Therapists in San Diego, CA
Alex Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
Pushing yourself to grow and change is one of the most difficult things, but it is also one of the best things that you can do for yourself. I work with you where you are at and from a place of compassion. Addiction, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues are all areas that I can help you sort through. My approach with addiction is to understand and work through what is driving the behavior. I also utilize harm reduction techniques if needed. I can teach you concrete skills and help you process your emotional experiences in a trusting therapeutic relationship. I am here to support & challenge you to move toward change.
Pushing yourself to grow and change is one of the most difficult things, but it is also one of the best things that you can do for yourself. I work with you where you are at and from a place of compassion. Addiction, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues are all areas that I can help you sort through. My approach with addiction is to understand and work through what is driving the behavior. I also utilize harm reduction techniques if needed. I can teach you concrete skills and help you process your emotional experiences in a trusting therapeutic relationship. I am here to support & challenge you to move toward change.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 133658) and I provide individual, couples, family, children and youth counseling in a tele-therapy format. It would be my privilege to offer a safe and collaborative space for bringing change and growth that will move you towards your desired goals in life. My areas of specialty include: life transitions, interpersonal and intimacy deficits, men's issues, addiction, anxiety, stress and military lifestyle challenges. I specialize in supporting those who struggle to manage out of control and problematic sexual behaviors that are causing physical, emotional or relational distress.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 133658) and I provide individual, couples, family, children and youth counseling in a tele-therapy format. It would be my privilege to offer a safe and collaborative space for bringing change and growth that will move you towards your desired goals in life. My areas of specialty include: life transitions, interpersonal and intimacy deficits, men's issues, addiction, anxiety, stress and military lifestyle challenges. I specialize in supporting those who struggle to manage out of control and problematic sexual behaviors that are causing physical, emotional or relational distress.
Danika Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Waitlist for new clients
I offer evening and weekend appointments. Are you struggling with your sense of self, lack of stability in your relationships, and difficulty regulating your emotions? I will work alongside you to achieve a greater understanding of yourself and others, and find deeper meaning within your life. I want to help you to figure out your roadblocks, where they come from, how to move through them, and then look forward to what is coming next. I believe that you have the capacity for continuous growth beyond the resolution of your symptoms.
I offer evening and weekend appointments. Are you struggling with your sense of self, lack of stability in your relationships, and difficulty regulating your emotions? I will work alongside you to achieve a greater understanding of yourself and others, and find deeper meaning within your life. I want to help you to figure out your roadblocks, where they come from, how to move through them, and then look forward to what is coming next. I believe that you have the capacity for continuous growth beyond the resolution of your symptoms.
I am particularly zealous about social injustice issues and working with the marginalized population. I am passionate about working with and helping people who are facing: depression, anxiety, traumatic events, racism, relationship conflicts, childhood problems, self-esteem issues, communication problems, and acculturation. I am concerned with the impact of anxiety and depression and improving intervention to support daily functioning and living with anxiety and depression for better emotional, physical, and relationship health.
I am particularly zealous about social injustice issues and working with the marginalized population. I am passionate about working with and helping people who are facing: depression, anxiety, traumatic events, racism, relationship conflicts, childhood problems, self-esteem issues, communication problems, and acculturation. I am concerned with the impact of anxiety and depression and improving intervention to support daily functioning and living with anxiety and depression for better emotional, physical, and relationship health.
"You are not a drop in the ocean but the entire ocean in one drop"-Rumi. You have everything you need already within you and I am honored to come along side you and support you in your journey to self re-covery.
"You are not a drop in the ocean but the entire ocean in one drop"-Rumi. You have everything you need already within you and I am honored to come along side you and support you in your journey to self re-covery.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 25 years of experience in working with individuals, families and couples impacted by depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use issues. I work with all age groups 8 years old and up. In my work I utilize a variety of techniques and interventions representing several therapeutic modalities to facilitate reduction of interpersonal distress and the restoration of relationships. I have also incorporated the use of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing into my practice for individuals who have experienced both simple and complex trauma.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 25 years of experience in working with individuals, families and couples impacted by depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use issues. I work with all age groups 8 years old and up. In my work I utilize a variety of techniques and interventions representing several therapeutic modalities to facilitate reduction of interpersonal distress and the restoration of relationships. I have also incorporated the use of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing into my practice for individuals who have experienced both simple and complex trauma.
Julia Parkinson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I believe that our lives are shaped by the stories we tell ourselves, and that these stories are informed by our unique cultural, societal, and relational background. Sometimes these stories can leave us feeling stuck in painful patterns, hopeless about the future, and disconnected in our relationships. I specialize in working with individuals and couples to unravel and challenge these unhelpful narratives, give voice to untold stories, and free up space to choose new ways of living that align with your values, hopes, and longings in life.
I believe that our lives are shaped by the stories we tell ourselves, and that these stories are informed by our unique cultural, societal, and relational background. Sometimes these stories can leave us feeling stuck in painful patterns, hopeless about the future, and disconnected in our relationships. I specialize in working with individuals and couples to unravel and challenge these unhelpful narratives, give voice to untold stories, and free up space to choose new ways of living that align with your values, hopes, and longings in life.
Christian R. Hodges
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
My passion as a mental health clinician is an intentional one: To help navigate your wellness journey in a way that’s effective and authentic. I sincerely believe that no matter what we’ve been through we are in control of how we narrate our lives. It is my goal to help you find and accept your true self. Everyone’s path to recovery is different, which is why I help facilitate growth by creating custom treatment plans designed to reduce symptoms and stabilize mood. I use a comprehensive mental health model that addresses the whole person, including the physical, mental, emotional, and physiological aspects of each client.
My passion as a mental health clinician is an intentional one: To help navigate your wellness journey in a way that’s effective and authentic. I sincerely believe that no matter what we’ve been through we are in control of how we narrate our lives. It is my goal to help you find and accept your true self. Everyone’s path to recovery is different, which is why I help facilitate growth by creating custom treatment plans designed to reduce symptoms and stabilize mood. I use a comprehensive mental health model that addresses the whole person, including the physical, mental, emotional, and physiological aspects of each client.
Megan Barroso
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT , APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
Are you feeling challenged in daily life and struggling with where to go next? My goal is to support you in making impactful change that assists you in reconnecting with life’s beauty and in moving forward toward your goals. My passion lies in creating healing spaces that allow individuals to discover their inherent wisdom and step into their most authentic selves.
Are you feeling challenged in daily life and struggling with where to go next? My goal is to support you in making impactful change that assists you in reconnecting with life’s beauty and in moving forward toward your goals. My passion lies in creating healing spaces that allow individuals to discover their inherent wisdom and step into their most authentic selves.
Stronger Together Community Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
STCS is a non profit organization dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families build lasting bonds with those around them. We have a holistic approach to healing and believe that everyone deserves an opportunity to grow! We offer a variety of treatment approaches including EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Reiki, Yoga and and have a uniquely designed physical wellness program to accompany our mental health services.
STCS is a non profit organization dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families build lasting bonds with those around them. We have a holistic approach to healing and believe that everyone deserves an opportunity to grow! We offer a variety of treatment approaches including EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Reiki, Yoga and and have a uniquely designed physical wellness program to accompany our mental health services.
If you find yourself caught in the grips of trauma and depression, feeling both the weight of the past and the heaviness of the present, know that hope and help are within reach. My practice is devoted to those who are ready to face these challenges head-on, seeking not just to survive but to thrive. Whether you're struggling with unresolved trauma, persistent sadness, or a sense of hopelessness, I'm here to offer a supportive, empowering space for healing and growth. Together, we can uncover the strength and resilience within you, paving the way for a more hopeful, fulfilling future
If you find yourself caught in the grips of trauma and depression, feeling both the weight of the past and the heaviness of the present, know that hope and help are within reach. My practice is devoted to those who are ready to face these challenges head-on, seeking not just to survive but to thrive. Whether you're struggling with unresolved trauma, persistent sadness, or a sense of hopelessness, I'm here to offer a supportive, empowering space for healing and growth. Together, we can uncover the strength and resilience within you, paving the way for a more hopeful, fulfilling future
15 Second Videos
Hello! My name is Valerie Vecente. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I enjoy working with youth and adults. I enjoy supporting youth and adults experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I believe you are the expert in your life! While supporting you through this journey, I use an approach that will benefit you. This may include use of techniques from CBT, Family Systems, DBT to name a few. I believe in allowing the client to guide the sessions while I support you. You are the expert in your life!
Hello! My name is Valerie Vecente. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I enjoy working with youth and adults. I enjoy supporting youth and adults experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I believe you are the expert in your life! While supporting you through this journey, I use an approach that will benefit you. This may include use of techniques from CBT, Family Systems, DBT to name a few. I believe in allowing the client to guide the sessions while I support you. You are the expert in your life!
British in origin, my passion is people, it always has been. I recognize entering into therapy can make us feel vulnerable, but within that vulnerability emerges great strength to pursue that need for change within us. My work is predominantly trauma-focused and emphasizes on gaining personal insight into how certain life events can affect our behavioral, emotional and physical well-being.
British in origin, my passion is people, it always has been. I recognize entering into therapy can make us feel vulnerable, but within that vulnerability emerges great strength to pursue that need for change within us. My work is predominantly trauma-focused and emphasizes on gaining personal insight into how certain life events can affect our behavioral, emotional and physical well-being.
Taylor Andrews
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I'm Taylor, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I support individuals in managing life transitions, codependent behaviors, and low self-esteem. If you often find yourself neglecting your own needs, feeling lonely despite career success, prioritizing the needs of others over your own, or struggling with identity acceptance, you are not alone. Many caring individuals face challenges in achieving personal fulfillment, often due to patterns formed earlier in life that may have limited their growth and awareness of their needs. I’m here to assist you in shifting that narrative and connecting with yourself.
Hello! I'm Taylor, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I support individuals in managing life transitions, codependent behaviors, and low self-esteem. If you often find yourself neglecting your own needs, feeling lonely despite career success, prioritizing the needs of others over your own, or struggling with identity acceptance, you are not alone. Many caring individuals face challenges in achieving personal fulfillment, often due to patterns formed earlier in life that may have limited their growth and awareness of their needs. I’m here to assist you in shifting that narrative and connecting with yourself.
Dr. Lynn Lunceford, Forensic Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
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.
Parenting can be tough. You wonder if your child will ever grow out of their excessive worries, meltdowns, or tantrums, and you become exhausted and feel guilty for being frustrated with them. The nightly battle with homework and reports from school are wearing you down. The power struggle with your spirited toddler or your strong willed adolescent may leave you overwhelmed and wondering what you can do differently. Communicating and feeling unified with your partner or caregiver may be difficult or your styles may be different, creating a state of uncertainty or chaos in the home.
Parenting can be tough. You wonder if your child will ever grow out of their excessive worries, meltdowns, or tantrums, and you become exhausted and feel guilty for being frustrated with them. The nightly battle with homework and reports from school are wearing you down. The power struggle with your spirited toddler or your strong willed adolescent may leave you overwhelmed and wondering what you can do differently. Communicating and feeling unified with your partner or caregiver may be difficult or your styles may be different, creating a state of uncertainty or chaos in the home.
Immediate openings in CA via telehealth, offering in person sessions Saturday morning in San Diego. Over 20 years of my practice, I have seen almost every issue stems from our self-concept. The relationship we have with our self-concept prevents our ability to achieve our full potential and happiness. I can help you find the attention and honor you deserve first, then tackle your particular challenges at the present time. "Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life" -J. K. Rowling
Immediate openings in CA via telehealth, offering in person sessions Saturday morning in San Diego. Over 20 years of my practice, I have seen almost every issue stems from our self-concept. The relationship we have with our self-concept prevents our ability to achieve our full potential and happiness. I can help you find the attention and honor you deserve first, then tackle your particular challenges at the present time. "Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life" -J. K. Rowling
Jaclyn Nematbakhsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
If you have found yourself here it is because you are wanting to make a change in your life and/or your relationships. Maybe you have been feeling overwhelmed at work or at home, you have been experiencing low self-esteem, or you are stuck in a relationship that is no longer serving you. The therapeutic process is a powerful one where you get to work through your emotions and thoughts to come out even stronger than you were before.
If you have found yourself here it is because you are wanting to make a change in your life and/or your relationships. Maybe you have been feeling overwhelmed at work or at home, you have been experiencing low self-esteem, or you are stuck in a relationship that is no longer serving you. The therapeutic process is a powerful one where you get to work through your emotions and thoughts to come out even stronger than you were before.
I'm passionate about helping people explore their stories in creative ways to empower them to live fully and authentically. In therapy, I create a safe and sacred space where people can understand both their power and their pain, heal from the wounds and trauma of their pasts, and move forward in their lives into meaning, freedom and wholeness. I have an active, engaged, personal and empathic style, and I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and known.
I'm passionate about helping people explore their stories in creative ways to empower them to live fully and authentically. In therapy, I create a safe and sacred space where people can understand both their power and their pain, heal from the wounds and trauma of their pasts, and move forward in their lives into meaning, freedom and wholeness. I have an active, engaged, personal and empathic style, and I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and known.
Hi there, I'm Deborah Tarrson, LMFT. I have experience working with adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, and relationship issues, and am comfortable working with all of these conditions. I have worked with elementary school students ages 5 through 11 years old in a school setting. I very much enjoy working with children. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Person-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Somatic interventions, and Mindfulness. I am familiar with Trauma-informed therapy interventions.
Hi there, I'm Deborah Tarrson, LMFT. I have experience working with adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, and relationship issues, and am comfortable working with all of these conditions. I have worked with elementary school students ages 5 through 11 years old in a school setting. I very much enjoy working with children. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Person-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Somatic interventions, and Mindfulness. I am familiar with Trauma-informed therapy interventions.
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
$165
Therapists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
70% | Coping Skills |
70% | Self Esteem |
65% | Relationship Issues |
63% | Stress |
62% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
84% | Aetna |
77% | Cigna and Evernorth |
66% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients
55% | Online Only | |
45% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | 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.