Marriage Counseling Therapists in San Diego, CA
Hengamed Motaghed, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist offering therapy for individuals, couples and families. She works extensively with problems related to stress, anxiety, depression, relationship stress/problems and chronic mental disorders. Dr. Motaghed has done extensive research and practice in the field of Cross Cultural Psychology and has worked with clients who have cultural challenges and cross cultural issues.
Hengamed Motaghed, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist offering therapy for individuals, couples and families. She works extensively with problems related to stress, anxiety, depression, relationship stress/problems and chronic mental disorders. Dr. Motaghed has done extensive research and practice in the field of Cross Cultural Psychology and has worked with clients who have cultural challenges and cross cultural issues.
I offer individual, couples, and family counseling.
You want to live a life where you or your loved one can manage their anxiety without relying on drinking, other substances, overeating, or other unhelpful behaviors, where you can be your best self and live the kind of life you want to live. In addition to these, I can help with a host of other life challenges as well to live a rich and meaningful life.
I offer individual, couples, and family counseling.
You want to live a life where you or your loved one can manage their anxiety without relying on drinking, other substances, overeating, or other unhelpful behaviors, where you can be your best self and live the kind of life you want to live. In addition to these, I can help with a host of other life challenges as well to live a rich and meaningful life.
Is your concern a relationship dilemma? A problem with a child? Substance abuse, anxiety or depression? Symptoms-physical, emotional, or social-are embedded in relationship processes in the family. The goal is to modify the process, which can lead to a reduction in symptoms. When one person in a relationship makes the decision to "show up" in a more deliberate, thoughtful way, the dynamic will change. Any motivated client can become that person. I will lend a hand in your effort through an understanding of relationships and how tension spreads through anxious systems, affecting groups and individuals.
Is your concern a relationship dilemma? A problem with a child? Substance abuse, anxiety or depression? Symptoms-physical, emotional, or social-are embedded in relationship processes in the family. The goal is to modify the process, which can lead to a reduction in symptoms. When one person in a relationship makes the decision to "show up" in a more deliberate, thoughtful way, the dynamic will change. Any motivated client can become that person. I will lend a hand in your effort through an understanding of relationships and how tension spreads through anxious systems, affecting groups and individuals.
My clinical experiences have spanned a number of different settings, where I have worked with couples, adolescents, and adults.
The first step in healing is often the scariest, and my hope is that you take that step - for you, for those you love, and those who love you. Whether you’re reaching out to heal, to grow, to grieve, or to understand, my goal is to create a space where you will be heard, seen, and understood in a way that allows you to approach the challenges of living in new ways.
My clinical experiences have spanned a number of different settings, where I have worked with couples, adolescents, and adults.
The first step in healing is often the scariest, and my hope is that you take that step - for you, for those you love, and those who love you. Whether you’re reaching out to heal, to grow, to grieve, or to understand, my goal is to create a space where you will be heard, seen, and understood in a way that allows you to approach the challenges of living in new ways.
Clear Mind Counseling San Diego
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92122
The best approach to mental well-being is simple: consistent, incremental change coupled with healthy thoughts leads to a more satisfying life. Changing the way we act affects the way we feel and the way we view ourselves. When working with me, you are guided towards intentional living and healthy thought processes. You are given a blueprint to follow that takes the guesswork out of change. You’ll be given straightforward instruction that enables you to create a better life for yourself! By focusing on changing your behavior instead of analyzing emotions, you can more quickly find relief, and start living well.
The best approach to mental well-being is simple: consistent, incremental change coupled with healthy thoughts leads to a more satisfying life. Changing the way we act affects the way we feel and the way we view ourselves. When working with me, you are guided towards intentional living and healthy thought processes. You are given a blueprint to follow that takes the guesswork out of change. You’ll be given straightforward instruction that enables you to create a better life for yourself! By focusing on changing your behavior instead of analyzing emotions, you can more quickly find relief, and start living well.
Ms. James is a licensed therapist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has extensive expertise in clinical assessment, psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and program management for clients with complex mental health, trauma, and substance use disorders. She has served as an adjunct professor at the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and is recognized for her ethical practice, strong leadership, and commitment to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care.
Ms. James is a licensed therapist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has extensive expertise in clinical assessment, psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and program management for clients with complex mental health, trauma, and substance use disorders. She has served as an adjunct professor at the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and is recognized for her ethical practice, strong leadership, and commitment to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
I am client-centered in my approach to therapy. I am non-directive and act as an equal partner in your therapy process, while again, remaining non-judgmental towards feelings that arise. I can also be more directive when it comes to behavioral modifications and solution-focused work. Yet always remaining genuine and holding safety in exploration.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
I am client-centered in my approach to therapy. I am non-directive and act as an equal partner in your therapy process, while again, remaining non-judgmental towards feelings that arise. I can also be more directive when it comes to behavioral modifications and solution-focused work. Yet always remaining genuine and holding safety in exploration.
Feeling pressure to keep it all together? On the outside, everything looks ok, but inside you’re struggling with your relationship with food, your body and yourself. Maybe you’re tired of yo-yo dieting, tearing yourself apart for every mistake, or worried about being “found out” at any second. At this point, maybe it’s hard to even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to look in the mirror without panicking. You’re ready to find joy in life again. Most of all, you’re ready to find a way out of this painful cycle. You’re ready for a new "normal". I can help.
Feeling pressure to keep it all together? On the outside, everything looks ok, but inside you’re struggling with your relationship with food, your body and yourself. Maybe you’re tired of yo-yo dieting, tearing yourself apart for every mistake, or worried about being “found out” at any second. At this point, maybe it’s hard to even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to look in the mirror without panicking. You’re ready to find joy in life again. Most of all, you’re ready to find a way out of this painful cycle. You’re ready for a new "normal". I can help.
Sometimes our inner world seems chaotic and stressful. Sometimes we feel like we are going through life surrounded by a fog and can’t see a way out. Sometimes we experience something so significant that our life is turned upside down and we have a hard time coping. Regardless of what you are experiencing right now, it does not reflect anything about your worth and you do not have to navigate it alone. My goal as a therapist is to provide opportunities for you to work through the challenges of life while reconnecting with your authentic self and embracing your inner-knowing.
Sometimes our inner world seems chaotic and stressful. Sometimes we feel like we are going through life surrounded by a fog and can’t see a way out. Sometimes we experience something so significant that our life is turned upside down and we have a hard time coping. Regardless of what you are experiencing right now, it does not reflect anything about your worth and you do not have to navigate it alone. My goal as a therapist is to provide opportunities for you to work through the challenges of life while reconnecting with your authentic self and embracing your inner-knowing.
Mark Nepo writes, “for centuries African Bushmen have greeted each other this way…when one becomes aware of his brother or sister coming out of the bush, they exclaim, “I see you,” and then the one approaching rejoices “I am here.”
This speaks worlds to me of our human need to be seen.
It takes Courage to reveal your Self and Faith that on a Journey of Healing, the Hero/Heroine you are will shine forth where you can stand and declare with Gratitude, “Here I Am!
Mark Nepo writes, “for centuries African Bushmen have greeted each other this way…when one becomes aware of his brother or sister coming out of the bush, they exclaim, “I see you,” and then the one approaching rejoices “I am here.”
This speaks worlds to me of our human need to be seen.
It takes Courage to reveal your Self and Faith that on a Journey of Healing, the Hero/Heroine you are will shine forth where you can stand and declare with Gratitude, “Here I Am!
Whether you're a veteran, anxiety-filled parent, or deciding the future of your marriage, you don't have to face this difficult time alone.
I specialize in problem gambling, addictions, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, and men's issues. I am an authorized Problem Gambling Counselor, and can offer treatment to the gambler and/or their loved ones at NO COST to you!!
Whether you're a veteran, anxiety-filled parent, or deciding the future of your marriage, you don't have to face this difficult time alone.
I specialize in problem gambling, addictions, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, and men's issues. I am an authorized Problem Gambling Counselor, and can offer treatment to the gambler and/or their loved ones at NO COST to you!!
I use the techniques of this therapy method (imperfectly - I'm a work in progress too!) in my own daily life and marriage, and it brings me so much joy to do the same for my clients.
Do you agree to things you don't want to do and then kick yourself afterwards? Maybe people-pleasing leaves you feeling exhausted and resentful, wondering why you give more to others than you get? You may be feeling burnt out, disconnected in your relationships or taken for granted. Perhaps perfectionism keeps you working too hard and unable to relax. You’re probably ready to change all that, am I right? Those early life experiences that shaped you into the awesome human you are may have also left you with some crap to deal with. Let's do that together. Let's make YOUR wellbeing a priority and get your needs met for a change.
I use the techniques of this therapy method (imperfectly - I'm a work in progress too!) in my own daily life and marriage, and it brings me so much joy to do the same for my clients.
Do you agree to things you don't want to do and then kick yourself afterwards? Maybe people-pleasing leaves you feeling exhausted and resentful, wondering why you give more to others than you get? You may be feeling burnt out, disconnected in your relationships or taken for granted. Perhaps perfectionism keeps you working too hard and unable to relax. You’re probably ready to change all that, am I right? Those early life experiences that shaped you into the awesome human you are may have also left you with some crap to deal with. Let's do that together. Let's make YOUR wellbeing a priority and get your needs met for a change.
I specialize working with individuals, couples, and families with advanced training in Emotional Focused Therapy, Brainspotting, and certified in Self Meaning Based Therapy.
Sometimes it's just not easy and we get stuck repeating the same cycles because it's familiar but not helpful. Coping skills learned to survive in the past worked then but most likely are not helpful to you now which can be a great cause of you feeling anxious, depressed, stressed, or struggling with managing it all. I promise you are not alone. Discomforts stem from your early learned beliefs and experiences that are present today. The most effective therapy that produces lasting results is through an honest and comfortable relationship between you and the therapist. Let's see if together we can be the best team moving you forward!
I specialize working with individuals, couples, and families with advanced training in Emotional Focused Therapy, Brainspotting, and certified in Self Meaning Based Therapy.
Sometimes it's just not easy and we get stuck repeating the same cycles because it's familiar but not helpful. Coping skills learned to survive in the past worked then but most likely are not helpful to you now which can be a great cause of you feeling anxious, depressed, stressed, or struggling with managing it all. I promise you are not alone. Discomforts stem from your early learned beliefs and experiences that are present today. The most effective therapy that produces lasting results is through an honest and comfortable relationship between you and the therapist. Let's see if together we can be the best team moving you forward!
Whether you're navigating ongoing conflict with a partner, struggling to rebuild trust, or trying to make sense of a break-up that left you feeling anxious, confused, or diminished- these challenges can take a real toll on your well-being.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and serious mental health issues like psychosis. My approach is trauma-informed and includes evidence-based care for PTSD, couples therapy, mindfulness, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for those seeking deeper healing and integration.
Whether you're navigating ongoing conflict with a partner, struggling to rebuild trust, or trying to make sense of a break-up that left you feeling anxious, confused, or diminished- these challenges can take a real toll on your well-being.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and serious mental health issues like psychosis. My approach is trauma-informed and includes evidence-based care for PTSD, couples therapy, mindfulness, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for those seeking deeper healing and integration.
Hello! I’m a clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience dedicated to helping people like you find your way through life’s ups and downs and achieve a happier, more fulfilling life. I have a deep understanding of psychological challenges and use effective therapy methods to create a treatment plan that’s just right for you. More than anything, I want to offer you a safe and welcoming space where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment.
Hello! I’m a clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience dedicated to helping people like you find your way through life’s ups and downs and achieve a happier, more fulfilling life. I have a deep understanding of psychological challenges and use effective therapy methods to create a treatment plan that’s just right for you. More than anything, I want to offer you a safe and welcoming space where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience providing services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My team of expert clinicians and I provide evidence-based and compassionate therapies from a range of approaches, state-of-the art testing, expressive arts therapy, in-school/in-home services, medical services, and neurofeedback. We offer multiple treatment options to reduce symptoms, cope with stressors, resolve challenges, and restore your daily life to health and wellness. We strive to provide exceptional and holistic collaborative care to educate, support, and empower individuals and families.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience providing services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My team of expert clinicians and I provide evidence-based and compassionate therapies from a range of approaches, state-of-the art testing, expressive arts therapy, in-school/in-home services, medical services, and neurofeedback. We offer multiple treatment options to reduce symptoms, cope with stressors, resolve challenges, and restore your daily life to health and wellness. We strive to provide exceptional and holistic collaborative care to educate, support, and empower individuals and families.
Do you worry that you'll disappoint your partner because of unreliable erections, difficulties with orgasm, or low sexual desire?
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I help men and women across the sexuality spectrum to overcome performance anxieties, sexual guilt & shame, communication issues, & infidelity. Whether you’re kinky, non-monogamous, or neither, I’ll help you embrace your true fantasies, resolve relationship conflicts, create practical relationship agreements, & enjoy better sex.
Do you worry that you'll disappoint your partner because of unreliable erections, difficulties with orgasm, or low sexual desire?
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I help men and women across the sexuality spectrum to overcome performance anxieties, sexual guilt & shame, communication issues, & infidelity. Whether you’re kinky, non-monogamous, or neither, I’ll help you embrace your true fantasies, resolve relationship conflicts, create practical relationship agreements, & enjoy better sex.
therapy with cam: lgbtqia2s+ audhd trans
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104
I use labels like genderfluid, audhd, and swana to share some of how I’m positioned within the social constructs we all move through. My lived experiences—both the ones named here and the many that aren’t—continue to deepen my understanding of life in all its turmoil and beauty. My hope is that our work together supports you in cultivating awareness and acceptance for all parts of yourself.
I use labels like genderfluid, audhd, and swana to share some of how I’m positioned within the social constructs we all move through. My lived experiences—both the ones named here and the many that aren’t—continue to deepen my understanding of life in all its turmoil and beauty. My hope is that our work together supports you in cultivating awareness and acceptance for all parts of yourself.
I know how difficult it can be to reach out for support when you need it most, so, let me first start off by saying that I appreciate the courage you have shown by taking this first step towards finding a therapist that will meet your needs. I am passionate about working with people who are dealing with life/relationship stressors, experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, or are struggling with body image, overeating, binge eating, or bulimia nervosa. I take a strengths-based approach and work collaboratively with my clients to understand their goals for therapy which allows us to develop a personalized treatment plan.
I know how difficult it can be to reach out for support when you need it most, so, let me first start off by saying that I appreciate the courage you have shown by taking this first step towards finding a therapist that will meet your needs. I am passionate about working with people who are dealing with life/relationship stressors, experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, or are struggling with body image, overeating, binge eating, or bulimia nervosa. I take a strengths-based approach and work collaboratively with my clients to understand their goals for therapy which allows us to develop a personalized treatment plan.
My specialties include:
-Teenagers & transitional youth
-Parent Coaching
-Trauma & PTSD (adult &childhood)
-Sexual & Domestic Abuse Survivors
-Incarceration & Reintegration
-Addiction & Recovery
-Depression & Anxiety
-Homelessness
-Relationship Challenges, Couples, & Families
-LGBTQ+, Polyamorous, & Kink-Aware Clients
After trauma, life can feel overwhelming, confusing, or isolating—especially when others expect you to “move on.” Many of the teens and families I work with feel stuck in survival mode, navigating anxiety, emotional shifts, or past experiences that continue to impact daily life and relationships. I provide a calm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where teens feel safe, respected, and truly heard, and where families can heal together. Our work centers on emotional safety, resilience, and building practical skills for coping, communication, and connection. Services are offered in English and Spanish.
My specialties include:
-Teenagers & transitional youth
-Parent Coaching
-Trauma & PTSD (adult &childhood)
-Sexual & Domestic Abuse Survivors
-Incarceration & Reintegration
-Addiction & Recovery
-Depression & Anxiety
-Homelessness
-Relationship Challenges, Couples, & Families
-LGBTQ+, Polyamorous, & Kink-Aware Clients
After trauma, life can feel overwhelming, confusing, or isolating—especially when others expect you to “move on.” Many of the teens and families I work with feel stuck in survival mode, navigating anxiety, emotional shifts, or past experiences that continue to impact daily life and relationships. I provide a calm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where teens feel safe, respected, and truly heard, and where families can heal together. Our work centers on emotional safety, resilience, and building practical skills for coping, communication, and connection. Services are offered in English and Spanish.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Marriage Counseling Therapists
How does marriage counseling work?
Marriage counseling works by teaching couples concrete skills to communicate with one another and solve disagreements in healthy ways. A trained mental health professional works with both members of a couple to explore difficulties the couple may be having and helps them develop skills to address these matters. Couples who don’t have any difficulties but want to prepare for marriage may develop skills for the future.
How long does marriage counseling typically last?
Marriage counseling is a short-term form of therapy; the process may last between four and eight sessions. Other forms of relationship guidance from mental health professionals, such as couples therapy, are longer lasting, may focus on the past rather than just the present, and are tailored to the individual couple and their emotions, history, and patterns in the relationship. Couples therapy often lasts for 12 weeks or longer.
Is marriage counseling effective?
Marriage counseling helps many couples develop relationship skills that may not have been acquired or tested in a relationship; partners may be better able to communicate and address conflict following counseling. However, there are many different forms of marriage counseling, and this form of counseling does not have as strong an evidence base as other modalities such as couples therapy.
Is marriage counseling effective if only one partner wants to go?
Yes, marriage counseling can still be effective if one partner convinces the other to engage in the process. Of course, whether counseling is effective depends on the couple’s commitment to work on their relationship; however, the short-term, skills-based nature of marriage counseling makes it a relatively easy “ask” of a partner, and the hesitant individual may see its value once counseling begins.