Therapists in El Cajon, CA
Brittany Drnek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021
My name is Brittany Drnek. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the mental health field for over ten years.My area of expertise is helping people manage anxiety and panic, depression and mood disorders, OCD, trauma symptoms, parenting and family challenges, and relationship issues. My therapeutic technique is rooted in a combination of CBT, ACT, DBT, psychodynamic theory, attachment theory, and mindfulness practice. My clinical experience has made me a firm believer in the importance of treating the whole person and I work to support my clients in learning to care for themselves in all areas of their life.
My name is Brittany Drnek. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the mental health field for over ten years.My area of expertise is helping people manage anxiety and panic, depression and mood disorders, OCD, trauma symptoms, parenting and family challenges, and relationship issues. My therapeutic technique is rooted in a combination of CBT, ACT, DBT, psychodynamic theory, attachment theory, and mindfulness practice. My clinical experience has made me a firm believer in the importance of treating the whole person and I work to support my clients in learning to care for themselves in all areas of their life.
Joshua Wandro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021
Joshua Wandro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Joshua has experience providing therapeutic services for adults, children, and couples. As a clinician, Joshua’s work experience has focused on but is not limited to adults and children ages 7-18 experiencing symptoms related to anxiety and depression. Joshua utilizes a trauma-informed approach, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. Joshua has training and experience in providing a holistic and existential-humanistic approach to therapy. Joshua works to integrate the body and mind dynamic into the healing process.
Joshua Wandro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Joshua has experience providing therapeutic services for adults, children, and couples. As a clinician, Joshua’s work experience has focused on but is not limited to adults and children ages 7-18 experiencing symptoms related to anxiety and depression. Joshua utilizes a trauma-informed approach, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. Joshua has training and experience in providing a holistic and existential-humanistic approach to therapy. Joshua works to integrate the body and mind dynamic into the healing process.
Krystle Joy Briese
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92021
Is your child or teen struggling at home, school, or in their everyday life? Are you trying to figure out how to be the best parent for them? As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Registered Play Therapist I can help your child work through their struggles and help you, as their parent, help them too.
Is your child or teen struggling at home, school, or in their everyday life? Are you trying to figure out how to be the best parent for them? As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Registered Play Therapist I can help your child work through their struggles and help you, as their parent, help them too.
David Hahn
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92021
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, stress management, work issues, and anger problems. If you are feeling overwhelmed, experiencing sadness, low energy, insomnia, loneliness, relationship problems, anger, difficulty focusing, or helplessness, through our work together, you will be able to relieve those symptoms. I also provide relief for symptoms including constant worry, racing thoughts, nervousness, irrational fears, social anxiety, and panic attacks. Your individual needs are carefully evaluated, and I tailor my therapeutic style to best meet those needs. You will increase your awareness of and resolve problematic behaviors to alleviate symptoms, reduce stress, improve relationships, and increase overall quality of life.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, stress management, work issues, and anger problems. If you are feeling overwhelmed, experiencing sadness, low energy, insomnia, loneliness, relationship problems, anger, difficulty focusing, or helplessness, through our work together, you will be able to relieve those symptoms. I also provide relief for symptoms including constant worry, racing thoughts, nervousness, irrational fears, social anxiety, and panic attacks. Your individual needs are carefully evaluated, and I tailor my therapeutic style to best meet those needs. You will increase your awareness of and resolve problematic behaviors to alleviate symptoms, reduce stress, improve relationships, and increase overall quality of life.
Helen Greenbergs
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92020 (Online Only)
Are you living with chronic health problems that seem to be taking over your life and stealing your happiness? Are you trying to get pregnant, currently pregnant, or raising a young child, wondering how you could be a more effective, confident and joyful parent? Are you a college student, or graduate student, feeling overwhelmed with multiple demands on your time and energy? I am a clinical psychologist, specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy. In my practice I work with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, confusion, or depression, due to everyday life events or major life challenges.
Are you living with chronic health problems that seem to be taking over your life and stealing your happiness? Are you trying to get pregnant, currently pregnant, or raising a young child, wondering how you could be a more effective, confident and joyful parent? Are you a college student, or graduate student, feeling overwhelmed with multiple demands on your time and energy? I am a clinical psychologist, specializing in cognitive-behavioral therapy. In my practice I work with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, confusion, or depression, due to everyday life events or major life challenges.
Kathleen Funes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92020
Hello, My name is Kathleen Funes. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about working alongside you to help create a pathway toward self-awareness, healing, joy, and fulfillment. I work from a relational, client-centered, and psychodynamic approach. I believe that one’s past provides a pathway for what they may be experiencing in the present. I believe that it is essential to have a trusting relationship in a safe and therapeutic space. My hope is for you to feel both heard and known during our time together.
Hello, My name is Kathleen Funes. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about working alongside you to help create a pathway toward self-awareness, healing, joy, and fulfillment. I work from a relational, client-centered, and psychodynamic approach. I believe that one’s past provides a pathway for what they may be experiencing in the present. I believe that it is essential to have a trusting relationship in a safe and therapeutic space. My hope is for you to feel both heard and known during our time together.
Kyung St Laurence
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021
I have worked with a wide range of clients from all backgrounds, with an emphasis on treating veterans and their families. I value a person-centered approach to building respectful and collaborative relationships to empower the change my clients seek through therapy. My area of particular interest is in working with individuals during life transitions, dealing with childhood trauma, OCD, ADHD, loss and grief, transgender issues, depression, anxiety, and interpersonal relationship struggles.
I have worked with a wide range of clients from all backgrounds, with an emphasis on treating veterans and their families. I value a person-centered approach to building respectful and collaborative relationships to empower the change my clients seek through therapy. My area of particular interest is in working with individuals during life transitions, dealing with childhood trauma, OCD, ADHD, loss and grief, transgender issues, depression, anxiety, and interpersonal relationship struggles.
Nancy Herrera-Cheng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92020
My name is Nancy Herrera-Cheng, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with clients in California via telehealth. I work with adult individuals to develop coping strategies for anxiety and stress, improve relationships, develop communication skills, and set boundaries to gain peace. I am also trauma-informed. My theoretical approach is built on a foundation of the Person-Centered approach integrating other evidence-based modalities to meet the individual's needs. I work in partnership with my clients to develop and prioritize goals. Together, we will track progress as we work to accomplish their goals.
My name is Nancy Herrera-Cheng, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working with clients in California via telehealth. I work with adult individuals to develop coping strategies for anxiety and stress, improve relationships, develop communication skills, and set boundaries to gain peace. I am also trauma-informed. My theoretical approach is built on a foundation of the Person-Centered approach integrating other evidence-based modalities to meet the individual's needs. I work in partnership with my clients to develop and prioritize goals. Together, we will track progress as we work to accomplish their goals.
Shannan Oconnor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92019
I am licensed in California, and I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. Stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, low self-esteem, low/depressed mood, and emotional dysregulation.
I am licensed in California, and I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. Stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, low self-esteem, low/depressed mood, and emotional dysregulation.
Jennifer Leonard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92020
Is your teenager acting differently or struggling with mood changes? Is the whole family being negatively affected by their behavior? I have 20 years of experience helping teens, couples and families learn how to manage and communicate their emotions effectively and respectfully. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don’t have to be “messed up” or in total crisis to seek help from a therapist.... Sometimes it only takes a few sessions to get on track so please call today for a free 15-minute phone consultation.
Is your teenager acting differently or struggling with mood changes? Is the whole family being negatively affected by their behavior? I have 20 years of experience helping teens, couples and families learn how to manage and communicate their emotions effectively and respectfully. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don’t have to be “messed up” or in total crisis to seek help from a therapist.... Sometimes it only takes a few sessions to get on track so please call today for a free 15-minute phone consultation.
Phillip Salas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92020
As a compassionate psychotherapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the challenges of anxiety, OCD, and depression. My therapeutic approach is tailored to create a safe space for exploration and healing. Together, we can work towards managing symptoms, fostering resilience, and restoring a sense of well-being. Let's embark on this journey towards emotional wellness, building the tools you need to thrive.
As a compassionate psychotherapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the challenges of anxiety, OCD, and depression. My therapeutic approach is tailored to create a safe space for exploration and healing. Together, we can work towards managing symptoms, fostering resilience, and restoring a sense of well-being. Let's embark on this journey towards emotional wellness, building the tools you need to thrive.
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Leticia Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92020
Hello, I am Leticia Estrada, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, together we will utilize strengths you already possess and develop new tools for healthy coping mechanism to reach your goals. You will find a safe empathetic space to embark on a journey of self-awareness healing. We will explore trauma, navigate challenges with relationships and overcome negative core beliefs. I specialize working with individuals who are dealing with depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, and life stressors. I work best with people who are ready and motivated to make a change in their lives and need some added support.
Hello, I am Leticia Estrada, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, together we will utilize strengths you already possess and develop new tools for healthy coping mechanism to reach your goals. You will find a safe empathetic space to embark on a journey of self-awareness healing. We will explore trauma, navigate challenges with relationships and overcome negative core beliefs. I specialize working with individuals who are dealing with depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, and life stressors. I work best with people who are ready and motivated to make a change in their lives and need some added support.
Kelsey Kickbush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92021 (Online Only)
My clients often come to me feeling stuck, wanting to reconnect with themselves. Perhaps you are navigating overwhelming experiences of anxiety, depression, dissociation, or isolation, which have impacted how you are able to show up for yourself and your relationships. You're looking to heal wounds from the past, and learn skills to help you thrive in the present. I am passionate about working with those who belong to the LGBTQIA2S+ community and other marginalized communities; helping professionals; military/veterans; and those with complex trauma. I currently see adults and adolescents aged 16 and older.
My clients often come to me feeling stuck, wanting to reconnect with themselves. Perhaps you are navigating overwhelming experiences of anxiety, depression, dissociation, or isolation, which have impacted how you are able to show up for yourself and your relationships. You're looking to heal wounds from the past, and learn skills to help you thrive in the present. I am passionate about working with those who belong to the LGBTQIA2S+ community and other marginalized communities; helping professionals; military/veterans; and those with complex trauma. I currently see adults and adolescents aged 16 and older.
Josie A. Oakley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92020 (Online Only)
Sometimes pain in our life keeps us feeling stuck even though we might want to move to a healthier, free place. I am all about providing a safe, relaxing and compassionate environment, where we can work together towards self awareness and growth. Thank you for reading my profile. I commend you for your courage in wanting to grow and make positive change in your life. No one enjoys a boring session, so I strive to have some creativity into our time as I work with children, teens and adults.
Sometimes pain in our life keeps us feeling stuck even though we might want to move to a healthier, free place. I am all about providing a safe, relaxing and compassionate environment, where we can work together towards self awareness and growth. Thank you for reading my profile. I commend you for your courage in wanting to grow and make positive change in your life. No one enjoys a boring session, so I strive to have some creativity into our time as I work with children, teens and adults.
Mary Colmenares
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021
Hi...my name is Mary T. Colmenares, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician, as well as a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor. I am located in San Diego, CA, and see clients in person or via teletherapy. I work with children, ages 3-17, as well as adults. I provide Play Therapy and a Client-Centered approach, which allows the client to share their story. I specialize in Grief Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, and the numerous life transitions that we all face. I find that children as well as adults often present with the above.
Hi...my name is Mary T. Colmenares, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician, as well as a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor. I am located in San Diego, CA, and see clients in person or via teletherapy. I work with children, ages 3-17, as well as adults. I provide Play Therapy and a Client-Centered approach, which allows the client to share their story. I specialize in Grief Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, and the numerous life transitions that we all face. I find that children as well as adults often present with the above.
Denika Chacon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92019
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of experience in the mental health, and child welfare world. I offer support for a wide range of mental health and life issues such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, ADD/ADHD, and grief/loss among others for individuals aged 13-25. I have my bachelor's degree in Psychology and Child Development from California State University, Northridge, and a master's degree in Social Work from California State University, Bakersfield. I believe that it is important to find a therapist that is a good fit for you.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of experience in the mental health, and child welfare world. I offer support for a wide range of mental health and life issues such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, ADD/ADHD, and grief/loss among others for individuals aged 13-25. I have my bachelor's degree in Psychology and Child Development from California State University, Northridge, and a master's degree in Social Work from California State University, Bakersfield. I believe that it is important to find a therapist that is a good fit for you.
Lynda Paulson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92019
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years experience in direct practice. I received my Masters in Social Work from Long Beach State University in 2008. Since then I have worked with clients across the lifespan (ages 5 to 85) in a variety of clinical and medical settings. Throughout my practice I have focused on the importance of identifying all aspects of my clients’ lives that impact their well-being (support systems, cultural, work/ school environment, physical health, faith/spirituality) to provide treatment through a wholistic person-in-environment perspective.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years experience in direct practice. I received my Masters in Social Work from Long Beach State University in 2008. Since then I have worked with clients across the lifespan (ages 5 to 85) in a variety of clinical and medical settings. Throughout my practice I have focused on the importance of identifying all aspects of my clients’ lives that impact their well-being (support systems, cultural, work/ school environment, physical health, faith/spirituality) to provide treatment through a wholistic person-in-environment perspective.
Peter Shorts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021
I'm Peter Shorts, LCSW practicing in California and on the Big Island in Kailua Kona and Pahoa. Therapy can be a journey of discovery, recovery, and healing as we seek to understand the context of life, constellation of relationships, and our internal emotional landscape. Uncovering our deeper needs being sought, and their imprint on our thoughts, emotions and behaviors.
I'm Peter Shorts, LCSW practicing in California and on the Big Island in Kailua Kona and Pahoa. Therapy can be a journey of discovery, recovery, and healing as we seek to understand the context of life, constellation of relationships, and our internal emotional landscape. Uncovering our deeper needs being sought, and their imprint on our thoughts, emotions and behaviors.
Coleen Cobbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92020
Do you find yourself feeling more depressed or anxious? Are you overwhelmed by a life transition? If you suffer from perinatal mood or anxiety disorders , you are not alone and I can help. Are you in the military? I have 24 years experience working with military families. Or you may have unresolved trauma that is interfering in your present life. I can help with any of these issues and more.
Do you find yourself feeling more depressed or anxious? Are you overwhelmed by a life transition? If you suffer from perinatal mood or anxiety disorders , you are not alone and I can help. Are you in the military? I have 24 years experience working with military families. Or you may have unresolved trauma that is interfering in your present life. I can help with any of these issues and more.
Deatria Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92019
My name is Deatria Davis and I'm an LMFT. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings while moving toward a journey of self-awareness, cultivating resilience, developing interpersonal skills, and the healing needed to form and sustain relationships with oneself and others. I use an integrative approach of CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and other theoretical approaches depending on the client's needs.
My name is Deatria Davis and I'm an LMFT. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings while moving toward a journey of self-awareness, cultivating resilience, developing interpersonal skills, and the healing needed to form and sustain relationships with oneself and others. I use an integrative approach of CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and other theoretical approaches depending on the client's needs.
See more therapy options for El Cajon
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in El Cajon, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in El Cajon, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
69% | Coping Skills |
68% | Self Esteem |
66% | Relationship Issues |
63% | Stress |
62% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in El Cajon, CA see their clients
85% | In Person and Online | |
15% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
17% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in El Cajon?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.