Photo of Ingrid B Guerrieri, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Ingrid B Guerrieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92111  (Online Only)
I work with adult individuals and partnerships in explorations of identity and relational ethics in contexts of depression, anxiety, addictions, chronic illness, life transitions, and partnership reconfigurations, and agreement re-evaluation.
¡Hola! If you are reading this, you are either going through a rough patch, or have been wanting for a preferred version of you/ life/ relationship to be your reality. We usually think of therapy as a space to work on problems, shame, trauma, and diagnoses... as if that is all you've got going for you. What about your hopes, projects, stories, talents, and desires? I believe therapy must include all of you, a space where you can talk about whom you love, how you love, and how you play. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and expressive arts therapist who says Welcome! to all of who you are. Bienvenida a CreArte Counseling.
I work with adult individuals and partnerships in explorations of identity and relational ethics in contexts of depression, anxiety, addictions, chronic illness, life transitions, and partnership reconfigurations, and agreement re-evaluation.
¡Hola! If you are reading this, you are either going through a rough patch, or have been wanting for a preferred version of you/ life/ relationship to be your reality. We usually think of therapy as a space to work on problems, shame, trauma, and diagnoses... as if that is all you've got going for you. What about your hopes, projects, stories, talents, and desires? I believe therapy must include all of you, a space where you can talk about whom you love, how you love, and how you play. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and expressive arts therapist who says Welcome! to all of who you are. Bienvenida a CreArte Counseling.
(619) 745-5992 View (619) 745-5992
Photo of Ginelle Guckenburg, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Ginelle Guckenburg
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Therapy with me will feel gentle, relational, and empowering.
Being in poly/ENM relationships can be incredibly healing. But, come to find out, healing is hard work! Sharing your loved one with other romantic interests can bring up a shit load of feelings and touch on our deepest attachment wounds. While you may be totally committed to ENM in your brain, your heart is throwing an adult sized temper tantrum and screaming at you to stop the pain. You feel stuck in a loop made of big, uncomfortable feels and unresolved conflict. You're anxious, jealous, scared, and exhausted. You want nothing more than to get out of the cycle and find the connection that brought y’all together in the first place.
Therapy with me will feel gentle, relational, and empowering.
Being in poly/ENM relationships can be incredibly healing. But, come to find out, healing is hard work! Sharing your loved one with other romantic interests can bring up a shit load of feelings and touch on our deepest attachment wounds. While you may be totally committed to ENM in your brain, your heart is throwing an adult sized temper tantrum and screaming at you to stop the pain. You feel stuck in a loop made of big, uncomfortable feels and unresolved conflict. You're anxious, jealous, scared, and exhausted. You want nothing more than to get out of the cycle and find the connection that brought y’all together in the first place.
(619) 815-4562 View (619) 815-4562
Photo of Dr. Ric Torres, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Ric Torres
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
My approach to counseling is best described as relational, emotion-focused, and culturally-sensitive.
Hello! I'm a licensed counseling psychologist offering individual psychotherapy to California residents. I currently specialize in working with adults who seek help for relational problems, family issues, and life transitions. I also have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, and stress.
My approach to counseling is best described as relational, emotion-focused, and culturally-sensitive.
Hello! I'm a licensed counseling psychologist offering individual psychotherapy to California residents. I currently specialize in working with adults who seek help for relational problems, family issues, and life transitions. I also have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression, and stress.
(619) 759-7964 View (619) 759-7964
Photo of Jessica Hughes, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Jessica Hughes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I work from an Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy lens, and enjoy working with couples and individuals struggling with relational issues.
Are you feeling disconnected from your partner, struggling to communicate, or having relationship difficulties? Do you want to build better intimacy and emotional closeness in your relationship with your romantic partner? If you are looking to reconnect with your partner, strengthen your bond and intimacy, learn ways to manage conflict better, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy and lasting intimate relationship, then I may be the ideal fit for you! I can teach you evidence-based skills to communicate better and strengthen your relationship.
I work from an Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy lens, and enjoy working with couples and individuals struggling with relational issues.
Are you feeling disconnected from your partner, struggling to communicate, or having relationship difficulties? Do you want to build better intimacy and emotional closeness in your relationship with your romantic partner? If you are looking to reconnect with your partner, strengthen your bond and intimacy, learn ways to manage conflict better, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy and lasting intimate relationship, then I may be the ideal fit for you! I can teach you evidence-based skills to communicate better and strengthen your relationship.
(619) 279-5699 View (619) 279-5699
Photo of Dina Bdaiwi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Dina Bdaiwi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Therapy with me will feel gentle, relational, and empowering.
We humans are wired for connection – we need it on the most basic level. But humans are the worst! And the best! Let’s just say: humans are complicated. We need each other, but we hurt each other, so we create these little ways to keep ourselves safe…but those ways might not be working anymore. That’s where I come in - I work with people who are experiencing distress within themselves and in their relationships. Therapy with me focuses on identifying and unpacking the unhelpful beliefs and patterns that keep you stuck, and then learning new ways of relating to yourself and others that make you feel ….. happy!?! It’s possible.
Therapy with me will feel gentle, relational, and empowering.
We humans are wired for connection – we need it on the most basic level. But humans are the worst! And the best! Let’s just say: humans are complicated. We need each other, but we hurt each other, so we create these little ways to keep ourselves safe…but those ways might not be working anymore. That’s where I come in - I work with people who are experiencing distress within themselves and in their relationships. Therapy with me focuses on identifying and unpacking the unhelpful beliefs and patterns that keep you stuck, and then learning new ways of relating to yourself and others that make you feel ….. happy!?! It’s possible.
(619) 268-8398 View (619) 268-8398
Photo of Esperanza Applestein, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Esperanza Applestein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, 106076
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127  (Online Only)
I bring a relational, insight- oriented perspective to our work together.
My mission is to provide therapy to assist individuals in achieving emotional balance and well-being through therapy. Specializing in Complex Trauma, anxiety, PTSD, grief and depression, I am dedicated to helping those who are ready to address their emotional pain, explore unresolved issues, and uncover their potential while learning healthy strategies. With 20 years of experience in the mental health field, working with adults, couples, families, children and adolescents, I offer a therapeutic environment where client feels safe, accepted and empowered to embark on their journey towards healing and personal growth.
I bring a relational, insight- oriented perspective to our work together.
My mission is to provide therapy to assist individuals in achieving emotional balance and well-being through therapy. Specializing in Complex Trauma, anxiety, PTSD, grief and depression, I am dedicated to helping those who are ready to address their emotional pain, explore unresolved issues, and uncover their potential while learning healthy strategies. With 20 years of experience in the mental health field, working with adults, couples, families, children and adolescents, I offer a therapeutic environment where client feels safe, accepted and empowered to embark on their journey towards healing and personal growth.
(858) 707-7406 View (858) 707-7406
Photo of Diego Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Diego Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
My areas of specialization are working with couples to address relational conflict, repair broken trust, and foster increased intimate connection using an approach called Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
I don't take for granted the strength and vulnerability it takes to enter into therapy; and as a clinician, my goal is to meet you where you are and help to create an environment that allows for both authentic exploration and fostering trust that there is an opportunity for healing and growth. In working together, I hope that my calm, curious, and intentional communication style helps you to feel heard, understood, and supported throughout our time together.
My areas of specialization are working with couples to address relational conflict, repair broken trust, and foster increased intimate connection using an approach called Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
I don't take for granted the strength and vulnerability it takes to enter into therapy; and as a clinician, my goal is to meet you where you are and help to create an environment that allows for both authentic exploration and fostering trust that there is an opportunity for healing and growth. In working together, I hope that my calm, curious, and intentional communication style helps you to feel heard, understood, and supported throughout our time together.
(619) 492-5530 View (619) 492-5530
Photo of Arielle Mesa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Arielle Mesa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
As a trauma-sensitive and holistic clinician, I approach therapy from a mind-body-spirit lens, integrating brain-body, psychodynamic, internal family systems, psycho-spiritual, and relational modalities.
Life often places obstacles on our path, which can leave us feeling stuck, in pain, uncertain of how to move forward. I specialize in guiding those who arrive here by creating a nurturing and curious space to help you explore, unearth, and effectively heal untended internal wounds. My passion and expertise lie in supporting people in healing from childhood abuse and neglect, sexual violence, complex loss, and ancestral and identity-based trauma. Many also turn to me to better understand with who they truly are, their roles within relationships, and their unique purpose, or to prepare for and integrate psychedelic healing journeys.
As a trauma-sensitive and holistic clinician, I approach therapy from a mind-body-spirit lens, integrating brain-body, psychodynamic, internal family systems, psycho-spiritual, and relational modalities.
Life often places obstacles on our path, which can leave us feeling stuck, in pain, uncertain of how to move forward. I specialize in guiding those who arrive here by creating a nurturing and curious space to help you explore, unearth, and effectively heal untended internal wounds. My passion and expertise lie in supporting people in healing from childhood abuse and neglect, sexual violence, complex loss, and ancestral and identity-based trauma. Many also turn to me to better understand with who they truly are, their roles within relationships, and their unique purpose, or to prepare for and integrate psychedelic healing journeys.
(202) 759-2290 View (202) 759-2290
Photo of Dr. Richie Koenig, Registered Psychological Associate in San Diego, CA
Dr. Richie Koenig
Registered Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Dr. Richie Koenig specializes in treating ADHD, queer issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders. He has worked in a variety of clinical settings throughout California and has experience working with a wide range of presenting concerns, including life transitions, family conflict, and grief. His therapeutic approach is both neurodiverse and queer affirming, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive; he centers psychodynamic, multicultural, somatic, and relational approaches that continuously integrated with the instrumental features of evidence-based modalities including CBT and DBT.
Dr. Richie Koenig specializes in treating ADHD, queer issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders. He has worked in a variety of clinical settings throughout California and has experience working with a wide range of presenting concerns, including life transitions, family conflict, and grief. His therapeutic approach is both neurodiverse and queer affirming, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive; he centers psychodynamic, multicultural, somatic, and relational approaches that continuously integrated with the instrumental features of evidence-based modalities including CBT and DBT.
(310) 356-3793 View (310) 356-3793
Photo of Amora Freire Leite, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Amora Freire Leite
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Does it sometimes feel like you’re stuck in the darkness and it’s hard to see where to go next? Do you want to increase a sense of lightness and connectedness in your life and relationships? If so, therapy can be a safe harbor from which to slow down and cast a light in your internal life and experiences and, within yourself, find ways to live a more fulfilling life. I have helped individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions and relational issues live life more fully after difficult experiences. I believe in each person's capacity to find the way to a brighter and more meaningful life.
Does it sometimes feel like you’re stuck in the darkness and it’s hard to see where to go next? Do you want to increase a sense of lightness and connectedness in your life and relationships? If so, therapy can be a safe harbor from which to slow down and cast a light in your internal life and experiences and, within yourself, find ways to live a more fulfilling life. I have helped individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions and relational issues live life more fully after difficult experiences. I believe in each person's capacity to find the way to a brighter and more meaningful life.
(615) 581-1671 View (615) 581-1671
Photo of Dr. Meghan Goulet, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Meghan Goulet
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
life transitions, relational concerns, job stress, etc).
Stressed? Overwhelmed? Exhausted? Sad? This is your mind's way of letting you know that something is not working. So often we find ourselves pushing through difficulties without taking time to understand or heal from them. Through therapy, I help folks slow down and process where they are at and what they have been through. Together we identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that are keeping you stuck. We process current and past experiences and move through avoidance. This allows you to gain new insights, function at higher levels and release stressors rather than ignoring them.
life transitions, relational concerns, job stress, etc).
Stressed? Overwhelmed? Exhausted? Sad? This is your mind's way of letting you know that something is not working. So often we find ourselves pushing through difficulties without taking time to understand or heal from them. Through therapy, I help folks slow down and process where they are at and what they have been through. Together we identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that are keeping you stuck. We process current and past experiences and move through avoidance. This allows you to gain new insights, function at higher levels and release stressors rather than ignoring them.
(650) 456-1960 View (650) 456-1960
Photo of Jasmine Dyjak Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jasmine Dyjak Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
My practice is informed by approaches in trauma, relational science, somatic, cognitive and attachment based psychodynamic models.
Being human comes with gifts. And challenges. Perhaps your feeling stressed out or sad. Maybe you have experienced significant life stressors, need support with solving specific problems or have relationships concerns. Or maybe your looking for a judgment free zone, a structured place to process life and increase self-esteem.
My practice is informed by approaches in trauma, relational science, somatic, cognitive and attachment based psychodynamic models.
Being human comes with gifts. And challenges. Perhaps your feeling stressed out or sad. Maybe you have experienced significant life stressors, need support with solving specific problems or have relationships concerns. Or maybe your looking for a judgment free zone, a structured place to process life and increase self-esteem.
(619) 853-3291 View (619) 853-3291
Photo of Jacob Munhoz, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jacob Munhoz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
My approach to psychotherapy is mindful and relational.
Psychotherapist James Finley says, “The tyranny of suffering lasts only as long as it takes for compassion to show up on the scene.” Many who find themselves reading this may experience themselves as subject to the ‘tyranny of suffering’ in some way and may be searching for a compassionate presence in which they can feel safe, be deeply seen, attentively listened to, and profoundly accepted. My name is Jacob Munhoz and I invite you to consider allowing me to be that compassionate presence for you. ***Out of deep respect for the confidential nature of this work, I do not work directly with insurance providers.***
My approach to psychotherapy is mindful and relational.
Psychotherapist James Finley says, “The tyranny of suffering lasts only as long as it takes for compassion to show up on the scene.” Many who find themselves reading this may experience themselves as subject to the ‘tyranny of suffering’ in some way and may be searching for a compassionate presence in which they can feel safe, be deeply seen, attentively listened to, and profoundly accepted. My name is Jacob Munhoz and I invite you to consider allowing me to be that compassionate presence for you. ***Out of deep respect for the confidential nature of this work, I do not work directly with insurance providers.***
(858) 213-0140 View (858) 213-0140
Photo of Áurea Oliveira, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Áurea Oliveira
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Relational issues arise when we stop feeling security and trust in our relationships, and feel emotionally disconnected and unable to communicate our needs clearly to one another. As a marriage and family therapist, I am guided by the idea that the more effectively dependent we are on each other, the more independent, courageous and adventurous we become. I also believe that the quality of our relationships can deeply impact our mental and physical wellness in general. Humans are bonding, relational beings who need to feel secure and loved in their close relationships. We need to know that we matter to our loved ones.
Relational issues arise when we stop feeling security and trust in our relationships, and feel emotionally disconnected and unable to communicate our needs clearly to one another. As a marriage and family therapist, I am guided by the idea that the more effectively dependent we are on each other, the more independent, courageous and adventurous we become. I also believe that the quality of our relationships can deeply impact our mental and physical wellness in general. Humans are bonding, relational beings who need to feel secure and loved in their close relationships. We need to know that we matter to our loved ones.
(619) 329-8243 View (619) 329-8243
Photo of Alyssia Cruz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Alyssia Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117  (Online Only)
My passion is supporting people to overcome the anxiousness that keeps them stuck. My style is very relational, which means I believe our connection in therapy is what matters most. Therapy can be uncomfortable and push us to be vulnerable, so it is important to build trust before we dig deeper. The value of our work together is you get CLARITY about who you are, what you want, and how to get there. Often times our traumas or anxieties keep us stuck living in patterns we don't know how to shake. Let's sort it out together and get you on a path that lets you enjoy life.
My passion is supporting people to overcome the anxiousness that keeps them stuck. My style is very relational, which means I believe our connection in therapy is what matters most. Therapy can be uncomfortable and push us to be vulnerable, so it is important to build trust before we dig deeper. The value of our work together is you get CLARITY about who you are, what you want, and how to get there. Often times our traumas or anxieties keep us stuck living in patterns we don't know how to shake. Let's sort it out together and get you on a path that lets you enjoy life.
(858) 434-7737 View (858) 434-7737
Photo of Elizabeth Cover, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Elizabeth Cover
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I use relational and psychodynamic frameworks, as well as strength-based approaches.
Navigating life's circumstances and challenges can take up a lot of space in our lives. Maybe you are looking for more spaciousness, more time for yourself, or an extra ear to listen to and fully "get" you. Or perhaps anxiety or depression has become a constant presence, and you desire a change and want more connection. Sharing our experiences with others provides an opportunity to feel understood. In a therapeutic relationship, we explore patterns and coping strategies to better form a picture of how we operate in the world. It can help us identify what is and isn't working towards getting your needs met more fully.
I use relational and psychodynamic frameworks, as well as strength-based approaches.
Navigating life's circumstances and challenges can take up a lot of space in our lives. Maybe you are looking for more spaciousness, more time for yourself, or an extra ear to listen to and fully "get" you. Or perhaps anxiety or depression has become a constant presence, and you desire a change and want more connection. Sharing our experiences with others provides an opportunity to feel understood. In a therapeutic relationship, we explore patterns and coping strategies to better form a picture of how we operate in the world. It can help us identify what is and isn't working towards getting your needs met more fully.
(510) 984-2310 View (510) 984-2310
Photo of Stephanie Nigh, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Stephanie Nigh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109
Employing a relational perspective, I utilize both short term targeted and in-depth approaches.
I specialize with high functioning adults pursuing personal & professional growth & development. I enjoy helping high achieving individuals find personal balance while pursuing professional excellence. My expertise includes leadership challenges, relationship issues, chronic stress, perfectionism, grief recovery, personal empowerment and parenting. I provide professional consultation & therapy groups for therapists & professionals in leadership. I help individuals employ strengths while exercising creative approaches to life's ongoing challenges. Together we forge a path that optimizes growth for meaningful, long-lasting results.
Employing a relational perspective, I utilize both short term targeted and in-depth approaches.
I specialize with high functioning adults pursuing personal & professional growth & development. I enjoy helping high achieving individuals find personal balance while pursuing professional excellence. My expertise includes leadership challenges, relationship issues, chronic stress, perfectionism, grief recovery, personal empowerment and parenting. I provide professional consultation & therapy groups for therapists & professionals in leadership. I help individuals employ strengths while exercising creative approaches to life's ongoing challenges. Together we forge a path that optimizes growth for meaningful, long-lasting results.
(858) 213-0031 View (858) 213-0031
Photo of Teddie Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Teddie Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Teddie partners with queer, poly, and minority identified adults to heal from the relational and systemic trauma that is causing disconnection from self and others. On the outside, my clients might seem strong, accomplished and high functioning, but inside they are anxious, overwhelmed, and filled with self-blame. I am hella good at helping my clients feel safe and seen and healing the shit that’s holding them back from loving themselves and others well.
Dr. Teddie partners with queer, poly, and minority identified adults to heal from the relational and systemic trauma that is causing disconnection from self and others. On the outside, my clients might seem strong, accomplished and high functioning, but inside they are anxious, overwhelmed, and filled with self-blame. I am hella good at helping my clients feel safe and seen and healing the shit that’s holding them back from loving themselves and others well.
(619) 273-0794 View (619) 273-0794
Photo of Veronica Viesca, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Veronica Viesca
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
As a native of Southern California, I deeply connect with the diverse communities I serve. My passion for advancing the field of Marriage and Family Therapy led me to pursue extensive education and training, culminating in a Doctoral degree. With a strong foundation in research, clinical practice, and business, I founded two impactful ventures in 2023: The Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE), a California non-profit, and The Institute for Relational Well-being, a national practice. These initiatives reflect my unwavering commitment to enhancing mental health services and promoting community well-being.
As a native of Southern California, I deeply connect with the diverse communities I serve. My passion for advancing the field of Marriage and Family Therapy led me to pursue extensive education and training, culminating in a Doctoral degree. With a strong foundation in research, clinical practice, and business, I founded two impactful ventures in 2023: The Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE), a California non-profit, and The Institute for Relational Well-being, a national practice. These initiatives reflect my unwavering commitment to enhancing mental health services and promoting community well-being.
(858) 261-5483 View (858) 261-5483
Photo of Teresa R Renner, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Teresa R Renner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
Utilizing humor, compassion, and being "real" with my clients, I offer the opportunity for better personal, professional, relational, and spiritual balance and healing.
My passion is to motivate, educate and support the deepest level of healing and highest level of achievement available to my clients, personally, professionally and in their relationships. I assist my clients in healing long standing issue as they move through difficult life circumstances with a deeper understanding and appreciation of themselves and others. Utilizing my training in fitness, holistic nutrition, & personal growth combined with over 20 years experience in mental health, I feel uniquely qualified to assist my clients in understanding and healing their "whole being". I'm licensed and have practices in WA and CA.
Utilizing humor, compassion, and being "real" with my clients, I offer the opportunity for better personal, professional, relational, and spiritual balance and healing.
My passion is to motivate, educate and support the deepest level of healing and highest level of achievement available to my clients, personally, professionally and in their relationships. I assist my clients in healing long standing issue as they move through difficult life circumstances with a deeper understanding and appreciation of themselves and others. Utilizing my training in fitness, holistic nutrition, & personal growth combined with over 20 years experience in mental health, I feel uniquely qualified to assist my clients in understanding and healing their "whole being". I'm licensed and have practices in WA and CA.
(253) 321-1853 View (253) 321-1853
Relational Therapists

How does relational therapy work?

Relational therapy was developed by psychologist Jean Miller, whose ideas stressed that having strong connections with others encourages better health and well-being when compared with a lonely existence. Conversely, poor interpersonal relationships do not foster growth and learning. Relational therapy also encourages trust in others and patience with others, along with better communication and less conflict.

Is relational therapy evidence-based?

Relational therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating certain mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral or acceptance and commitment therapy. However, relational therapy uses techniques found in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as psychodynamic therapy, which are both well-studied with empirical research.

How long are people typically in relational therapy?

Clients may see improvement after a few weeks or months of therapy. Like cognitive behavioral therapy, relational therapy can reduce symptoms within 10 to 20 weeks, at 45 to 50 minutes once a week. But like any type of therapy, improvement depends on the person and the severity of the problem.

Does relational therapy work?

While no therapy type will work for everyone, some evidence suggests that this therapy can be effective. Relational therapy can help a person manage problematic relationships as well as the mental health conditions that accompany difficult relationships like depression or anxiety. This therapy type may offer benefits that are hard to measure but can be just as valuable—including feelings of higher self-worth or healthier connections with others.