Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in San Diego, CA
You’re tired of not feeling well, but hesitate to reach out to a therapist: Can I trust a stranger? Can anyone really help me? On the surface, you function well in life, but deep down you feel like you’re not truly “showing up” or that you don’t fully “belong.” It’s as if your authentic self is hiding, sensing that being fully you might not be safe. There may be parts of your life story that may explain why you feel uncomfortable, different from others, or weighed down by anxiety or sadness. I would love to work with you in therapy to explore these issues and help you improve your daily life experience.
You’re tired of not feeling well, but hesitate to reach out to a therapist: Can I trust a stranger? Can anyone really help me? On the surface, you function well in life, but deep down you feel like you’re not truly “showing up” or that you don’t fully “belong.” It’s as if your authentic self is hiding, sensing that being fully you might not be safe. There may be parts of your life story that may explain why you feel uncomfortable, different from others, or weighed down by anxiety or sadness. I would love to work with you in therapy to explore these issues and help you improve your daily life experience.
I take a person-centered approach and adapt therapeutic tools such as CBT, DBT, SFBT, and family systems work to fit each individual rather than using a one size fits all approach.
If your child or teen is struggling and you’re feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I specialize in working with children, teens, and families who are dealing with anxiety, emotional dysregulation, school stress, and family conflict, especially when nothing seems to be working the way you hoped.
I partner closely with parents, not to place blame, but to help you better understand what’s driving your child’s behavior and how to respond in ways that are supportive and effective. Together, we focus on building structure, emotional safety, and practical tools your family can continue using long after therapy ends.
I take a person-centered approach and adapt therapeutic tools such as CBT, DBT, SFBT, and family systems work to fit each individual rather than using a one size fits all approach.
If your child or teen is struggling and you’re feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I specialize in working with children, teens, and families who are dealing with anxiety, emotional dysregulation, school stress, and family conflict, especially when nothing seems to be working the way you hoped.
I partner closely with parents, not to place blame, but to help you better understand what’s driving your child’s behavior and how to respond in ways that are supportive and effective. Together, we focus on building structure, emotional safety, and practical tools your family can continue using long after therapy ends.
I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing to support clients in tuning into what matters, identifying helpful patterns, and navigating life with more ease.
Many adults move through life carrying overlapping pressures—adapting to change, managing anxiety or depression, coping with ADHD, or trying to understand why everything feels just a little harder than it should. These challenges often interact in quiet, complicated ways that can leave someone feeling scattered, emotionally worn out, or unsure where to begin. My path into this work was shaped by personal experience: while caring for a parent with cancer and working in a tech role, I found myself drawn to the conversations people were having—not the machines I was fixing. I turned to therapy to manage my own stress.
I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing to support clients in tuning into what matters, identifying helpful patterns, and navigating life with more ease.
Many adults move through life carrying overlapping pressures—adapting to change, managing anxiety or depression, coping with ADHD, or trying to understand why everything feels just a little harder than it should. These challenges often interact in quiet, complicated ways that can leave someone feeling scattered, emotionally worn out, or unsure where to begin. My path into this work was shaped by personal experience: while caring for a parent with cancer and working in a tech role, I found myself drawn to the conversations people were having—not the machines I was fixing. I turned to therapy to manage my own stress.
W provides individualized evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy ( DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindful self-compassion (MSC).
Dr. Whelan is an experienced clinical psychologist who provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to adult and adolescent patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. W specializes in neuropsychological assessment and the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders. She has expertise in the treatment of chronic pain, sleep and eating disorders, substance abuse, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. Dr. Whelan provides comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations in the following areas: diagnostic clarification, ADHD, ASD, personality disorders, intellectual functioning,
W provides individualized evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy ( DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindful self-compassion (MSC).
Dr. Whelan is an experienced clinical psychologist who provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to adult and adolescent patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. W specializes in neuropsychological assessment and the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders. She has expertise in the treatment of chronic pain, sleep and eating disorders, substance abuse, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. Dr. Whelan provides comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations in the following areas: diagnostic clarification, ADHD, ASD, personality disorders, intellectual functioning,
I'm passionate about working with individuals that face different mental health challenges including: trauma, domestic violence, addiction, and parenting struggles. I approach every client with understanding, compassion, and provide a non-judgmental space. Through our connection and collaboration during therapy sessions, the overall courage and empowerment to use the skills and tools that are acquired, provide confidence to use in everyday living. I often feel fortunate and grateful to support people through their healing journeys.
I'm passionate about working with individuals that face different mental health challenges including: trauma, domestic violence, addiction, and parenting struggles. I approach every client with understanding, compassion, and provide a non-judgmental space. Through our connection and collaboration during therapy sessions, the overall courage and empowerment to use the skills and tools that are acquired, provide confidence to use in everyday living. I often feel fortunate and grateful to support people through their healing journeys.
Sometimes it can be really challenging to make time for ourselves and for our mental health. For some of us, it's even more difficult when our identities and culture held no space for our feelings or emotions. We may have had to put up with crossed boundaries, invalidated feelings, unrealistic expectations, and conditional love that depended on how much we have accomplished. Those difficult and maybe even traumatic experiences that we, and our families, have lived through may have been written off as "this is just how things are." Although we may want to rest and pause, we instead might begin to feel shame or guilt for doing so.
Sometimes it can be really challenging to make time for ourselves and for our mental health. For some of us, it's even more difficult when our identities and culture held no space for our feelings or emotions. We may have had to put up with crossed boundaries, invalidated feelings, unrealistic expectations, and conditional love that depended on how much we have accomplished. Those difficult and maybe even traumatic experiences that we, and our families, have lived through may have been written off as "this is just how things are." Although we may want to rest and pause, we instead might begin to feel shame or guilt for doing so.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, specialized as a CBT/ DBT clinician, and also skilled at integrating a variety of modalities such as mindfulness, psychodynamic, humanistic, trauma informed treatment, and interpersonal therapy to best address your needs.
Do your feelings of sadness, anxiety, shame, irritability or jealousy overwhelm you? Do you feel stuck or doubtful of yourself? You are not alone! In treatment, I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space, where we can identify your goals, work through the challenges in your life, and practice acceptance, self care, and self validation. Accepting the process of change may feel frightening and overwhelming, it is my goal to be beside you as you embark on a journey of growth and clarity.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, specialized as a CBT/ DBT clinician, and also skilled at integrating a variety of modalities such as mindfulness, psychodynamic, humanistic, trauma informed treatment, and interpersonal therapy to best address your needs.
Do your feelings of sadness, anxiety, shame, irritability or jealousy overwhelm you? Do you feel stuck or doubtful of yourself? You are not alone! In treatment, I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space, where we can identify your goals, work through the challenges in your life, and practice acceptance, self care, and self validation. Accepting the process of change may feel frightening and overwhelming, it is my goal to be beside you as you embark on a journey of growth and clarity.
Using CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, I guide clients in developing new perspectives and practical tools that bring both relief and lasting growth.
Constant worry, difficult transitions, or struggles in relationships can leave you feeling stuck and unheard. Anxiety may tighten its grip, while communication challenges create distance in the connections you value most. These experiences can be exhausting, making it hard to feel present or hopeful. As a therapist with an MS in Psychology from Argosy University – SF Bay Area (2008), I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, adjustment concerns, and relationship dynamics with greater clarity and confidence.
Using CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, I guide clients in developing new perspectives and practical tools that bring both relief and lasting growth.
Constant worry, difficult transitions, or struggles in relationships can leave you feeling stuck and unheard. Anxiety may tighten its grip, while communication challenges create distance in the connections you value most. These experiences can be exhausting, making it hard to feel present or hopeful. As a therapist with an MS in Psychology from Argosy University – SF Bay Area (2008), I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, adjustment concerns, and relationship dynamics with greater clarity and confidence.
I believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life - a life that is connected to your values, passions, and loved ones. I value authentic human connection and want to understand your joy, pain, your past, what you believe in, and what you hope for. I will help you gain insight into yourself, so that you can confidently navigate life’s challenges and find healing and purpose.
I believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life - a life that is connected to your values, passions, and loved ones. I value authentic human connection and want to understand your joy, pain, your past, what you believe in, and what you hope for. I will help you gain insight into yourself, so that you can confidently navigate life’s challenges and find healing and purpose.
I help clients heal through evidence-based, compassionate care grounded in CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Gottman Method.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by trauma, relationship stress, or emotion regulation challenges that leave you stuck in cycles you’re ready to break. You might be navigating the impact of domestic violence, healing from childhood wounds, or trying to rebuild trust and connection in your relationships. Perhaps you’re facing the unique stressors of military life—deployment, reintegration, or the transition to civilian identity—and looking for someone who truly understands. More than anything, you want clarity, stability, and a path toward healthier patterns and authentic connection.
I help clients heal through evidence-based, compassionate care grounded in CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Gottman Method.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by trauma, relationship stress, or emotion regulation challenges that leave you stuck in cycles you’re ready to break. You might be navigating the impact of domestic violence, healing from childhood wounds, or trying to rebuild trust and connection in your relationships. Perhaps you’re facing the unique stressors of military life—deployment, reintegration, or the transition to civilian identity—and looking for someone who truly understands. More than anything, you want clarity, stability, and a path toward healthier patterns and authentic connection.
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness, and IFS, I tailor sessions to meet your needs.
Trauma, attachment wounds, and anxiety can shape the way you see yourself and the world, making it difficult to feel safe, connected, or at peace. You may find yourself stuck in patterns of self-doubt, fear, or emotional distress, unsure of how to break free. Since earning my LMFT degree from the University of La Verne in 2006, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals heal from these struggles, driven by a deep passion for supporting others through life’s challenges. Therapy offers a space to process past experiences, rebuild trust in yourself, and develop the tools to move forward with confidence.
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness, and IFS, I tailor sessions to meet your needs.
Trauma, attachment wounds, and anxiety can shape the way you see yourself and the world, making it difficult to feel safe, connected, or at peace. You may find yourself stuck in patterns of self-doubt, fear, or emotional distress, unsure of how to break free. Since earning my LMFT degree from the University of La Verne in 2006, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals heal from these struggles, driven by a deep passion for supporting others through life’s challenges. Therapy offers a space to process past experiences, rebuild trust in yourself, and develop the tools to move forward with confidence.
Did you grow up being the strong one — the mature one — the one who kept the peace? Maybe you learned early to prioritize everyone else’s emotions while quietly setting your own aside. Now, as an adult, you may struggle with people-pleasing, perfectionism, relationship challenges, or a lingering sense that you don’t quite know who you are outside of what others need from you. If you're an adult child of emotionally immature parents, healing from narcissistic abuse, navigating the impact of trauma, going through a major life transition, or looking to rediscover your identity and love yourself wholeheartedly, I'm here to support you.
Did you grow up being the strong one — the mature one — the one who kept the peace? Maybe you learned early to prioritize everyone else’s emotions while quietly setting your own aside. Now, as an adult, you may struggle with people-pleasing, perfectionism, relationship challenges, or a lingering sense that you don’t quite know who you are outside of what others need from you. If you're an adult child of emotionally immature parents, healing from narcissistic abuse, navigating the impact of trauma, going through a major life transition, or looking to rediscover your identity and love yourself wholeheartedly, I'm here to support you.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 25 years of experience in working with individuals, families and couples impacted by depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use issues. I work with all age groups 8 years old and up. In my work I utilize a variety of techniques and interventions representing several therapeutic modalities to facilitate reduction of interpersonal distress and the restoration of relationships. I have also incorporated the use of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing into my practice for individuals who have experienced both simple and complex trauma.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than 25 years of experience in working with individuals, families and couples impacted by depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use issues. I work with all age groups 8 years old and up. In my work I utilize a variety of techniques and interventions representing several therapeutic modalities to facilitate reduction of interpersonal distress and the restoration of relationships. I have also incorporated the use of Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing into my practice for individuals who have experienced both simple and complex trauma.
It is common to experience bouts of anxiety, depression, grief, or feelings of helplessness and hopelessness during life. However, these are not issues to suffer through for the rest of your life. My aim is to work collaboratively with you to develop insight into your struggles and nurture innate strengths to help overcome these challenges. I have over ten years of clinical experience treating a variety of psychological difficulties such as addiction, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, child/adolescent issues, anger management, relationship issues, and performing psychological and learning disability/ADHD assessments.
It is common to experience bouts of anxiety, depression, grief, or feelings of helplessness and hopelessness during life. However, these are not issues to suffer through for the rest of your life. My aim is to work collaboratively with you to develop insight into your struggles and nurture innate strengths to help overcome these challenges. I have over ten years of clinical experience treating a variety of psychological difficulties such as addiction, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, child/adolescent issues, anger management, relationship issues, and performing psychological and learning disability/ADHD assessments.
I continue to utilize Attachment theory, Narrative Therapy, CBT, DBT, EFT and psychodynamic in my practice, depending on your individual needs and identified stressors.
Hi there! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in both Couples Therapy, and Eating Disorder treatment at an outpatient level of care. Through a client-centered approach, my passion lies in restoring disruptions in early childhood attachment, and helping those identify negative thought patterns, core beliefs, and emotions that have led to maladaptive coping behaviors. If you are either feeling exhausted from the shame towards your body and want freedom from disordered eating, or are longing to strengthen your relationship and communication with a loved one, I would love to create that space for you!
I continue to utilize Attachment theory, Narrative Therapy, CBT, DBT, EFT and psychodynamic in my practice, depending on your individual needs and identified stressors.
Hi there! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in both Couples Therapy, and Eating Disorder treatment at an outpatient level of care. Through a client-centered approach, my passion lies in restoring disruptions in early childhood attachment, and helping those identify negative thought patterns, core beliefs, and emotions that have led to maladaptive coping behaviors. If you are either feeling exhausted from the shame towards your body and want freedom from disordered eating, or are longing to strengthen your relationship and communication with a loved one, I would love to create that space for you!
I am a psychologist and the founder/president at Aloha Psych Associates. I serve to help those with acute or chronic medical, emotional, and social problems. My practice is inspired by the “aloha spirit,” drawing on Hawaiian concepts like ‘alo’ (presence), ‘ha’ (breath of life), ‘mana’ (healing energy), and ‘ohana’ (family and connectedness) to guide compassionate, collaborative care to individuals, families, and couples. I treat my patients with a solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and psychoeducational approach.
I am a psychologist and the founder/president at Aloha Psych Associates. I serve to help those with acute or chronic medical, emotional, and social problems. My practice is inspired by the “aloha spirit,” drawing on Hawaiian concepts like ‘alo’ (presence), ‘ha’ (breath of life), ‘mana’ (healing energy), and ‘ohana’ (family and connectedness) to guide compassionate, collaborative care to individuals, families, and couples. I treat my patients with a solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and psychoeducational approach.
Focused on helping you meet your goals, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness to help you develop skills for managing feelings and relationships.
I work with clients on a variety of issues - anxiety, depression, grief, LGBTQ+, life transitions, substance use, as well as women's issues. I enjoy working with individuals who are looking to become their best selves and who want to resolve any problems that are preventing them from reaching their goals.
Focused on helping you meet your goals, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness to help you develop skills for managing feelings and relationships.
I work with clients on a variety of issues - anxiety, depression, grief, LGBTQ+, life transitions, substance use, as well as women's issues. I enjoy working with individuals who are looking to become their best selves and who want to resolve any problems that are preventing them from reaching their goals.
I specialize in helping individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma achieve the happier and more fulfilling lives they desire. These challenges are often complicated by lack of motivation, trouble experiencing pleasure, self-deprecating thoughts, interpersonal conflicts, and feeling as if you don’t have direction in your life.
I specialize in helping individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma achieve the happier and more fulfilling lives they desire. These challenges are often complicated by lack of motivation, trouble experiencing pleasure, self-deprecating thoughts, interpersonal conflicts, and feeling as if you don’t have direction in your life.
COCOA Cup Therapy, Inc. ™️ by Dr. Jaronda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Is life life’ing—leaving you emotionally drained and disconnected? You’re not alone.
At COCOA Cup Therapy Inc., we create a safe, culturally responsive space to explore attachment wounds, relationship struggles, and emotional overwhelm.
Using evidence-based, trauma-informed care, we’ll help you reconnect—with yourself and others.
Healing starts here, with warmth, compassion, and clinical expertise guiding every step.
Is life life’ing—leaving you emotionally drained and disconnected? You’re not alone.
At COCOA Cup Therapy Inc., we create a safe, culturally responsive space to explore attachment wounds, relationship struggles, and emotional overwhelm.
Using evidence-based, trauma-informed care, we’ll help you reconnect—with yourself and others.
Healing starts here, with warmth, compassion, and clinical expertise guiding every step.
My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to assist clients gain mastery over their symptoms to lead more fulfilling lives.
My ideal clients are adults who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, OCD, depression, or relationship stress and want more than just short-term relief—they want to understand themselves and create lasting change. Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, especially with someone new, so I aim to create a warm, down-to-earth space where you feel safe being real. With a trauma-informed approach (and a little humor along the way), we work together to untangle unhelpful thought patterns, reconnect with your values, and build a life that feels more meaningful and manageable.
My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) to assist clients gain mastery over their symptoms to lead more fulfilling lives.
My ideal clients are adults who feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, OCD, depression, or relationship stress and want more than just short-term relief—they want to understand themselves and create lasting change. Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, especially with someone new, so I aim to create a warm, down-to-earth space where you feel safe being real. With a trauma-informed approach (and a little humor along the way), we work together to untangle unhelpful thought patterns, reconnect with your values, and build a life that feels more meaningful and manageable.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) 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