Neurodivergent Therapists in Vista, CA

Photo of Wenonah Washington, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Wenonah Washington
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
Wenonah is a licensed therapist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has several years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults, and she specializes in helping students and young adults manage anxiety, depression and ADHD. Wenonah utilizes evidence-based practices and maintains a trauma-informed, warm, and collaborative approach in her clinical work.
Wenonah is a licensed therapist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has several years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults, and she specializes in helping students and young adults manage anxiety, depression and ADHD. Wenonah utilizes evidence-based practices and maintains a trauma-informed, warm, and collaborative approach in her clinical work.
(760) 462-3909 View (760) 462-3909
Photo of Marcella Santamaria, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marcella Santamaria
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Marcella is particularly passionate about supporting individuals working through trauma, grief, and midlife or later-life transitions. She has extensive experience helping clients address the lasting impact of painful experiences while building resilience and emotional regulation skills. Whether supporting someone through postpartum depression, relationship challenges, or the evolving demands of aging, Marcella tailors treatment using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques to promote stability and self-empowerment.Marcella is particu
Marcella is particularly passionate about supporting individuals working through trauma, grief, and midlife or later-life transitions. She has extensive experience helping clients address the lasting impact of painful experiences while building resilience and emotional regulation skills. Whether supporting someone through postpartum depression, relationship challenges, or the evolving demands of aging, Marcella tailors treatment using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques to promote stability and self-empowerment.Marcella is particu
(760) 970-8350 View (760) 970-8350
Photo of Diva Clair, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Diva Clair
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
Ms. Clair is a Marriage Family Therapist with over 20 years experience treating adults in various settings including private practice, hospitals, residential chemical dependency, trauma centers, and military bases. She is client centered and bases treatment on each person's unique needs. Catherine is known for her direct, authentic, and deeply empathic style. She offers a broad array of traditional approaches such as cognitive behavior therapy, family of origin work, 12-step informed recovery concepts, as well as support for relationship transitions, LGBTQ, and young adult issues.
Ms. Clair is a Marriage Family Therapist with over 20 years experience treating adults in various settings including private practice, hospitals, residential chemical dependency, trauma centers, and military bases. She is client centered and bases treatment on each person's unique needs. Catherine is known for her direct, authentic, and deeply empathic style. She offers a broad array of traditional approaches such as cognitive behavior therapy, family of origin work, 12-step informed recovery concepts, as well as support for relationship transitions, LGBTQ, and young adult issues.
(760) 478-5607 View (760) 478-5607
Photo of Connor Berk, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Connor Berk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
While Connor is skilled in treating a wide range of concerns, he is especially passionate about supporting people who are coping with trauma, relationship challenges, and mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. He has extensive experience guiding individuals through the complexities of post-traumatic stress, helping couples rebuild trust and connection, and empowering those who feel stuck in cycles of worry or self-doubt. His compassionate and goal-oriented approach allows clients to feel both supported and encouraged as they take steps toward healing.
While Connor is skilled in treating a wide range of concerns, he is especially passionate about supporting people who are coping with trauma, relationship challenges, and mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. He has extensive experience guiding individuals through the complexities of post-traumatic stress, helping couples rebuild trust and connection, and empowering those who feel stuck in cycles of worry or self-doubt. His compassionate and goal-oriented approach allows clients to feel both supported and encouraged as they take steps toward healing.
(760) 971-4407 View (760) 971-4407
Photo of Marla R Elliott, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Marla R Elliott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083
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.
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 Bethany Ling, Registered Psychological Associate, PsyD
Bethany Ling
Registered Psychological Associate, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
There are times when we act in ways that don’t align with what we truly want or need, and we may not even understand why. You might feel overwhelmed, stressed, or unsure how to express your needs to the people who matter most. Or, perhaps you feel disconnected from yourself, which can make it difficult to have meaningful and close relationships with others. It’s not uncommon for this to bring up feelings like guilt, anger, or not feeling good enough, and other emotions that can be hard to talk about or manage. I work with both children and adults, supporting them gaining deeper self-awareness, and positive connections with others.
There are times when we act in ways that don’t align with what we truly want or need, and we may not even understand why. You might feel overwhelmed, stressed, or unsure how to express your needs to the people who matter most. Or, perhaps you feel disconnected from yourself, which can make it difficult to have meaningful and close relationships with others. It’s not uncommon for this to bring up feelings like guilt, anger, or not feeling good enough, and other emotions that can be hard to talk about or manage. I work with both children and adults, supporting them gaining deeper self-awareness, and positive connections with others.
(442) 347-4136 View (442) 347-4136
Emilia Ramirez
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
Dr. Emilia Ramirez is both from Texas and California, loves what she does and considers it her calling. She has worked in the field of social services for approximately 25 years and began her training as a therapist in 2015. Dr. Ramirez completed her Clinical Psychology doctorate in 2011 in Dallas, Texas. Prior to this, she obtained a Masters in Clinical Psychology in 2009 in Dallas Texas and graduated as a fourth-generation Longhorn from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2001, After completing graduate school, she moved back to California and is here to stay.
Dr. Emilia Ramirez is both from Texas and California, loves what she does and considers it her calling. She has worked in the field of social services for approximately 25 years and began her training as a therapist in 2015. Dr. Ramirez completed her Clinical Psychology doctorate in 2011 in Dallas, Texas. Prior to this, she obtained a Masters in Clinical Psychology in 2009 in Dallas Texas and graduated as a fourth-generation Longhorn from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2001, After completing graduate school, she moved back to California and is here to stay.
(760) 970-8658 View (760) 970-8658
Photo of Liza Castro, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Liza Castro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi, my name is Liza Castro, LMFT, and I am the therapist who will be your best coach and teach you how to win. I am not your ordinary therapist, as I am very genuine, empathetic, and also direct. You need honesty, to be challenged, insight, and awareness, and I am here to help you obtain what you need. I love working with diverse clients with a variety of issues. I especially love to work with clients who have experienced trauma, attachment or abandonment issues, childhood issues, and relationship issues.
Hi, my name is Liza Castro, LMFT, and I am the therapist who will be your best coach and teach you how to win. I am not your ordinary therapist, as I am very genuine, empathetic, and also direct. You need honesty, to be challenged, insight, and awareness, and I am here to help you obtain what you need. I love working with diverse clients with a variety of issues. I especially love to work with clients who have experienced trauma, attachment or abandonment issues, childhood issues, and relationship issues.
(626) 876-2275 View (626) 876-2275
Photo of Clare Edwards, Psychologist, PhD
Clare Edwards
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
As a psychologist, I aim to help you heal the relationships that matter most, including how you relate to yourself. I work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Perhaps you are looking at your child or adolescent and are confused by their behavior or at a loss for how to help them. Maybe you or an important relationship in your life is suffering and you feel stuck. Whatever challenges you are facing, my goal is to meet you with empathy and the fundamental belief that each of us is doing the best we can with the resources we have available to us in any given moment.
As a psychologist, I aim to help you heal the relationships that matter most, including how you relate to yourself. I work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Perhaps you are looking at your child or adolescent and are confused by their behavior or at a loss for how to help them. Maybe you or an important relationship in your life is suffering and you feel stuck. Whatever challenges you are facing, my goal is to meet you with empathy and the fundamental belief that each of us is doing the best we can with the resources we have available to us in any given moment.
(442) 239-4226 View (442) 239-4226
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
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.
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 Christina Payton, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Christina Payton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Vista, CA 92081
I am now accepting NEW clients! I offer counseling to individuals and couples, providing assistance in navigating difficult life events, relationship challenges, mood-related disorders, and postpartum depression or anxiety. My background includes working with a diverse client population who present with wide-ranging diagnosis and clinical complexities. 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. I am dedicated to working with my clients on identifying and achieving their goals, whatever those may be!
I am now accepting NEW clients! I offer counseling to individuals and couples, providing assistance in navigating difficult life events, relationship challenges, mood-related disorders, and postpartum depression or anxiety. My background includes working with a diverse client population who present with wide-ranging diagnosis and clinical complexities. 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. I am dedicated to working with my clients on identifying and achieving their goals, whatever those may be!
(760) 642-1343 View (760) 642-1343
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 Tyrone Totten, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Tyrone Totten
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
Finding a safe and supportive space to explore your emotions, experiences, and goals is a powerful step toward healing and growth. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, and families from all cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations seeking connection, balance, and fulfillment. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or challenges in relationships and self-identity. You want clarity, emotional healing, and practical tools to manage life’s difficulties. Together, we work toward greater self-awareness, stronger relationships, and empowerment rooted in your unique strengths and values.
Finding a safe and supportive space to explore your emotions, experiences, and goals is a powerful step toward healing and growth. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, and families from all cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations seeking connection, balance, and fulfillment. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or challenges in relationships and self-identity. You want clarity, emotional healing, and practical tools to manage life’s difficulties. Together, we work toward greater self-awareness, stronger relationships, and empowerment rooted in your unique strengths and values.
(760) 456-8485 View (760) 456-8485
Photo of Erica Laks, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Erica Laks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
Waitlist for new clients
Throughout my career as a therapist, I have worked with individuals, families, and couples to navigate through difficult times. With compassion and understanding, I work to create a warm and safe environment so that each individual can build upon their strengths in order to attain the personal growth that they are committed to accomplishing in their lives. In a collaborative environment, support and practical feedback will be offered that effectively addresses personal life challenges. I incorporate complimentary techniques to offer a tailored approach that is personalized to each client.
Throughout my career as a therapist, I have worked with individuals, families, and couples to navigate through difficult times. With compassion and understanding, I work to create a warm and safe environment so that each individual can build upon their strengths in order to attain the personal growth that they are committed to accomplishing in their lives. In a collaborative environment, support and practical feedback will be offered that effectively addresses personal life challenges. I incorporate complimentary techniques to offer a tailored approach that is personalized to each client.
(760) 387-8813 View (760) 387-8813
Photo of Leanne Anaya Reece, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Leanne Anaya Reece
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92084
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.
(626) 262-4655 View (626) 262-4655
Photo of Christina Payton, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Christina Payton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Vista, CA 92081
Hi there, I'm Christina! I offer counseling to individuals, assisting in navigating difficult life events, relationship changes, mood-related disorders, and postpartum anxiety or depression. My background includes working with a diverse population who present with wide-ranging diagnoses and clinical complexities. I am dedicated to working with my clients on identifying and achieving their goals, whatever those may be!
Hi there, I'm Christina! I offer counseling to individuals, assisting in navigating difficult life events, relationship changes, mood-related disorders, and postpartum anxiety or depression. My background includes working with a diverse population who present with wide-ranging diagnoses and clinical complexities. I am dedicated to working with my clients on identifying and achieving their goals, whatever those may be!
(213) 855-3533 View (213) 855-3533
Photo of Serena Goldsmith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serena Goldsmith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi, I'm Serena. I am here to provide a safe, compassionate, and supportive space for you to address the challenges you are experiencing in order to live a more enjoyable and fulfilling life.
Hi, I'm Serena. I am here to provide a safe, compassionate, and supportive space for you to address the challenges you are experiencing in order to live a more enjoyable and fulfilling life.
(760) 304-1779 View (760) 304-1779
Photo of Shereen Cohen, Psychologist, PhD
Shereen Cohen
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
My primary specialty areas are: neurodivergent adults, parents of neurodivergent kids, generalized anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I specialize in working with adults on the autism spectrum who struggle with anxiety or depression, or who need support with navigating the academic, occupational, or social world. My goal is not to “fix” you - you are not broken! I aim to facilitate understanding, grow your skills, and expand your options in order to help you achieve your goals. In addition to autism, I treat those with anxiety disorders, OCD, tic disorders, ADHD, depression, and trauma. I also love working with parents, offering support for parenting stress, as well as tools and strategies for managing behavioral challenges in younger children.
My primary specialty areas are: neurodivergent adults, parents of neurodivergent kids, generalized anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I specialize in working with adults on the autism spectrum who struggle with anxiety or depression, or who need support with navigating the academic, occupational, or social world. My goal is not to “fix” you - you are not broken! I aim to facilitate understanding, grow your skills, and expand your options in order to help you achieve your goals. In addition to autism, I treat those with anxiety disorders, OCD, tic disorders, ADHD, depression, and trauma. I also love working with parents, offering support for parenting stress, as well as tools and strategies for managing behavioral challenges in younger children.
(760) 227-2613 View (760) 227-2613
Photo of Agne Bolsakova, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Agne Bolsakova
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Seeking mental health therapy is a powerful step toward personal growth and healing. It takes courage to confront life’s challenges and prioritize your well-being. In therapy, I provide the tools and support to help you navigate difficulties and thrive. My approach is trauma-informed and client-centered. I utilize integrative modalities (CBT, Solution-Focused, EMDR & more) to meet each client’s unique needs. My experience includes working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, communication, parenting, adoption-related issues, grief, adult ADHD, and trauma.
Seeking mental health therapy is a powerful step toward personal growth and healing. It takes courage to confront life’s challenges and prioritize your well-being. In therapy, I provide the tools and support to help you navigate difficulties and thrive. My approach is trauma-informed and client-centered. I utilize integrative modalities (CBT, Solution-Focused, EMDR & more) to meet each client’s unique needs. My experience includes working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, communication, parenting, adoption-related issues, grief, adult ADHD, and trauma.
(760) 280-9287 View (760) 280-9287
Photo of Rachel Vierra, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Rachel Vierra
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Online Only
I specialize in working with postpartum parents, trauma and clinicians. I'm trained in EMDR and enjoy helping clients to process their trauma and and set future goals to enjoy their lives and manage stressors.
I specialize in working with postpartum parents, trauma and clinicians. I'm trained in EMDR and enjoy helping clients to process their trauma and and set future goals to enjoy their lives and manage stressors.
(760) 517-6612 View (760) 517-6612

See more therapy options for Vista

FAQ - Neurodivergent Counselling
What does neurodivergent mean?
Neurodivergent is a broad term used to describe people whose brains process, learn, or respond to information in ways that differ from what is considered “typical.” Neurodivergence can include autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, Tourette syndrome, and other forms of neurological difference. The term comes from the idea of neurodiversity, which recognizes that differences in brain function are a natural part of human variation. Rather than viewing neurodivergence only through the lens of neurological disorders, this perspective acknowledges that neurodivergent people may experience both strengths and challenges. For example, a person may be very creative and intelligent, while also needing support with sensory sensitivity or learning differences.

What issues do neurodivergent people commonly bring to therapy?
Neurodivergent people often seek therapy for many of the same reasons as anyone else, including anxiety, depression, stress, relationship concerns, or major life transitions. They may also want support with challenges specifically related to neurodivergence; for example, therapy may help with executive functioning, social communication, sensory sensitivity, school/learning stress, or the experience of feeling misunderstood in society. Therapists can also help individuals and families diagnose conditions, as well as distinguish regular challenges associated with childhood and/or adolescence from more enduring conditions. When needed, a therapist may also provide referrals to additional specialists, such as occupational therapists or psychiatrists who can prescribe psychiatric medication.

What therapeutic approaches work well for neurodivergent clients?
Therapy for neurodivergent clients is often most helpful when it is flexible and affirming. Rather than expecting every client to fit one standard model of therapy, neurodivergent-affirming therapists may adapt sessions to each person’s needs and therapy goals. Often, this includes visual aids, movement breaks, or other therapy supports. Common structured therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be useful for some neurodivergent clients, but the approach may need to be modified to avoid feeling overly rigid or focused on changing traits that are part of a person’s natural neurodivergence. Other approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness-based approaches, may also be helpful depending on the client’s needs.

Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of neurodivergent therapists?
Psychology Today’s directory of neurodivergent therapists includes professionals who self-identify as neurodivergent, as well as therapists who describe their work as neurodivergent-affirming or who specialize in areas such as ADHD, autism, learning differences, or sensory processing concerns. When reviewing a therapist’s profile, look at their bio, listed specialties, treatment approach, and experience working with neurodivergent clients. You may also want to consider whether they offer supports that matter to you, such as online therapy, accessible office space, or familiarity with specific concerns like anxiety, depression, or trauma.