Therapists for Children in Vista, CA

Photo of Lauren Daniels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Lauren Daniels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Vista, CA 92081
I believe you already have strengths within you—sometimes you just need support in uncovering them. If you're feeling overwhelmed or stuck, I offer a safe space where we can work together to build on what's working and develop practical strategies tailored to you. You don't have to navigate this alone. Let's move forward together.
I believe you already have strengths within you—sometimes you just need support in uncovering them. If you're feeling overwhelmed or stuck, I offer a safe space where we can work together to build on what's working and develop practical strategies tailored to you. You don't have to navigate this alone. Let's move forward together.
(760) 647-8196 View (760) 647-8196
Photo of Chelsie Giambrone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, BCD, LCSW, LISW-S, LICDC
Chelsie Giambrone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, BCD, LCSW, LISW-S, LICDC
Vista, CA 92081
Waitlist for new clients
I've received training from the Yale Child Study Center, Center for the Treatment & Study of Anxiety at University of Pennsylvania, Beck Institute, Center for Deployment Psychology, the Eating Disorder Center at UC San Diego Health, the Center for Mindfulness at UC San Diego, Mass General and more!
Chelsie is the owner and founder of The Center for CBT & Mindfulness. Here, we offer a variety of highly specialized, evidence-based treatments including the gold standard of care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. We provide assessment, diagnosis and psychotherapy for all types of anxiety, trauma, stress and eating disorders. This includes generalized anxiety/worry, OCD, phobias, panic, social anxiety, perfectionism/high achiever issues, PTSD, phase of life adjustment, acute/chronic stress, medical/dental anxiety and avoidance, health anxiety, BDD, ARFID, Anorexia and eating/food fears. We also treat chronic pain, ADHD and insomnia.
I've received training from the Yale Child Study Center, Center for the Treatment & Study of Anxiety at University of Pennsylvania, Beck Institute, Center for Deployment Psychology, the Eating Disorder Center at UC San Diego Health, the Center for Mindfulness at UC San Diego, Mass General and more!
Chelsie is the owner and founder of The Center for CBT & Mindfulness. Here, we offer a variety of highly specialized, evidence-based treatments including the gold standard of care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. We provide assessment, diagnosis and psychotherapy for all types of anxiety, trauma, stress and eating disorders. This includes generalized anxiety/worry, OCD, phobias, panic, social anxiety, perfectionism/high achiever issues, PTSD, phase of life adjustment, acute/chronic stress, medical/dental anxiety and avoidance, health anxiety, BDD, ARFID, Anorexia and eating/food fears. We also treat chronic pain, ADHD and insomnia.
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Photo of Dr. Brianna Meshke McLay, Licensed Educational Psychologist, PhD, LEP
Dr. Brianna Meshke McLay
Licensed Educational Psychologist, PhD, LEP
Vista, CA 92081
I enjoy helping adults (e.g., those seeking diagnostic clarity after years of misdiagnosis, masking, etc.) in addition to families with children.
I specialize in psychoeducational assessments and also provide counseling to youth and their families for issues that are impacting academic learning processes. I offer diagnostic assessments for both children and adults. I can assess for learning differences (i.e. dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia), ADHD, autism, etc.
I enjoy helping adults (e.g., those seeking diagnostic clarity after years of misdiagnosis, masking, etc.) in addition to families with children.
I specialize in psychoeducational assessments and also provide counseling to youth and their families for issues that are impacting academic learning processes. I offer diagnostic assessments for both children and adults. I can assess for learning differences (i.e. dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia), ADHD, autism, etc.
(760) 498-2747 View (760) 498-2747
Photo of Susan Trueblood - The Art of Family North County Family Cnsling Ctr, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Art of Family North County Family Cnsling Ctr
Marriage & Family Therapist
Vista, CA 92083
Welcome to The Art of Family! The action of living well is Art; an unfolding tapestry of rich colors, textures and patterns which honors what makes us unique and celebrates what makes us a family. The Art of Family is a safe and supportive place to start your journey. Our therapists provide a variety of counseling services that can be tailored to your personal needs and concerns. Each therapist and associate has a unique skill set that can help you reach your full potential.
Welcome to The Art of Family! The action of living well is Art; an unfolding tapestry of rich colors, textures and patterns which honors what makes us unique and celebrates what makes us a family. The Art of Family is a safe and supportive place to start your journey. Our therapists provide a variety of counseling services that can be tailored to your personal needs and concerns. Each therapist and associate has a unique skill set that can help you reach your full potential.
(442) 999-2032 View (442) 999-2032
Photo of Marla R Elliott, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Marla R Elliott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083

With a degree in Child Development and over 30 years of experience in that field; working with me is a sure-fire way to find the best path forward for you and your family.
Now accepting multiples insurance programs! When trouble arises in life, the emotions that come with it tend to be overwhelming, and it can be hard to find the words to describe the problem. This can block the decision making process and halt forward movement. Seeking outside helps solve this. Some people are skeptical about the role that therapy could play in their life, and I can sympathize. Whether you’re a skeptic, or looking for counsel, please keep reading. 

My job will be to show you just how capable you are. I will teach you how to cope with negative thoughts when they inevitably happen, and help you retrain your brain.

With a degree in Child Development and over 30 years of experience in that field; working with me is a sure-fire way to find the best path forward for you and your family.
Now accepting multiples insurance programs! When trouble arises in life, the emotions that come with it tend to be overwhelming, and it can be hard to find the words to describe the problem. This can block the decision making process and halt forward movement. Seeking outside helps solve this. Some people are skeptical about the role that therapy could play in their life, and I can sympathize. Whether you’re a skeptic, or looking for counsel, please keep reading. 

My job will be to show you just how capable you are. I will teach you how to cope with negative thoughts when they inevitably happen, and help you retrain your brain.
(442) 275-8842 View (442) 275-8842
Photo of Natalie J. Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CATODSW
Natalie J. Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CATODSW
2 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92084
Do you feel like you’re navigating life on autopilot, with anxiety or depression making it difficult to show up for your work, your relationships, or yourself? You may find yourself caught in cycles of people-pleasing or seeking external validation, only to end up feeling drained and unfulfilled. If you feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, know that you don’t have to navigate this alone. In our sessions, we’ll move beyond the 'what' to understand the ' the roots of your struggle while building practical, compassionate strategies to help you reclaim your confidence and advocate for your needs.
Do you feel like you’re navigating life on autopilot, with anxiety or depression making it difficult to show up for your work, your relationships, or yourself? You may find yourself caught in cycles of people-pleasing or seeking external validation, only to end up feeling drained and unfulfilled. If you feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, know that you don’t have to navigate this alone. In our sessions, we’ll move beyond the 'what' to understand the ' the roots of your struggle while building practical, compassionate strategies to help you reclaim your confidence and advocate for your needs.
(760) 227-2916 View (760) 227-2916
Photo of Angela Kuzara, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Angela Kuzara
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am a person-centered therapist utilizing a personalized collaborative and strengths-based approach. I view each person holistically and as a unique individual, tailoring our sessions to your needs and to meet your specific goals in therapy rather than following one rigid protocol. I have additional training in trauma-informed, evidence-based treatment modalities. My first priority is for you to feel safe and trusting of me as your therapist. I offer a non-judgemental, honest, compassionate, accepting and understanding space that respects your personal values, goals, identity, culture and experiences.
I am a person-centered therapist utilizing a personalized collaborative and strengths-based approach. I view each person holistically and as a unique individual, tailoring our sessions to your needs and to meet your specific goals in therapy rather than following one rigid protocol. I have additional training in trauma-informed, evidence-based treatment modalities. My first priority is for you to feel safe and trusting of me as your therapist. I offer a non-judgemental, honest, compassionate, accepting and understanding space that respects your personal values, goals, identity, culture and experiences.
(760) 874-3062 View (760) 874-3062
Photo of Brittany Paulk, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Brittany Paulk
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
3 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
I work with children, teens, couples, LGBTQIA+, and families.
My primary goal is to create a nonjudgmental, warm, and compassionate environment where you feel safe and comfortable sharing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. You are the expert in your story, and I am here to listen and support you to help empower you to achieve personal growth, improve your relationships, and enhance your overall well-being.
I work with children, teens, couples, LGBTQIA+, and families.
My primary goal is to create a nonjudgmental, warm, and compassionate environment where you feel safe and comfortable sharing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. You are the expert in your story, and I am here to listen and support you to help empower you to achieve personal growth, improve your relationships, and enhance your overall well-being.
(442) 434-1944 View (442) 434-1944
Photo of Chris Peterson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Chris Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Vista, CA 92081
Specialty areas include complex trauma therapy (Trauma-Focused CBT Certified), substance use management, individual, couples and family systems therapy, and suicidal and defiant children and teens.
My clients are individuals who often carry with them unresolved feelings from either their past or present challenges. Viewing those issues from an objective and trusted practitioner is vital to the change process. Always viewing my clients with unconditional positive regard is essential to us being successful. Therapy can often be the first time someone gets to step out of the day to day of their lives. My hope is during this introspection, I can coach you in the direction you need to go, not where my training thinks you should go. While I may illuminate potential paths, you're taking the steps with me right behind you!
Specialty areas include complex trauma therapy (Trauma-Focused CBT Certified), substance use management, individual, couples and family systems therapy, and suicidal and defiant children and teens.
My clients are individuals who often carry with them unresolved feelings from either their past or present challenges. Viewing those issues from an objective and trusted practitioner is vital to the change process. Always viewing my clients with unconditional positive regard is essential to us being successful. Therapy can often be the first time someone gets to step out of the day to day of their lives. My hope is during this introspection, I can coach you in the direction you need to go, not where my training thinks you should go. While I may illuminate potential paths, you're taking the steps with me right behind you!
(760) 642-5557 View (760) 642-5557
Photo of Donice Gilbertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Donice Gilbertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Vista, CA 92084
Starting therapy can be scary. You are taking a great first step. I am here to help you throughout this journey. I specialize in depression, anxiety, addiction, and other severe mental illnesses. I have a client-centered collaborative approach to therapy. Each session is tailored to your unique needs and goals. I am here to provide a safe and supportive environment for you. Please reach out if you have any questions.
Starting therapy can be scary. You are taking a great first step. I am here to help you throughout this journey. I specialize in depression, anxiety, addiction, and other severe mental illnesses. I have a client-centered collaborative approach to therapy. Each session is tailored to your unique needs and goals. I am here to provide a safe and supportive environment for you. Please reach out if you have any questions.
(442) 305-7486 View (442) 305-7486
Photo of Sue Boyd - Therapy For You Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy For You Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vista, CA 92084
We specialize in working with children, teens, adults, couples, and parents facing a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, family dynamics & life transitions.
At Therapy For You Counseling Center, we believe that everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to navigate life's challenges. We now have immediate openings and take Aetna, Optum, Cigna and Blue Shield insurances. We answer our phone or call back immediately! Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists is dedicated to helping you uncover your strengths, heal from past wounds, and create a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling. Take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow—reach out today to make an appointment. We look forward to supporting you in achieving your goals for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
We specialize in working with children, teens, adults, couples, and parents facing a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, family dynamics & life transitions.
At Therapy For You Counseling Center, we believe that everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to navigate life's challenges. We now have immediate openings and take Aetna, Optum, Cigna and Blue Shield insurances. We answer our phone or call back immediately! Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists is dedicated to helping you uncover your strengths, heal from past wounds, and create a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling. Take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow—reach out today to make an appointment. We look forward to supporting you in achieving your goals for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
(442) 254-6063 View (442) 254-6063
Photo of Lorraine Swineford, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Lorraine Swineford
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
I work with families, individuals, couples and children.
Do you sense a quiet exhaustion? Does it feel like you tend to just push through it? Trauma can be the culprit. Even small event's that don't seem like trauma can stick. EMDR (eye movement therapy) is an evidence-based therapy that works with the mind’s natural processing system similar to what happens during REM sleep to help process unresolved experiences.
I work with families, individuals, couples and children.
Do you sense a quiet exhaustion? Does it feel like you tend to just push through it? Trauma can be the culprit. Even small event's that don't seem like trauma can stick. EMDR (eye movement therapy) is an evidence-based therapy that works with the mind’s natural processing system similar to what happens during REM sleep to help process unresolved experiences.
(760) 313-6234 View (760) 313-6234
Photo of Lisette Montañez, Psychologist, PsyD
Lisette Montañez
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
Understanding our emotions can sometimes feel like navigating a maze without a map. From the earliest moments of our lives, our relationships shape who we are and how we relate to the world. I'm Dr. Lisette Montañez, a licensed psychologist at Coastal Therapy Group in Carlsbad and Vista. I help teens, adults, and couples untangle the emotional threads that weave through their past and present. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, navigating relationship dynamics, processing trauma, or exploring your identity, I offer a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings at your own pace. I am actively taking new patients 4/1/2026.
Understanding our emotions can sometimes feel like navigating a maze without a map. From the earliest moments of our lives, our relationships shape who we are and how we relate to the world. I'm Dr. Lisette Montañez, a licensed psychologist at Coastal Therapy Group in Carlsbad and Vista. I help teens, adults, and couples untangle the emotional threads that weave through their past and present. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, navigating relationship dynamics, processing trauma, or exploring your identity, I offer a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings at your own pace. I am actively taking new patients 4/1/2026.
(442) 200-2795 View (442) 200-2795
Photo of Joncannon Eiden, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Joncannon Eiden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or caught in patterns that keep repeating despite your best efforts? I work primarily with adults seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, eating disorders, addiction, and major life stressors. My goal is to help clients better understand themselves, process difficult experiences, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or caught in patterns that keep repeating despite your best efforts? I work primarily with adults seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, eating disorders, addiction, and major life stressors. My goal is to help clients better understand themselves, process difficult experiences, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful, lasting change.
(760) 882-8956 View (760) 882-8956
Photo of Veronica Gutierrez, Psychologist, PhD
Veronica Gutierrez
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
I am a licensed psychologist in Southern California. I earned my Ph.D. from UC Santa Barbara in 2004. I work with individuals of all ages. I have worked with various communities including the LGBTQ, low-income, and racial/ethnic communities. I speak both English and Spanish. I primarily use Insight Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to find connections between people’s childhood experiences and their current situations, decisions, behaviors, thoughts, and/or feelings. My goals in therapy are to help individuals find harmony and stability in their lives and move forward in their life paths, finding happiness and success.
I am a licensed psychologist in Southern California. I earned my Ph.D. from UC Santa Barbara in 2004. I work with individuals of all ages. I have worked with various communities including the LGBTQ, low-income, and racial/ethnic communities. I speak both English and Spanish. I primarily use Insight Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to find connections between people’s childhood experiences and their current situations, decisions, behaviors, thoughts, and/or feelings. My goals in therapy are to help individuals find harmony and stability in their lives and move forward in their life paths, finding happiness and success.
(760) 284-5643 View (760) 284-5643
Photo of Heather Robbins, Limited Licensed Psychologist, Psy D., LEP
Heather Robbins
Limited Licensed Psychologist, Psy D., LEP
Vista, CA 92083
Whether a family needs help managing difficult situations with their child’s school in the IEP process, assessments for autism, ADHD, Learning disabilities, or in adaptive domains, I am able to write and explain the comprehensive reports.
Assessments 1:1 individual therapy Small group play Family collaboration IEP or 504 plan consults
Whether a family needs help managing difficult situations with their child’s school in the IEP process, assessments for autism, ADHD, Learning disabilities, or in adaptive domains, I am able to write and explain the comprehensive reports.
Assessments 1:1 individual therapy Small group play Family collaboration IEP or 504 plan consults
(760) 621-9763 View (760) 621-9763
Photo of Christina Payton, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Christina Payton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Vista, CA 92081
In addition to providing therapy to both adults and children, I have extensive experience working with co-occurring disorders in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
My therapeutic focus is driven by utilization of various techniques and coping skills stemming from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) with an emphasis on mindfulness.
In addition to providing therapy to both adults and children, I have extensive experience working with co-occurring disorders in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
My therapeutic focus is driven by utilization of various techniques and coping skills stemming from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) with an emphasis on mindfulness.
(760) 642-1343 View (760) 642-1343
Photo of Clare Edwards, Psychologist, PhD
Clare Edwards
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
I work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages.
Together, we can better understand your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in the context in which they occur. Human emotion and behavior are purposeful and provide important information about our needs, values, and desires. When we can uncover and validate these forces, we are then able to shift emotional and relational patterns that may no longer serve us.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages.
Together, we can better understand your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in the context in which they occur. Human emotion and behavior are purposeful and provide important information about our needs, values, and desires. When we can uncover and validate these forces, we are then able to shift emotional and relational patterns that may no longer serve us.
(442) 239-4226 View (442) 239-4226
Photo of Carissa Pilkington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ASW
Carissa Pilkington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ASW
Vista, CA 92084
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) specializes in working with children, teens, adults, families & couples.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly.
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) specializes in working with children, teens, adults, families & couples.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Photo of Margaret Boyd - Margaret Boyd - Therapy For You Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Margaret Boyd - Therapy For You Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Vista, CA 92084
Now accepting new clients with Aetna, Optum, Cigna/Evernorth, and Blue Shield — compassionate therapy for anxiety, depression, stress, teens, and couples in San Diego and across California via telehealth. If you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, or struggling in your relationships, you are not alone — and you don’t have to face it by yourself. At Therapy For You Counseling Center, we provide warm, compassionate, evidence-based therapy to help you feel calmer, more hopeful, and more in control of your life.
Now accepting new clients with Aetna, Optum, Cigna/Evernorth, and Blue Shield — compassionate therapy for anxiety, depression, stress, teens, and couples in San Diego and across California via telehealth. If you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, or struggling in your relationships, you are not alone — and you don’t have to face it by yourself. At Therapy For You Counseling Center, we provide warm, compassionate, evidence-based therapy to help you feel calmer, more hopeful, and more in control of your life.
(760) 840-3255 View (760) 840-3255

See more therapy options for Vista

FAQ - About Child Therapy
When does a child need to see a therapist?
Children naturally experience emotional ups and downs. Sometimes, though, they need support from a professional. A child may benefit from therapy if their emotions or behaviors change significantly within a short period of time. For example, if a child usually spends time with friends after school but begins isolating in their room, further inquiry is warranted. Other areas for concern include altered sleep patterns, lack of appetite, intense anger, irritability, or hopelessness, or developmental regression in young children (bedwetting, thumb-sucking).

What can a child therapist help with?
A therapist can help with any difficult experience a child may encounter growing up, including learning problems or anxiety related to school, relationship challenges with friends or parents, bullying, intense emotions or phobias, divorce and family dynamics, or the death of a pet or loved one. A therapist can help children process their experience and develop coping skills in an age-appropriate way

What therapy types are most suitable for children?
Children can benefit from different forms of therapy, including family therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and exposure therapy, depending on their condition. Play therapy is a great option for younger children who may not be able to fully articulate their feelings. In this approach, kids play with toys and games while a therapist observes and helps the child express their emotions and develop coping skills.

Do I need to attend therapy with my child?
Parents are an integral part of a child’s therapy, but the specifics of their involvement vary. If your child is young, you may attend most or all sessions; if your child is older, you may attend a few sessions or none; sometimes a therapist may ask you to have a session on your own. Whatever the arrangement, you should expect to work collaboratively with the therapist, your child, and your family members to take steps to help support your child.

How can I tell if a therapist is a good fit for my child?
A child needs to feel comfortable opening up about their thoughts and feelings, so if your child feels a sense of comfort, ease, and trust with their therapist, that’s a great sign. In addition, a therapist is a good fit for your child if the two can communicate well together; a clinician should be able to communicate clearly, effectively, and in an age-appropriate manner.