Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Solana Beach, CA

Elise Rosenthal
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use an eclectic, trauma‑informed approach that integrates CBT, ACT, DBT, Compassion‑Focused Therapy, and CPT.
I work with individuals, couples, adolescents, and children who are navigating anxiety, trauma, OCD, eating disorders, relationship stress, and major life transitions. Many come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck in old patterns, or unsure how to move forward. I take a trauma‑informed, compassionate approach that blends evidence‑based therapies with an understanding of the cultural and systemic factors shaping your experience. My goal is to create a space where you feel supported, understood, and empowered to make meaningful change.
I use an eclectic, trauma‑informed approach that integrates CBT, ACT, DBT, Compassion‑Focused Therapy, and CPT.
I work with individuals, couples, adolescents, and children who are navigating anxiety, trauma, OCD, eating disorders, relationship stress, and major life transitions. Many come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck in old patterns, or unsure how to move forward. I take a trauma‑informed, compassionate approach that blends evidence‑based therapies with an understanding of the cultural and systemic factors shaping your experience. My goal is to create a space where you feel supported, understood, and empowered to make meaningful change.
(858) 304-7219 View (858) 304-7219
Maxine DeFank
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Hello and welcome! You’re here because a part of you is ready for change. As a person centered therapist, my approach is to get to know you as a person and work collaboratively to take steps toward your therapeutic goals. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a victim advocate for survivors of interpersonal violence. This work deeply shaped who I am as a therapist and as a person. It highlighted the universal need to be heard and be met with compassion and empathy. I help clients by providing a non-judgmental space where we can process your hurts and successes together.
Hello and welcome! You’re here because a part of you is ready for change. As a person centered therapist, my approach is to get to know you as a person and work collaboratively to take steps toward your therapeutic goals. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked as a victim advocate for survivors of interpersonal violence. This work deeply shaped who I am as a therapist and as a person. It highlighted the universal need to be heard and be met with compassion and empathy. I help clients by providing a non-judgmental space where we can process your hurts and successes together.
(760) 437-2144 View (760) 437-2144
Dr. Nikoo Z Sadatrafiei
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LADAC, CalGETS
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Through CBT, DBT & strength-based approach, I communicate with my clients as I bring empathy, mutual understanding, and unconditional positive regards to therapy.
I'm specialized in treating behavioral and mental health issues with individuals, couples, and families which arise from life transitions, conflicts in relationships, parenting, child/adolescence behavioral issues, and mental illnesses. I have extensive experience on treating trauma, grief, domestic violence, and communication. As a Licensed Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LAADC) I help individuals with their dual diagnosis. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocess (EMDR) and hypnotherapy to facilitate change in perception. I'm certified in Gambling Disorder from the Office of Problem Gambling (CalGETS).
Through CBT, DBT & strength-based approach, I communicate with my clients as I bring empathy, mutual understanding, and unconditional positive regards to therapy.
I'm specialized in treating behavioral and mental health issues with individuals, couples, and families which arise from life transitions, conflicts in relationships, parenting, child/adolescence behavioral issues, and mental illnesses. I have extensive experience on treating trauma, grief, domestic violence, and communication. As a Licensed Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LAADC) I help individuals with their dual diagnosis. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocess (EMDR) and hypnotherapy to facilitate change in perception. I'm certified in Gambling Disorder from the Office of Problem Gambling (CalGETS).
(858) 707-7602 View (858) 707-7602
Anna Louise Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
I practice several statistically effective therapies such as CBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy.
Are you feeling stuck or desperate? Do you feel like there is something blocking you from moving forward in life? My hope is that clients leave therapy knowing their strengths and having the tools to tackle future challenges. Whether that is to empower them to find new solutions to old problems, a better way of managing their anxiety or depression; or a whole new way of being in relationships. We all need to feel empowered in our own lives but often find road blocks that keep us from reaching our potential.
I practice several statistically effective therapies such as CBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy.
Are you feeling stuck or desperate? Do you feel like there is something blocking you from moving forward in life? My hope is that clients leave therapy knowing their strengths and having the tools to tackle future challenges. Whether that is to empower them to find new solutions to old problems, a better way of managing their anxiety or depression; or a whole new way of being in relationships. We all need to feel empowered in our own lives but often find road blocks that keep us from reaching our potential.
(760) 819-7197 View (760) 819-7197
Dr. Michele Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
I work from a collaborative approach, utilizing a variety of clinical theories such as EMDR(trauma) EFT, CBT, DBT and Narrative approaches to help you map out your own road to recovery
Are you or someone you care about overwhelmed by your relationship with food? Alcohol or Drugs? Do you struggle with feeling emotions and end up reaching for 'something' in order to cope? Do your relationships seem to fall apart or always leave you unsatisfied? Wish things were different? Do you need encouragement and guidance to change? I'm here to help! I specialize in the treatment of individuals and families struggling with the damaging effects of eating disorders and addiction.
I work from a collaborative approach, utilizing a variety of clinical theories such as EMDR(trauma) EFT, CBT, DBT and Narrative approaches to help you map out your own road to recovery
Are you or someone you care about overwhelmed by your relationship with food? Alcohol or Drugs? Do you struggle with feeling emotions and end up reaching for 'something' in order to cope? Do your relationships seem to fall apart or always leave you unsatisfied? Wish things were different? Do you need encouragement and guidance to change? I'm here to help! I specialize in the treatment of individuals and families struggling with the damaging effects of eating disorders and addiction.
(619) 518-3415 View (619) 518-3415
Camille Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello, I am Camille Carter a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 27 years of experience. Seeking therapy is the best gift you can offer to yourself and to those around you. Together we create goals and develop ways to better manage day-to-day life, relationships and stressors. Therapy is a journey towards healing, growing, and creating a life with more peace, joy, and contentment.
Hello, I am Camille Carter a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 27 years of experience. Seeking therapy is the best gift you can offer to yourself and to those around you. Together we create goals and develop ways to better manage day-to-day life, relationships and stressors. Therapy is a journey towards healing, growing, and creating a life with more peace, joy, and contentment.
(760) 227-7236 View (760) 227-7236
Michel Bordeau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use an integrative approach grounded in DBT (goal-oriented skill building) and CBT (engaged mindset shifting).
You may be a late-diagnosed or self-diagnosed neurodivergent adult—autistic, ADHD, or both—who functions well on the surface but feels chronically exhausted beneath it. Years of masking—monitoring your tone, reactions, productivity, attention, and social cues—can quietly lead to burnout, anxiety, and a sense that life requires constant effort. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults who are ready to reduce masking, rebuild energy, and develop a way of living that supports their nervous system, values, & long-term independence.
I use an integrative approach grounded in DBT (goal-oriented skill building) and CBT (engaged mindset shifting).
You may be a late-diagnosed or self-diagnosed neurodivergent adult—autistic, ADHD, or both—who functions well on the surface but feels chronically exhausted beneath it. Years of masking—monitoring your tone, reactions, productivity, attention, and social cues—can quietly lead to burnout, anxiety, and a sense that life requires constant effort. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults who are ready to reduce masking, rebuild energy, and develop a way of living that supports their nervous system, values, & long-term independence.
(858) 252-0832 View (858) 252-0832
Jaqueline Kiefer
Psychologist, PhD
Solana Beach, CA 92075
I work collaboratively with clients to help you identify and pursue your goals, improve the quality of your relationships, and achieve a greater sense of life satisfaction. I provide a safe and supportive atmosphere to discuss whatever you wish. My style is interactive, and I offer guidance and direction, and use humor when appropriate. My approach often focuses on how past experiences affect the choices we make and who we are in our current life. We will work together to understand your strengths, limitations and any obstacles that prevent you from being fully satisfied in your life.
I work collaboratively with clients to help you identify and pursue your goals, improve the quality of your relationships, and achieve a greater sense of life satisfaction. I provide a safe and supportive atmosphere to discuss whatever you wish. My style is interactive, and I offer guidance and direction, and use humor when appropriate. My approach often focuses on how past experiences affect the choices we make and who we are in our current life. We will work together to understand your strengths, limitations and any obstacles that prevent you from being fully satisfied in your life.
(858) 215-1911 View (858) 215-1911
Joann Silva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Solana Beach, CA 92075
With over 45 years in this field, I believe I have encountered almost every kind of human trauma and can help you bring yourself back to peacefulness and joy in living. I have years of being a great listener - funny and heartfelt and skilled at helping my clients to find their confidence and joy and to reset their resilience to tackle life's long list of hits. It is paramount that you have the time to build a safe and open relationship with me, to move at the pace you are comfortable with, and always be supported in seeking the success and courage you have used to get this far.
With over 45 years in this field, I believe I have encountered almost every kind of human trauma and can help you bring yourself back to peacefulness and joy in living. I have years of being a great listener - funny and heartfelt and skilled at helping my clients to find their confidence and joy and to reset their resilience to tackle life's long list of hits. It is paramount that you have the time to build a safe and open relationship with me, to move at the pace you are comfortable with, and always be supported in seeking the success and courage you have used to get this far.
View
Melissa Brody
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Solana Beach, CA 92075
I'm passionate about helping trauma survivors, adolescents and young adults struggling with their identity, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and life transitions. I help those who want to feel more secure in their identity, learn coping skills, and develop healthier more fulfilling relationships with others. Utilizing a collaborative approach, we will explore how to discover a life worth living by identifying your values and understanding how the brain impacts thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Through mindfulness and other evidence based strategies, I teach how to develop self-compassion and tolerate difficult emotions.
I'm passionate about helping trauma survivors, adolescents and young adults struggling with their identity, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and life transitions. I help those who want to feel more secure in their identity, learn coping skills, and develop healthier more fulfilling relationships with others. Utilizing a collaborative approach, we will explore how to discover a life worth living by identifying your values and understanding how the brain impacts thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Through mindfulness and other evidence based strategies, I teach how to develop self-compassion and tolerate difficult emotions.
(858) 842-5891 View (858) 842-5891
Michelle York
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Solana Beach, CA 92075
I integrate EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and DBT-informed approaches within a depth-oriented framework.
My approach is collaborative, compassionate and grounded in empowerment. I help clients recognize unhelpful coping patterns, strengthen emotional resilience and develop healthier ways of relating to themselves and others. I provide a safe therapy space that is conducive for the development of personal insight, healing, growth and lasting change.
I integrate EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and DBT-informed approaches within a depth-oriented framework.
My approach is collaborative, compassionate and grounded in empowerment. I help clients recognize unhelpful coping patterns, strengthen emotional resilience and develop healthier ways of relating to themselves and others. I provide a safe therapy space that is conducive for the development of personal insight, healing, growth and lasting change.
(858) 786-2167 View (858) 786-2167
Lindsey Goldstein-Fowler
Psychologist, PsyD
Solana Beach, CA 92075
I offer a customized approach to all my clients and do not limit myself to one type of treatment modality. I limit my client load in order to provide my clients with more personalized care. My clients are afforded a customized psychological evaluation tailored to answering specific referral questions. With this unique approach, every client will be able to reach their treatment goals more efficiently, by getting the results they want faster. In my concierge counseling practice, I offer extended time in sessions, weekend appointments, mobile visits, phone sessions, priority email reply and feedback.
I offer a customized approach to all my clients and do not limit myself to one type of treatment modality. I limit my client load in order to provide my clients with more personalized care. My clients are afforded a customized psychological evaluation tailored to answering specific referral questions. With this unique approach, every client will be able to reach their treatment goals more efficiently, by getting the results they want faster. In my concierge counseling practice, I offer extended time in sessions, weekend appointments, mobile visits, phone sessions, priority email reply and feedback.
(760) 487-1428 View (760) 487-1428
Leila Yenina Gail
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Certified in trauma, DBT, DBT-PE, Mindfulness, and ASD treatment.
Hello! I am a psychotherapist and am passionate about connecting with clients who have a deep desire for change and growth, wanting to create a life with deeper meaning and balance, and in line with purpose. My passion is helping others to thrive in all aspects of life and guiding them to reframe negative beliefs and behaviors. Registered CA Psychological Associate (PSB94028382) supervised by Dr. Reya Kost (PSY30795) Psychological Trainee, supervised by Dr. Ruth Gentry. Current PsyD-ABD, MS in Psychology, MS in Autism Studies. Insurance accepted, CA and NV ONLY. Cash discount. Telehealth primary, in-person in South Reno office ONLY.
Certified in trauma, DBT, DBT-PE, Mindfulness, and ASD treatment.
Hello! I am a psychotherapist and am passionate about connecting with clients who have a deep desire for change and growth, wanting to create a life with deeper meaning and balance, and in line with purpose. My passion is helping others to thrive in all aspects of life and guiding them to reframe negative beliefs and behaviors. Registered CA Psychological Associate (PSB94028382) supervised by Dr. Reya Kost (PSY30795) Psychological Trainee, supervised by Dr. Ruth Gentry. Current PsyD-ABD, MS in Psychology, MS in Autism Studies. Insurance accepted, CA and NV ONLY. Cash discount. Telehealth primary, in-person in South Reno office ONLY.
(775) 429-7697 View (775) 429-7697
Jessica Mack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
I integrate evidence-based approaches such as CBT, CPT, DBT, EMDR, MI, Brainspotting, ACT, and Internal Family Systems, tailoring therapy to client’s needs.
I am deeply passionate about helping people find their own path toward health, happiness, and fulfillment. I believe every person brings a unique mix of strengths, challenges, and life experiences, and that meaningful support starts with meeting clients exactly where they are - with compassion, curiosity, and without judgment. My approach is holistic and collaborative, grounded in authentic connection and respect for the whole person.
I integrate evidence-based approaches such as CBT, CPT, DBT, EMDR, MI, Brainspotting, ACT, and Internal Family Systems, tailoring therapy to client’s needs.
I am deeply passionate about helping people find their own path toward health, happiness, and fulfillment. I believe every person brings a unique mix of strengths, challenges, and life experiences, and that meaningful support starts with meeting clients exactly where they are - with compassion, curiosity, and without judgment. My approach is holistic and collaborative, grounded in authentic connection and respect for the whole person.
(858) 413-9118 View (858) 413-9118
PsyNamic Counseling and Psychological Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Welcome to PsyNamic Counseling and Psychological Services Our Values Our therapists in Solana Beach, CA believe in client-specific mental health treatments with the goal of lasting, positive change. The client experience is of utmost importance and we strive to suit your needs the best we can. We understand that time is precious and offer evening and weekend appointments to suit your needs. If you would like more information about our therapy and counseling services, contact our therapists today.
Welcome to PsyNamic Counseling and Psychological Services Our Values Our therapists in Solana Beach, CA believe in client-specific mental health treatments with the goal of lasting, positive change. The client experience is of utmost importance and we strive to suit your needs the best we can. We understand that time is precious and offer evening and weekend appointments to suit your needs. If you would like more information about our therapy and counseling services, contact our therapists today.
(858) 280-3474 View (858) 280-3474
Crystal Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
My ideal clients are individuals and couples who feel disconnected, reactive, or unsure of themselves despite managing daily life. Individuals may struggle to tolerate emotions, feel grounded in who they are, or experience shame, numbness, or a lack of meaning. Couples may feel stuck in cycles of conflict or distance, with emotional or sexual intimacy feeling strained or unsafe. These clients want more than coping strategies, they want to build emotional capacity, develop a stronger sense of self, and experience deeper, more authentic connection within themselves and their relationships.
My ideal clients are individuals and couples who feel disconnected, reactive, or unsure of themselves despite managing daily life. Individuals may struggle to tolerate emotions, feel grounded in who they are, or experience shame, numbness, or a lack of meaning. Couples may feel stuck in cycles of conflict or distance, with emotional or sexual intimacy feeling strained or unsafe. These clients want more than coping strategies, they want to build emotional capacity, develop a stronger sense of self, and experience deeper, more authentic connection within themselves and their relationships.
(760) 313-3630 View (760) 313-3630
Sufi Farkhan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
(424) 226-3736 View (424) 226-3736
Marshall Huggins
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
If needed, I draw upon ACT, DBT, and eastern & indigenous spiritual wisdom too.
As a long-time surfer, climber, and explorer at heart, I see my role as a guide who helps you move through your fears and toward your longings. Like with any good guide, we'll map the territory, build trust in your Self, learn skills to navigate difficult spots, and discover clarity on top of the peak. I believe when our curiosity outweighs our fears, we can take the leap into a more authentic life. I work with adults with anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, addiction, relationship issues, grief, men’s issues, and life transitions. I am also trained in psychedelic integration for those seeking support for their journeys.
If needed, I draw upon ACT, DBT, and eastern & indigenous spiritual wisdom too.
As a long-time surfer, climber, and explorer at heart, I see my role as a guide who helps you move through your fears and toward your longings. Like with any good guide, we'll map the territory, build trust in your Self, learn skills to navigate difficult spots, and discover clarity on top of the peak. I believe when our curiosity outweighs our fears, we can take the leap into a more authentic life. I work with adults with anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, addiction, relationship issues, grief, men’s issues, and life transitions. I am also trained in psychedelic integration for those seeking support for their journeys.
(760) 421-5809 View (760) 421-5809
Tides Wellness
Psychologist
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Hi, I’m Dr. Jodi! I couldn't be more proud to share a little bit about our team at Tides Wellness. Tides is a group of wonderful and authentic human beings, but this alone is not enough. It is crucial that we provide treatments that work, treatments that are based on research and treatment modalities that help get people better faster. We take pride in continuous learning and growing both as humans and as therapists. As our team has grown we have brought on therapists with diverse expertise in hopes of being a trusted one stop shop for many of the the mental health needs of our local community!
Hi, I’m Dr. Jodi! I couldn't be more proud to share a little bit about our team at Tides Wellness. Tides is a group of wonderful and authentic human beings, but this alone is not enough. It is crucial that we provide treatments that work, treatments that are based on research and treatment modalities that help get people better faster. We take pride in continuous learning and growing both as humans and as therapists. As our team has grown we have brought on therapists with diverse expertise in hopes of being a trusted one stop shop for many of the the mental health needs of our local community!
(858) 348-5908 View (858) 348-5908
Erica Moyer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Using CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and somatic work, I support clients in gaining clarity, strengthening coping skills, and reconnecting with themselves.
I work with individuals, adolescents, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, substance use, and life transitions. Many come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns, overwhelmed by emotions, or seeking clarity and a deeper connection. Clients often want to understand their experiences better, improve relationships, and develop healthier coping strategies. Some are processing past trauma, while others are managing current stressors. I offer a warm, collaborative, trauma-informed space to support insight, coping skills, and meaningful change.
Using CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and somatic work, I support clients in gaining clarity, strengthening coping skills, and reconnecting with themselves.
I work with individuals, adolescents, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, substance use, and life transitions. Many come to therapy feeling stuck in patterns, overwhelmed by emotions, or seeking clarity and a deeper connection. Clients often want to understand their experiences better, improve relationships, and develop healthier coping strategies. Some are processing past trauma, while others are managing current stressors. I offer a warm, collaborative, trauma-informed space to support insight, coping skills, and meaningful change.
(858) 923-2562 View (858) 923-2562

See more therapy options for Solana Beach

Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists
Who is DBT for?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?
The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behavior and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?
Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behavior, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?
Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioral change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behavior; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.