LGBTQ+ Therapists in Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA
Ezak Marquez
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ community with a focus on transgender and nonbinary folks to address a variety of issues including gender dysphoria, identity exploration, anxiety, and depression.
My name is Ezak and my pronouns are they, them, theirs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Gender Specialist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I utilize a person-centered and strengths-based approach and I have been trained through a multicultural and trauma-informed lens. I work with adolescents and adults wanting to make a change in their life and I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals.
Melissa Pérez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
Welcome! As a Bilingual (Spanish & English), Queer Bisexual Xicana, and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I understand that most of us want to feel seen, heard, & accepted. And although outward validation & affirmation helps, the deep work & healing lies in being able to validate & affirm ourselves, all of our identities, & lived experiences. In our lives, as we continue evolving & changing as individuals, we reach points where the coping strategies we have previously used, & that have helped us survive at one point, may no longer serve us, & can actually interfere with our ability to connect to ourselves & others.
Welcome! As a Bilingual (Spanish & English), Queer Bisexual Xicana, and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I understand that most of us want to feel seen, heard, & accepted. And although outward validation & affirmation helps, the deep work & healing lies in being able to validate & affirm ourselves, all of our identities, & lived experiences. In our lives, as we continue evolving & changing as individuals, we reach points where the coping strategies we have previously used, & that have helped us survive at one point, may no longer serve us, & can actually interfere with our ability to connect to ourselves & others.
Victoria Grutz Neurodivergence-Informed Therapist
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by. My name is Victoria (she/her) and I am a neurodivergent (Autistic and ADHD) therapist who is deeply passionate about working with adult individuals, couples, polycules, and families in both the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities. I work from a social justice-oriented lens, acknowledging systems of oppression that exist to serve some while creating barriers to well-being for many others. I particularly enjoy working with clients as they navigate experiences with late-diagnoses, anxiety, existential questions, relational and sexual difficulties, and life transitions.
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by. My name is Victoria (she/her) and I am a neurodivergent (Autistic and ADHD) therapist who is deeply passionate about working with adult individuals, couples, polycules, and families in both the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ communities. I work from a social justice-oriented lens, acknowledging systems of oppression that exist to serve some while creating barriers to well-being for many others. I particularly enjoy working with clients as they navigate experiences with late-diagnoses, anxiety, existential questions, relational and sexual difficulties, and life transitions.
Lisa Wasnock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
Hi, and welcome! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent individuals and families dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma/abuse, high conflict divorce, and emotional/behavioral concerns. I have experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults, families, and adults. I support through a client centered and collaborative approach and create a safe therapeutic environment for clients to make progress on their goals. My practice is neurodivergent and LGBTQ affirming.
Hi, and welcome! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent individuals and families dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma/abuse, high conflict divorce, and emotional/behavioral concerns. I have experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults, families, and adults. I support through a client centered and collaborative approach and create a safe therapeutic environment for clients to make progress on their goals. My practice is neurodivergent and LGBTQ affirming.
Cassidy Peters
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
Are you feeling stuck? Have you experienced trauma or struggled in relationships? How about your relationship with yourself? I support and work with clients who may be struggling with navigating anxiety/depression, complex trauma, neurodivergence, identity issues, relational issues, interpersonal issues, low self esteem/self worth, substance abuse, and life transitions. I also have a strong focus in working with female/woman identifying individuals struggling with anxiety and self worth. I am a neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and LGBTQIA-affirming therapist. I offer sliding scale appointments in person and via Telehealth.
Are you feeling stuck? Have you experienced trauma or struggled in relationships? How about your relationship with yourself? I support and work with clients who may be struggling with navigating anxiety/depression, complex trauma, neurodivergence, identity issues, relational issues, interpersonal issues, low self esteem/self worth, substance abuse, and life transitions. I also have a strong focus in working with female/woman identifying individuals struggling with anxiety and self worth. I am a neuro-affirming, sex-positive, and LGBTQIA-affirming therapist. I offer sliding scale appointments in person and via Telehealth.
Melisa Alonzo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
You are feeling overwhelmed with all the changes in your life. Maybe it’s adjusting to marriage, parenthood or dealing with postpartum. Maybe the spark has left your marriage and you've started having an affair, or you're feeling upside down having just discovered your partner is having an affair. Maybe you just got divorced and feel like you lost your identity. Or you're worried about the impact the divorce will have on your children. Whatever it is, you feel like you have no one to turn to, no one to confide in, and your mind is filled with racing thoughts.
You are feeling overwhelmed with all the changes in your life. Maybe it’s adjusting to marriage, parenthood or dealing with postpartum. Maybe the spark has left your marriage and you've started having an affair, or you're feeling upside down having just discovered your partner is having an affair. Maybe you just got divorced and feel like you lost your identity. Or you're worried about the impact the divorce will have on your children. Whatever it is, you feel like you have no one to turn to, no one to confide in, and your mind is filled with racing thoughts.
Andrew Listvinsky: Hope Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
I enjoy working with people struggling with trauma, major life changes, and those trying to find out who they are. I have experience working with Veterans, those struggling with addiction, and family/friends who find themselves as caregivers for another. Whatever you're struggling with, I have found that every client has something beautiful and exciting to discover within them.
I enjoy working with people struggling with trauma, major life changes, and those trying to find out who they are. I have experience working with Veterans, those struggling with addiction, and family/friends who find themselves as caregivers for another. Whatever you're struggling with, I have found that every client has something beautiful and exciting to discover within them.
Marisa Zens
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
One of the most important ingredients in successful therapy is a good therapeutic fit. My approach is to provide an empathic, warm and supportive environment, and work collaboratively to identify and make sense of your unique struggles and particular obstacles. I work with adolescents and adults and use both insight-oriented and skills-based approaches to find short and long-term solutions to intercept the patterns that are interfering with your personal growth. I also provide supervision and consultation to psychologists and psychology trainees.
One of the most important ingredients in successful therapy is a good therapeutic fit. My approach is to provide an empathic, warm and supportive environment, and work collaboratively to identify and make sense of your unique struggles and particular obstacles. I work with adolescents and adults and use both insight-oriented and skills-based approaches to find short and long-term solutions to intercept the patterns that are interfering with your personal growth. I also provide supervision and consultation to psychologists and psychology trainees.
Autumn Backhaus
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92122
I believe that people have the capacity for amazing feats of growth and change and as a psychologist my role is to partner with my clients as they take this great journey. Change and growth are not always easy, doing something different than what you used to can feel overwhelming. I am here to provide a affirming, culturally humble, supportive, safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic environment that allows for you to further explore the issues you are struggling with and to make the most effective changes to better handle life's challenges, while also striving toward living a meaningful and fulfilling life.
I believe that people have the capacity for amazing feats of growth and change and as a psychologist my role is to partner with my clients as they take this great journey. Change and growth are not always easy, doing something different than what you used to can feel overwhelming. I am here to provide a affirming, culturally humble, supportive, safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic environment that allows for you to further explore the issues you are struggling with and to make the most effective changes to better handle life's challenges, while also striving toward living a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Susan Valoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDP
Verified Verified
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
Waitlist for new clients
I provide supportive, compassionate counseling for adults and older adults who are navigating life transitions; living with mental or physical illness; coping with caregiving stressors; grieving the loss of a loved one; and/or dealing with the challenges of aging. I also work with neurodiverse older adults, including people who are autistic and/or living with ADHD or dyslexia. We all need someone to listen without judgment, and to help us through difficult periods in our life. Therapy can also be a means to better understand why we do what we do, and how to reach our goals that may seem out of reach.
I provide supportive, compassionate counseling for adults and older adults who are navigating life transitions; living with mental or physical illness; coping with caregiving stressors; grieving the loss of a loved one; and/or dealing with the challenges of aging. I also work with neurodiverse older adults, including people who are autistic and/or living with ADHD or dyslexia. We all need someone to listen without judgment, and to help us through difficult periods in our life. Therapy can also be a means to better understand why we do what we do, and how to reach our goals that may seem out of reach.
Danika Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
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.
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Maria Martinez: Hope Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
There are always times when bad situations can overwhelm a person, but the person always has the option to push the struggle to get to a place where they can find happiness. Making an actual effort toward improving life is something that can create happiness in and of itself. And here you are… You did it! You made the first step to your healing journey by taking time out of your day to look for your own therapy. I admire you.
There are always times when bad situations can overwhelm a person, but the person always has the option to push the struggle to get to a place where they can find happiness. Making an actual effort toward improving life is something that can create happiness in and of itself. And here you are… You did it! You made the first step to your healing journey by taking time out of your day to look for your own therapy. I admire you.
Cindy Way: Hope Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
My specialty is working with individuals, couples, and families that are impacted by their relationship/marital issues, divorce, blended families, parenting/co-parenting, different- abilities (disability), and chronic pain/illness. Additionally, I apply a trauma-informed lens toward life experiences supporting PTSD/C-PTSD, Generational/Intergenerational Trauma, Cultural/Racial Trauma, and Military-related trauma.
My specialty is working with individuals, couples, and families that are impacted by their relationship/marital issues, divorce, blended families, parenting/co-parenting, different- abilities (disability), and chronic pain/illness. Additionally, I apply a trauma-informed lens toward life experiences supporting PTSD/C-PTSD, Generational/Intergenerational Trauma, Cultural/Racial Trauma, and Military-related trauma.
Janelle B Pineda Farias
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117 (Online Only)
From time to time we may need support during a challenging time in our life. I look forward to meeting with you and working with you to reach the power of acceptance and be on your journey when reaching your goals. I hope to work with you to enhance your strengths and empower you to live a happier life and to look forward to the future.
From time to time we may need support during a challenging time in our life. I look forward to meeting with you and working with you to reach the power of acceptance and be on your journey when reaching your goals. I hope to work with you to enhance your strengths and empower you to live a happier life and to look forward to the future.
Rachel Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
Do you feel like you are stuck in a loop of loneliness and resentment? Does a part of you want to make different choices in conflicts, but you don't know what to do instead? Does it feel like your boundaries are getting trampled on and you'll never get what you need from this person? Relationships are hard, but they don't have to be this hard! Whether you are seeking help as an individual or as a couple, know that you can achieve the life and relationships that you want, even if you don't know what that is yet!. Through our work together you can achieve confidence, control of your life, and compassion for yourself and others.
Do you feel like you are stuck in a loop of loneliness and resentment? Does a part of you want to make different choices in conflicts, but you don't know what to do instead? Does it feel like your boundaries are getting trampled on and you'll never get what you need from this person? Relationships are hard, but they don't have to be this hard! Whether you are seeking help as an individual or as a couple, know that you can achieve the life and relationships that you want, even if you don't know what that is yet!. Through our work together you can achieve confidence, control of your life, and compassion for yourself and others.
Jeannette M. Gilmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117 (Online Only)
Are you experiencing emotional and physical problems that seem unmanageable? Life can be challenging when you've endured mental and physical stressors. Know that you are not alone. Together we will create the step-by-step tools needed to heal yourself and take back your life. My holistic nontraditional treatment will get you there. And it works faster than conventional counseling. Without judgment and through empathy you can process life events that are overwhelming. In our journey together my goal is that you will learn how to develop a more peaceful and fulfilling life and create a deeper connection to your genuine self.
Are you experiencing emotional and physical problems that seem unmanageable? Life can be challenging when you've endured mental and physical stressors. Know that you are not alone. Together we will create the step-by-step tools needed to heal yourself and take back your life. My holistic nontraditional treatment will get you there. And it works faster than conventional counseling. Without judgment and through empathy you can process life events that are overwhelming. In our journey together my goal is that you will learn how to develop a more peaceful and fulfilling life and create a deeper connection to your genuine self.
Kristyne Skippergosh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions? Do you find yourself feeling down and like you have lost the joy in life? Does worry interfere with achieving goals, work, relationships, or even your sleep? You are not alone! Life is full of challenges both big and small. Your thoughts and emotions during these times can be very misleading. Therapy is about learning who you are, how your mind operates, and how you can gain more control of it. It is about accepting the struggle and pain of life with the same willingness as your triumphs.
Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions? Do you find yourself feeling down and like you have lost the joy in life? Does worry interfere with achieving goals, work, relationships, or even your sleep? You are not alone! Life is full of challenges both big and small. Your thoughts and emotions during these times can be very misleading. Therapy is about learning who you are, how your mind operates, and how you can gain more control of it. It is about accepting the struggle and pain of life with the same willingness as your triumphs.
Lindsay Lien: Hope Therapy Group
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who enjoys working with adults, adolescents, families, and couples. I believe that a strong, collaborative, trusting relationship is at the heart of therapy. I draw upon a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to fit your needs and goals. I have experience working with issues related to anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, adjustment, grief and loss, trauma, motivation, relationships, and identity.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who enjoys working with adults, adolescents, families, and couples. I believe that a strong, collaborative, trusting relationship is at the heart of therapy. I draw upon a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to fit your needs and goals. I have experience working with issues related to anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, adjustment, grief and loss, trauma, motivation, relationships, and identity.
Neda Khodaparast
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
"In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.” I truly believe that people are not what happened to them. They are what they choose to become. Therapy is a safe and private space in which you are able to deepen your understanding of your capabilities and choices you can make in life. Through providing positive and feedbacks, I will assist you to acquire a healthy set of coping skills and gain more insight about your psychology. This insight will eventually “unstuck” you from repeating unhealthy behaviors by breaking old patterns and developing new ones.
"In all chaos there is a cosmos, in all disorder a secret order.” I truly believe that people are not what happened to them. They are what they choose to become. Therapy is a safe and private space in which you are able to deepen your understanding of your capabilities and choices you can make in life. Through providing positive and feedbacks, I will assist you to acquire a healthy set of coping skills and gain more insight about your psychology. This insight will eventually “unstuck” you from repeating unhealthy behaviors by breaking old patterns and developing new ones.
Melissa Lanza
Psychologist, PhD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Clairemont Mesa, San Diego, CA 92117
I know how difficult making changes in your life can be. Asking for help and support is a sign of strength and commitment to improving your life. I am here to help you on your personal journey to achieve a life filled with peace, happiness, and emotional well-being. My goal is to empower you to find personal strategies to discover your full potential. Using therapeutic approaches with proven results, I am able to help identify behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living a meaningful and happy life. To make an appointment, please visit my website and choose "Initial Assessment.”
I know how difficult making changes in your life can be. Asking for help and support is a sign of strength and commitment to improving your life. I am here to help you on your personal journey to achieve a life filled with peace, happiness, and emotional well-being. My goal is to empower you to find personal strategies to discover your full potential. Using therapeutic approaches with proven results, I am able to help identify behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living a meaningful and happy life. To make an appointment, please visit my website and choose "Initial Assessment.”
See more therapy options for Clairemont Mesa, San Diego
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LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.