Racial Identity Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Nancy Cha, Psychologist, PhD
Nancy Cha
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have specialized training and expertise with various concerns including mood disorders, cultural/ racial identity, and shame.
I am a licensed psychologist who provides individual, couples, and group therapy. My primary theoretical approach is insight oriented psychotherapy for individuals working through relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and adjustment to transition through life's challenges. I believe healthy people seek therapy for a variety reasons throughout life, and psychotherapy can help you find a more genuine and integrated way of living and relating to others. I work collaboratively to recognize patterns and become aware of unconscious habits and choices that impact one's life and functioning.
I have specialized training and expertise with various concerns including mood disorders, cultural/ racial identity, and shame.
I am a licensed psychologist who provides individual, couples, and group therapy. My primary theoretical approach is insight oriented psychotherapy for individuals working through relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and adjustment to transition through life's challenges. I believe healthy people seek therapy for a variety reasons throughout life, and psychotherapy can help you find a more genuine and integrated way of living and relating to others. I work collaboratively to recognize patterns and become aware of unconscious habits and choices that impact one's life and functioning.
(858) 842-5254 View (858) 842-5254
Photo of Charnise Howcroft-Chapple, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Charnise Howcroft-Chapple
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults & teens struggling with depression, anxiety, low self esteem, sexual identity, racial identity, trauma, childhood trauma, and stress.
My approach is rooted in all the intersections of my own identity as a Black lesbian woman & a Veteran. In my practice I specialize in working with LGBTQ+, women, military/veterans, POC, & couples. Focusing on empowerment, strength, & enlightenment. I practice Integrative therapy, influenced by post-modern feminist therapy, LGBT+ Affirmative therapy, Intersectional, & social justice frameworks.
I work with adults & teens struggling with depression, anxiety, low self esteem, sexual identity, racial identity, trauma, childhood trauma, and stress.
My approach is rooted in all the intersections of my own identity as a Black lesbian woman & a Veteran. In my practice I specialize in working with LGBTQ+, women, military/veterans, POC, & couples. Focusing on empowerment, strength, & enlightenment. I practice Integrative therapy, influenced by post-modern feminist therapy, LGBT+ Affirmative therapy, Intersectional, & social justice frameworks.
(424) 500-3017 View (424) 500-3017
Photo of Makisha Lawrence, Psychologist, LCP
Makisha Lawrence
Psychologist, LCP
Online Only
Addressing issues related to Attachment, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Racial Identity, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-esteem, Spirituality, LGBTQ-related issues and allyship, Stress, Testing and Evaluation, and Women's Issues.
Makisha A Lawrence, PsyD PSY24152. In private practice, I focus on working with clients across the lifespan in an integrative fashion. My approach is to create a collaborative relationship that includes your own experiences and strengths. It is always my goal to come from an empathic and strengths-based approach, being sure to discuss your needs, goals, and various identities.
Addressing issues related to Attachment, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Racial Identity, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self-esteem, Spirituality, LGBTQ-related issues and allyship, Stress, Testing and Evaluation, and Women's Issues.
Makisha A Lawrence, PsyD PSY24152. In private practice, I focus on working with clients across the lifespan in an integrative fashion. My approach is to create a collaborative relationship that includes your own experiences and strengths. It is always my goal to come from an empathic and strengths-based approach, being sure to discuss your needs, goals, and various identities.
(747) 966-3584 View (747) 966-3584
Photo of David Pennington, Psychologist, PhD
David Pennington
Psychologist, PhD
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help clients navigate many concerns like identity, systemic inequities, workplace stress, life transitions, trauma, and addiction with a focus on addressing multicultural concerns, racial identity, and oppressive environments.
I work with a diverse clientele and specialize in providing therapy that affirms and empowers Latine/a/x, Indigenous, Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI), Black and other People of Color, and members of LGBTQIA+ communities. Whether you are managing imposter feelings, recovering from addiction, exploring healthy ways to connect, exploring your identity, or coping with trauma, we can work together to honor your experiences, align your strengths and values, and develop clarity, resilience, and actionable strategies for personal growth.
I help clients navigate many concerns like identity, systemic inequities, workplace stress, life transitions, trauma, and addiction with a focus on addressing multicultural concerns, racial identity, and oppressive environments.
I work with a diverse clientele and specialize in providing therapy that affirms and empowers Latine/a/x, Indigenous, Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI), Black and other People of Color, and members of LGBTQIA+ communities. Whether you are managing imposter feelings, recovering from addiction, exploring healthy ways to connect, exploring your identity, or coping with trauma, we can work together to honor your experiences, align your strengths and values, and develop clarity, resilience, and actionable strategies for personal growth.
(510) 726-9471 View (510) 726-9471
Photo of Dr. Cathy Nguyen, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Cathy Nguyen
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
My clients have challenges with anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, grief, self-esteem, self/body image, interpersonal relationships (family, platonic, romantic), work-life balance, life transitions, racial trauma, racial identity, challenges with boundary setting, and assertive communication.
I utilize treatment modalities such as CBT, ACT, DBT and other evidence based therapeutic techniques to help clients with their social-emotional, behavioral, and interpersonal/relational challenges. I view therapy as a collaborative process. I bring my knowledge of psychology into the session while you bring your life experiences.
My clients have challenges with anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, grief, self-esteem, self/body image, interpersonal relationships (family, platonic, romantic), work-life balance, life transitions, racial trauma, racial identity, challenges with boundary setting, and assertive communication.
I utilize treatment modalities such as CBT, ACT, DBT and other evidence based therapeutic techniques to help clients with their social-emotional, behavioral, and interpersonal/relational challenges. I view therapy as a collaborative process. I bring my knowledge of psychology into the session while you bring your life experiences.
(747) 298-5693 View (747) 298-5693
Photo of Gina M. Wehling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Gina M. Wehling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, depression or trauma related to chronic illness, racial identity, LGBTQI plus, physical disabilities, and adoption.
How can we expect to run, if we have not yet learned to walk? All too often, we place pressure, self-doubt, fear, and beat ourselves up physically, emotionally, and mentally when we falter and fail in life’s pursuit. No matter the circumstances, at some point, we need someone to walk or wheel alongside us in our journey. As a multicultural therapist, I take pride in being trauma-informed and understanding the intersectionality that individuals from all walks of life encounter. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, & empowering space for my clients to confront their problems.
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, depression or trauma related to chronic illness, racial identity, LGBTQI plus, physical disabilities, and adoption.
How can we expect to run, if we have not yet learned to walk? All too often, we place pressure, self-doubt, fear, and beat ourselves up physically, emotionally, and mentally when we falter and fail in life’s pursuit. No matter the circumstances, at some point, we need someone to walk or wheel alongside us in our journey. As a multicultural therapist, I take pride in being trauma-informed and understanding the intersectionality that individuals from all walks of life encounter. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, & empowering space for my clients to confront their problems.
(657) 530-5040 View (657) 530-5040
Photo of Monique Pierre-Louis, Psychologist, PsyD
Monique Pierre-Louis
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with people with various issues including, with anxiety, depression, stress, relational issues, social/ racial identity, people pondering life choices, grappling with belonging, dealing with health conditions, struggling with sleep, the elderly, engineers at NASA, and people in the Silicon valley technology community.
I work in an integrative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) style and keep your individual needs in mind while working in a collaborative manner. I value helping people shift their perspectives in order to gain a better sense of themselves. My goal is to help my patients gain the tools to help them become better equipped to navigate life’s challenges.
I have worked with people with various issues including, with anxiety, depression, stress, relational issues, social/ racial identity, people pondering life choices, grappling with belonging, dealing with health conditions, struggling with sleep, the elderly, engineers at NASA, and people in the Silicon valley technology community.
I work in an integrative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) style and keep your individual needs in mind while working in a collaborative manner. I value helping people shift their perspectives in order to gain a better sense of themselves. My goal is to help my patients gain the tools to help them become better equipped to navigate life’s challenges.
(510) 896-3685 View (510) 896-3685
Photo of Siyi Joely Zheng, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Siyi Joely Zheng
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Specializing in cross-cultural issues, I am well-versed in navigating the complexities of racial identity among first-, 1
There are times we will feel stuck in life, paralyzed by anxiety, unsure of our next steps. We try to climb out of the slump but oftentimes we do not know how. Changes, growth, and healing are not easy, they often come with pain and take time. You do not need to do this all alone. We are all humans and sometimes we all need support. As a therapist, I am here to walk through this journey with you, providing you with support, empathy, and guidance. I can help you understand your experiences, feelings, and emotional needs, and learn adaptive coping skills. I also speak Mandarin and Cantonese (我提供普通话和广东话的服务).
Specializing in cross-cultural issues, I am well-versed in navigating the complexities of racial identity among first-, 1
There are times we will feel stuck in life, paralyzed by anxiety, unsure of our next steps. We try to climb out of the slump but oftentimes we do not know how. Changes, growth, and healing are not easy, they often come with pain and take time. You do not need to do this all alone. We are all humans and sometimes we all need support. As a therapist, I am here to walk through this journey with you, providing you with support, empathy, and guidance. I can help you understand your experiences, feelings, and emotional needs, and learn adaptive coping skills. I also speak Mandarin and Cantonese (我提供普通话和广东话的服务).
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Photo of Kasey Lewandowski, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Kasey Lewandowski
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104
Fear and anxiety frequently result in feelings of vulnerability and inadequacy, leading to a desire to retreat. We may find it easy to disconnect from the inner voice that reassures us of our strength and resilience. In times of anxiety or depression, self-doubt can take hold, causing us to feel trapped in a cycle of negative emotions. Nevertheless, healing and freedom become attainable as we delve into and accept our self-awareness, core values, and cultural identities. This journey demands intention and vulnerability, allowing us to better understand ourselves.
Fear and anxiety frequently result in feelings of vulnerability and inadequacy, leading to a desire to retreat. We may find it easy to disconnect from the inner voice that reassures us of our strength and resilience. In times of anxiety or depression, self-doubt can take hold, causing us to feel trapped in a cycle of negative emotions. Nevertheless, healing and freedom become attainable as we delve into and accept our self-awareness, core values, and cultural identities. This journey demands intention and vulnerability, allowing us to better understand ourselves.
(619) 648-1753 View (619) 648-1753
Photo of A. Castro, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
A. Castro
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Online Only
Coming from a mixed background is incredible! But sometimes it can feel like you are not enough or you’re doing too much at the same. damn. time! No matter what you do, someone isn’t going to like it. It's as if all your different parts are kept separate and it's hard to feel like anyone can see or know the whole you. This feeling keeps you closed off from others - and yourself. You’re constantly regulating yourself and “acting right” but that shit is painful. You don’t ever feel fully free.
Coming from a mixed background is incredible! But sometimes it can feel like you are not enough or you’re doing too much at the same. damn. time! No matter what you do, someone isn’t going to like it. It's as if all your different parts are kept separate and it's hard to feel like anyone can see or know the whole you. This feeling keeps you closed off from others - and yourself. You’re constantly regulating yourself and “acting right” but that shit is painful. You don’t ever feel fully free.
(619) 853-3326 View (619) 853-3326
Photo of Asuka M Garcia - First-Generation Asian Therapist – Asuka Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
First-Generation Asian Therapist – Asuka Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
UPDATE: Now accepting in-person and online clients. In-network with multiple insurances! - As a first-generation immigrant, I understand how overwhelming life in the U.S. can feel, especially when facing anxiety, depression, or trauma rooted in cultural disconnection and past experiences. You might be navigating identity, relationships, or simply trying to feel like you belong. You don’t have to do it alone. I offer a culturally attuned, trauma-informed space where you can feel seen, supported, and empowered to heal. Schedule your free consultation today!
UPDATE: Now accepting in-person and online clients. In-network with multiple insurances! - As a first-generation immigrant, I understand how overwhelming life in the U.S. can feel, especially when facing anxiety, depression, or trauma rooted in cultural disconnection and past experiences. You might be navigating identity, relationships, or simply trying to feel like you belong. You don’t have to do it alone. I offer a culturally attuned, trauma-informed space where you can feel seen, supported, and empowered to heal. Schedule your free consultation today!
(858) 391-4781 View (858) 391-4781
Photo of Mindy Le Tran, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Mindy Le Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116
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.
(619) 374-9918 View (619) 374-9918
Photo of Dr. Ana Laura Arteaga-Biggs, Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Dr. Ana Laura Arteaga-Biggs
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in treating a broad range of emotional & behavioral problems via individual, couples, family & group psychotherapy. My treatment approach is integrative, most heavily influenced by evidence-based, cognitive behavioral & humanistic-existential theories. I address intersectional cultural experiences & various psychological systems that may be contributing to your presenting concerns. My style is empathic & non-judgmental & I tailor treatment to meet each individual's unique needs by working collaboratively with patients, to optimize their emotional, mental & physical well-being.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in treating a broad range of emotional & behavioral problems via individual, couples, family & group psychotherapy. My treatment approach is integrative, most heavily influenced by evidence-based, cognitive behavioral & humanistic-existential theories. I address intersectional cultural experiences & various psychological systems that may be contributing to your presenting concerns. My style is empathic & non-judgmental & I tailor treatment to meet each individual's unique needs by working collaboratively with patients, to optimize their emotional, mental & physical well-being.
(619) 452-1044 View (619) 452-1044
Photo of Davis Rodríguez Meléndez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, APTT
Davis Rodríguez Meléndez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, APTT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a clinical social worker and psychotherapist, my goal is to provide a safe environment and build relationships with my clients based on mutual trust and respect. I have a non-judgmental and affirming approach. I work with individuals, couples and other relationship constellations. I specialize in mood disorder, personality disorder, HIV, LGBT, life transitions, sexuality and cultural acculturation/assimilation. I relocated to San Diego, CA, in 2023. I am also licensed in New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. I also provide services in Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese.
As a clinical social worker and psychotherapist, my goal is to provide a safe environment and build relationships with my clients based on mutual trust and respect. I have a non-judgmental and affirming approach. I work with individuals, couples and other relationship constellations. I specialize in mood disorder, personality disorder, HIV, LGBT, life transitions, sexuality and cultural acculturation/assimilation. I relocated to San Diego, CA, in 2023. I am also licensed in New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. I also provide services in Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese.
(619) 614-8646 View (619) 614-8646
Photo of Pooja S Parashar, Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Pooja S Parashar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m passionate about making therapy accessible & breaking the stigma of seeking help, especially with clients of color. My approach centers on building an empathic connection & meeting you where you are. Healing starts from within, which allows clients to build a strong foundation of self-care in their sessions. My clients learn useful coping skills as they work toward their goals. Clients often see increased self-awareness, resilience, & a deeper connection to their true potential. With compassion & care, I create a space where you can go from surviving to thriving! Book with me now by clicking on my website :)
I’m passionate about making therapy accessible & breaking the stigma of seeking help, especially with clients of color. My approach centers on building an empathic connection & meeting you where you are. Healing starts from within, which allows clients to build a strong foundation of self-care in their sessions. My clients learn useful coping skills as they work toward their goals. Clients often see increased self-awareness, resilience, & a deeper connection to their true potential. With compassion & care, I create a space where you can go from surviving to thriving! Book with me now by clicking on my website :)
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Photo of Dr. Ricky J. Pope, Psychologist, MA, PhD
Dr. Ricky J. Pope
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Pope is a generalist psychologist treating varied concerns. One niche or specialty area is assisting the growth and development of male-identified clients. Trained as a counseling psychologist, Dr. pope focuses on overall well-being across the lifespan. He uses a strength-based approach combined with culturally sensitive practices to help people maximize their potential, improve their well-being, and increase their capacity to live in accordance with values and goals. Services include consulting, workshops, and individual, couples, and group therapy.
Dr. Pope is a generalist psychologist treating varied concerns. One niche or specialty area is assisting the growth and development of male-identified clients. Trained as a counseling psychologist, Dr. pope focuses on overall well-being across the lifespan. He uses a strength-based approach combined with culturally sensitive practices to help people maximize their potential, improve their well-being, and increase their capacity to live in accordance with values and goals. Services include consulting, workshops, and individual, couples, and group therapy.
(619) 736-9836 View (619) 736-9836
Photo of Brandon Tran, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Brandon Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Therapy for AAPI folks can and should look different. It may reflect the nuanced experiences of growing up in a Western society, and highlight the unique hardships and experiences that we come across. Through your lens, you experience stress, depression, relationships, and life transitions in a way that is interconnected with your community. For some, this might be your first time getting to know yourself, and for others this will be another stop on your journey with mental health. The courage and self-compassion it takes to begin therapy is magnificent, and I am honored to be a part of your adventure.
Therapy for AAPI folks can and should look different. It may reflect the nuanced experiences of growing up in a Western society, and highlight the unique hardships and experiences that we come across. Through your lens, you experience stress, depression, relationships, and life transitions in a way that is interconnected with your community. For some, this might be your first time getting to know yourself, and for others this will be another stop on your journey with mental health. The courage and self-compassion it takes to begin therapy is magnificent, and I am honored to be a part of your adventure.
(858) 758-9112 View (858) 758-9112
Photo of Jonei Chapple-Sewell, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Jonei Chapple-Sewell
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
My clinical background is in diverse communities such as BIPOC, high acuity adolescence, at-promise youth, sex-trafficked youth, military families, LGBTQIA, and low/high income families. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced complex trauma, depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, low self-esteem, and identity challenges.
My clinical background is in diverse communities such as BIPOC, high acuity adolescence, at-promise youth, sex-trafficked youth, military families, LGBTQIA, and low/high income families. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced complex trauma, depression, anxiety, guilt, shame, low self-esteem, and identity challenges.
(858) 465-5662 View (858) 465-5662
Photo of Julie Badaracco, Psychologist, PsyD
Julie Badaracco
Psychologist, PsyD
7 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Hi there! I am Dr. Julie Badaracco and I work with adults on depression, anxiety, acculturation issues, identity development, trauma, time and stress management, and major life transitions. I genuinely enjoy working with individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds and will work to incorporate your cultural identity and values into your therapy. My therapy approach is collaborative in nature as I strive to understand who you are and your unique concerns. I value a strong working relationship, as I believe that to experience growth and healing you must feel that you can trust me and speak openly.
Hi there! I am Dr. Julie Badaracco and I work with adults on depression, anxiety, acculturation issues, identity development, trauma, time and stress management, and major life transitions. I genuinely enjoy working with individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds and will work to incorporate your cultural identity and values into your therapy. My therapy approach is collaborative in nature as I strive to understand who you are and your unique concerns. I value a strong working relationship, as I believe that to experience growth and healing you must feel that you can trust me and speak openly.
(619) 292-0493 View (619) 292-0493
Photo of Sesen Negash, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Sesen Negash
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92182
Acute and long-standing stress can trigger emotions, thoughts, and reactions that shape our sense of self and our relationships. If you find it increasingly difficult to cope with stressors, stay emotionally regulated, and connect to others, I can help. My approach to therapy is compassionate, culturally responsive, collaborative, and non-pathologizing. Further, I am informed by multiple evidence-based perspectives and believe that societal influences significantly contribute to the way people receive, process, and respond to stress, problems, trauma, and relationships.
Acute and long-standing stress can trigger emotions, thoughts, and reactions that shape our sense of self and our relationships. If you find it increasingly difficult to cope with stressors, stay emotionally regulated, and connect to others, I can help. My approach to therapy is compassionate, culturally responsive, collaborative, and non-pathologizing. Further, I am informed by multiple evidence-based perspectives and believe that societal influences significantly contribute to the way people receive, process, and respond to stress, problems, trauma, and relationships.
(858) 358-5951 View (858) 358-5951

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