion regulation, marital/couple conflicts, and trauma.
My passion lies in assisting individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, identity issues, relational challenges, and existential inquiries. I bring extensive experience in working with adults grappling with various addictions, eating disorders, personality disorders, emotion regulation, marital/couple conflicts, and trauma.
My name is Courtney Moore and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with teens and adults looking to heal anxiety, stress, trauma, and limiting beliefs using mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and somatic-based therapy to help my clients find freedom and joy from what's holding them back. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and somatic work to reintegrate both the mind and body to facilitate equilibrium and balance for overall improved well-being.
My name is Courtney Moore and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with teens and adults looking to heal anxiety, stress, trauma, and limiting beliefs using mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and somatic-based therapy to help my clients find freedom and joy from what's holding them back. My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and somatic work to reintegrate both the mind and body to facilitate equilibrium and balance for overall improved well-being.
I am an affirming, trauma-informed somatic psychotherapist, passionate about the healing process. I have extensive experience working with those who have issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, childhood trauma, life transitions and the LGBTQ+ community. You may be aware of negative thinking or feeling patterns you are currently experiencing that you want to shift and we will create the space to explore the roots in order to build self-compassion and open the pathways to alternative ways of being with yourself and the world. You want to feel better in your body and mind and need a safe, nonjudgmental space to do the work.
I am an affirming, trauma-informed somatic psychotherapist, passionate about the healing process. I have extensive experience working with those who have issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, childhood trauma, life transitions and the LGBTQ+ community. You may be aware of negative thinking or feeling patterns you are currently experiencing that you want to shift and we will create the space to explore the roots in order to build self-compassion and open the pathways to alternative ways of being with yourself and the world. You want to feel better in your body and mind and need a safe, nonjudgmental space to do the work.
Hi, I’m Andrea Sartor, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with over 15 years of experience. Most importantly, I am someone who can help and support change during the toughest times in your life. I use humor and positive thinking to create a supportive environment where you can explore your authentic self. I have had the opportunity to work In the United Kingdom and in California as a therapist and I have worked with many different cultures and alternative lifestyles. It's not always easy to express our personal thoughts and emotions but I will commit to create an empathetic safe space for your inner world.
Hi, I’m Andrea Sartor, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California with over 15 years of experience. Most importantly, I am someone who can help and support change during the toughest times in your life. I use humor and positive thinking to create a supportive environment where you can explore your authentic self. I have had the opportunity to work In the United Kingdom and in California as a therapist and I have worked with many different cultures and alternative lifestyles. It's not always easy to express our personal thoughts and emotions but I will commit to create an empathetic safe space for your inner world.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from others, stuck in unhelpful thoughts, and constantly weighed down from trying to manage your life? Are you repeating arguments and negative patterns in your relationships? Do you often feel like your past is still following you today, impacting how you relate to others? It's completely normal to feel stuck sometimes, and you're not alone. Balancing relationships, career, family, and personal happiness can be overwhelming, especially in today's world. But you don’t have to navigate it by yourself.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from others, stuck in unhelpful thoughts, and constantly weighed down from trying to manage your life? Are you repeating arguments and negative patterns in your relationships? Do you often feel like your past is still following you today, impacting how you relate to others? It's completely normal to feel stuck sometimes, and you're not alone. Balancing relationships, career, family, and personal happiness can be overwhelming, especially in today's world. But you don’t have to navigate it by yourself.
I understand that life happens to all of us. You can feel overwhelmed by unexpected situations, unfortunate losses and unendurable psychological pains. Exposure to high levels of prolonged stress can lead to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Intense anxiety or panic attacks and social isolation are common experiences. Seeking help means that you are ready to work and bring your life into a healthier balance. Through self-acceptance and care, you can gain more tools to improve your lifestyle and relationships. By listening attentively with non-judgmental empathy, I provide ongoing support with therapeutic insight and expertise in a confidential setting.
I understand that life happens to all of us. You can feel overwhelmed by unexpected situations, unfortunate losses and unendurable psychological pains. Exposure to high levels of prolonged stress can lead to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Intense anxiety or panic attacks and social isolation are common experiences. Seeking help means that you are ready to work and bring your life into a healthier balance. Through self-acceptance and care, you can gain more tools to improve your lifestyle and relationships. By listening attentively with non-judgmental empathy, I provide ongoing support with therapeutic insight and expertise in a confidential setting.
Do you ever find yourself living in fear and going down rabbit holes in your head? Do you base your well being, enjoyment and serenity on what is going on with those around you? If you are a parent, do you put yourself and your well being last and subscribe to thoughts such as "I am only as happy as my least happy child or family member"? Are you convinced it is more important to spend money on getting therapy or help for your child or loved ones and not on yourself? Are you a parent or family member of someone who is part of the LGBTQ+ community or someone who is struggling with addiction or other mental illnesses?
Do you ever find yourself living in fear and going down rabbit holes in your head? Do you base your well being, enjoyment and serenity on what is going on with those around you? If you are a parent, do you put yourself and your well being last and subscribe to thoughts such as "I am only as happy as my least happy child or family member"? Are you convinced it is more important to spend money on getting therapy or help for your child or loved ones and not on yourself? Are you a parent or family member of someone who is part of the LGBTQ+ community or someone who is struggling with addiction or other mental illnesses?
Joel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who helps individuals, couples and families empower themselves in finding solutions to struggles ranging from communication and interpersonal issues to depression, anxiety and PTSD. His expertise in formulating personalized approaches to mental health draws from his years of experience as a private practice clinician in the greater Los Angeles area and his past experience as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for children in foster care, a litigator in California state and federal courts, and a journalist.
Joel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who helps individuals, couples and families empower themselves in finding solutions to struggles ranging from communication and interpersonal issues to depression, anxiety and PTSD. His expertise in formulating personalized approaches to mental health draws from his years of experience as a private practice clinician in the greater Los Angeles area and his past experience as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for children in foster care, a litigator in California state and federal courts, and a journalist.
You’re doing what you're supposed to be doing —work, school, relationships— but something still feels off.
You overthink decisions, avoid emotions like it's your job and feel like you’re not living up to either your, or someone else's, standards. From the outside everything looks fine, but internally you feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure where your life is headed.
This is the work I specialize in.
I work with capable adults who know what they want to be doing—but keep overthinking or avoiding it. Whether it’s anxiety, low confidence, or feeling behind, our work focuses on getting you out of your head and into action.
You’re doing what you're supposed to be doing —work, school, relationships— but something still feels off.
You overthink decisions, avoid emotions like it's your job and feel like you’re not living up to either your, or someone else's, standards. From the outside everything looks fine, but internally you feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure where your life is headed.
This is the work I specialize in.
I work with capable adults who know what they want to be doing—but keep overthinking or avoiding it. Whether it’s anxiety, low confidence, or feeling behind, our work focuses on getting you out of your head and into action.
I'm a versatile therapist focused on creating a supportive environment and providing compassionate and helpful feedback. I began my career 20 years ago working with adults and children who've experienced trauma. I specialize in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, grief and trauma and provide couple and family counseling to improve relationships and parenting. I have two primary goals as a therapist - create a therapeutic relationship that feels safe and supportive to clients and provide therapy that's effective in relieving suffering and improving people's lives. I'm here to help you reach your goals.
I'm a versatile therapist focused on creating a supportive environment and providing compassionate and helpful feedback. I began my career 20 years ago working with adults and children who've experienced trauma. I specialize in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, grief and trauma and provide couple and family counseling to improve relationships and parenting. I have two primary goals as a therapist - create a therapeutic relationship that feels safe and supportive to clients and provide therapy that's effective in relieving suffering and improving people's lives. I'm here to help you reach your goals.
My name is Lauren Hoekstra and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who has experience working with children, teens, adults, & couples. My ideal client is anyone who is open to exploring new ways of thinking and working collaboratively to achieve their goals. I am passionate about stepping alongside my clients and empowering them to be the best version of themselves.
My name is Lauren Hoekstra and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who has experience working with children, teens, adults, & couples. My ideal client is anyone who is open to exploring new ways of thinking and working collaboratively to achieve their goals. I am passionate about stepping alongside my clients and empowering them to be the best version of themselves.
Hello, I'm Taylor, a registered AMFT who supports children, adolescents, young adults, and families in navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship dynamics, and developing a healthier body image and relationship with food. I have a strong interest in working with students and student-athletes, helping them strengthen emotional regulation skills, build confidence, and find balance both in and outside of their sport. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, compassionate, LGBTQ+ affirming, and grounded in evidence-based practices.
Hello, I'm Taylor, a registered AMFT who supports children, adolescents, young adults, and families in navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship dynamics, and developing a healthier body image and relationship with food. I have a strong interest in working with students and student-athletes, helping them strengthen emotional regulation skills, build confidence, and find balance both in and outside of their sport. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, compassionate, LGBTQ+ affirming, and grounded in evidence-based practices.
Hi there, I'm ANA! When you've been holding everything together for so long, it's hard to know how to put it down. Therapy offers a space to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and make sense of what you're carrying. I support individuals navigating stress and anxiety, burnout, life transitions, and the pressure to always be "on." My approach is warm, conversational, and collaborative. I offer services in both English and Spanish. Together, we'll uncover what's no longer serving you, build emotional clarity, and help you move forward with intention, calm, and self-trust.
Hi there, I'm ANA! When you've been holding everything together for so long, it's hard to know how to put it down. Therapy offers a space to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and make sense of what you're carrying. I support individuals navigating stress and anxiety, burnout, life transitions, and the pressure to always be "on." My approach is warm, conversational, and collaborative. I offer services in both English and Spanish. Together, we'll uncover what's no longer serving you, build emotional clarity, and help you move forward with intention, calm, and self-trust.
The clock strikes 6:00 AM. Another sleepless night. You look in the mirror and barely recognize the person staring back. Anxiety, racing thoughts, and loneliness have begun to cloud every trace of joy. Even the smallest tasks feel overwhelming. You alternate between high anxiety, and a complete freeze. You appear accomplished—but inside, you feel disconnected, like a fraud. You are ready to try something different. I work with adults navigating grief, chronic anxiety, early life stress, and trauma. My holistic approach blends somatic therapy, psychodynamic insights, behavioral tools, and nervous system support.
The clock strikes 6:00 AM. Another sleepless night. You look in the mirror and barely recognize the person staring back. Anxiety, racing thoughts, and loneliness have begun to cloud every trace of joy. Even the smallest tasks feel overwhelming. You alternate between high anxiety, and a complete freeze. You appear accomplished—but inside, you feel disconnected, like a fraud. You are ready to try something different. I work with adults navigating grief, chronic anxiety, early life stress, and trauma. My holistic approach blends somatic therapy, psychodynamic insights, behavioral tools, and nervous system support.
I enjoy working with clients who desire to make positive changes in their lives. They may feel ready to explore their life purpose, memories of past abuse, or even limitations that feel impossible to change. I want to use my vast array of lived experience and clinical knowledge to help guide clients through uncertainty towards a more fulfilling life.
I enjoy working with clients who desire to make positive changes in their lives. They may feel ready to explore their life purpose, memories of past abuse, or even limitations that feel impossible to change. I want to use my vast array of lived experience and clinical knowledge to help guide clients through uncertainty towards a more fulfilling life.
I work with individuals and couples who may feel stuck in patterns shaped by trauma, anxiety, relationship stress, betrayal, life transitions, or disconnection from themselves or others. Many come to therapy wanting to heal past wounds, improve communication, rebuild trust, strengthen emotional connection, and better understand how their mind and body respond to stress. I help clients move forward by creating a safe, supportive space to process experiences, build insight, and develop lasting tools for healing and growth.
I work with individuals and couples who may feel stuck in patterns shaped by trauma, anxiety, relationship stress, betrayal, life transitions, or disconnection from themselves or others. Many come to therapy wanting to heal past wounds, improve communication, rebuild trust, strengthen emotional connection, and better understand how their mind and body respond to stress. I help clients move forward by creating a safe, supportive space to process experiences, build insight, and develop lasting tools for healing and growth.
I’m an LCSW based in California, dedicated to supporting individuals navigating stress, anxiety, and depression—some of the most common challenges people face. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from California State University, San Bernardino. My approach emphasizes education, insight, and practical skill-building to help clients manage symptoms effectively, strengthen resilience, enhance well-being, and move toward living their best possible lives.
I’m an LCSW based in California, dedicated to supporting individuals navigating stress, anxiety, and depression—some of the most common challenges people face. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from California State University, San Bernardino. My approach emphasizes education, insight, and practical skill-building to help clients manage symptoms effectively, strengthen resilience, enhance well-being, and move toward living their best possible lives.
Curious about psychedelic therapy? Looking for a guided psychedelic experience? We are group of professionals that support individuals on guided psychedelic journeys. Our approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and non-judgement to help you feel safe, held, and supported.
Curious about psychedelic therapy? Looking for a guided psychedelic experience? We are group of professionals that support individuals on guided psychedelic journeys. Our approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and non-judgement to help you feel safe, held, and supported.
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 |
| 71% | Relationship Issues |
| 70% | Self Esteem |
| 68% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 66% | Stress |
| 59% | Grief |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 88% | Aetna |
| 72% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 59% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients
| 54% | Online Only | |
| 46% | 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
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.


