Therapists in San Diego, CA
Dr. Charlos Thompson
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Individuals who cope with trauma, including, domestic violence, car accidents, sexual assaults and abuse, and exposure to various violent experiences. In addition, I coach, mentor, counsel youth who cope with ADHD, Conduct Disorder, and Oppositional Defiance go through school without being diagnosed and treated properly. As a result, they have a trail of failing grades and suspensions. I provide 26 years of experience working with parents and youth who need proper assessments and services. All sessions are conducted in a safe and secure online environment with complete privacy & strict confidentiality.
Individuals who cope with trauma, including, domestic violence, car accidents, sexual assaults and abuse, and exposure to various violent experiences. In addition, I coach, mentor, counsel youth who cope with ADHD, Conduct Disorder, and Oppositional Defiance go through school without being diagnosed and treated properly. As a result, they have a trail of failing grades and suspensions. I provide 26 years of experience working with parents and youth who need proper assessments and services. All sessions are conducted in a safe and secure online environment with complete privacy & strict confidentiality.
Nicole Guzman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology from UCLA. I also hold a master’s and doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and have over 20 years of experience working with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and a variety of other presenting issues. For the past several years, I have served as a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Psychology.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology from UCLA. I also hold a master’s and doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and have over 20 years of experience working with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and a variety of other presenting issues. For the past several years, I have served as a Subject Matter Expert for the California Board of Psychology.
Lisa Pedersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106 (Online Only)
You can know that for 25 years I've made sure that my clients feel seen, heard, and respected. I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help you navigate life's challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based techniques tailored to people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues. Know that I'm hanging on every word you say. My many trainings allow me to "pull from my back pocket" strategies to help you get unstuck from patterns that are not allowing you to function optimally.
You can know that for 25 years I've made sure that my clients feel seen, heard, and respected. I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help you navigate life's challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based techniques tailored to people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues. Know that I'm hanging on every word you say. My many trainings allow me to "pull from my back pocket" strategies to help you get unstuck from patterns that are not allowing you to function optimally.
Giulia Marcone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 133658) and I provide individual, couples, family, children and youth counseling in a tele-therapy format. It would be my privilege to offer a safe and collaborative space for bringing change and growth that will move you towards your desired goals in life. My areas of specialty include: life transitions, interpersonal and intimacy deficits, men's issues, addiction, anxiety, stress and military lifestyle challenges. I specialize in supporting those who struggle to manage out of control and problematic sexual behaviors that are causing physical, emotional or relational distress.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 133658) and I provide individual, couples, family, children and youth counseling in a tele-therapy format. It would be my privilege to offer a safe and collaborative space for bringing change and growth that will move you towards your desired goals in life. My areas of specialty include: life transitions, interpersonal and intimacy deficits, men's issues, addiction, anxiety, stress and military lifestyle challenges. I specialize in supporting those who struggle to manage out of control and problematic sexual behaviors that are causing physical, emotional or relational distress.
Julie O'Hara
Marriage & Family Therapist, Psy D, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104 (Online Only)
Are you concerned about the impact that having children will have on your relationship? Or maybe you are burnt out from the sudden lack of freedom and having trouble finding your new normal? The transition to parenthood will likely be the most challenging transition you will experience in your lifetime. This is hard and it is okay to be struggling. Struggling during this phase of life does not mean you are failing. You are doing great. I specialize in working with women and couples preparing for and adjusting to parenthood. If you are looking for support as you navigate this challenging terrain, I am here to help.
Are you concerned about the impact that having children will have on your relationship? Or maybe you are burnt out from the sudden lack of freedom and having trouble finding your new normal? The transition to parenthood will likely be the most challenging transition you will experience in your lifetime. This is hard and it is okay to be struggling. Struggling during this phase of life does not mean you are failing. You are doing great. I specialize in working with women and couples preparing for and adjusting to parenthood. If you are looking for support as you navigate this challenging terrain, I am here to help.
Tay Richardson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Black, trans/nonbinary, and queer therapist who aims to form collaborative relationships with my clients and provide liberating mental health services. My goal is to provide a supportive environment where folks can openly explore their identities and lived experiences. I aim to help you discover your strengths and push you in your areas of growth towards healing. I have experience working with a variety of ages, identities, and backgrounds. I am specifically passionate about working with neurodiverse populations, queer and trans communities, people of color, and non traditional relationship dynamics (non-monogamy/kink).
I am a Black, trans/nonbinary, and queer therapist who aims to form collaborative relationships with my clients and provide liberating mental health services. My goal is to provide a supportive environment where folks can openly explore their identities and lived experiences. I aim to help you discover your strengths and push you in your areas of growth towards healing. I have experience working with a variety of ages, identities, and backgrounds. I am specifically passionate about working with neurodiverse populations, queer and trans communities, people of color, and non traditional relationship dynamics (non-monogamy/kink).
Julie Hirsch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
Hello! My name is Julie Hirsch and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT131536). We all tell ourselves stories, and. I see therapy as a place where we examine your story together, imagine new possible narratives, and discover the parts of yourself that are resilient and capable of change. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults. I most enjoy working with adults of all ages who are struggling with stress, grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, relational issues, life transitions, and childhood neglect or abuse.
Hello! My name is Julie Hirsch and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT131536). We all tell ourselves stories, and. I see therapy as a place where we examine your story together, imagine new possible narratives, and discover the parts of yourself that are resilient and capable of change. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults. I most enjoy working with adults of all ages who are struggling with stress, grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, relational issues, life transitions, and childhood neglect or abuse.
Elizabeth A. Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92139 (Online Only)
Everyone can benefit from therapy regardless of age, ethnicity and/or sexual/gender identity. I have worked in the mental health/psychology field since 2000 and am passionate about helping individuals, families and couples achieve more connection, wellness, awareness and insight. I have concentrated training/experience providing treatment to disenfranchised/marginalized groups (BIPOC/LGBTQIA+), couples, families, inmates, parolees, people with sexual trauma and people struggling with racial trauma/discrimination. I provide direct, yet compassionate feedback of a solution-oriented nature to help clients achieve treatment goals.
Everyone can benefit from therapy regardless of age, ethnicity and/or sexual/gender identity. I have worked in the mental health/psychology field since 2000 and am passionate about helping individuals, families and couples achieve more connection, wellness, awareness and insight. I have concentrated training/experience providing treatment to disenfranchised/marginalized groups (BIPOC/LGBTQIA+), couples, families, inmates, parolees, people with sexual trauma and people struggling with racial trauma/discrimination. I provide direct, yet compassionate feedback of a solution-oriented nature to help clients achieve treatment goals.
Hayden Dover
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CST
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116
I offer psychotherapy to individuals and couples who grapple with a variety of concerns or who wish to use therapy as an avenue for personal growth and greater fulfillment. I am committed to facilitating self-awareness in my clients which will allow them to make choices that are healthy and empowering.
I offer psychotherapy to individuals and couples who grapple with a variety of concerns or who wish to use therapy as an avenue for personal growth and greater fulfillment. I am committed to facilitating self-awareness in my clients which will allow them to make choices that are healthy and empowering.
Briana Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
I believe in getting to know my clients, building a relationship with them and earning their trust through the therapeutic process. I understand that everyone's healing journey is the not the same and I want to be able to meet clients where they are in their journey. I strive to provide my clients with a safe space to assist them with processing traumas, identifying triggers, and most importantly different techniques/interventions for coping in order to have a life worth living.
I believe in getting to know my clients, building a relationship with them and earning their trust through the therapeutic process. I understand that everyone's healing journey is the not the same and I want to be able to meet clients where they are in their journey. I strive to provide my clients with a safe space to assist them with processing traumas, identifying triggers, and most importantly different techniques/interventions for coping in order to have a life worth living.
Kendall Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Hi, Glad you found me! Let’s work together. I specialize in working with a variety clients – children, women, families, and mothers. If you or your loved ones are navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, or trauma, you've come to the right place. I provide a safe and supportive space where you can learn, express, and develop the tools to overcome these hurdles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. Whether it's finding peace, building resilience, or mending relationships, my goal is to help you or your family on the path to a brighter and healthier future. It is an honor to support you.
Hi, Glad you found me! Let’s work together. I specialize in working with a variety clients – children, women, families, and mothers. If you or your loved ones are navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, or trauma, you've come to the right place. I provide a safe and supportive space where you can learn, express, and develop the tools to overcome these hurdles. Together, we'll embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. Whether it's finding peace, building resilience, or mending relationships, my goal is to help you or your family on the path to a brighter and healthier future. It is an honor to support you.
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Kimberly Ayres
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104 (Online Only)
Kimberly Ayres (she/her) is a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. With experience in community mental health, dual diagnosis treatment, and children’s outpatient care, Kimberly is driven by a strong passion for quality mental health treatment that integrates a systemic view of a person and their concerns. In other words, she likes to explore how your culture, gender, ethnicity, family, friends, and various environments impact your mental health.
Kimberly Ayres (she/her) is a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. With experience in community mental health, dual diagnosis treatment, and children’s outpatient care, Kimberly is driven by a strong passion for quality mental health treatment that integrates a systemic view of a person and their concerns. In other words, she likes to explore how your culture, gender, ethnicity, family, friends, and various environments impact your mental health.
Tendril Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
Plants can grow in some of the most unexpected places. On sidewalks, through concrete, on buildings. Even when the odds seem stacked against it, the desire to thrive can find a way. When a person comes to therapy, they are choosing to find their own way to grow, no matter where they’ve been planted. One of the tools of plants are tendrils; those delicate, sensitive shoots of courage that reach out for support and connection. With some nurturance and guidance, we here at Tendril Therapy welcome you to break the barriers of what seems improbable, to grow, to thrive, to climb.
Plants can grow in some of the most unexpected places. On sidewalks, through concrete, on buildings. Even when the odds seem stacked against it, the desire to thrive can find a way. When a person comes to therapy, they are choosing to find their own way to grow, no matter where they’ve been planted. One of the tools of plants are tendrils; those delicate, sensitive shoots of courage that reach out for support and connection. With some nurturance and guidance, we here at Tendril Therapy welcome you to break the barriers of what seems improbable, to grow, to thrive, to climb.
Cara Weinstock
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
My name is Cara Weinstock and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who has experience working with children, teens, adults and couples. My ideal client is anyone who is looking for a safe, welcoming environment to explore new ways of thinking. I feel passionate about being a support for those going through difficult transitions, looking for new perspectives and hoping to make positive changes in their lives. I like to work collaboratively with my clients, where we set achievable goals and often check in and acknowledge our progress. I will always be your cheerleader and move whatever pace feels most comfortable for you.
My name is Cara Weinstock and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who has experience working with children, teens, adults and couples. My ideal client is anyone who is looking for a safe, welcoming environment to explore new ways of thinking. I feel passionate about being a support for those going through difficult transitions, looking for new perspectives and hoping to make positive changes in their lives. I like to work collaboratively with my clients, where we set achievable goals and often check in and acknowledge our progress. I will always be your cheerleader and move whatever pace feels most comfortable for you.
Molly Gildersleeve
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Do you perceive yourself or have been told by others you are “too sensitive” or a chronic “overthinker”? Have you felt as though others might be missing something or aren't seeing the world through the same lens? Do you feel like you are trying to make jazz music in a world that insists upon classical? Do you have a hard time being gentle on yourself when overwhelmed by small things like overhead lighting, running late, going to the grocery store? Do you find yourself questioning social rules like why do I have to smile at strangers? Why are pjs not acceptable adult clothing?
Do you perceive yourself or have been told by others you are “too sensitive” or a chronic “overthinker”? Have you felt as though others might be missing something or aren't seeing the world through the same lens? Do you feel like you are trying to make jazz music in a world that insists upon classical? Do you have a hard time being gentle on yourself when overwhelmed by small things like overhead lighting, running late, going to the grocery store? Do you find yourself questioning social rules like why do I have to smile at strangers? Why are pjs not acceptable adult clothing?
Annie Hall Marriage & Family Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Reaching out for help isn't always easy. Connecting with a therapist you trust is crucial for the success of the therapeutic process. As a marriage and family therapist, I strive to meet my clients' emotional needs in order to understand their world-views, experiences and struggles. It is a privilege to accompany a client towards a journey of health. I seek to form a collaborative bond within the counseling relationship. I have found that therapy can create the spark needed to pursue positive change in the lives of my clients.
Reaching out for help isn't always easy. Connecting with a therapist you trust is crucial for the success of the therapeutic process. As a marriage and family therapist, I strive to meet my clients' emotional needs in order to understand their world-views, experiences and struggles. It is a privilege to accompany a client towards a journey of health. I seek to form a collaborative bond within the counseling relationship. I have found that therapy can create the spark needed to pursue positive change in the lives of my clients.
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92115
I am Dr Icinda Siqueira Darwin, a multicultural, multi-ethnically oriented therapist who is currently licensed as a Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. I speak Spanish and Portuguese as well as English and see clients in these language backgrounds as well. I have worked extensively as a Community Psychologist, and also have a strong Forensic Psychologist background, having worked in Prisons and Paroles. I have been in Private Practice for the past few years. I typically work with all types of clients from adolescents to elderly seniors.
I am Dr Icinda Siqueira Darwin, a multicultural, multi-ethnically oriented therapist who is currently licensed as a Clinical Psychologist in the state of California. I speak Spanish and Portuguese as well as English and see clients in these language backgrounds as well. I have worked extensively as a Community Psychologist, and also have a strong Forensic Psychologist background, having worked in Prisons and Paroles. I have been in Private Practice for the past few years. I typically work with all types of clients from adolescents to elderly seniors.
Kathleen Atienza
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Seeking help is a brave step toward healing, and I'm committed to supporting you as you strive to live a life that reflects your truest self. Drawing from my experience working with children, youth, and young adults,
Seeking help is a brave step toward healing, and I'm committed to supporting you as you strive to live a life that reflects your truest self. Drawing from my experience working with children, youth, and young adults,
Talia Morrison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
It’s true that change starts with the choice to seek support - and here you are! Let’s take the next step together. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive private practice and non-profit experience working with youth, couples, and families who have experienced relationship challenges, trauma, grief and loss, caring for family members with mental health or developmental and intellectual disabilities, as well as addiction and recovery from substance use disorders.
It’s true that change starts with the choice to seek support - and here you are! Let’s take the next step together. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive private practice and non-profit experience working with youth, couples, and families who have experienced relationship challenges, trauma, grief and loss, caring for family members with mental health or developmental and intellectual disabilities, as well as addiction and recovery from substance use disorders.
Preventative Health for Happy Families!
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I've had the joy of working with children and families for nearly 20 years. I also am the founder/owner of "Preventative Health for Happy Families!" a boutique group practice specializing in Military Families. We embrace the philosophy of resiliency and take a strength based approach to motivate change. In session, we help with the development of basic life skills: management of difficult feelings, stress reduction, effective communication, parenting techniques, practical goal-setting, or improved problem solving. The end result? Thriving individuals, satisfied couples, cohesive families and happy children!
I've had the joy of working with children and families for nearly 20 years. I also am the founder/owner of "Preventative Health for Happy Families!" a boutique group practice specializing in Military Families. We embrace the philosophy of resiliency and take a strength based approach to motivate change. In session, we help with the development of basic life skills: management of difficult feelings, stress reduction, effective communication, parenting techniques, practical goal-setting, or improved problem solving. The end result? Thriving individuals, satisfied couples, cohesive families and happy children!
See more therapy options for San Diego
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in San Diego, CA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
71% | Self Esteem |
66% | Relationship Issues |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Coping Skills |
62% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
77% | Aetna |
74% | Cigna and Evernorth |
69% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients
56% | In Person and Online | |
44% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in San Diego?
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.