Lesbian Therapists in Vista, CA
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.
As a queer, person of color and non-binary therapist, I take pride in providing a genuine, lighthearted, non-judgmental but direct approach to those managing mental health and/or relationship issues. I also specialize in LGBTQ+/GSRD (Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diverse) issues including gender therapy to the Trans community and their families/partners. I utilize an eclectic style with various modalities and interventions including DBT, CBT, IFS and whatever may be relevant for YOUR treatment and success.
As a queer, person of color and non-binary therapist, I take pride in providing a genuine, lighthearted, non-judgmental but direct approach to those managing mental health and/or relationship issues. I also specialize in LGBTQ+/GSRD (Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diverse) issues including gender therapy to the Trans community and their families/partners. I utilize an eclectic style with various modalities and interventions including DBT, CBT, IFS and whatever may be relevant for YOUR treatment and success.
I'm a Psychologist in CA and MN who believes each person has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I'm LGBTQIA+-Affirming & provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I'm MAP-Informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive.
I'm a Psychologist in CA and MN who believes each person has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I'm LGBTQIA+-Affirming & provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I'm MAP-Informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive.
Life seems intense, overwhelming, or stressful right now. Fear, anger, and exhaustion are familiar emotions. Your parent/boss/spouse just doesn't get it and you don't know how to explain it to them. Perhaps you're questioning your identity, coming out to your family or to your child(ren), experiencing separation/divorce, ready to transition, or coping with loss. You want a safe place to discuss and leave behind feelings of loneliness, sadness, and confusion. You want to figure out a way to get through the week (the day!) and the next. You want relief. You want to be understood. Let's talk. Your first phone consultation is free.
Life seems intense, overwhelming, or stressful right now. Fear, anger, and exhaustion are familiar emotions. Your parent/boss/spouse just doesn't get it and you don't know how to explain it to them. Perhaps you're questioning your identity, coming out to your family or to your child(ren), experiencing separation/divorce, ready to transition, or coping with loss. You want a safe place to discuss and leave behind feelings of loneliness, sadness, and confusion. You want to figure out a way to get through the week (the day!) and the next. You want relief. You want to be understood. Let's talk. Your first phone consultation is free.
I have worked with a wide range of individuals, couples and families struggling with a diverse array of problems and stressors. I approach therapy from a non pathologizing frame where I believe each individual has the ability to change their life and their reality. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families that are motivated and determined to make lasting changes in their lives. I am inspired by everyones different story and strongly believe that when there is a will there is a way. I am passionate in supporting people as they grow into the person they want to be and create the life they desire.
I have worked with a wide range of individuals, couples and families struggling with a diverse array of problems and stressors. I approach therapy from a non pathologizing frame where I believe each individual has the ability to change their life and their reality. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families that are motivated and determined to make lasting changes in their lives. I am inspired by everyones different story and strongly believe that when there is a will there is a way. I am passionate in supporting people as they grow into the person they want to be and create the life they desire.
Paula Ratter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD, RN
3 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
Waitlist for new clients
I don't have an ideal client. I want to met people where they are at. If you've never had therapy before, it’s important to be aware we don’t start talking about the hard stuff. It can take 2-3 sessions for someone to feel comfortable enough to tell another person what they are struggling with. Therapists cannot read minds, but have studied human patterns of thoughts, feelings & actions. No one can truly know the exact consequences a person has experienced in their life. Regardless of the reason why someone is seeking therapy, there is no judgment, no criticism…just acceptance. People can heal & grow in this type of environment.
I don't have an ideal client. I want to met people where they are at. If you've never had therapy before, it’s important to be aware we don’t start talking about the hard stuff. It can take 2-3 sessions for someone to feel comfortable enough to tell another person what they are struggling with. Therapists cannot read minds, but have studied human patterns of thoughts, feelings & actions. No one can truly know the exact consequences a person has experienced in their life. Regardless of the reason why someone is seeking therapy, there is no judgment, no criticism…just acceptance. People can heal & grow in this type of environment.
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 in entertainment, 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.
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 in entertainment, 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.
Easy self booking and instant insurance verification using my website care.headway.co/providers/emily-eyerly. Life can be challenging, and sometimes we all need support to navigate stress, relationships, or past experiences. You deserve a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. I’m a Licensed Therapist with 9 years of experience, and I believe therapy should be as unique as you are. Together, we’ll create a plan that respects your experiences, your beliefs, and your goals. If you’re ready to feel understood, empowered, and supported as you navigate life’s challenges, I’m prepared to walk alongside you.
Easy self booking and instant insurance verification using my website care.headway.co/providers/emily-eyerly. Life can be challenging, and sometimes we all need support to navigate stress, relationships, or past experiences. You deserve a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. I’m a Licensed Therapist with 9 years of experience, and I believe therapy should be as unique as you are. Together, we’ll create a plan that respects your experiences, your beliefs, and your goals. If you’re ready to feel understood, empowered, and supported as you navigate life’s challenges, I’m prepared to walk alongside you.
When we've lost touch with our truer self, life is just harder. If you're not as present and engaged in your life as you'd like, you may also find your body weighing in through symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and unhelpful patterns of behavior. Underlying such symptoms are often vital, "offline" parts of ourselves that a good therapeutic alliance can help you to identify, strengthen and expand. If you're experiencing a readiness to take your online search for a therapist to the next level, I offer a brief phone consultation to help determine goodness of fit.
When we've lost touch with our truer self, life is just harder. If you're not as present and engaged in your life as you'd like, you may also find your body weighing in through symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and unhelpful patterns of behavior. Underlying such symptoms are often vital, "offline" parts of ourselves that a good therapeutic alliance can help you to identify, strengthen and expand. If you're experiencing a readiness to take your online search for a therapist to the next level, I offer a brief phone consultation to help determine goodness of fit.
I help adolescents and adults navigate difficulties in their lives. Some of the treatment areas in which I work relate to identity (e.g., LGBTQ+ individuals), anxiety, transitions, values, trauma, and mood. My goal is to create an open and safe environment from which to explore, process, and learn. It is an honor to get to know you and to work collaboratively to address whatever brings you to therapy. I look forward to speaking with you.
I help adolescents and adults navigate difficulties in their lives. Some of the treatment areas in which I work relate to identity (e.g., LGBTQ+ individuals), anxiety, transitions, values, trauma, and mood. My goal is to create an open and safe environment from which to explore, process, and learn. It is an honor to get to know you and to work collaboratively to address whatever brings you to therapy. I look forward to speaking with you.
Emily is currently accepting new clients. Throughout our lives, we all encounter many defining moments that have lasting imprints on who we are and who we become. Although this is a universal lived experience, not everyone has social support or a plan for how to navigate this process. Therapy is an effective method of providing additional support to help these life transitions seem less daunting and more doable. Emily is committed to working alongside clients to understand their lived experiences, while improving quality of life.
Emily is currently accepting new clients. Throughout our lives, we all encounter many defining moments that have lasting imprints on who we are and who we become. Although this is a universal lived experience, not everyone has social support or a plan for how to navigate this process. Therapy is an effective method of providing additional support to help these life transitions seem less daunting and more doable. Emily is committed to working alongside clients to understand their lived experiences, while improving quality of life.
There is an undeniable urge toward growth, wholeness and healing within each individual. The journey of healing and growth is unique process for every individual. My approach to psychotherapy is holistic, creative, and embodied within a framework of Jungian psychology. It is tailored to meet the unique needs of individual and build on existing strengths. I implement evidence based treatment modalities such as CBT, DBT, and ACT as well as creative approach. I tailor my approach for each client using a variety of tools including play therapy, sand tray, expressive art, active imagination and dream work.
There is an undeniable urge toward growth, wholeness and healing within each individual. The journey of healing and growth is unique process for every individual. My approach to psychotherapy is holistic, creative, and embodied within a framework of Jungian psychology. It is tailored to meet the unique needs of individual and build on existing strengths. I implement evidence based treatment modalities such as CBT, DBT, and ACT as well as creative approach. I tailor my approach for each client using a variety of tools including play therapy, sand tray, expressive art, active imagination and dream work.
Hannah Corder Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Vista, CA 92084
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.
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.
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.
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.
Molly Burns - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Vista, CA 92084
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.
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.
DBT for Children -Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Vista, CA 92084
Does your child exhibit out of control behaviors? Are you afraid or anxious to take your child out in public? Do you feel like you’re being held hostage by your child? Does your child yell or scream at you? Does your child try to hit or bite you? Does your child get in trouble/suspended/expelled from school?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you and your child would likely benefit from DBT-C - Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children. PEP offers this exclusive program in both our traditional outpatient setting as well as our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP).
Does your child exhibit out of control behaviors? Are you afraid or anxious to take your child out in public? Do you feel like you’re being held hostage by your child? Does your child yell or scream at you? Does your child try to hit or bite you? Does your child get in trouble/suspended/expelled from school?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you and your child would likely benefit from DBT-C - Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children. PEP offers this exclusive program in both our traditional outpatient setting as well as our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP).
Is excessive worry or sadness limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a life worth living? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, panic, excessive worry & depression is our primary focus. By using proven therapy methods (We are Dialectical Behavior Therapy - DBT specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, skills & reachable goals. 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.
Is excessive worry or sadness limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a life worth living? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, panic, excessive worry & depression is our primary focus. By using proven therapy methods (We are Dialectical Behavior Therapy - DBT specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, skills & reachable goals. 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
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92084
Is excessive worry or sadness limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a life worth living? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, panic, excessive worry & depression is our primary focus. By using proven therapy methods (We are Dialectical Behavior Therapy - DBT specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, skills & reachable goals. 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.
Is excessive worry or sadness limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a life worth living? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, panic, excessive worry & depression is our primary focus. By using proven therapy methods (We are Dialectical Behavior Therapy - DBT specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, skills & reachable goals. 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.
Are you a parent who is struggling with your child or teen? Does your child or teen have out of control or really big behaviors? Do they self harm or have suicidal thoughts? Do you want your family back? I can help. I work with parents through a type of therapy called Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help them help their children and teens. My team of therapists work directly with the children and teens to help them gain emotional & behavioral control, & I work with parents to help them get their life back. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & we help you get results!
Are you a parent who is struggling with your child or teen? Does your child or teen have out of control or really big behaviors? Do they self harm or have suicidal thoughts? Do you want your family back? I can help. I work with parents through a type of therapy called Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help them help their children and teens. My team of therapists work directly with the children and teens to help them gain emotional & behavioral control, & I work with parents to help them get their life back. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & we help you get results!
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy Private DBT IOP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBT IOP
Vista, CA 92084
When your child or young adult is self-harming, suicidal, explosive, or spiraling despite therapy or medication, weekly counseling is not enough. If you are worried about safety, repeated crises, or hospitalization, intensive treatment may be needed now.
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy provides full, comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) — one of the most effective treatments for chronic suicidality, self-harm, and severe emotional dysregulation. Our private DBT Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) delivers structured, high-support care for teens and young adults whose lives feel chaotic, unsafe, or out of control.
When your child or young adult is self-harming, suicidal, explosive, or spiraling despite therapy or medication, weekly counseling is not enough. If you are worried about safety, repeated crises, or hospitalization, intensive treatment may be needed now.
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy provides full, comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) — one of the most effective treatments for chronic suicidality, self-harm, and severe emotional dysregulation. Our private DBT Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) delivers structured, high-support care for teens and young adults whose lives feel chaotic, unsafe, or out of control.
See more therapy options for Vista
Nearby Lesbian Therapists Searches for Vista
- Camp Pendleton
- Cardiff
- Carlsbad
- Del Mar
- Encinitas
- Escondido
- Fallbrook
- Oceanside
- Rancho Santa Fe
- San Marcos
- Solana Beach
- Valley Center
Lesbian Therapists
What is lesbian-affirming therapy?
Lesbian-affirming therapy is a type of mental health support that fully affirms and reflects a client's lesbian identity. It is rooted in acceptance and does not attempt to change or question an individual's sexual orientation. In this type of therapy, clients work with a therapist who understands the unique experiences of lesbian women. This support is especially important, as research shows that lesbian individuals face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges compared to heterosexual populations. Lesbian-affirming therapy acknowledges that lesbian individuals may encounter specific stressors—such as coming out challenges, family rejection, workplace discrimination, and minority stress—that require specialized understanding and intervention. Lesbian-affirming therapists often work with clients across all age groups, from adolescents navigating their emerging identity to adults and older individuals addressing life transitions and relationship concerns. Many therapists also provide couples therapy for lesbian partners, helping them navigate relationship dynamics, communication challenges, or external stressors that may impact their relationship. It is important to note that therapists provide talk therapy and counseling services but do not prescribe medication—if medication is needed for conditions like depression or anxiety, they will coordinate care with a psychiatrist or primary care physician who can provide psychiatric medication management alongside therapeutic support.
Why should I see a lesbian therapist?
Some clients prefer to work with lesbian therapists who may bring personal lived experience to the therapeutic relationship. Choosing to work with a lesbian therapist can offer a deeper sense of connection, comfort, and shared understanding. A therapist who identifies as lesbian may require clients to give less background explanation—whether it’s about navigating romantic relationships, feeling unseen in certain spaces, or processing the impact of past relationship challenges. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. Additionally, many lesbian-affirming therapists can connect clients to other providers or community-based resources—such as bisexual support groups or LGBTQ+ organizations—that offer additional affirming spaces for connection.
How do I find a lesbian therapist?
The Psychology Today online directory is a helpful tool for finding lesbian-affirming therapists. You can use search filters to identify therapists who specialize in LGBTQ+ care and work specifically with bisexual clients. You can also filter by clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, accepted insurance, session costs, and languages spoken to find the right fit. Look for profiles where therapists explicitly mention working with lesbian clients, or where they describe their approach as identity-affirming, inclusive, or trauma-informed. Many providers will also list their own identities, which may help you find someone with shared lived experience if that is important to you. You can also look for credentials or continuing education in areas such as LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma-informed care, and intersectionality.