Photo of Tom Stone Carlson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Tom Stone Carlson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
I specialize in the working with couples seeking to restore their relationships, women who have experienced the effects of abuse and violence, and men seeking to be more accountable in their relationships.
As a narrative therapist, I take a positive approach to therapy; helping clients build on their strengths and resources as a foundation for change. I believe that therapy can offer clients much more than a band aid for their problems but that it can help transform their lives and relationships in meaningful ways. I believe that therapy does not need to be a long-term process and encourage clients to take an active part in therapy.
I specialize in the working with couples seeking to restore their relationships, women who have experienced the effects of abuse and violence, and men seeking to be more accountable in their relationships.
As a narrative therapist, I take a positive approach to therapy; helping clients build on their strengths and resources as a foundation for change. I believe that therapy can offer clients much more than a band aid for their problems but that it can help transform their lives and relationships in meaningful ways. I believe that therapy does not need to be a long-term process and encourage clients to take an active part in therapy.
(619) 432-3663 View (619) 432-3663
Photo of Dr. Charlos Thompson, Counselor in San Diego, CA
Dr. Charlos Thompson
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Individuals who cope with trauma, including, domestic violence, car accidents, sexual assaults and abuse, and exposure to various violent experiences. In addition, I coach, mentor, counsel youth who cope with ADHD, Conduct Disorder, and Oppositional Defiance go through school without being diagnosed and treated properly. As a result, they have a trail of failing grades and suspensions. I provide 26 years of experience working with parents and youth who need proper assessments and services. All sessions are conducted in a safe and secure online environment with complete privacy & strict confidentiality.
Individuals who cope with trauma, including, domestic violence, car accidents, sexual assaults and abuse, and exposure to various violent experiences. In addition, I coach, mentor, counsel youth who cope with ADHD, Conduct Disorder, and Oppositional Defiance go through school without being diagnosed and treated properly. As a result, they have a trail of failing grades and suspensions. I provide 26 years of experience working with parents and youth who need proper assessments and services. All sessions are conducted in a safe and secure online environment with complete privacy & strict confidentiality.
(760) 417-7366 View (760) 417-7366
Photo of Michael Epstein, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Michael Epstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Dr. Michael Epstein holds a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Forensic Psychology & Psychological Testing. He has over 10-years of experience conducting research, therapy, and psychological evaluations pertaining to trauma, violence, & interpersonal relationships. Prior to joining The Halliday Center, Dr. Epstein served as an Active Duty Naval Psychologist from 2012 through 2022, and is licensed in both California & Arizona. As a Naval Officer, Dr. Epstein created & co-facilitated the US Navy's inaugural Active Duty LGB Mental Health Group.
Dr. Michael Epstein holds a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis on Forensic Psychology & Psychological Testing. He has over 10-years of experience conducting research, therapy, and psychological evaluations pertaining to trauma, violence, & interpersonal relationships. Prior to joining The Halliday Center, Dr. Epstein served as an Active Duty Naval Psychologist from 2012 through 2022, and is licensed in both California & Arizona. As a Naval Officer, Dr. Epstein created & co-facilitated the US Navy's inaugural Active Duty LGB Mental Health Group.
(760) 615-3052 x103 View (760) 615-3052 x103
Photo of Joseph Jeffers MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Joseph Jeffers MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I understand therapy as a compassionate journey of self-discovery. I believe we have the resources within ourselves to develop happy and meaningful lives and relationships. However, sometimes we get stuck, sidetracked, or distracted by the complex world around us. Past traumas or current stressors put up roadblocks. Partnering with a therapist who is a good fit is one way to navigate challenging times. I can help you with * Personal Growth * Life Transitions * Managing Chronic Illness * Issues of Grief and Loss * LGBT Issues * Spiritual Growth * Anxiety/Depression * Trauma * Anger Management * Strengthening Relationships * Substance Abuse * Eating Disorders
I understand therapy as a compassionate journey of self-discovery. I believe we have the resources within ourselves to develop happy and meaningful lives and relationships. However, sometimes we get stuck, sidetracked, or distracted by the complex world around us. Past traumas or current stressors put up roadblocks. Partnering with a therapist who is a good fit is one way to navigate challenging times. I can help you with * Personal Growth * Life Transitions * Managing Chronic Illness * Issues of Grief and Loss * LGBT Issues * Spiritual Growth * Anxiety/Depression * Trauma * Anger Management * Strengthening Relationships * Substance Abuse * Eating Disorders
(619) 609-7940 View (619) 609-7940
Photo of Sean Brannan, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Sean Brannan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
] I am trained as a CA LMFT, Cognitive Behavioral Hypnotherapist, Energy Psychology Practitioner, Domestic Violence Facilitator, and hold a Masters in Counseling Psychology.
Sean Brannan is a certified Cognitive Behavioral Hypnotherapist (CHt), & Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT#106207), specializing in hypnotherapy and relationship counseling. He works with men, women, couples, young adults and children. His work helps facilitate powerful life changes focused on the creation of a more meaningful, fulfilling life. "Our life's experiences are determined by a continual interaction of our mind, bodies, spirit, emotions, and relationships. Awareness and acceptance of these aspects of who we are is the key to creating an amazing life's journey".
] I am trained as a CA LMFT, Cognitive Behavioral Hypnotherapist, Energy Psychology Practitioner, Domestic Violence Facilitator, and hold a Masters in Counseling Psychology.
Sean Brannan is a certified Cognitive Behavioral Hypnotherapist (CHt), & Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT#106207), specializing in hypnotherapy and relationship counseling. He works with men, women, couples, young adults and children. His work helps facilitate powerful life changes focused on the creation of a more meaningful, fulfilling life. "Our life's experiences are determined by a continual interaction of our mind, bodies, spirit, emotions, and relationships. Awareness and acceptance of these aspects of who we are is the key to creating an amazing life's journey".
(619) 717-8591 View (619) 717-8591
Photo of C. Allen Ruyle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
C. Allen Ruyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
My practice involves depression and anxiety, family/relationship issues, substance abuse and dependence, grief and loss, aging issues and caregiving for the elderly.
Are you overwhelmed, struggling or just tired of the way things are going? Has a crisis thrown your world into chaos? We all need help from time to time to understand what we are feeling and why we are feeling it. This understanding can lead to a renewed sense of stability, peace, and well being. We will work together to help you understand what is not working and turn it around. I will help you identify and mobilize your strengths and move toward your goals.
My practice involves depression and anxiety, family/relationship issues, substance abuse and dependence, grief and loss, aging issues and caregiving for the elderly.
Are you overwhelmed, struggling or just tired of the way things are going? Has a crisis thrown your world into chaos? We all need help from time to time to understand what we are feeling and why we are feeling it. This understanding can lead to a renewed sense of stability, peace, and well being. We will work together to help you understand what is not working and turn it around. I will help you identify and mobilize your strengths and move toward your goals.
(619) 821-2477 View (619) 821-2477
Photo of Zhaohui (Sunny) Yang, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Zhaohui (Sunny) Yang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
I'm very much a client-centered therapist and collaborate with my clients in defining the goals and paths of recovery. Being an immigrant myself, I work extensively with immigrants and their families, as well as families of mixed racial/cultural backgrounds. I am a strong advocate for under-served, underrepresented groups, and for victims of social injustice and domestic violence.
I'm very much a client-centered therapist and collaborate with my clients in defining the goals and paths of recovery. Being an immigrant myself, I work extensively with immigrants and their families, as well as families of mixed racial/cultural backgrounds. I am a strong advocate for under-served, underrepresented groups, and for victims of social injustice and domestic violence.
(619) 330-9142 View (619) 330-9142
Photo of Samuel A. Newman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Samuel A. Newman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Are you struggling with relationships? Do you need help recovering from a traumatic event? Do you often feel sad and low on energy? Are you searching for ways to be more emotionally stable and less shut down? For over 25 years I have worked with individuals, couples, and families on a range of issues including substance abuse, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, codependency, couples counseling, pre-martial counseling and more. In a highly personalized and collaborative treatment style, I help people understand the deeper reasons for why difficulties keep repeating over and over.
Are you struggling with relationships? Do you need help recovering from a traumatic event? Do you often feel sad and low on energy? Are you searching for ways to be more emotionally stable and less shut down? For over 25 years I have worked with individuals, couples, and families on a range of issues including substance abuse, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, codependency, couples counseling, pre-martial counseling and more. In a highly personalized and collaborative treatment style, I help people understand the deeper reasons for why difficulties keep repeating over and over.
(619) 320-4249 View (619) 320-4249
Photo of Madison Omholt, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Madison Omholt
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106
Some of my specialties include the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, resolving relationship/marital issues, eating disorders, recovery from sexual assault and domestic violence.
As a therapist/teacher I ask that my clients be willing to grow. Growth can look many ways, but always involves practice. The people who take what they learn in sesh, practice it with insight, vulnerality, openness, and some diligence, they get the brilliance, sometimes very trying, and grace of somatic and relational transformation.
Some of my specialties include the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, resolving relationship/marital issues, eating disorders, recovery from sexual assault and domestic violence.
As a therapist/teacher I ask that my clients be willing to grow. Growth can look many ways, but always involves practice. The people who take what they learn in sesh, practice it with insight, vulnerality, openness, and some diligence, they get the brilliance, sometimes very trying, and grace of somatic and relational transformation.
(619) 273-5062 View (619) 273-5062
Photo of Luis Alberto Contreras, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Luis Alberto Contreras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
My background is working specifically with foster, adoptive and biological families caring for children who have suffered from abuse, neglect, trauma and attachment issues.
Luis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked with families and youth of diverse backgrounds over the past 17 years in various social service settings. Luis has extensive experience working with families involved in the Child Welfare Services system, as well with youth involved with probation. In addition, Luis provided therapeutic services in both clinic and community environments and has provided parenting education courses for the past 9 years using the Systematic Training for Effective Parenting curriculum. I like to work with my clients as a collaborative team on creating an effective process empowering you to take charge of your future.
My background is working specifically with foster, adoptive and biological families caring for children who have suffered from abuse, neglect, trauma and attachment issues.
Luis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked with families and youth of diverse backgrounds over the past 17 years in various social service settings. Luis has extensive experience working with families involved in the Child Welfare Services system, as well with youth involved with probation. In addition, Luis provided therapeutic services in both clinic and community environments and has provided parenting education courses for the past 9 years using the Systematic Training for Effective Parenting curriculum. I like to work with my clients as a collaborative team on creating an effective process empowering you to take charge of your future.
(619) 369-1307 View (619) 369-1307
Photo of Gerald B. Chambers, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Gerald B. Chambers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
My strengths: Addictions, couples, domestic violence, infidelity, interpersonal conflict, parenting, peak performance, relationships, and trauma.
Relationships are as important to us as food and water. They can strengthen us, like a vitamin, or weaken us, like the flu. You are only as good in relationships as the relationships you have been in. As your therapist, I can assist you in many ways. I can help you learn more about yourself, increase both self-compassion and compassion for others, and heal past trauma. Together, we can explore how to feel more connected to yourself, your values, and people you care about.
My strengths: Addictions, couples, domestic violence, infidelity, interpersonal conflict, parenting, peak performance, relationships, and trauma.
Relationships are as important to us as food and water. They can strengthen us, like a vitamin, or weaken us, like the flu. You are only as good in relationships as the relationships you have been in. As your therapist, I can assist you in many ways. I can help you learn more about yourself, increase both self-compassion and compassion for others, and heal past trauma. Together, we can explore how to feel more connected to yourself, your values, and people you care about.
(510) 756-4880 View (510) 756-4880
Photo of John Claros, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
John Claros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92132  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients in English/Spanish helping adults with co-occurring disorders, at-risk youth, children, adolescents and veterans, with exposure to trauma, neglect, abuse, and parents with parenting issues. Working with these clients early on in my career motivated me to help those who cannot help themselves. Working as a therapist is a rewarding experience as well as a privilege to be invited into another person's life. I find that in joining clients on their journey to make changes and overcome the difficulties in their lives it enables them to discover their best self.
I have worked with clients in English/Spanish helping adults with co-occurring disorders, at-risk youth, children, adolescents and veterans, with exposure to trauma, neglect, abuse, and parents with parenting issues. Working with these clients early on in my career motivated me to help those who cannot help themselves. Working as a therapist is a rewarding experience as well as a privilege to be invited into another person's life. I find that in joining clients on their journey to make changes and overcome the difficulties in their lives it enables them to discover their best self.
(323) 553-7336 View (323) 553-7336
Photo of Sean Stiller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Sean Stiller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Are there challenges in your life that seem so overwhelming that it seems you can't deal with them? Have you tried to make changes in your life, but haven't been able to do it on your own? Congratulations on taking the first step towards feeling better! I have extensive training in helping overwhelmed, stressed, and anxious clients and couples. I make it my goal to really understand and empathize with the challenges you are facing, and always come from a non-judgmental and warm place. I also enjoy working with men, helping men understand their feelings and their partners feelings so they can have the relationship they desire.
Are there challenges in your life that seem so overwhelming that it seems you can't deal with them? Have you tried to make changes in your life, but haven't been able to do it on your own? Congratulations on taking the first step towards feeling better! I have extensive training in helping overwhelmed, stressed, and anxious clients and couples. I make it my goal to really understand and empathize with the challenges you are facing, and always come from a non-judgmental and warm place. I also enjoy working with men, helping men understand their feelings and their partners feelings so they can have the relationship they desire.
(858) 221-9419 View (858) 221-9419
Photo of Josho R Malfavon, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Josho R Malfavon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Life will consistently throw challenges at you. Most of them you get through on your own or with the help of your support system. Sometimes, challenges can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. The good thing is you’re not alone. I am here as a companion on your journey to explore and resolve those sticky challenges. The journey can be painful and arduous. The choices on your journey are yours to make, but I will help you find clarity in uncertainty. I’m ready to start your journey when you are.
Life will consistently throw challenges at you. Most of them you get through on your own or with the help of your support system. Sometimes, challenges can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. The good thing is you’re not alone. I am here as a companion on your journey to explore and resolve those sticky challenges. The journey can be painful and arduous. The choices on your journey are yours to make, but I will help you find clarity in uncertainty. I’m ready to start your journey when you are.
(858) 345-4071 View (858) 345-4071
Photo of Jared Wilke, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Jared Wilke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
Jared Wilke, Psy.D., is a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. He is currently practicing at Family Counseling Center, which has served the North County community in outpatient counseling for over 25 years. Dr. Wilke enjoys working with teenagers and young adults, their families, as well individuals and people seeking marital therapy. **Please note that currently for residents of Texas, I am only able to do appointments by video/phone. These options are also available for residents of California if needed or requested.
Jared Wilke, Psy.D., is a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. He is currently practicing at Family Counseling Center, which has served the North County community in outpatient counseling for over 25 years. Dr. Wilke enjoys working with teenagers and young adults, their families, as well individuals and people seeking marital therapy. **Please note that currently for residents of Texas, I am only able to do appointments by video/phone. These options are also available for residents of California if needed or requested.
(858) 943-6728 x104 View (858) 943-6728 x104
Photo of Sean Stiller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Sean Stiller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Sean Stiller LCSW has spent over a decade helping and teaching individuals how to breakthrough emotional challenges, achieve goals and enjoy their lives. Sean is experienced in helping adults with difficulties such as depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, trauma and addictions. Sean has worked in a variety of settings including military (as a military Officer and therapist) and civilian. He helps couples, individuals and children 12 years and older. Sean graduated with his Bachelors of Science in Psychology at Ball State University and graduated with his Masters in Social Work at Texas A&M University.
Sean Stiller LCSW has spent over a decade helping and teaching individuals how to breakthrough emotional challenges, achieve goals and enjoy their lives. Sean is experienced in helping adults with difficulties such as depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, trauma and addictions. Sean has worked in a variety of settings including military (as a military Officer and therapist) and civilian. He helps couples, individuals and children 12 years and older. Sean graduated with his Bachelors of Science in Psychology at Ball State University and graduated with his Masters in Social Work at Texas A&M University.
(858) 504-2811 View (858) 504-2811
Photo of Professor Asher W. Allan in San Diego, CA
Professor Asher W. Allan
CCHt
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
People often see me when they have tried everything. Imagine what you could achieve if you got straight to the point. While different therapists may be suited to different clients, my high success rate is due to 15 years teaching college level psychology and my exceptional training in hypnotherapy by arguably some of the world's best. Over the years I have helped hundreds of people realize the success they desire. My technique allows you to see immediate results and requires minimal time. There's so much to gain.
People often see me when they have tried everything. Imagine what you could achieve if you got straight to the point. While different therapists may be suited to different clients, my high success rate is due to 15 years teaching college level psychology and my exceptional training in hypnotherapy by arguably some of the world's best. Over the years I have helped hundreds of people realize the success they desire. My technique allows you to see immediate results and requires minimal time. There's so much to gain.
(619) 536-0580 View (619) 536-0580
Photo of Casey Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Casey Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I believe that change is possible for everyone, no matter their circumstances. Whether it is anxiety, depression, grief, relationship troubles or things that seem like no one could understand, there is hope in that struggle. Therapy can be a powerful tool to experience lasting change in whatever it is you are going through. I try to take a unique, holistic approach by blending psychological tools with a somatic perspective. This creates a process that is more experiential in nature, which I believe is an important building block for change.
I believe that change is possible for everyone, no matter their circumstances. Whether it is anxiety, depression, grief, relationship troubles or things that seem like no one could understand, there is hope in that struggle. Therapy can be a powerful tool to experience lasting change in whatever it is you are going through. I try to take a unique, holistic approach by blending psychological tools with a somatic perspective. This creates a process that is more experiential in nature, which I believe is an important building block for change.
(619) 373-9583 View (619) 373-9583
Photo of Mark Maxwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Mark Maxwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I am the director of Pacifica Group Counseling and Wellness. We specialize in couple work as well as the struggle with various traumas, using both EFT and Brainspotting. I personally do Focused Sessions, working to find breakthrough in specific goals we collaborate on. It is a unique and different way to approach couple therapy that works for couples who struggle with the weekly therapy format. If you are looking for weekly therapy, individual work, work with teens, or work in Spanish, my team is highly trained and ready to help you!
I am the director of Pacifica Group Counseling and Wellness. We specialize in couple work as well as the struggle with various traumas, using both EFT and Brainspotting. I personally do Focused Sessions, working to find breakthrough in specific goals we collaborate on. It is a unique and different way to approach couple therapy that works for couples who struggle with the weekly therapy format. If you are looking for weekly therapy, individual work, work with teens, or work in Spanish, my team is highly trained and ready to help you!
(619) 664-4606 View (619) 664-4606
Photo of Ian Witter, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Ian Witter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Relationships can be wonderful at the best of times, and downright painful at the worst of times. How well do you understand your reactions in these distressed moments? Your partner's? Do you feel out of control? Do you feel disconnected? These are just two ways that people can respond to relational distress. I can help you to slow down in these moments to help you express yourself in a way that is congruent, and most importantly, in a way that lets you be heard by your partner, family, co-workers, and yourself.
Relationships can be wonderful at the best of times, and downright painful at the worst of times. How well do you understand your reactions in these distressed moments? Your partner's? Do you feel out of control? Do you feel disconnected? These are just two ways that people can respond to relational distress. I can help you to slow down in these moments to help you express yourself in a way that is congruent, and most importantly, in a way that lets you be heard by your partner, family, co-workers, and yourself.
(619) 319-9749 View (619) 319-9749
Domestic Abuse Therapists

What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?

Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognize that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?

Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?

Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?

It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.