Psychodynamic Therapists in Valley Center, CA
If you are looking for authentic support for sexuality (kink/fetish, leather) relationship support (non-traditional, vanilla/non-vanilla) divorce, LGBTQIA+ relationships, recovery from substance use disorder, manage anxiety, treat depression, experience deeper personal growth, increase self-esteem, or simply wanting to explore who you are and how you work, I'm here to provide you with the support you are seeking. I provide support to individuals and couples to help create a more vibrant, satisfying life experience.
If you are looking for authentic support for sexuality (kink/fetish, leather) relationship support (non-traditional, vanilla/non-vanilla) divorce, LGBTQIA+ relationships, recovery from substance use disorder, manage anxiety, treat depression, experience deeper personal growth, increase self-esteem, or simply wanting to explore who you are and how you work, I'm here to provide you with the support you are seeking. I provide support to individuals and couples to help create a more vibrant, satisfying life experience.
I believe that we all search for happiness - some people make it seem easy. But we know that isn't true for everyone. Sometimes we are dealt a hand that gets in the way of our true path - childhood issues, bad relationships, addictions, feeling lost in life. I can help you find your true path so that you can pursue your personal happiness.
I believe that we all search for happiness - some people make it seem easy. But we know that isn't true for everyone. Sometimes we are dealt a hand that gets in the way of our true path - childhood issues, bad relationships, addictions, feeling lost in life. I can help you find your true path so that you can pursue your personal happiness.
I work with clients online video with telemedicine HIPPA compliant. I maintain a very successful practice of holistic psychology that addresses the client at all levels; Mental, Emotional, Physical & Spiritual, facilitating healing at the level of causation, not just management and treatment of symptoms. I sought out the most innovative treatments so my clients feel better as soon as possible and can be out-living their lives. I work very well with adolescents and individuals of all ages. I have extensive clinical experience that covers a wide range of problems.
I work with clients online video with telemedicine HIPPA compliant. I maintain a very successful practice of holistic psychology that addresses the client at all levels; Mental, Emotional, Physical & Spiritual, facilitating healing at the level of causation, not just management and treatment of symptoms. I sought out the most innovative treatments so my clients feel better as soon as possible and can be out-living their lives. I work very well with adolescents and individuals of all ages. I have extensive clinical experience that covers a wide range of problems.
Do you ever ask yourself, "My partner and I are successful in so many ways, why does our relationship feel so painfully disconnected?" Allow me to guide you in restoring the connection you once enjoyed together. Damaged trust, anger, infidelity, money problems, lack of sex, intimacy and affection are among the problems that can erode a relationship. I will provide you with tools that will help you move towards rebuilding trust, closeness and integrity in the relationship. I will also teach you how to effectively get what you want from your partner and the relationship. About 50% of my practice is couples, 50% is individual therapy.
Do you ever ask yourself, "My partner and I are successful in so many ways, why does our relationship feel so painfully disconnected?" Allow me to guide you in restoring the connection you once enjoyed together. Damaged trust, anger, infidelity, money problems, lack of sex, intimacy and affection are among the problems that can erode a relationship. I will provide you with tools that will help you move towards rebuilding trust, closeness and integrity in the relationship. I will also teach you how to effectively get what you want from your partner and the relationship. About 50% of my practice is couples, 50% is individual therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a holistic and client-centered approach. My private practice is now on-line only. My specialties include Women's Issues, PTSD, ADHD, Depression and Mood Disorders, Anxiety, and Consciousness-raising. In addition I work with children, families (including parenting) and couples and am available for supervision.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a holistic and client-centered approach. My private practice is now on-line only. My specialties include Women's Issues, PTSD, ADHD, Depression and Mood Disorders, Anxiety, and Consciousness-raising. In addition I work with children, families (including parenting) and couples and am available for supervision.
Kimberly B Lavender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BBS, LMSW-C, MI, TF-CBT, FPE
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently accepting new clients in California and Michigan. I believe in supporting and guiding clients to find their own answers, using a holistic, supportive, and integrated approach that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. Through personal growth and development, we can learn to make healthy and lasting changes that replenish our positive energy. It is finding our own inner strengths; the power to find our own answers and to rid ourselves of negative self-talk so that we can be at peace with the decisions we make, regardless of unwelcome influence and/or the advice of others, and choosing to live a healthier, happier life.
Currently accepting new clients in California and Michigan. I believe in supporting and guiding clients to find their own answers, using a holistic, supportive, and integrated approach that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. Through personal growth and development, we can learn to make healthy and lasting changes that replenish our positive energy. It is finding our own inner strengths; the power to find our own answers and to rid ourselves of negative self-talk so that we can be at peace with the decisions we make, regardless of unwelcome influence and/or the advice of others, and choosing to live a healthier, happier life.
Are you living with anxiety that keeps your mind spinning or prevents you from fully engaging in life? Are you experiencing grief, deep sorrow, or feeling lost and disconnected from a sense of meaning or purpose? I specialize in helping adults and older adults navigate anxiety, grief, and major life transitions. Many of my clients are seeking to reconnect with themselves, make peace with the past, deepen relationships, and create a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Are you living with anxiety that keeps your mind spinning or prevents you from fully engaging in life? Are you experiencing grief, deep sorrow, or feeling lost and disconnected from a sense of meaning or purpose? I specialize in helping adults and older adults navigate anxiety, grief, and major life transitions. Many of my clients are seeking to reconnect with themselves, make peace with the past, deepen relationships, and create a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
My therapeutic approach is very much client-centered “talk therapy,” rooted in Psychodynamic therapy with a trauma informed approach.
Hi! I'm Esther, I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, CA, and I currently provide therapy in person and via Telehealth. I work with different populations and age ranges and specialize in treating trauma, life transitions, grief, anxiety, and depression. Over the years, I’ve learned the most important aspect of therapy is the chance to be truly seen & heard without judgement. I recognize the importance of representation in mental health, and I hope to offer a safe space that promotes comfort and helps reduce the stigma surrounding mental health services.
My therapeutic approach is very much client-centered “talk therapy,” rooted in Psychodynamic therapy with a trauma informed approach.
Hi! I'm Esther, I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, CA, and I currently provide therapy in person and via Telehealth. I work with different populations and age ranges and specialize in treating trauma, life transitions, grief, anxiety, and depression. Over the years, I’ve learned the most important aspect of therapy is the chance to be truly seen & heard without judgement. I recognize the importance of representation in mental health, and I hope to offer a safe space that promotes comfort and helps reduce the stigma surrounding mental health services.
Tired of feeling anxious, overwhelmed? Like you don't know where else to turn? We all have a story to tell, but not everyone feels empowered to share theirs. There are ALWAYS reasons why you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, chronically stressed, angry, or depressed. We will uncover each and every one of your symptoms and put the pieces of the puzzle together so that you can feel content and secure - inside and out.
Tired of feeling anxious, overwhelmed? Like you don't know where else to turn? We all have a story to tell, but not everyone feels empowered to share theirs. There are ALWAYS reasons why you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, chronically stressed, angry, or depressed. We will uncover each and every one of your symptoms and put the pieces of the puzzle together so that you can feel content and secure - inside and out.
More Therapists Nearby
Life can feel like a whirlwind of change, pressure, and uncertainty. Maybe you’re juggling classes, jobs, or relationships and feel like you’re barely keeping it together. Or perhaps you're questioning who you are, what you want, or how to move forward. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own, and it’s okay to ask for help. I specialize in working with college students and adults of all ages navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, and finding their identity in a rapidly changing world.
Life can feel like a whirlwind of change, pressure, and uncertainty. Maybe you’re juggling classes, jobs, or relationships and feel like you’re barely keeping it together. Or perhaps you're questioning who you are, what you want, or how to move forward. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own, and it’s okay to ask for help. I specialize in working with college students and adults of all ages navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, and finding their identity in a rapidly changing world.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs.
Additionally, I am trained in helping concerned significant others (CSOs) of individuals who are wrestling with addictions. I discuss/ teach empirically supported behavioral techniques to family members in order to increase their loves one's motivation to get better. Instead of detaching, I remind CSOs that their love is essential and has power to help.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs.
Additionally, I am trained in helping concerned significant others (CSOs) of individuals who are wrestling with addictions. I discuss/ teach empirically supported behavioral techniques to family members in order to increase their loves one's motivation to get better. Instead of detaching, I remind CSOs that their love is essential and has power to help.
The treatment modalities I utilize when working with clients are Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Struggling with shame, identity issues, or relationship difficulties? Searching for someone who truly understands and affirms your unique experiences? Welcome to my practice. I’m here to offer a warm, supportive environment where you can address these concerns and more. As a therapist, I specialize in providing compassionate, affirming care for teens, millennials, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color. My approach is rooted in empathy and cultural competence, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and empowered.
The treatment modalities I utilize when working with clients are Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Struggling with shame, identity issues, or relationship difficulties? Searching for someone who truly understands and affirms your unique experiences? Welcome to my practice. I’m here to offer a warm, supportive environment where you can address these concerns and more. As a therapist, I specialize in providing compassionate, affirming care for teens, millennials, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color. My approach is rooted in empathy and cultural competence, ensuring you feel heard, valued, and empowered.
Dr. Marsha D. Mathews, PsyD, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Murrieta, CA 92562
I have worked for many years with individuals, couples, families and youth. Many of those I work with are struggling with transitional life problems and some have long term chronic mental illness. They are all looking to gain greater insight into their challenges and are working toward finding understanding in their interpersonal relationships. We set goals and then work toward achieving a more fulfilling life.
I have worked for many years with individuals, couples, families and youth. Many of those I work with are struggling with transitional life problems and some have long term chronic mental illness. They are all looking to gain greater insight into their challenges and are working toward finding understanding in their interpersonal relationships. We set goals and then work toward achieving a more fulfilling life.
We all need someone to talk to or assist us with situations that are overwhelming, painful and confusing. Sometimes the people in our lives just aren't equipped to be there for us in that way. I have 20 years experience seeing both teens and adults with a variety of concerns including relationship issues, stress, grief and loss, depression and anxiety.
We all need someone to talk to or assist us with situations that are overwhelming, painful and confusing. Sometimes the people in our lives just aren't equipped to be there for us in that way. I have 20 years experience seeing both teens and adults with a variety of concerns including relationship issues, stress, grief and loss, depression and anxiety.
As an "elder", I know of the vulnerabilities and anxieties that can arise due to the aging process. Elders often have to deal with change, loss and grief more frequently than one does in earlier stages of our lives. We are touched by them, directly or indirectly. Learning to more gracefully move through these transitions is an opportunity for deeper emotional, psychological and spiritual growth. These challenges can become the medicine for your spirit and soul.
As an "elder", I know of the vulnerabilities and anxieties that can arise due to the aging process. Elders often have to deal with change, loss and grief more frequently than one does in earlier stages of our lives. We are touched by them, directly or indirectly. Learning to more gracefully move through these transitions is an opportunity for deeper emotional, psychological and spiritual growth. These challenges can become the medicine for your spirit and soul.
I use culturally-sensitive, psychodynamic, attachment, somatic, and mindfulness-based treatment orientations.
Hi! I am a warm, supportive, non-judgmental therapist that helps people with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, substance dependence, and relationshIp issues. I believe that therapy is a partnership, and it's through this connection that we are better able to understand our difficulties. Starting from my career as a Script Supervision television, I've worked with a diverse group of people. I have extensive experience working with creative, intelligent, caring, sensitive people. By working closely together, my clients build positive self-images, develop healthy relationships, and ultimately lead more harmonious, fulfilling lives.
I use culturally-sensitive, psychodynamic, attachment, somatic, and mindfulness-based treatment orientations.
Hi! I am a warm, supportive, non-judgmental therapist that helps people with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, substance dependence, and relationshIp issues. I believe that therapy is a partnership, and it's through this connection that we are better able to understand our difficulties. Starting from my career as a Script Supervision television, I've worked with a diverse group of people. I have extensive experience working with creative, intelligent, caring, sensitive people. By working closely together, my clients build positive self-images, develop healthy relationships, and ultimately lead more harmonious, fulfilling lives.
With a combination of psychodynamic and behavioral therapies (including CBT and ACT), we will look at how your childhood and present relationships impact your mental health, along with ways in which we can approach your current thoughts and emotions differently to produce a more balanced and meaningful life.
Are you tired of feeling alone navigating your medical conditions? Overwhelmed around keeping track of so many appointments, isolated from the impacts of medical/health trauma, or maybe even physically isolated due to pain and fatigue? You don't have to do it all alone. As someone living with longtime chronic pain and illnesses, I understand the real mental health impacts which come along with living in a struggling body (and, for many of us, a neurodivergent mind). Through therapy, I will actively engage you in gentle reflections and practices to best support your well-being.
With a combination of psychodynamic and behavioral therapies (including CBT and ACT), we will look at how your childhood and present relationships impact your mental health, along with ways in which we can approach your current thoughts and emotions differently to produce a more balanced and meaningful life.
Are you tired of feeling alone navigating your medical conditions? Overwhelmed around keeping track of so many appointments, isolated from the impacts of medical/health trauma, or maybe even physically isolated due to pain and fatigue? You don't have to do it all alone. As someone living with longtime chronic pain and illnesses, I understand the real mental health impacts which come along with living in a struggling body (and, for many of us, a neurodivergent mind). Through therapy, I will actively engage you in gentle reflections and practices to best support your well-being.
Therapy can be a helpful & transformative tool. My primary goal is to create a safe space for you to share whatever you need in our sessions. You are the expert in your story, & together we will work hard to find solutions and peace. I specialize in working with young adults, but I also have clients of all ages. Additionally, I focus on body-focused repetitive disorders like trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), ADHD, OCD, anxiety & infertility issues. I see all clients residing in California via telehealth only. Update: No insurance slots are open; only cash pay, I do offer superbills.
Therapy can be a helpful & transformative tool. My primary goal is to create a safe space for you to share whatever you need in our sessions. You are the expert in your story, & together we will work hard to find solutions and peace. I specialize in working with young adults, but I also have clients of all ages. Additionally, I focus on body-focused repetitive disorders like trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), ADHD, OCD, anxiety & infertility issues. I see all clients residing in California via telehealth only. Update: No insurance slots are open; only cash pay, I do offer superbills.
My therapeutic approach is non-judgmental, empathetic, understanding, compassionate, and accepting. I am committed to social justice and advocacy for marginalized persons. I want to help inspire you to grow into the person you want to become, without shame. I work with clients who want to improve their quality of life, decrease distress, enhance relationships, resolve family conflict, better cope with life, and break free from unhealthy patterns. I specialize in treating: depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, relationship problems, & unresolved conflict from childhood. I provide affirmative therapy for the LGBTQ2IA+ community.
My therapeutic approach is non-judgmental, empathetic, understanding, compassionate, and accepting. I am committed to social justice and advocacy for marginalized persons. I want to help inspire you to grow into the person you want to become, without shame. I work with clients who want to improve their quality of life, decrease distress, enhance relationships, resolve family conflict, better cope with life, and break free from unhealthy patterns. I specialize in treating: depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, relationship problems, & unresolved conflict from childhood. I provide affirmative therapy for the LGBTQ2IA+ community.
I have specialized training in psychodynamic therapy and adult psychoanalysis and work with adolescents, adults, couples and families.
People seek a psychotherapist because they are experiencing emotional distress, often caused by issues related to relationships, family, marital problems, stress, and general dissatisfaction with one's life or work. My job as a psychologist is to find a path leading to both relief of these symptoms and to an understanding of oneself, which together provide for both short term and long term relief from these states. I do this by providing a non-judgmental and supportive therapeutic environment which promotes a deeper understanding and exploration of oneself, with the belief that this increased self-awareness ultimately leads to positive changes and better coping skills.
I have specialized training in psychodynamic therapy and adult psychoanalysis and work with adolescents, adults, couples and families.
People seek a psychotherapist because they are experiencing emotional distress, often caused by issues related to relationships, family, marital problems, stress, and general dissatisfaction with one's life or work. My job as a psychologist is to find a path leading to both relief of these symptoms and to an understanding of oneself, which together provide for both short term and long term relief from these states. I do this by providing a non-judgmental and supportive therapeutic environment which promotes a deeper understanding and exploration of oneself, with the belief that this increased self-awareness ultimately leads to positive changes and better coping skills.
See more therapy options for Valley Center
Nearby Psychodynamic Therapists Searches for Valley Center
- Bonsall
- Cardiff By The Sea
- Encinitas
- Escondido
- Fallbrook
- Oceanside
- Poway
- Ramona
- Rancho Santa Fe
- San Marcos
- Temecula
- Vista
Psychodynamic Therapists
Is psychodynamic therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found psychodynamic therapy to be effective in treating conditions like social anxiety, eating disorders, chronic pain, some personality disorders, and depression; indeed, some studies have found it to be just as effective as CBT or medication. What’s more, several studies have found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy tend to endure—even grow—long after treatment has ended.
How long does psychodynamic therapy last?
Unlike CBT and other more structured forms of therapy, psychodynamic therapy tends to be open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to three times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. However, brief psychodynamic therapy is available, which tends to be more goal-oriented and typically unfolds over 16 to 30 sessions.
Does psychodynamic therapy work?
Research finds that psychodynamic therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of diagnosable mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. The modality may also offer a range of benefits that are harder to measure but just as valuable—such as increased self-worth or healthier relationships. While no therapy type will work for everyone, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that psychodynamic therapy can be highly effective.
What are the limitations of psychodynamic therapy?
Some meta-analyses have concluded that there is little evidence to suggest that psychodynamic therapy can effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or psychosis, though it is sometimes used to do so. More broadly, the open-ended, free-association structure of psychodynamic therapy may be frustrating for clients who prefer a more structured, time-limited, or goal-oriented approach.

