Attachment-based Therapists in North Hills, San Diego, CA
See all therapists in North Hills, San Diego
Molly Paris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
Verified
My therapeutic approach tends to be eclectic, pulling from various theoretical frameworks including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Schema Therapy, and
Attachment-Based
Therapy.
Sharing our inner experiences with someone can often feel frightening, which is exactly why I place such an importance on connection and acceptance in the therapeutic process. I aim to create a safe environment that will invite my clients to delve deeper into their personal narrative, as I truly believe we are not built to process emotions alone. As humans, we all have a propensity to grow and become our true selves, unfortunately we aren’t always gifted with the circumstances to allow it. I am passionate about creating a space for not only self-discovery and self acceptance, but to allow clients to feel seen, heard, and valued.

Shannon J. Oliveira
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
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. Sarah E Nunnink
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified
6 Endorsed
Verified
6 Endorsed
Do you find yourself struggling with your emotions? Does it seem like you are overwhelmed by your feelings, or instead that you have to keep a tight lid on your emotions so as not to do damage to your relationships, career and family life? I work well with people who are struggling with feelings of being "stuck" in their lives and with their emotions, and who wonder if there's more to life in terms of vitality and aliveness. I'll aim to help you increase your emotional intelligence so that your emotions work for rather than against you.
Not accepting new clients

Laura E Willard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I work with clients at their own pace to guide them through a better understanding of their issues and concerns while challenging them to take steps for an improved way of living. I take a predominantly psychodynamic approach that focuses on discovering and exploring past experiences, inner thought processes, and relationship patterns to relieve and repair core personal issues. Additionally, I take a more active and teaching role when certain symptoms or behaviors require the instruction and practice of new skills.

Natalia Addona
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified
Verified
Hi, I'm Natalia and I specialize in working with adults dealing with anxiety, life transitions, and relationship issues. I have a speciality in working with those who struggle with substance use, those who are sober curious, and partners of those struggling with substance abuse. I come from the perspective that through life's challenges (bad relationships, grief, trauma, etc.), we start to second guess ourselves. In my work with client's, we begin by building a strong relationship and developing a space for you to explore those intrusive thoughts, anxious worries, and internal dialogue.

Katie Miles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
Verified
*OPEN FOR TELETHERAPY*Choosing a therapist is tough! I know it can be really hard to decipher who you can trust and truly connect to. A healthy, authentic relationship between myself and my clients is a top priority, and I take the time to really nurture that dynamic. I have a passion for helping you connect to the parts of your life that need healing. Whether it be a struggle with your partner, family members, friendships - or difficulty managing your own anxiety and stress, I'm here to compassionately guide you. Based on your needs, I integrate evidence based practices (listed below!) that will support you in growth and healing.

Nastassja Vargas Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified
Verified
My areas of expertise include: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, adjustment issues, self-esteem, trauma, codependency, perfectionism, and life stressors. Treatment is tailored to each individual person. A holistic therapy approach is utilized, which is the combination of contemporary and alternative treatments with evidence-based practices to assist a person in achieving balance in mind, body, and energy. A deeper understanding of the whole self can lead to increased self-awareness, self-esteem, self-acceptance, and emotional/physical well-being.

Martin Deza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
Verified
Hello I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have worked in the field since 2011. I grew up in the San Diego area and have worked in a variety of clinical setting in my local community. I obtained my Baccalaureate Degree in Cognitive Psychology from University of California Irvine and my Master’s Degree in Marital and Family Therapy from University of San Diego.

Paul Lesnik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TEP
Verified
3 Endorsed
Verified
3 Endorsed
Congratulations on addressing your therapeutic concerns. Taking this first step often is a powerful journey toward healing. it is my belief the relationship you have with your therapist is crucial to the rapid resolution of issues. I believe therapy should be a rewarding, hopeful and, whenever possible, brief process. A client's motivation to change and willingness to work is crucial to success. My belief is the combination of insight followed by action is the surest pathway to change. My practice is addressing the barriers clients perceive that stop them from living the life they imagine possible.

Heather Pederson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
Verified
Seeking help can potentially feel daunting, exposing, and overwhelming. It can also be our first steps toward repair, healing, and growth. I have found that people are so very strong, courageous, and hard-working, and still need some help when things get hard. I believe therapy can be a unique chance to discover parts of ourselves we forgot about, allow healing for the tender parts, and find new ways of interacting with our partners that allow for deeper understanding and connection.

Megan Wilcox
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCE, LE
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
Tell me about your North Star...What are you hoping to move towards? What are you hoping to move away from? What do you want more and less of for yourself and your relationships? What kind of change are you looking to create in your life? Perhaps you’re seeking therapy in response to a time of transition, challenge you’re up against, or are wanting to move towards healing a past or current wound or re-storying a relationship. We all deserve support in moving closer to the preferences for our lives, our relationships, our ways of thinking, feeling & being.
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Michelle Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
I'm a versatile therapist focused on creating a supportive environment and providing compassionate and helpful feedback. I began my career more than 15 years ago working with adults and children who've experienced trauma. I specialize in treating individuals with depression, stress and anxiety 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.

Kaitlyn Torres
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Do you find yourself struggling with the lingering impact of past experiences on your present-day relationships, whether it's from an unhealthy childhood or other challenging upbringing? Are you currently navigating the complex journey of parenting while also trying to heal from these experiences? Are you and your partner committed to building an intentional, healthy relationship, but find that certain habits or disagreements are getting in the way?

Lotus Do
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless? Facing a crossroads? Relief may seem impossible when you are faced with chronic stress or extreme difficulties... but it is possible. My name is Lotus and I may be able to help. I am a Licensed Therapist and Gender Specialist with nearly a decade of experience specializing in treating Gender Dysphoria, PTSD and complex trauma, depression, anxiety and disordered eating across the entire lifespan (9 to 65+ years old).
Waitlist for new clients

Bette Barker
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, EdS, NCSP
Verified
Verified
I believe therapy is a place to be fully accepted and heard while also being held accountable for your own role in your journey. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to learn about yourself, identify areas for growth, and implement relational skills. I will work with you to find an approach that fits you and your individual needs through mutual collaboration, true connection, and support.

Yang Jiang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
Verified
Do you feel confused and lost in life? Are your moods hard to manage, causing trouble in relationships? Do you have a hard time setting boundaries? Do you fall in love quickly and intensely, and are you perhaps prone to fantasizing? Are you looking for a therapist who will make you feel deeply understood and also provide you with the guidance and accountability needed to change?

Svetlana Ishchenko
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified
Verified
I am fascinated by the affects of attachment and bonding on interpersonal relationships and have a deep commitment to helping people articulate and address the core issues with which they struggle. I am currently working towards my PMH-C (Perinatal Mental Health Certification), as I am passionate about supporting women and families experiencing fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, pregnancy/infant loss, TFMR, grief, adoption, and parenting. I am a a mom who struggled with postpartum anxiety and OCD with both of my pregnancies, so I know firsthand how shameful and isolating these experiences can be.

Gabi Kass
LPC Intern, MS, APCC
Verified
Verified
I understand that the road to parenthood does not always go as planned. It may include difficulty trying to conceive, pregnancy and/or birth complications, pregnancy loss, or rough postpartum periods. It can bring up some unexpected feelings like crying frequently, feeling overwhelmed and depressed, feeling disconnected, feelings of guilt/blame, having scary thoughts, lack of support, relational challenges and general difficulties with adjustment to pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum periods.

Alex Tanon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified
Verified
Looking for a queer affirming therapist who reflects your identity and provides a safe space to heal? Struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, or PTSD? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Life is too short to be held back by relationships that no longer serve us, trauma that continues to impact our daily lives, and anxious thinking that preoccupies us day after day. My goal is to work with you to identify and incorporate coping skills that will lend to a more joyful and fulfilling life.

Joseph McConico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CT
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
My professional belief is that you are the expert of your life. I am present to walk along side of you as a partner, and provide further guidance through this particular moment in your life story. Despite whatever challenges you may be facing, my hope is that by the end of our time together, you are walking a path which leads to a more meaningful life, guided by what is most important to you.
See more therapy options for ,
Attachment-based Therapists
Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?
Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.
What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?
Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.
How long does attachment-based therapy last?
Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.
Does attachment-based therapy work?
Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.