Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists in San Diego, CA

I specialize in working with individuals and families, primarily integrating EMDR, IFS, CBT and mindfulness.
Depression, anxiety, past traumas or life changes can present roadblocks that negatively impact your life. Does that sound familiar to what you are experiencing? It can feel hopeless and overwhelming when faced with these roadblocks, but I can help you. I work with individuals and families to assess what issues are impacting your life, then we collaboratively develop a plan to navigate a path of healing.
I specialize in working with individuals and families, primarily integrating EMDR, IFS, CBT and mindfulness.
Depression, anxiety, past traumas or life changes can present roadblocks that negatively impact your life. Does that sound familiar to what you are experiencing? It can feel hopeless and overwhelming when faced with these roadblocks, but I can help you. I work with individuals and families to assess what issues are impacting your life, then we collaboratively develop a plan to navigate a path of healing.

Makenzie Collins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also have extensive clinical training in CBT, DBT, ACT, and Compassion-Focused Therapy.
Do you ever feel like you are at war with your body? Perhaps you are feeling stuck in the aftermath of trauma. Or maybe you are struggling with eating disorder recovery, unsure that things will ever get better. Navigating these types of issues is HARD, and it is even harder when you feel like you are in it alone. I specialize in helping individuals manage overwhelm and reclaim a sense of security within their own bodies. Whether you're struggling with disordered eating, trauma, anxiety, or a particularly chaotic time in life, therapy can help you make sense of it all.
I also have extensive clinical training in CBT, DBT, ACT, and Compassion-Focused Therapy.
Do you ever feel like you are at war with your body? Perhaps you are feeling stuck in the aftermath of trauma. Or maybe you are struggling with eating disorder recovery, unsure that things will ever get better. Navigating these types of issues is HARD, and it is even harder when you feel like you are in it alone. I specialize in helping individuals manage overwhelm and reclaim a sense of security within their own bodies. Whether you're struggling with disordered eating, trauma, anxiety, or a particularly chaotic time in life, therapy can help you make sense of it all.

Dr. Lara Zappaterra
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Waitlist for new clients
With expertise in multiple evidence-based practices ( CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, relational, mindfulness-based, and existential), I tailor my approach to that most helpful for you.
Hello and Welcome. I have over a decade of practice in individual, adolescent, and couples therapy. I specialize in treating mood or anxiety difficulties, trauma, childhood trauma, relational difficulties, life stressors, or life and identity transitions. My passion is to help you live authentically- experiencing relief, resilience, self-compassion, and increased emotional freedom. We often learn strategies through life to keep us safe, but those strategies may hold us back in our present. It is in our relationships that we learned these strategies; it is through a therapeutic relationship that we re-learn, re-parent, and heal.
With expertise in multiple evidence-based practices ( CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, relational, mindfulness-based, and existential), I tailor my approach to that most helpful for you.
Hello and Welcome. I have over a decade of practice in individual, adolescent, and couples therapy. I specialize in treating mood or anxiety difficulties, trauma, childhood trauma, relational difficulties, life stressors, or life and identity transitions. My passion is to help you live authentically- experiencing relief, resilience, self-compassion, and increased emotional freedom. We often learn strategies through life to keep us safe, but those strategies may hold us back in our present. It is in our relationships that we learned these strategies; it is through a therapeutic relationship that we re-learn, re-parent, and heal.

Mental health therapist with 25 years experience. Working with ages 5 and up. Couples counseling, individual counseling, family counseling. Focus on CBT and family systems theory.
Mental health therapist with 25 years experience. Working with ages 5 and up. Couples counseling, individual counseling, family counseling. Focus on CBT and family systems theory.

I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), CBT for Insomnia and Chronic Pain.
I’m Dr. Eli Reding, a queer psychologist based in San Diego, dedicated to helping individuals overcome the impacts of daily stress, past trauma, and relationship difficulties. With a personalized approach rooted in empathy and evidence-based, I am committed to supporting you as we work together through PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, identity exploration, and sexual concerns. Every step of the way, I’ll work to provide a positive and collaborative approach to living a more fulfilling life.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), CBT for Insomnia and Chronic Pain.
I’m Dr. Eli Reding, a queer psychologist based in San Diego, dedicated to helping individuals overcome the impacts of daily stress, past trauma, and relationship difficulties. With a personalized approach rooted in empathy and evidence-based, I am committed to supporting you as we work together through PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, identity exploration, and sexual concerns. Every step of the way, I’ll work to provide a positive and collaborative approach to living a more fulfilling life.

I use a combination of CBT, TF- CBT, Compassion-Focused CBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and Yoga & Meditation Therapy to create a holistic and flexible approach.
Living with Complex PTSD, grief, depression, anxiety, or a combination thereof, can feel like you're carrying a heavy emotional weight that affects every part of your life. Whether it's flashbacks, overwhelming sadness and worry, intense stress and fear, or the numbness from trauma and depression, these feelings can make daily tasks feel insurmountable. My goal is to support you through these difficult emotions, helping you build internal strength, enhance your resilience, process losses, and manage depressive and anxiety symptoms. Your values, beliefs, and any cultural/religious/spiritual practices matter to me.
I use a combination of CBT, TF- CBT, Compassion-Focused CBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and Yoga & Meditation Therapy to create a holistic and flexible approach.
Living with Complex PTSD, grief, depression, anxiety, or a combination thereof, can feel like you're carrying a heavy emotional weight that affects every part of your life. Whether it's flashbacks, overwhelming sadness and worry, intense stress and fear, or the numbness from trauma and depression, these feelings can make daily tasks feel insurmountable. My goal is to support you through these difficult emotions, helping you build internal strength, enhance your resilience, process losses, and manage depressive and anxiety symptoms. Your values, beliefs, and any cultural/religious/spiritual practices matter to me.

Shelby Swan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Waitlist for new clients
My professional experience has focused on trauma work in children/adolescents, specializing in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am a San Diego native and am happy to be back in San Diego after going to school in North Carolina. I enjoys spending quality time with my family, particularly my young niece and nephew. I also enjoys spending time with my dog at the beach on the weekends.
My professional experience has focused on trauma work in children/adolescents, specializing in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I am a San Diego native and am happy to be back in San Diego after going to school in North Carolina. I enjoys spending quality time with my family, particularly my young niece and nephew. I also enjoys spending time with my dog at the beach on the weekends.

We have two locations, where we provide cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD, Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), habit reversal training (HRT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and family therapy.
Whether you've had a long struggle with your emotions, or just want a little help overcoming a recent difficulty, finding the right person to help makes a big difference. We believe in combining compassion and empathy, with therapies that have been proven to work by clinical researchers. We teach children, teens, and adults effective skills for changing behaviors, and provide the support and encouragement needed along the way. Through this process, you can overcome feelings of depression, isolation, shame, and fear while also building confidence in your strengths and gaining tools to overcome future challenges.
We have two locations, where we provide cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD, Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), habit reversal training (HRT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and family therapy.
Whether you've had a long struggle with your emotions, or just want a little help overcoming a recent difficulty, finding the right person to help makes a big difference. We believe in combining compassion and empathy, with therapies that have been proven to work by clinical researchers. We teach children, teens, and adults effective skills for changing behaviors, and provide the support and encouragement needed along the way. Through this process, you can overcome feelings of depression, isolation, shame, and fear while also building confidence in your strengths and gaining tools to overcome future challenges.

She utilizes interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused to Psychodynamic approaches.
Cyndi views each client's experience as unique and strives to discover individual strengths, discern life patterns and aid clients in exploring what they need in order to grow and be present, to engage in good self care and positive self talk. Therapy with Cyndi is designed as a safe and welcoming space.
She utilizes interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused to Psychodynamic approaches.
Cyndi views each client's experience as unique and strives to discover individual strengths, discern life patterns and aid clients in exploring what they need in order to grow and be present, to engage in good self care and positive self talk. Therapy with Cyndi is designed as a safe and welcoming space.

My theoretical orientation with the work that I do includes cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and solution focused therapy.
Hi, my name is Andrea Puente, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I am passionate about teaching individuals the necessary tools and techniques they may need to improve your mood, reduce stress, and overcome challenges. I have experience in providing therapeutic treatment for over 7 years. I have provided mental health treatment to adults involved in the justice system and also with adults in the general public. I also have experience providing short-term, goal-oriented therapy in various settings in the medical field.
My theoretical orientation with the work that I do includes cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and solution focused therapy.
Hi, my name is Andrea Puente, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I am passionate about teaching individuals the necessary tools and techniques they may need to improve your mood, reduce stress, and overcome challenges. I have experience in providing therapeutic treatment for over 7 years. I have provided mental health treatment to adults involved in the justice system and also with adults in the general public. I also have experience providing short-term, goal-oriented therapy in various settings in the medical field.

Whether you’re healing from a single traumatic event or the lasting effects of prolonged adversity, I specialize in treating all levels of trauma through EMDR, CBT and Mindfulness.
My approach supports individuals in processing emotional and physical stuck points, connecting with parts of themselves that carry pain, loneliness, and abandonment. By interrupting cycles of ruminating thoughts and helping clients acknowledge their emotions, I guide them toward greater self-awareness, emotional release, and inner peace.
Whether you’re healing from a single traumatic event or the lasting effects of prolonged adversity, I specialize in treating all levels of trauma through EMDR, CBT and Mindfulness.
My approach supports individuals in processing emotional and physical stuck points, connecting with parts of themselves that carry pain, loneliness, and abandonment. By interrupting cycles of ruminating thoughts and helping clients acknowledge their emotions, I guide them toward greater self-awareness, emotional release, and inner peace.
Meet Our Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists

I like to use a blend of techniques from DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused, EMDR, Family Systems, and more.
I offer a supportive and honest environment for my clients where they can explore the depths of trauma, desire for change, and hope for healing. I work diligently to meet my clients where they are and use curiosity to pull back the layers that seem stuck. I create a safe place where we can explore your struggles and work through life challenges together.
I like to use a blend of techniques from DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused, EMDR, Family Systems, and more.
I offer a supportive and honest environment for my clients where they can explore the depths of trauma, desire for change, and hope for healing. I work diligently to meet my clients where they are and use curiosity to pull back the layers that seem stuck. I create a safe place where we can explore your struggles and work through life challenges together.

Client Centered and Cognitive Behavior Therapy are favored modalities for treatment.
My passion is to empower Women and Men and Children, and boost their quality of life! Different seasons of life can equate to struggles to find meaning, hope, and/or direction. I will help you identify needs and resources, utilize psycho-education to accelerate self-awareness, and validate your thoughts and feelings, so you can be comforted that you are not alone in your struggle. A stronger sense of self and positive mindset can increase well-being and make us more successful and productive.
Client Centered and Cognitive Behavior Therapy are favored modalities for treatment.
My passion is to empower Women and Men and Children, and boost their quality of life! Different seasons of life can equate to struggles to find meaning, hope, and/or direction. I will help you identify needs and resources, utilize psycho-education to accelerate self-awareness, and validate your thoughts and feelings, so you can be comforted that you are not alone in your struggle. A stronger sense of self and positive mindset can increase well-being and make us more successful and productive.

Additionally, I hold certifications in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Trauma-Focused Positive Youth Development, Group Therapy (GPALA), and Marriage & Family Therapy from The Gottman Institute.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Psychotherapist w/15 years of experience on both coasts working w/ Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Families, IEP/504 Educational Advocacy, ADHD/ASD treatment & parent coaching. I specialize in Neurodivergence, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Body Image, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Family/Couples Therapy, Stress management, School Advocacy & IEP/504 Expert Coaching. Earlier in my journey, I spent a decade as a professional Singer/Dancer performing in Broadway National/International Tours, The Radio City Xmas Spectacular & Regional Theaters. I integrate traditional approaches w/warm, creative, dynamic modalities
Additionally, I hold certifications in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Trauma-Focused Positive Youth Development, Group Therapy (GPALA), and Marriage & Family Therapy from The Gottman Institute.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Psychotherapist w/15 years of experience on both coasts working w/ Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, Families, IEP/504 Educational Advocacy, ADHD/ASD treatment & parent coaching. I specialize in Neurodivergence, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Body Image, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Family/Couples Therapy, Stress management, School Advocacy & IEP/504 Expert Coaching. Earlier in my journey, I spent a decade as a professional Singer/Dancer performing in Broadway National/International Tours, The Radio City Xmas Spectacular & Regional Theaters. I integrate traditional approaches w/warm, creative, dynamic modalities

CBT Thought Skills 5.
My ideal client is "high-functioning." Ever heard of high-functioning anxiety, depression, and PTSD? High-functioners tend to look like they have it all together from the outside, but there's a silent battle inside. Queer and Neurospicy (ADHD) people, I'm talking to you too! Masking is the norm by studying the world to act how they "should." Are you guilty of "shoulding" all over yourself? Often, I see this resulting in physical symptoms such as difficulties with sleep, headaches, stomach problems, or worse- autoimmune disorders. Other emotional symptoms include chronic stress, social burnout, avoidance of work, and/or depression.
CBT Thought Skills 5.
My ideal client is "high-functioning." Ever heard of high-functioning anxiety, depression, and PTSD? High-functioners tend to look like they have it all together from the outside, but there's a silent battle inside. Queer and Neurospicy (ADHD) people, I'm talking to you too! Masking is the norm by studying the world to act how they "should." Are you guilty of "shoulding" all over yourself? Often, I see this resulting in physical symptoms such as difficulties with sleep, headaches, stomach problems, or worse- autoimmune disorders. Other emotional symptoms include chronic stress, social burnout, avoidance of work, and/or depression.

Sawyer Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
I utilize evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and First Approaches Skills Training-Behavior (FAST-B).
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or inattention? Is your child's behavior becoming hard to manage? I offer a compassionate and collaborative approach to therapy that helps kids and adults navigate life's most difficult moments. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, child behavioral problems, depression, or ADHD, I provide the support needed to regain control, rediscover your strengths, and create lasting change.
I utilize evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, and First Approaches Skills Training-Behavior (FAST-B).
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or inattention? Is your child's behavior becoming hard to manage? I offer a compassionate and collaborative approach to therapy that helps kids and adults navigate life's most difficult moments. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, child behavioral problems, depression, or ADHD, I provide the support needed to regain control, rediscover your strengths, and create lasting change.

My theoretical orientations focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy.
I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in San Diego Ca. My goal is to create a safe space where my clients feel free to tackle difficult situations and face their fears. You will walk away feeling heard and empowered. I approach my clients on a unique basis and focus on individual trauma, attachment or relationship issues that can affect the day-to-day life cycles.
My theoretical orientations focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy.
I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in San Diego Ca. My goal is to create a safe space where my clients feel free to tackle difficult situations and face their fears. You will walk away feeling heard and empowered. I approach my clients on a unique basis and focus on individual trauma, attachment or relationship issues that can affect the day-to-day life cycles.

I utilize proven interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based, Strength-Based, Motivational Interviewing and more.
Taking the first steps to make changes and move towards recovery and growth is often not easy but feeling better matters. Even if you feel that you are currently struggling, change is possible. My clients come to therapy burdened with workplace stress and career transition issues, anxiety/mood concerns, grief/loss issues, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+ issues, men's issues or challenges with life transitions. You want to move forward and make positive changes but are not sure where to start. Have a mature, relational, compassionate and insight-oriented therapeutic partner with you on this journey. If you contact me, I will reach out.
I utilize proven interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based, Strength-Based, Motivational Interviewing and more.
Taking the first steps to make changes and move towards recovery and growth is often not easy but feeling better matters. Even if you feel that you are currently struggling, change is possible. My clients come to therapy burdened with workplace stress and career transition issues, anxiety/mood concerns, grief/loss issues, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+ issues, men's issues or challenges with life transitions. You want to move forward and make positive changes but are not sure where to start. Have a mature, relational, compassionate and insight-oriented therapeutic partner with you on this journey. If you contact me, I will reach out.

Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE) offers a wide range of evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, Emotionally Focused, and Gottman Method, tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals, couples, and families.
Hello! I'm currently accepting new clients! Schedule your free consult today. Dealing with anxiety, depression, challenges in your relationship - or just feeling stuck? I'm here to support you with whatever you may be going through. As a Therapist trainee at the Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE), I provide a safe space for support, relief, building meaningful relationships, and navigating your life's experiences. I welcome individuals, couples, and families of all backgrounds - all from the comfort of home, with remote appointments. I look forward to meeting you! Se ofrece terapia en ESPAÑOL tambien!
Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE) offers a wide range of evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, Emotionally Focused, and Gottman Method, tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals, couples, and families.
Hello! I'm currently accepting new clients! Schedule your free consult today. Dealing with anxiety, depression, challenges in your relationship - or just feeling stuck? I'm here to support you with whatever you may be going through. As a Therapist trainee at the Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE), I provide a safe space for support, relief, building meaningful relationships, and navigating your life's experiences. I welcome individuals, couples, and families of all backgrounds - all from the comfort of home, with remote appointments. I look forward to meeting you! Se ofrece terapia en ESPAÑOL tambien!

I love to incorporate DBT, CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness Practices.
Accepting new clients and taking insurance. Are you feeling stuck, tormented by anxiety, depression, or traumatic experiences? I would love to provide support by facilitating the discovery of new choices and tools for skill-building. There is nothing more loving than to be seen from heart-centered space and to experience a safe space where one can share deeply personal issues. My style is conversational, collaborative, intuitive, and with a dash of humor.
I love to incorporate DBT, CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness Practices.
Accepting new clients and taking insurance. Are you feeling stuck, tormented by anxiety, depression, or traumatic experiences? I would love to provide support by facilitating the discovery of new choices and tools for skill-building. There is nothing more loving than to be seen from heart-centered space and to experience a safe space where one can share deeply personal issues. My style is conversational, collaborative, intuitive, and with a dash of humor.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- El Cajon
- Imperial Beach
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lemon Grove
- National City
- San Ysidro
- Santee
- Spring Valley
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists
How does cognitive behavioral therapy work?
Cognitive behavioral therapy works by exploring how your thoughts affect your emotions and experiences. CBT helps you identify distortions in your thinking. For example, you may tend to jump to the worst case scenario catastrophizing or think in extremes (all-or-nothing thinking). A therapist can teach you how to push back against those thoughts to ultimately change your feelings and behavior for the better. They can also provide coping skills to better deal with stressors and challenges.
When do I know to seek treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy?
It’s reasonable to consider cognitive behavioral therapy if you struggle to manage difficult emotions or behaviors to such an extent that you are not getting the most out of life on a day-to-day basis. If you want a shorter term, concrete, skills-based approach, CBT is a great option. (By contrast, other types of therapy may devote more time to exploring your past and its effects.) The decision to seek CBT also depends on the condition you’re treating; CBT is an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other disorders.
How can I find a cognitive behavioral therapist for someone else?
To find a cognitive behavioral therapist for someone else, you may want to begin by discussing the person’s problem, researching cognitive behavioral therapy, and assessing whether the approach is the right fit. You could then reach out to a few cognitive behavioral therapists in this directory, explain the scenario, have a consultation with those available, and determine who could be a good match.
Why is CBT such a popular form of therapy?
CBT has become a popular form of therapy because it is effective and accessible. Robust research has demonstrated that CBT is an effective treatment for many mental health conditions. And CBT can be learned in relatively few sessions, which means that many people can engage in the process, afford it, and see results quickly. It involves learning concrete skills such as disputing unhelpful thoughts; these skills can also be taught and spread widely.