Photo of John P Rettger, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
John P Rettger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship issues using research-based interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Existential-Transpersonal and Psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I have immediate availability and we return calls within 24 hours! Are you struggling to let go and heal from a traumatic experience? Do you feel stuck in sadness or overwhelmed with worry? Do things seem so stressful that it is hard to feel happiness? If any of these questions ring true for you, I have the expertise to guide you in overcoming these challenges. I utilize state of the art evidence-based treatment methods to directly work on your concerns and cut through the obstacles that are limiting your life. In my practice you will learn essential coping skills to apply in your life immediately to begin your transformation.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship issues using research-based interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Existential-Transpersonal and Psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I have immediate availability and we return calls within 24 hours! Are you struggling to let go and heal from a traumatic experience? Do you feel stuck in sadness or overwhelmed with worry? Do things seem so stressful that it is hard to feel happiness? If any of these questions ring true for you, I have the expertise to guide you in overcoming these challenges. I utilize state of the art evidence-based treatment methods to directly work on your concerns and cut through the obstacles that are limiting your life. In my practice you will learn essential coping skills to apply in your life immediately to begin your transformation.
(858) 465-4492 View (858) 465-4492
Photo of Joseph Severino, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Joseph Severino
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I utilize a blend of evidence based treatments including cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and existential therapy to help you identify your strengths, achieve greater acceptance, reduce emotional distress and work towards achieving your personal goals.
Are you searching to find meaning and struggle with negative thoughts about yourself and your life? I believe that given an environment of dignity, respect, compassion and unconditional positive regard, every person can tap into their own resiliency, achieve personal growth and realize their own unique potential.I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 12 years experience working as a therapist, researcher and educator. I see both individuals and couples with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems, grief and loss, aging issues, substance abuse, gender, sexuality, sexual health and out of control sexual behavior.
I utilize a blend of evidence based treatments including cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and existential therapy to help you identify your strengths, achieve greater acceptance, reduce emotional distress and work towards achieving your personal goals.
Are you searching to find meaning and struggle with negative thoughts about yourself and your life? I believe that given an environment of dignity, respect, compassion and unconditional positive regard, every person can tap into their own resiliency, achieve personal growth and realize their own unique potential.I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 12 years experience working as a therapist, researcher and educator. I see both individuals and couples with a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems, grief and loss, aging issues, substance abuse, gender, sexuality, sexual health and out of control sexual behavior.
(619) 458-3919 View (619) 458-3919
Photo of Lisa Kemble, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lisa Kemble
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
While I enjoy working with both individuals and couples, I particularly enjoy helping clients who have trauma histories, who desire healthier relationships, or who are engaging with questions around identity, sexuality, spirituality, or existential life questions.
I'm passionate about helping people explore their stories in creative ways to empower them to live fully and authentically. In therapy, I create a safe and sacred space where people can understand both their power and their pain, heal from the wounds and trauma of their pasts, and move forward in their lives into meaning, freedom and wholeness. I have an active, engaged, personal and empathic style, and I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and known.
While I enjoy working with both individuals and couples, I particularly enjoy helping clients who have trauma histories, who desire healthier relationships, or who are engaging with questions around identity, sexuality, spirituality, or existential life questions.
I'm passionate about helping people explore their stories in creative ways to empower them to live fully and authentically. In therapy, I create a safe and sacred space where people can understand both their power and their pain, heal from the wounds and trauma of their pasts, and move forward in their lives into meaning, freedom and wholeness. I have an active, engaged, personal and empathic style, and I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and known.
(858) 251-6926 View (858) 251-6926
Photo of Deborah Cosmetis, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Deborah Cosmetis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110
I use a blend of theories and methods from my training in relational gestalt therapy, cognitive behavioral, humanistic, existential, positive psychology, and buddhist psychology.
Throughout life we are all faced with stressors, traumas, and times of transition. During these times, it can be helpful to speak to a professional for guidance as you navigate life’s unavoidable challenges. As a licensed psychologist, I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and supportive space for self exploration and personal growth. Together we will explore the places you feel stuck, process past events, deepen self understanding, and cultivate self acceptance so that you may experience longer lasting happiness, more fulfilling connections, and a more meaningful life.
I use a blend of theories and methods from my training in relational gestalt therapy, cognitive behavioral, humanistic, existential, positive psychology, and buddhist psychology.
Throughout life we are all faced with stressors, traumas, and times of transition. During these times, it can be helpful to speak to a professional for guidance as you navigate life’s unavoidable challenges. As a licensed psychologist, I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and supportive space for self exploration and personal growth. Together we will explore the places you feel stuck, process past events, deepen self understanding, and cultivate self acceptance so that you may experience longer lasting happiness, more fulfilling connections, and a more meaningful life.
(619) 552-3545 View (619) 552-3545
Photo of Trudy Kammerer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Trudy Kammerer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
She draws from an extensive toolkit of evidence-based therapeutic methods, including Existential therapy to explore meaning and purpose, Family Systems therapy to address relational dynamics, andCBT for practical skills development.
Trudy is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of invaluable experience in the field of mental health and family counseling. Her unwavering commitment to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges has made her a respected professional within the therapeutic community. With a deep understanding of the human experience, Trudy specializes in working with diverse populations dealing with a range of issues.
She draws from an extensive toolkit of evidence-based therapeutic methods, including Existential therapy to explore meaning and purpose, Family Systems therapy to address relational dynamics, andCBT for practical skills development.
Trudy is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of invaluable experience in the field of mental health and family counseling. Her unwavering commitment to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges has made her a respected professional within the therapeutic community. With a deep understanding of the human experience, Trudy specializes in working with diverse populations dealing with a range of issues.
(650) 502-5517 View (650) 502-5517
Photo of Bill Bell, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Bill Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD, ACS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
My clients typically fall into three categories: 1) individuals with existential angst, questioning their trajectory in relationships, careers, and/or life; 2) individuals suffering from a myriad of compulsive behaviors/addictions; and 3) couples experiencing communication difficulties, misaligned values, discordant desires, or desiring archetypal reconstructions. My work emphasizes identifying & isolating troubling emotions that lead to negative thinking and behaving, and learning to think & act according to reason. I am offering in-person sessions and teletherapy.
My clients typically fall into three categories: 1) individuals with existential angst, questioning their trajectory in relationships, careers, and/or life; 2) individuals suffering from a myriad of compulsive behaviors/addictions; and 3) couples experiencing communication difficulties, misaligned values, discordant desires, or desiring archetypal reconstructions. My work emphasizes identifying & isolating troubling emotions that lead to negative thinking and behaving, and learning to think & act according to reason. I am offering in-person sessions and teletherapy.
(415) 968-8968 View (415) 968-8968
Photo of Paul Wilcox, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Paul Wilcox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
I have been working as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor since 2015. I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including Private Practice, group homes with wards of the State of CA, going into people’s homes to do therapy, and in trauma focused rehab and recovery programs. My foundation is client centered therapy which helps to create a safe, comfortable, non judgmental atmosphere. I also integrate various evidence based modalities into treatment, including CBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, MI, Strength Based, Gestalt, Existential, Gottman, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, and more
I have been working as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor since 2015. I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including Private Practice, group homes with wards of the State of CA, going into people’s homes to do therapy, and in trauma focused rehab and recovery programs. My foundation is client centered therapy which helps to create a safe, comfortable, non judgmental atmosphere. I also integrate various evidence based modalities into treatment, including CBT, Mindfulness, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, MI, Strength Based, Gestalt, Existential, Gottman, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, and more
(442) 259-6892 View (442) 259-6892
Photo of Kacey Truong, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Diego, CA
Kacey Truong
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Do you struggle with anxiety and depression due to your childhood trauma? Are you having problems with your partner or family members due to life transition issues? Are you experiencing increased stress, fears, and doubts around the future? I believe that we all have the capacity to heal our emotional wounds and create meaningful changes. My goal as a therapist is to offer you a safe place in which you can process insights, concerns, and emotions associated with trauma.
Do you struggle with anxiety and depression due to your childhood trauma? Are you having problems with your partner or family members due to life transition issues? Are you experiencing increased stress, fears, and doubts around the future? I believe that we all have the capacity to heal our emotional wounds and create meaningful changes. My goal as a therapist is to offer you a safe place in which you can process insights, concerns, and emotions associated with trauma.
(760) 263-6896 View (760) 263-6896
Photo of Ginelle Guckenburg, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Ginelle Guckenburg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
You might be feeling stuck in your relationships. You’re struggling to be vulnerable and fully present with not only loved ones, but with yourself. You’re falling into a repetitive cycle that leaves you feeling exhausted, frustrated, and alone. You’re ready to dig into your attachment history and start breaking down the shields that used to protect you, but are now a barrier to vulnerability. You know it's time to do the deep work and cultivate the self-acceptance and relationships you long for.
You might be feeling stuck in your relationships. You’re struggling to be vulnerable and fully present with not only loved ones, but with yourself. You’re falling into a repetitive cycle that leaves you feeling exhausted, frustrated, and alone. You’re ready to dig into your attachment history and start breaking down the shields that used to protect you, but are now a barrier to vulnerability. You know it's time to do the deep work and cultivate the self-acceptance and relationships you long for.
(619) 432-3245 View (619) 432-3245
Photo of Svetlana Ishchenko, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Svetlana Ishchenko
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I am fascinated by the affects of attachment and bonding on interpersonal relationships and have a deep commitment to helping people articulate and address the core issues with which they struggle. I am currently working towards my PMH-C (Perinatal Mental Health Certification), as I am passionate about supporting women and families experiencing fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, pregnancy/infant loss, TFMR, grief, adoption, and parenting. I am a a mom who struggled with postpartum anxiety and OCD with both of my pregnancies, so I know firsthand how shameful and isolating these experiences can be.
I am fascinated by the affects of attachment and bonding on interpersonal relationships and have a deep commitment to helping people articulate and address the core issues with which they struggle. I am currently working towards my PMH-C (Perinatal Mental Health Certification), as I am passionate about supporting women and families experiencing fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, pregnancy/infant loss, TFMR, grief, adoption, and parenting. I am a a mom who struggled with postpartum anxiety and OCD with both of my pregnancies, so I know firsthand how shameful and isolating these experiences can be.
(619) 350-8704 View (619) 350-8704
Photo of Shelley Davidescu, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Shelley Davidescu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
**VIDEO & IN PERSON SESSIONS AVAILABLE**Tossing and turning, can't sleep, worried all the time and so much change feels uncertain. Though I've never met you, I imagine how uncertain it feels to have so much change happening at once and your relationships under stress. Whether you're in a relationship or just ended one, you probably find yourself overthinking and feeling lonely and disconnected. Sometimes you just need to talk things out in a safe place with zero judgment with a strategy and a direction towards a solution.
**VIDEO & IN PERSON SESSIONS AVAILABLE**Tossing and turning, can't sleep, worried all the time and so much change feels uncertain. Though I've never met you, I imagine how uncertain it feels to have so much change happening at once and your relationships under stress. Whether you're in a relationship or just ended one, you probably find yourself overthinking and feeling lonely and disconnected. Sometimes you just need to talk things out in a safe place with zero judgment with a strategy and a direction towards a solution.
(619) 552-2506 View (619) 552-2506
Photo of Vivian Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Vivian Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
My name is Vivian E. Johnson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I predominately utilize the psychodynamic approach. I work with individuals, families, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I help clients recognize their recurring unhelpful thought, emotional and behavioral patterns, and the defense mechanisms they've developed to avoid distress and cope with stress. This insight may allow them to begin changing those patterns and develop more helpful and healthier ways to cope with life stressors.
My name is Vivian E. Johnson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I predominately utilize the psychodynamic approach. I work with individuals, families, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I help clients recognize their recurring unhelpful thought, emotional and behavioral patterns, and the defense mechanisms they've developed to avoid distress and cope with stress. This insight may allow them to begin changing those patterns and develop more helpful and healthier ways to cope with life stressors.
(619) 815-7294 View (619) 815-7294
Photo of Serenity Therapy and Counseling, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Diego, CA
Serenity Therapy and Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
At Serenity Therapy and Counseling, we know how overwhelming life can feel and we believe you don’t have to go through the stress alone. We aim to walk along with people through their challenging times and give them the direction they need to achieve a peaceful and serene life. Whether you are battling anxiety, struggling with self-esteem, dealing with the symptoms of trauma, or facing marriage issues, we’re here to help. Our experienced and licensed therapists provide the best counseling online and in-person!
At Serenity Therapy and Counseling, we know how overwhelming life can feel and we believe you don’t have to go through the stress alone. We aim to walk along with people through their challenging times and give them the direction they need to achieve a peaceful and serene life. Whether you are battling anxiety, struggling with self-esteem, dealing with the symptoms of trauma, or facing marriage issues, we’re here to help. Our experienced and licensed therapists provide the best counseling online and in-person!
(619) 598-1036 View (619) 598-1036
Photo of Linda Spirra, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Linda Spirra
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
I provide nurturing, compassionate and supportive therapy to individuals, families, including military personnel. I work with adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, issues of self-worth, substance use, grief, loss, and self-harm. I recently ran an intensive outpatient program for people with acute mental health issues in a hospital based environment, and enjoy working with this population as well.
I provide nurturing, compassionate and supportive therapy to individuals, families, including military personnel. I work with adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, issues of self-worth, substance use, grief, loss, and self-harm. I recently ran an intensive outpatient program for people with acute mental health issues in a hospital based environment, and enjoy working with this population as well.
(619) 330-8727 View (619) 330-8727
Photo of Association for Compassionate Transformation, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Association for Compassionate Transformation
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Would you like to be successful emotionally, socially, spiritually and professionally? Do you need assistance directing personal growth, relationships, family life or your career? I specialize in assisting individuals to lead a productive life, a meaningful existence and reach their highest potential.
Would you like to be successful emotionally, socially, spiritually and professionally? Do you need assistance directing personal growth, relationships, family life or your career? I specialize in assisting individuals to lead a productive life, a meaningful existence and reach their highest potential.
(858) 367-3966 View (858) 367-3966
Photo of Gunjani Patel Oza, Counselor in San Diego, CA
Gunjani Patel Oza
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPCC, LMHC, CISM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am passionate about my work and take great pride in the therapeutic relationships I have built overtime with my clients, which is why I believe in tailoring counseling to each individuals unique needs. Therapy is most effective when a trusting relationship exists between a counselor & the client. Some relationships hurt us while others are meant to heal. I believe that my job isn't to tell you what to do or how you live your life but to provide a safe, trusting environment where you express yourself & have an experience of being listened to without judgment & together we come up with creative solutions.
Welcome! I am passionate about my work and take great pride in the therapeutic relationships I have built overtime with my clients, which is why I believe in tailoring counseling to each individuals unique needs. Therapy is most effective when a trusting relationship exists between a counselor & the client. Some relationships hurt us while others are meant to heal. I believe that my job isn't to tell you what to do or how you live your life but to provide a safe, trusting environment where you express yourself & have an experience of being listened to without judgment & together we come up with creative solutions.
(619) 949-3174 View (619) 949-3174
Photo of Dr. Jim Coil, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Jim Coil
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131
Do you hear your inner critic telling you “I am not good enough; I am not worth it?” Does it feel overwhelming to experience uncertainty in everyday life and relationships? Does it feel as though you “have not been yourself lately”, feeling sad or anxious longer or deeper than you expected? Do you desire to have healthier relationships? I hear you. My hope is to help you have greater quality of life, and achieve healing. Whether you wish to become a happier person, to feel less anxious, more confident, have better relationships, stop an unhealthy habit, or to simply understand yourself better, I can help you achieve this.
Do you hear your inner critic telling you “I am not good enough; I am not worth it?” Does it feel overwhelming to experience uncertainty in everyday life and relationships? Does it feel as though you “have not been yourself lately”, feeling sad or anxious longer or deeper than you expected? Do you desire to have healthier relationships? I hear you. My hope is to help you have greater quality of life, and achieve healing. Whether you wish to become a happier person, to feel less anxious, more confident, have better relationships, stop an unhealthy habit, or to simply understand yourself better, I can help you achieve this.
(619) 452-1168 View (619) 452-1168
Photo of Myles Childs, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Myles Childs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
Reaching out for help? In a time of need, it can be overwhelming. I want to commend you for acknowledging that you would like some support. Through individual, couple, family, group, and other relational therapy, I provide emotional and mental support to help my clients gain, regain, and maintain a healthy life. As a therapist of color, I'm intentional about creating a safe space where diversity and cultural differences are respected and valued. I'm passionate about my clients’ wellness and aim to provide clients with space and time to be their most authentic and unapologetic selves without fear of judgment.
Reaching out for help? In a time of need, it can be overwhelming. I want to commend you for acknowledging that you would like some support. Through individual, couple, family, group, and other relational therapy, I provide emotional and mental support to help my clients gain, regain, and maintain a healthy life. As a therapist of color, I'm intentional about creating a safe space where diversity and cultural differences are respected and valued. I'm passionate about my clients’ wellness and aim to provide clients with space and time to be their most authentic and unapologetic selves without fear of judgment.
(858) 758-8038 View (858) 758-8038
Photo of Diane Lass, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Diane Lass
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92107
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist located in the Ocean Beach and Palm Desert area. I provide individual and couples therapy as well as empowerment support groups. My approach is non-judgmental and compassionate. I believe we can all use support at various times throughout our lives. Change can be difficult. Even positive changes can bring about uncertainties. My focus is on the whole person: mind, body and spirit.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist located in the Ocean Beach and Palm Desert area. I provide individual and couples therapy as well as empowerment support groups. My approach is non-judgmental and compassionate. I believe we can all use support at various times throughout our lives. Change can be difficult. Even positive changes can bring about uncertainties. My focus is on the whole person: mind, body and spirit.
(619) 493-4402 View (619) 493-4402
Photo of Julie Hassler, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Diego, CA
Julie Hassler
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Our relationships can provide us feelings of connection and safety, and give our lives meaning and purpose. They can also bring us pain and disappointment. Is your relationship in trouble? I specialize with issues that can result within relationships, from premarital to divorce, as well as blended family concerns. Whether communication issues, unresolvable conflict, infidelity/affair, addiction, abuse or mental health issues have affected your connection and attunement, I can give you the tools to turn things around in the present and the techniques to provide consistent connection in the future.
Our relationships can provide us feelings of connection and safety, and give our lives meaning and purpose. They can also bring us pain and disappointment. Is your relationship in trouble? I specialize with issues that can result within relationships, from premarital to divorce, as well as blended family concerns. Whether communication issues, unresolvable conflict, infidelity/affair, addiction, abuse or mental health issues have affected your connection and attunement, I can give you the tools to turn things around in the present and the techniques to provide consistent connection in the future.
(619) 826-0665 View (619) 826-0665
Existential Therapists

How does existential therapy work?

Existential therapy focuses on a patient’s inner experiences. The therapist tries to help the individual comprehend and alleviate symptoms by exploring their interior life. By confronting negative disquiet and emotions, the individual will hopefully become more open to finding meaning and purpose. This therapy can be administered to individuals or groups.

Is existential therapy evidence-based?

Existential therapy is an evidence-based practice. Research has determined that existential therapy can lead to significant improvement in the mental health of patients, and for some people it can be just as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy. The benefits of existential therapy are enduring, even long after treatment has ended.

How long does existential therapy last?

The goal of existential therapy is to understand a person’s internal experiences, which may sound like a lengthy process, but it does not have to be so in-depth. However, sessions are not short-term, and therapy can continue for months or up to a year. And because patients learn the theory behind existential therapy during treatment, they can also practice its tenets throughout life after therapy sessions have been completed.

Is existential therapy effective?

According to research, many patients find success with existential therapy. Researchers note that the therapy is particularly useful in improving feelings of isolation, feelings of purposelessness, as well as conditions such as anxiety and depression. Improvements in problem areas can persist even after the end of existential therapy, as individuals can continue working on themselves by using the tools they’ve developed during treatment.