Adoption Therapists in San Diego, CA

Connie Cain
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Welcome! I’m here to help you feel better. I support clients facing anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and patterns that keep them from living the life they want. You may feel exhausted, burned out, or stuck in habits that no longer serve you. In therapy, we’ll work together to understand what you’re struggling with and use evidence-based tools to strengthen your ability to cope and grow. My goal is to help you overcome barriers, find balance, and create meaningful change.
Welcome! I’m here to help you feel better. I support clients facing anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and patterns that keep them from living the life they want. You may feel exhausted, burned out, or stuck in habits that no longer serve you. In therapy, we’ll work together to understand what you’re struggling with and use evidence-based tools to strengthen your ability to cope and grow. My goal is to help you overcome barriers, find balance, and create meaningful change.
(714) 908-9837 View (714) 908-9837
Judith Willhide
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Change is a difficult process that requires courage, commitment, and strength to move forward in life. I work with individuals seeking emotional, spiritual, interpersonal, behavioral, and health-related growth, helping them explore these areas in depth. Beginning therapy is a sign of resilience and motivation for personal growth. Together, we will work to address what may be holding you back and create a path toward realizing your full potential, building the skills and insight to navigate life’s obstacles.
Change is a difficult process that requires courage, commitment, and strength to move forward in life. I work with individuals seeking emotional, spiritual, interpersonal, behavioral, and health-related growth, helping them explore these areas in depth. Beginning therapy is a sign of resilience and motivation for personal growth. Together, we will work to address what may be holding you back and create a path toward realizing your full potential, building the skills and insight to navigate life’s obstacles.
(650) 832-9083 View (650) 832-9083
Sonia Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello, my name is Sonia Díaz, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist working with clients all over California via telehealth. It is my passion to support others as they seek to better their lives and bring about wellness in many different areas. My approach is holistic in nature and client-centered. In this way, we can incorporate an integrative and humanistic approach that respects, validates, and supports your individual goals.
Hello, my name is Sonia Díaz, and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist working with clients all over California via telehealth. It is my passion to support others as they seek to better their lives and bring about wellness in many different areas. My approach is holistic in nature and client-centered. In this way, we can incorporate an integrative and humanistic approach that respects, validates, and supports your individual goals.
(650) 789-6294 View (650) 789-6294
Alyssa Label
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am a compassionate and empathetic therapist dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered. I am especially passionate about working with individuals navigating women’s health concerns, chronic illness, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and neurodivergent families. I draw from an integrated framework that blends evidence-based modalities, somatic awareness, and behavioral activation.
I am a compassionate and empathetic therapist dedicated to creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered. I am especially passionate about working with individuals navigating women’s health concerns, chronic illness, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and neurodivergent families. I draw from an integrated framework that blends evidence-based modalities, somatic awareness, and behavioral activation.
(424) 459-7661 View (424) 459-7661
Denesia Joseph
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Are you challenged by life or unexpected surprises? It may seem like despair and hopelessness are your only options. The support of therapy in a comfortable and safe environment can be the difference between feeling low, excessive worry, and even living in fear. I am available; you do not have to face your mental health challenges alone. Anxiety, depression, PTSD, & mood disorder treatment can help relieve intense symptoms by finding the courage to ask for help.
Are you challenged by life or unexpected surprises? It may seem like despair and hopelessness are your only options. The support of therapy in a comfortable and safe environment can be the difference between feeling low, excessive worry, and even living in fear. I am available; you do not have to face your mental health challenges alone. Anxiety, depression, PTSD, & mood disorder treatment can help relieve intense symptoms by finding the courage to ask for help.
(858) 519-8002 View (858) 519-8002
Holly Tse
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
Life can be challenging. Messy relationships, past hurts that won't go away, the stress and pressures of keeping up every day. ...And so often in our struggle, we can feel alone and unseen. Wherever you're at today, it is my honor to meet you there and to walk with you toward healing and wholeness. My name is Holly Tse, and I'm a licensed therapist in CA and WA, passionate about creating a safe place where people can be honest, be seen, and find healing and growth. I accept several insurance plans in CA and WA. In-person sessions now available in San Diego, CA!
Life can be challenging. Messy relationships, past hurts that won't go away, the stress and pressures of keeping up every day. ...And so often in our struggle, we can feel alone and unseen. Wherever you're at today, it is my honor to meet you there and to walk with you toward healing and wholeness. My name is Holly Tse, and I'm a licensed therapist in CA and WA, passionate about creating a safe place where people can be honest, be seen, and find healing and growth. I accept several insurance plans in CA and WA. In-person sessions now available in San Diego, CA!
(805) 360-3235 View (805) 360-3235
Roxanne Garza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
You can expect a safe and judgment-free space where you’ll be supported in gaining clarity and insight into the challenges you may be facing. I focus on supporting women through the unique challenges and transitions of life, while guiding them back toward the life they want to create. My approach is warm and empathic, while empowering you to step into the best version of yourself. Together we will set realistic goals, explore strategies that fit your needs, and consider the whole picture, your individual experience, your relationships, and the circumstances that shape your life.
You can expect a safe and judgment-free space where you’ll be supported in gaining clarity and insight into the challenges you may be facing. I focus on supporting women through the unique challenges and transitions of life, while guiding them back toward the life they want to create. My approach is warm and empathic, while empowering you to step into the best version of yourself. Together we will set realistic goals, explore strategies that fit your needs, and consider the whole picture, your individual experience, your relationships, and the circumstances that shape your life.
(747) 302-2091 View (747) 302-2091
Michelle M Colarusso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
I am experienced at working with many issues; including PTSD, anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, OCD, substance abuse, separation issues, adoption and issues related to abuse and neglect.
I specialize and have years of experience with PTSD, using EMDR, Progressive Counting and other therapies depending on your needs.
I am experienced at working with many issues; including PTSD, anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, OCD, substance abuse, separation issues, adoption and issues related to abuse and neglect.
I specialize and have years of experience with PTSD, using EMDR, Progressive Counting and other therapies depending on your needs.
(720) 782-2505 View (720) 782-2505
Claudia Jessica Peralta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Marriag, Family, Terapis
Serves Area
I work towards building a safe environment for my clients where we can find a solution or way to improve their lives.
I work towards building a safe environment for my clients where we can find a solution or way to improve their lives.
(619) 592-7091 View (619) 592-7091
America Islas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe you deserve more than just therapy—you deserve a space where you are celebrated, understood, and truly safe. My work in LGBTQI2-S Affirmative Care is rooted in the belief that everyone, regardless of identity or expression, should have access to healing that fosters resilience and self-acceptance. Whether I’m working with an adult, a couple, or a family, my focus is on building the trust we need to navigate life's dynamics and move toward a more fulfilling, joyful life.
I believe you deserve more than just therapy—you deserve a space where you are celebrated, understood, and truly safe. My work in LGBTQI2-S Affirmative Care is rooted in the belief that everyone, regardless of identity or expression, should have access to healing that fosters resilience and self-acceptance. Whether I’m working with an adult, a couple, or a family, my focus is on building the trust we need to navigate life's dynamics and move toward a more fulfilling, joyful life.
(657) 679-5824 View (657) 679-5824
Summer Verhines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Or you're grieving a failed adoption.
I use body-based trauma therapies that work faster than traditional talk therapy: EMDR, Brainspotting, ART, and somatic approaches. These methods help your nervous system process trauma and anxiety quickly. You'll calm your own nervous system during meltdowns, sleep through the night, and show up as the calm and loving parent you want to be for your child.
Or you're grieving a failed adoption.
I use body-based trauma therapies that work faster than traditional talk therapy: EMDR, Brainspotting, ART, and somatic approaches. These methods help your nervous system process trauma and anxiety quickly. You'll calm your own nervous system during meltdowns, sleep through the night, and show up as the calm and loving parent you want to be for your child.
(916) 527-9229 View (916) 527-9229
Aisha Pope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
8 Endorsed
Online Only
The decision to talk to someone about things you may be struggling with is a brave one. Whether you're struggling with a recent stressor or a chronic one, whether it's an internal conflict, a relationship conflict, parenting, work, you're having difficulty setting or reaching goals, or something else entirely, finding the right person to talk to makes all the difference. I specialize in helping people make radical and sustainable changes in their personal lives, relationships, parenting, work, and other areas. I take a non-judgmental solution focused approach to helping you set goals and reach them.
The decision to talk to someone about things you may be struggling with is a brave one. Whether you're struggling with a recent stressor or a chronic one, whether it's an internal conflict, a relationship conflict, parenting, work, you're having difficulty setting or reaching goals, or something else entirely, finding the right person to talk to makes all the difference. I specialize in helping people make radical and sustainable changes in their personal lives, relationships, parenting, work, and other areas. I take a non-judgmental solution focused approach to helping you set goals and reach them.
(619) 722-3096 View (619) 722-3096
Sofia Fani Mossa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you seeking support and guidance in your foster care or adoption journey?
I utilize variety of approaches and interventions depending on each individual's specific needs. This includes CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic approach, Attachment based, Strength based, Play therapy, Trauma informed and Family systems. We can work together to come up with the best unique individual approach for therapy that serves your needs.
Are you seeking support and guidance in your foster care or adoption journey?
I utilize variety of approaches and interventions depending on each individual's specific needs. This includes CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic approach, Attachment based, Strength based, Play therapy, Trauma informed and Family systems. We can work together to come up with the best unique individual approach for therapy that serves your needs.
(714) 497-1969 View (714) 497-1969
Gabrielle Loomis-Annett
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LIAC, LPCC, EMDR, CCTP
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92150
I work with women who have recently experienced a traumatic event and help them return to a sense of normal. I also work with women who have experienced traumas in the distant past but who have been feeling chronically anxious, depressed, out of control and/or hopeless. Perhaps you cannot remember the last time you did not feel anxious or depressed. Or perhaps your body being in stress for so many years has created health issues. Or perhaps you have turned to compulsive behaviors to escape or numb the pain such as over drinking, over eating, perfectionism, codependency, dieting, binge watching TV and more.
I work with women who have recently experienced a traumatic event and help them return to a sense of normal. I also work with women who have experienced traumas in the distant past but who have been feeling chronically anxious, depressed, out of control and/or hopeless. Perhaps you cannot remember the last time you did not feel anxious or depressed. Or perhaps your body being in stress for so many years has created health issues. Or perhaps you have turned to compulsive behaviors to escape or numb the pain such as over drinking, over eating, perfectionism, codependency, dieting, binge watching TV and more.
(760) 209-6244 View (760) 209-6244
Open Mind Health
Marriage & Family Therapist
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. Open Mind Health offers a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. Open Mind Health offers a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
(619) 279-5464 View (619) 279-5464
Teddie Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92101
I work primarily with neuro-complex and gifted adults with relational and systemic trauma. My clients typically have intersectional and multiple marginalized identities and have been functioning at a very high level within dominant culture (higher ed, corporate America, healthcare, the law, etc) - but are struggling with how unhealed patterns keep showing up in their lives; in their relationships, their career, and in their own sense of self. They've done everything right and excelled, but are left with anxiety, burnout, toxic relationships, loneliness, existential dread...the math ain't mathin' and they need help figuring shit out.
I work primarily with neuro-complex and gifted adults with relational and systemic trauma. My clients typically have intersectional and multiple marginalized identities and have been functioning at a very high level within dominant culture (higher ed, corporate America, healthcare, the law, etc) - but are struggling with how unhealed patterns keep showing up in their lives; in their relationships, their career, and in their own sense of self. They've done everything right and excelled, but are left with anxiety, burnout, toxic relationships, loneliness, existential dread...the math ain't mathin' and they need help figuring shit out.
(619) 273-0794 View (619) 273-0794
Marie Secrist
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I value building on your resiliency to facilitate growth towards your personal goals. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who provides evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. Specifically, I focus on treating trauma and am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) therapist. I strive to help individuals who struggle with trauma symptoms by providing trauma informed care. Also, as a clinician who values working with children with behavioral difficulties, I provide quality Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) to restore the parent-child relationship for children 2-7 years old.
I value building on your resiliency to facilitate growth towards your personal goals. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who provides evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. Specifically, I focus on treating trauma and am a certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) therapist. I strive to help individuals who struggle with trauma symptoms by providing trauma informed care. Also, as a clinician who values working with children with behavioral difficulties, I provide quality Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) to restore the parent-child relationship for children 2-7 years old.
(858) 704-2346 View (858) 704-2346
Whitney Recovery Solutions
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MHS , LAADC, CCS, SAP
San Diego, CA 92108
If alcohol or drugs is causing problems in any area of your life, I am here to help. The disease of addiction disconnects you from everything that is important in your life and healing is about reconnecting and re-engaging with life. I want to know what is important to you and I use a non-judgmental approach to understand your unique challenges.
If alcohol or drugs is causing problems in any area of your life, I am here to help. The disease of addiction disconnects you from everything that is important in your life and healing is about reconnecting and re-engaging with life. I want to know what is important to you and I use a non-judgmental approach to understand your unique challenges.
(619) 775-1153 View (619) 775-1153
John Ackerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Navigating through the complexities of anger management, depression and anxiety can be challenging. Intense emotions can arise swiftly, often making it difficult to maintain composure and perspective. However, understanding and managing these intense feelings is not only possible but within your reach, and I'm committed to helping you achieve this.
Navigating through the complexities of anger management, depression and anxiety can be challenging. Intense emotions can arise swiftly, often making it difficult to maintain composure and perspective. However, understanding and managing these intense feelings is not only possible but within your reach, and I'm committed to helping you achieve this.
(858) 330-5286 View (858) 330-5286
Daniel Carr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
In my work with families, couples and individuals, I have found that happiness lies in having rich, caring relationships with people that we love. To develop loving and caring relationships requires skill and compassion. My job is to offer insight and awareness as to ways to develop these kinds of relationships. I find that my clients demonstrate an openness, courageous spirit and perseverance to achieve this goal. I have been blessed to work with many people who have taught me what it is to be human. It has always been my desire to give back what I have received.
In my work with families, couples and individuals, I have found that happiness lies in having rich, caring relationships with people that we love. To develop loving and caring relationships requires skill and compassion. My job is to offer insight and awareness as to ways to develop these kinds of relationships. I find that my clients demonstrate an openness, courageous spirit and perseverance to achieve this goal. I have been blessed to work with many people who have taught me what it is to be human. It has always been my desire to give back what I have received.
(619) 377-8922 View (619) 377-8922

See more therapy options for San Diego

Adoption Therapists
Does my adopted child need therapy?
Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioral or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.

When should adoptive parents seek therapy?
Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.

Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?
Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.

What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?
A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.