Narrative Therapists in Vista, CA

Photo of Alexis Perez, MSW, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexis Perez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
I utilize evidence-based, strengths-based, trauma-informed, harm-reduction, attachment theory framework to introduce narrative therapy, CBT, DBT, meditation, mindfulness, and art techniques.
I am a proud first-generation Latina graduate of California State University, Long Beach. Through my educational training and professional experiences, I cultivated a strong background supporting Spanish & English-speaking adults (18+) facing life challenges and transitions. This includes but is not limited to dating/interpersonal relationship challenges, dating violence, trauma, abuse/neglect, stressful life transitions, adjustments, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, & PTSD. I am passionate about collaboration, human connection, and holding space for healing in supporting you to cultivate positive change in your life.
I utilize evidence-based, strengths-based, trauma-informed, harm-reduction, attachment theory framework to introduce narrative therapy, CBT, DBT, meditation, mindfulness, and art techniques.
I am a proud first-generation Latina graduate of California State University, Long Beach. Through my educational training and professional experiences, I cultivated a strong background supporting Spanish & English-speaking adults (18+) facing life challenges and transitions. This includes but is not limited to dating/interpersonal relationship challenges, dating violence, trauma, abuse/neglect, stressful life transitions, adjustments, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, & PTSD. I am passionate about collaboration, human connection, and holding space for healing in supporting you to cultivate positive change in your life.
(442) 333-4875 View (442) 333-4875
Photo of Veronica Gutierrez, PhD, Psychologist
Veronica Gutierrez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
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 Kathleen Casillas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Casillas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
I'm Kathy Casillas, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, practicing in the field for almost 17 years. In my many years as a therapist, I find myself using DBT and Strength Based Approaches, as well as Art therapy for a bottoms-up approach which works great to combat fears and anxiety. My favorite mantra is "Don't look back- you're not going that way" by Mary Engelbreit. I have worked with all ages from as young as 5 to 75, Typically I work with older teens and older adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes.
I'm Kathy Casillas, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, practicing in the field for almost 17 years. In my many years as a therapist, I find myself using DBT and Strength Based Approaches, as well as Art therapy for a bottoms-up approach which works great to combat fears and anxiety. My favorite mantra is "Don't look back- you're not going that way" by Mary Engelbreit. I have worked with all ages from as young as 5 to 75, Typically I work with older teens and older adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes.
(760) 330-2752 View (760) 330-2752
Photo of Carolyn L Millikin, LMFT, MA, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn L Millikin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
I am accepting new clients for in-person sessions or via tele-health secure portal. I work with clients who wants to develop new skills to address the areas in their lives where they are experiencing distress. Many of my clients are grieving the loss of a loved one, struggling with marital or parenting difficulties, addictions, anxiety, and depression. If you need someone who listens and understands the challenges of going through difficult transitions, breaking the hold of addictions, how to improve relationships, and developing a meaningful life, give me a call. Let's write the next chapter of your life together.
I am accepting new clients for in-person sessions or via tele-health secure portal. I work with clients who wants to develop new skills to address the areas in their lives where they are experiencing distress. Many of my clients are grieving the loss of a loved one, struggling with marital or parenting difficulties, addictions, anxiety, and depression. If you need someone who listens and understands the challenges of going through difficult transitions, breaking the hold of addictions, how to improve relationships, and developing a meaningful life, give me a call. Let's write the next chapter of your life together.
(442) 245-5548 View (442) 245-5548
Photo of Liza Castro, MA, LMFT, #145076, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liza Castro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, #145076
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that will be your pillar of support, be authentic and provide you with the support you need. I will help you return to a healthier level of functioning. Everyone has a reset button. I will guide you to find it and teach you how to use it. I help people from all walks of life that are stumped by negative patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving. Whether you were hurt by others or if you did the hurting, or life happened to you in a way that blind sided you, I want you to know that you can get back up. If you are willing to show up for yourself and put in the work, then so am I.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that will be your pillar of support, be authentic and provide you with the support you need. I will help you return to a healthier level of functioning. Everyone has a reset button. I will guide you to find it and teach you how to use it. I help people from all walks of life that are stumped by negative patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving. Whether you were hurt by others or if you did the hurting, or life happened to you in a way that blind sided you, I want you to know that you can get back up. If you are willing to show up for yourself and put in the work, then so am I.
(760) 512-8508 View (760) 512-8508
Photo of Natalie Guevara-Lehman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Guevara-Lehman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Let's help you live the life you imagined, or imagine the life you deserve! Are you aware of your strengths and how sacred it is to be uniquely YOU? Do you notice the mystery of the daily experience & wish to be more capable of enjoying your relationships? I am here to help you develop the skills to lead a healthier and more satisfying life.
Let's help you live the life you imagined, or imagine the life you deserve! Are you aware of your strengths and how sacred it is to be uniquely YOU? Do you notice the mystery of the daily experience & wish to be more capable of enjoying your relationships? I am here to help you develop the skills to lead a healthier and more satisfying life.
(760) 299-7993 View (760) 299-7993
Photo of Chris Peterson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chris Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
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!
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 Karin Huang, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karin Huang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084
Hi, My name is Karin Huang and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 120305 in California. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can’t change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Hi, My name is Karin Huang and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 120305 in California. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can’t change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(760) 313-6897 View (760) 313-6897
Photo of Ann Areeckal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Areeckal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083  (Online Only)
I would like to serve clients who are looking for weekly or biweekly sessions focused on learning about themselves by addressing concerns around their self esteem or personal growth, depression, anxiety, relationships, and/or cultural challenges.
I would like to serve clients who are looking for weekly or biweekly sessions focused on learning about themselves by addressing concerns around their self esteem or personal growth, depression, anxiety, relationships, and/or cultural challenges.
(760) 456-7061 View (760) 456-7061
Photo of Erika Brinda, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erika Brinda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084
Hello! My name is Erika Brinda. I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 13 years of professional work experience. I love being a therapist and I appreciate the work that I do. I enjoy working with a diverse population and practice therapy with cultural humility. I am accustomed to working with the entire lifespan. I prefer working with adults. I have experience with treating depression, anxiety/panic disorders, trauma, sleep issues, adjustment disorders, divorce and family stressors, and mood disorders.
Hello! My name is Erika Brinda. I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 13 years of professional work experience. I love being a therapist and I appreciate the work that I do. I enjoy working with a diverse population and practice therapy with cultural humility. I am accustomed to working with the entire lifespan. I prefer working with adults. I have experience with treating depression, anxiety/panic disorders, trauma, sleep issues, adjustment disorders, divorce and family stressors, and mood disorders.
(909) 939-9252 View (909) 939-9252
Photo of Megan Mar, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Mar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084
Life can be challenging sometimes! As a licensed marriage and family therapist, It is my goal to work collaboratively with you, walking alongside you through whatever circumstances, experiences, or difficulties you may be facing. My therapeutic treatment includes helping you identify your goals, individual strengths, and specific techniques you can utilize to navigate through life’s difficulties. It is my goal that you find empowerment and hope as we walk this journey together.
Life can be challenging sometimes! As a licensed marriage and family therapist, It is my goal to work collaboratively with you, walking alongside you through whatever circumstances, experiences, or difficulties you may be facing. My therapeutic treatment includes helping you identify your goals, individual strengths, and specific techniques you can utilize to navigate through life’s difficulties. It is my goal that you find empowerment and hope as we walk this journey together.
(559) 586-6924 View (559) 586-6924
Photo of Dr. Behin Abedi, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Behin Abedi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083  (Online Only)
I'm a clinical psychologist who is dedicated to empowering and helping people live fuller and more enriching lives. I have a supportive and collaborative treatment approach and adapt the therapeutic process to the unique needs, preferences, and goals of each individual. In doing so, I integrate different treatment modalities and evidence-based practices to help people become unstuck and improve their overall well-being. I'm skilled in treating a variety of presenting issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationships, career stress/change, self-esteem, identity, and other cultural-related stressors.
I'm a clinical psychologist who is dedicated to empowering and helping people live fuller and more enriching lives. I have a supportive and collaborative treatment approach and adapt the therapeutic process to the unique needs, preferences, and goals of each individual. In doing so, I integrate different treatment modalities and evidence-based practices to help people become unstuck and improve their overall well-being. I'm skilled in treating a variety of presenting issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationships, career stress/change, self-esteem, identity, and other cultural-related stressors.
(415) 853-5382 View (415) 853-5382
Photo of Sofia Nahavandi Gonzalez, LCP, Psychologist
Sofia Nahavandi Gonzalez
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084
With over 25 years of experience in addiction recovery support, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals transform their lives. My passion lies in guiding clients through a recovery process that respects their unique values and meets them where they are in their readiness for change. Together, we embark on a journey of healing and growth, fostering a brighter future filled with hope and empowerment. My typical clients are individuals who find themselves pondering the recovery process for addiction and codependency, seeking guidance and understanding.
With over 25 years of experience in addiction recovery support, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals transform their lives. My passion lies in guiding clients through a recovery process that respects their unique values and meets them where they are in their readiness for change. Together, we embark on a journey of healing and growth, fostering a brighter future filled with hope and empowerment. My typical clients are individuals who find themselves pondering the recovery process for addiction and codependency, seeking guidance and understanding.
(909) 315-4610 View (909) 315-4610
Photo of Nai Saechao, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nai Saechao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
Hi there, my name is Nai Saechao, and I am a licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about supporting all my clients through challenges to experience healing and growth in their lives. My approach is client centered. I will meet you with empathy, open-mindedness, and unconditional positive regard. I believe in working collaboratively to identify treatment priorities and to create a safe space for dialogue. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for young adults and persons of various generational groups who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, adjustments, and social pressures.
Hi there, my name is Nai Saechao, and I am a licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about supporting all my clients through challenges to experience healing and growth in their lives. My approach is client centered. I will meet you with empathy, open-mindedness, and unconditional positive regard. I believe in working collaboratively to identify treatment priorities and to create a safe space for dialogue. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for young adults and persons of various generational groups who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, adjustments, and social pressures.
(510) 405-5452 View (510) 405-5452
Photo of Bonnie Hegna, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bonnie Hegna
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
Hi, my name is Bonnie Hegna Licensed Marriage Family Therapist 143978. My approach to therapy is an eclectic approach short term. My focus of practice has been grief and loss, self-inflicted violent behavior, ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Marriage Counseling, Behavioral issues, Divorce, Child Abuse, and Foster Youth as well as Victims of Crime. I am most comfortable working with children 5 to 10 and adults. I work well with behavioral issues, grief and loss, self-inflicted violent behavior, victims of crime, child abuse, divorce, ADHD, school issues, job issues, conflicts, and life changes.
Hi, my name is Bonnie Hegna Licensed Marriage Family Therapist 143978. My approach to therapy is an eclectic approach short term. My focus of practice has been grief and loss, self-inflicted violent behavior, ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Marriage Counseling, Behavioral issues, Divorce, Child Abuse, and Foster Youth as well as Victims of Crime. I am most comfortable working with children 5 to 10 and adults. I work well with behavioral issues, grief and loss, self-inflicted violent behavior, victims of crime, child abuse, divorce, ADHD, school issues, job issues, conflicts, and life changes.
(510) 422-0092 View (510) 422-0092
Photo of Tess Norton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tess Norton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Tess Norton and I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist. I use a psychodynamic, client-centered approach with my clients. I help young adults better handle life’s stressors, keep perfectionism in check, and grow their self-esteem. I enjoy working with young adults who are navigating their own unique paths in life. I am most comfortable working with anxiety, whether it stems from familial stress or societal pressures. I am especially passionate about serving the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I also enjoy working with immigrants and children of immigrants.
Hello! My name is Tess Norton and I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist. I use a psychodynamic, client-centered approach with my clients. I help young adults better handle life’s stressors, keep perfectionism in check, and grow their self-esteem. I enjoy working with young adults who are navigating their own unique paths in life. I am most comfortable working with anxiety, whether it stems from familial stress or societal pressures. I am especially passionate about serving the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I also enjoy working with immigrants and children of immigrants.
(858) 258-9551 View (858) 258-9551
Photo of Dora Nayely Valencia, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dora Nayely Valencia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083  (Online Only)
Currently Accepting New Clients: Welcome. It takes great courage to take the first step in seeking support for past or current experiences. As a therapist, I use a collaborative approach to explore areas of stress and concern to establish goals towards personal growth and change. In doing so, my goal is to provide a safe environment that is free of judgement when embarking on your journey of healing and self-improvement.
Currently Accepting New Clients: Welcome. It takes great courage to take the first step in seeking support for past or current experiences. As a therapist, I use a collaborative approach to explore areas of stress and concern to establish goals towards personal growth and change. In doing so, my goal is to provide a safe environment that is free of judgement when embarking on your journey of healing and self-improvement.
(442) 253-1168 View (442) 253-1168
Photo of Michele Richter, LPCC
Michele Richter
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084
Hi, my name is Michele Richter, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) providing online/telehealth therapy to children, adolescents, young and older adults, and families. I focus in several areas including anger management, anxiety, coping skills, depression, addiction, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, trauma & PTSD, and stress, amongst others. My approach is compassion focused, culturally sensitive and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, and more.
Hi, my name is Michele Richter, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) providing online/telehealth therapy to children, adolescents, young and older adults, and families. I focus in several areas including anger management, anxiety, coping skills, depression, addiction, grief, life transitions, relationship issues, trauma & PTSD, and stress, amongst others. My approach is compassion focused, culturally sensitive and utilizes several modalities such as ACT, CBT, and more.
(916) 292-9641 View (916) 292-9641
Photo of Nasrin Farr, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nasrin Farr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
Hello, my name is Nasrin. For over a decade, I have had the privilege of working with adults, children/ adolescents, families, couples, LGBTQ, and Military/Veterans from a diverse population. What contributes to my work is the skill to utilize evidence-based therapies with the compassion and empathy needed to provide a therapeutic alliance.
Hello, my name is Nasrin. For over a decade, I have had the privilege of working with adults, children/ adolescents, families, couples, LGBTQ, and Military/Veterans from a diverse population. What contributes to my work is the skill to utilize evidence-based therapies with the compassion and empathy needed to provide a therapeutic alliance.
(323) 443-7274 View (323) 443-7274
Photo of Kendra Claire Wilhelm, BS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kendra Claire Wilhelm
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083
Do you struggle managing your emotions, dissatisfaction with your life, shame & guilt, anxiety or exhaustion? Are you overcome by difficult experiences from the past or loss? I am passionate about empowering teens and adults with emotional distress, self doubt, relationship issues or repeat patterns, who feel stressed, stuck & overwhelmed. I specialize in trauma and also help with anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, self-esteem, relationship issues, body image, mindfulness, inner child work, boundaries & sexuality. I will help you untangle the painful & frustrating areas of your life to make room for a life of joy and ease.
Do you struggle managing your emotions, dissatisfaction with your life, shame & guilt, anxiety or exhaustion? Are you overcome by difficult experiences from the past or loss? I am passionate about empowering teens and adults with emotional distress, self doubt, relationship issues or repeat patterns, who feel stressed, stuck & overwhelmed. I specialize in trauma and also help with anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, self-esteem, relationship issues, body image, mindfulness, inner child work, boundaries & sexuality. I will help you untangle the painful & frustrating areas of your life to make room for a life of joy and ease.
(619) 367-8413 View (619) 367-8413
Narrative Therapists

Is narrative therapy evidence-based?

Narrative therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Some small studies do show that depressed and anxious individuals who were treated with narrative therapy reported improvement in anxiety and depression symptoms.

How long does narrative therapy last?

Narrative therapy is less structured when compared with psychoanalysis, for example. Narrative therapy is more open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a few months, and sometimes a year or longer. Patients see their therapist one to two times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a person’s challenges and progress. Individuals can also practice the principles of narrative therapy after treatment has ended.

Does narrative therapy work?

Narrative therapy can help a person manage or reduce symptoms of conditions like depression or anxiety. This type of therapy encourages a person to reflect on the moments of their life when their particular problem was not at the forefront of their minds—perhaps life celebrations, achievements, and other successes. The individual is encouraged to rewrite their storyline as if their particular problem was not part of their life. This therapy may offer benefits that are hard to measure.

What are the possible limitations of narrative therapy?

Narrative therapy is person-centered or client-centered, and the health professional pays more attention to the subjective narratives that are constructed by the client, as opposed to other objective measures. The therapist privileges the individual’s perspective over all others. This open form may feel frustrating for individuals seeking a more structured approach; certainly, no one therapy type will work for every individual.