Photo of Bongjoo Julian Hwang, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Bongjoo Julian Hwang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
Examples include Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Family Systems, and Mindfulness Approach.
Therapy is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client. I use my clinical expertise to help my clients achieve what they want and need, but I expect my clients to be active participants in their healing process. My clients tend to gain new insights and deeper understanding of their issues and obtain new skills and changes by going through their healing process with me.
Examples include Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Family Systems, and Mindfulness Approach.
Therapy is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client. I use my clinical expertise to help my clients achieve what they want and need, but I expect my clients to be active participants in their healing process. My clients tend to gain new insights and deeper understanding of their issues and obtain new skills and changes by going through their healing process with me.
(858) 723-0682 View (858) 723-0682
Photo of Audrey Hu, Associate Clinical Social Worker in San Diego, CA
Audrey Hu
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
I draw from evidence-based approaches, such as CBT and mindfulness to help you manage anxiety and depression.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
(760) 280-9656 View (760) 280-9656
Photo of Beverly Sharifian, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Diego, CA
Beverly Sharifian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
- for chronic pain, mindfulness).
I find that the counseling process requires authenticity from both yourself and the counselor that you choose to work with. My approach is affirming and gentle, but also honest so that we can confront any stressors or obstacles in your life. I believe that mental health and physical well-being go hand in hand. I have experience working with survivors of brain injury, as well as clients managing chronic, acute, or terminal illness. I've worked with underserved populations, and a wide range of adults from diverse backgrounds. I aim to offer culturally sensitive and affirming care, and offer services in Farsi, in addition to English.
- for chronic pain, mindfulness).
I find that the counseling process requires authenticity from both yourself and the counselor that you choose to work with. My approach is affirming and gentle, but also honest so that we can confront any stressors or obstacles in your life. I believe that mental health and physical well-being go hand in hand. I have experience working with survivors of brain injury, as well as clients managing chronic, acute, or terminal illness. I've worked with underserved populations, and a wide range of adults from diverse backgrounds. I aim to offer culturally sensitive and affirming care, and offer services in Farsi, in addition to English.
(858) 293-4789 View (858) 293-4789
Photo of Michelle May Balke, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Michelle May Balke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
I utilize family systems therapy, solution focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness in my work.
Congratulations on being a step closer to a happier, more fulfilling, loving, and harmonious life. If you would like help with any of the following you are in the right place: Adoption concerns, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, and Phobias, Depression, Children’s Behavior Disorders, Adolescent Struggles, Parenting Concerns, and Relationship Challenges. I have been a Marriage and Family Therapist since 1980. Call for a complimentary, get acquainted phone call : (619) 322-0681. Let's see if I can help.
I utilize family systems therapy, solution focused therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness in my work.
Congratulations on being a step closer to a happier, more fulfilling, loving, and harmonious life. If you would like help with any of the following you are in the right place: Adoption concerns, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, and Phobias, Depression, Children’s Behavior Disorders, Adolescent Struggles, Parenting Concerns, and Relationship Challenges. I have been a Marriage and Family Therapist since 1980. Call for a complimentary, get acquainted phone call : (619) 322-0681. Let's see if I can help.
(619) 512-2920 View (619) 512-2920
Photo of Benjamin Ballou, Counselor in San Diego, CA
Benjamin Ballou
Counselor, LPCC, LAADC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
I utilize my 30 years of mindfulness practice in teaching and modeling mindfulness tools for grounding and being present, both in session and in life.
It may feel like many people in your life have an agenda. Whether that’s related to what you do, how you dress, how you act, the relationships you choose- it is easy to feel judged in our lives by the people that surround us. It may be difficult to seek support from a therapist when this has been your experience. I’m here to show you that my only agenda is supporting you in your journey to reach your goals. Through a nonjudgmental and empathic approach, I will offer you guidance and perspective in how you see your life moving forward. I utilize a holistic perspective, engaging in the therapeutic relationship to help you reach goals.
I utilize my 30 years of mindfulness practice in teaching and modeling mindfulness tools for grounding and being present, both in session and in life.
It may feel like many people in your life have an agenda. Whether that’s related to what you do, how you dress, how you act, the relationships you choose- it is easy to feel judged in our lives by the people that surround us. It may be difficult to seek support from a therapist when this has been your experience. I’m here to show you that my only agenda is supporting you in your journey to reach your goals. Through a nonjudgmental and empathic approach, I will offer you guidance and perspective in how you see your life moving forward. I utilize a holistic perspective, engaging in the therapeutic relationship to help you reach goals.
(619) 567-1340 View (619) 567-1340
Photo of Kelly Engleson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Kelly Engleson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
I have training in mindfulness, self-compassion skills, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, perinatal mental health, and grief and loss.
I help adults who are struggling with issues of infertility, bereavement, grief and loss and life transitions. My clients are those who are yearning to be parents, have endured loss, sadness and anxiety while utilizing assisted reproductive technology in efforts to conceive and those facing multiple challenges on their path to parenthood. I also work with adults who have endured many different types of losses (death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, losses due to chronic illness...) and struggle to find ways to move forward. I work with young adults who are navigating issues of purpose and identity.
I have training in mindfulness, self-compassion skills, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, perinatal mental health, and grief and loss.
I help adults who are struggling with issues of infertility, bereavement, grief and loss and life transitions. My clients are those who are yearning to be parents, have endured loss, sadness and anxiety while utilizing assisted reproductive technology in efforts to conceive and those facing multiple challenges on their path to parenthood. I also work with adults who have endured many different types of losses (death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, losses due to chronic illness...) and struggle to find ways to move forward. I work with young adults who are navigating issues of purpose and identity.
(619) 728-2537 View (619) 728-2537
Photo of Dr. Amy Greaves, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Amy Greaves
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
I'm a licensed psychologist, with over 20 years of experience specializing in relationship problems, sex addictions, obsessive thinking, anxiety, and depression. I have advanced training to help couples overcome infidelity, lost connection, frequent arguments, and sexual problems. I use mindfulness and experiential approaches that rewire the brain's ability to cope with impulses, anxiety, and make sense of grief. I help people transcend the difficulties preventing them from living peaceful, joy-filled life. My work with clients is highly collaborative and tuning into your strengths will be of central importance.
I'm a licensed psychologist, with over 20 years of experience specializing in relationship problems, sex addictions, obsessive thinking, anxiety, and depression. I have advanced training to help couples overcome infidelity, lost connection, frequent arguments, and sexual problems. I use mindfulness and experiential approaches that rewire the brain's ability to cope with impulses, anxiety, and make sense of grief. I help people transcend the difficulties preventing them from living peaceful, joy-filled life. My work with clients is highly collaborative and tuning into your strengths will be of central importance.
(858) 223-1827 View (858) 223-1827
Photo of Becky McGinnis, Counselor in San Diego, CA
Becky McGinnis
Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
I take a mindfulness-based approach to support you in exploring life's challenges, connecting to your authentic self, and in guiding you along the way to increased mental health and well being.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others around you? Do you feel unsure how to express your true self or live the life you want? As a Gender, Sex, and Relationship Diversity knowledgable therapist, I offer a supportive environment to address issues in life that may be holding you back. Sometimes it's our own beliefs about ourselves or our true potential that's our greatest barrier. Therapy can help uncover the barriers that are in the way and learn skills and techniques for how to work with yourself and collaborate with life so that you feel like you are living as opposed to just surviving.
I take a mindfulness-based approach to support you in exploring life's challenges, connecting to your authentic self, and in guiding you along the way to increased mental health and well being.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others around you? Do you feel unsure how to express your true self or live the life you want? As a Gender, Sex, and Relationship Diversity knowledgable therapist, I offer a supportive environment to address issues in life that may be holding you back. Sometimes it's our own beliefs about ourselves or our true potential that's our greatest barrier. Therapy can help uncover the barriers that are in the way and learn skills and techniques for how to work with yourself and collaborate with life so that you feel like you are living as opposed to just surviving.
(619) 831-8552 View (619) 831-8552
Photo of Eva Michelle Belanger, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Eva Michelle Belanger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, SEP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Somatic Experiencing (SE), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness are how I practice and help you attain health.
Human beings have an innate capacity towards healing and are unconsciously driven to be better psychologically, even when we think we are at our worst. In other words, we already have all we need to get better, we just need to access it. Naturally, our bodies, minds, and hearts seek equilibrium, peace and ultimately joy; a fully embodied human coherence. Together, in a safe, compassionate, and non judgmental environment we can create positive change for you. My personal goal is to be a safe container for you to explore your internal self, while ultimately helping you reach the goals you aim to achieve in therapy. I truly believe in people and their ability to self actualize, heal, and to live life with happiness and satisfaction.
Somatic Experiencing (SE), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness are how I practice and help you attain health.
Human beings have an innate capacity towards healing and are unconsciously driven to be better psychologically, even when we think we are at our worst. In other words, we already have all we need to get better, we just need to access it. Naturally, our bodies, minds, and hearts seek equilibrium, peace and ultimately joy; a fully embodied human coherence. Together, in a safe, compassionate, and non judgmental environment we can create positive change for you. My personal goal is to be a safe container for you to explore your internal self, while ultimately helping you reach the goals you aim to achieve in therapy. I truly believe in people and their ability to self actualize, heal, and to live life with happiness and satisfaction.
(619) 900-6912 View (619) 900-6912
Photo of Jenette Munguia, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Jenette Munguia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
I use a range of modalities through a trauma-informed approach including, attachment-based, IFS, mindfulness-based CBT, and somatic therapies to suit your unique needs.
Hello! My name is Jenette (she/her) and I am a queer Latina therapist who specializes in complex trauma, anxiety disorders, LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming care. I am passionate about creating a space of acceptance to allow for deep-rooted healing and exploration of self.
I use a range of modalities through a trauma-informed approach including, attachment-based, IFS, mindfulness-based CBT, and somatic therapies to suit your unique needs.
Hello! My name is Jenette (she/her) and I am a queer Latina therapist who specializes in complex trauma, anxiety disorders, LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming care. I am passionate about creating a space of acceptance to allow for deep-rooted healing and exploration of self.
(424) 484-3963 View (424) 484-3963
Photo of Russell F Fuller, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Russell F Fuller
Psychologist, JD, PsyD, DCEP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121  (Online Only)
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
(858) 215-1921 View (858) 215-1921
Photo of Jennifer Lara, Associate Clinical Social Worker in San Diego, CA
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I specialize in CBT, Solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
I specialize in CBT, Solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
(760) 214-9581 View (760) 214-9581
Photo of Melissa Satram, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Melissa Satram
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
By using CBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic approach, I can help you navigate life's ups and downs and shift patterns, thoughts, and behaviors.
Do you ever struggle with feeling like you’re not enough? Do you feel like you have to prove yourself? Do you feel stuck and triggered by childhood trauma? The symptoms of trauma include anxiety, depression, high conflict relationships, occupational impairment, addiction, and much more. I believe therapy can help you develop a more self-awareness and actionable plan to alleviate these symptoms. I specialized in working with people who are willing to explore past, present, and future challenges and to find tools for personal growth.
By using CBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic approach, I can help you navigate life's ups and downs and shift patterns, thoughts, and behaviors.
Do you ever struggle with feeling like you’re not enough? Do you feel like you have to prove yourself? Do you feel stuck and triggered by childhood trauma? The symptoms of trauma include anxiety, depression, high conflict relationships, occupational impairment, addiction, and much more. I believe therapy can help you develop a more self-awareness and actionable plan to alleviate these symptoms. I specialized in working with people who are willing to explore past, present, and future challenges and to find tools for personal growth.
(760) 227-2302 View (760) 227-2302
Photo of Dr. Austin Slade, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Austin Slade
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
I utilize behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies as well as creative approaches including music and nature therapy.
Hi, my name is Dr. Austin Slade, and I am a licensed psychologist. I work with a variety of life issues and have a decade of experience treating various conditions. If you would like to improve any aspect of your life and need help getting there, I believe I can help you reach your goals. If you are unsure what your goals are, and feel stuck, we can explore ways to get you unstuck and create goals you can pursue. I and have worked with many extreme cases, so please don’t feel like your story is too much for me to handle.
I utilize behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies as well as creative approaches including music and nature therapy.
Hi, my name is Dr. Austin Slade, and I am a licensed psychologist. I work with a variety of life issues and have a decade of experience treating various conditions. If you would like to improve any aspect of your life and need help getting there, I believe I can help you reach your goals. If you are unsure what your goals are, and feel stuck, we can explore ways to get you unstuck and create goals you can pursue. I and have worked with many extreme cases, so please don’t feel like your story is too much for me to handle.
(858) 294-0192 View (858) 294-0192
Photo of Amy Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Amy Anderson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize Gottman Method, Mindfulness, CBT-TF, DBT, EMDR, and IFS.
We all can feel overwhelmed when dealing with life's obstacles & hurdles. At times, having a safe person to talk things out confidentially - truly promotes self-reflection, improves personal and relationship outcomes, and emotional depth to overcome and evolve to self- love and acceptance. Life can feel amplified when we harness our authentic values, trust our intuition, embrace emotional regulation & communication skills that allows us to connect deeply to self/others. I love working with ambitious professionals & parents who have been impacted by trauma & attachment disruptions, ADHD, CPTSD, & substance use!
I utilize Gottman Method, Mindfulness, CBT-TF, DBT, EMDR, and IFS.
We all can feel overwhelmed when dealing with life's obstacles & hurdles. At times, having a safe person to talk things out confidentially - truly promotes self-reflection, improves personal and relationship outcomes, and emotional depth to overcome and evolve to self- love and acceptance. Life can feel amplified when we harness our authentic values, trust our intuition, embrace emotional regulation & communication skills that allows us to connect deeply to self/others. I love working with ambitious professionals & parents who have been impacted by trauma & attachment disruptions, ADHD, CPTSD, & substance use!
(619) 597-1505 View (619) 597-1505
Photo of Dr. Lara Zappaterra, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Lara Zappaterra
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
With expertise in multiple evidence-based practices (CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, relational, mindfulness-based, and existential), I tailor my approach to that most helpful for you.
Hello and Welcome. I have over a decade of practice in individual, adolescent, and couples therapy. I specialize in treating mood or anxiety difficulties, trauma, childhood trauma, relational difficulties, life stressors, or life and identity transitions. My passion is to help you live authentically- experiencing relief, resilience, self-compassion, and increased emotional freedom. We often learn strategies through life to keep us safe, but those strategies may hold us back in our present. It is in our relationships that we learned these strategies; it is through a therapeutic relationship that we re-learn, re-parent, and heal.
With expertise in multiple evidence-based practices (CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, relational, mindfulness-based, and existential), I tailor my approach to that most helpful for you.
Hello and Welcome. I have over a decade of practice in individual, adolescent, and couples therapy. I specialize in treating mood or anxiety difficulties, trauma, childhood trauma, relational difficulties, life stressors, or life and identity transitions. My passion is to help you live authentically- experiencing relief, resilience, self-compassion, and increased emotional freedom. We often learn strategies through life to keep us safe, but those strategies may hold us back in our present. It is in our relationships that we learned these strategies; it is through a therapeutic relationship that we re-learn, re-parent, and heal.
(858) 956-7579 View (858) 956-7579
Photo of Mindful Matters Counseling, Marni Goldberg, Counselor in San Diego, CA
Mindful Matters Counseling, Marni Goldberg
Counselor, EdS, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
Integrating Mindfulness practices when appropriate, we will reduce troubling symptoms and develop and strive for goals to meet your needs with an eclectic approach in a safe environment.
Are you ready to finally feel in control of your life? I know how hard it can be to take the first step in finding a therapist who is a good fit for you, but you deserve happiness! Anxiety and stress can get in the way of having a happy and fulfilling life. If you or your teen/young adult are struggling with thoughts, feelings, or relationships, we can work together to look at what has been bothering you and figure out how to make changes that can benefit all aspects of your life. Receiving nonjudgemental support and some new skills may be the answer! Special focus on Highly Sensitive People. Telehealth sessions only at this time.
Integrating Mindfulness practices when appropriate, we will reduce troubling symptoms and develop and strive for goals to meet your needs with an eclectic approach in a safe environment.
Are you ready to finally feel in control of your life? I know how hard it can be to take the first step in finding a therapist who is a good fit for you, but you deserve happiness! Anxiety and stress can get in the way of having a happy and fulfilling life. If you or your teen/young adult are struggling with thoughts, feelings, or relationships, we can work together to look at what has been bothering you and figure out how to make changes that can benefit all aspects of your life. Receiving nonjudgemental support and some new skills may be the answer! Special focus on Highly Sensitive People. Telehealth sessions only at this time.
(858) 367-3967 View (858) 367-3967
Photo of Kacey Truong, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Diego, CA
Kacey Truong
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I aim to work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals by using CBT, Mindfulness, and the Gottman Method.
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.
I aim to work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals by using CBT, Mindfulness, and the Gottman Method.
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 Nicole Woolf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Nicole Woolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
(760) 258-4024 View (760) 258-4024
Photo of Adriana Guevara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Adriana Guevara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110
I also utilize mindfulness techniques for stress management and am trained in solution focused brief therapy.
I am committed to reducing human suffering and enhancing the experience of life as a joyful event. Do you want to learn to live your life better? Do you find yourself thinking too much about the past or worrying too much about the future? Are you faced with stressful life challenges such as a new diagnosis, a disability, or conflict at work or in your relationships? Psychotherapy offers something no other discipline does: A person who listens to you without judgment and fosters understanding. Psychotherapy can also be a place to learn new skills to improve your daily life.
I also utilize mindfulness techniques for stress management and am trained in solution focused brief therapy.
I am committed to reducing human suffering and enhancing the experience of life as a joyful event. Do you want to learn to live your life better? Do you find yourself thinking too much about the past or worrying too much about the future? Are you faced with stressful life challenges such as a new diagnosis, a disability, or conflict at work or in your relationships? Psychotherapy offers something no other discipline does: A person who listens to you without judgment and fosters understanding. Psychotherapy can also be a place to learn new skills to improve your daily life.
(831) 740-8061 View (831) 740-8061
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists

How does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy work?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy originated in the work of John Kabat-Zinn of the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He developed mindfulness-based stress reduction, which is a technique found in yoga and meditation. MBCT is a combination of this type of stress reduction and cognitive behavioral therapy; it essentially quiets emotional distress through mindfulness, utilizing proper breathing and meditation. These techniques aim to bring the individual into the present moment when in a state of distress.

When do I know if I need treatment with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

If an individual’s mind is filled with emotional distress and general negativity, the person may feel trapped. A mindfulness-based cognitive therapist can help a person change their thinking patterns as well as their behavior through calm acceptance and compassion. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.

What should I expect from mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

This therapy often takes place in group sessions. A therapist will work with the group as well as with each individual. Meditation and breathing exercises are core practices that aim to invite inquiry and discovery into a person’s troubled mental state. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more realistic way. This therapy is supportive, accepting, and warm.

Is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy effective?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with major depressive disorder have benefitted from this type of therapy; the person accepts their distressed thoughts and also moves into healthier patterns of thinking. This therapy also aims to move an individual away from automatic negative responses. This type of therapy can bring a person lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.