Therapists in San Diego, CA
Sarah A Zucker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
Hey! You’ve likely arrived here because you’ve been in a dark place and might be ready for a change. You’re tired of carrying around the burden of your trauma, anxiety, or the weight of your substance use or secret addiction. Or you’re concerned about a loved one’s unhealthy behaviors. Maybe you feel ashamed and alone but the fear of being judged is finally being outweighed by the possibility that things could be better. Life is really hard, but we can do hard things with support. How I can help: •We can collaborate if you have ever had substance use concerns or addictive behaviors - past or present, in recovery or ongoing.
Hey! You’ve likely arrived here because you’ve been in a dark place and might be ready for a change. You’re tired of carrying around the burden of your trauma, anxiety, or the weight of your substance use or secret addiction. Or you’re concerned about a loved one’s unhealthy behaviors. Maybe you feel ashamed and alone but the fear of being judged is finally being outweighed by the possibility that things could be better. Life is really hard, but we can do hard things with support. How I can help: •We can collaborate if you have ever had substance use concerns or addictive behaviors - past or present, in recovery or ongoing.
Daniel J Sharer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92119 (Online Only)
When problems come up in our lives, they often make up us feel alone. It’s not that we can’t handle the problems, but sometimes it just feels overwhelming. Often, we feel like the problems are not going away or that everybody else is living a better life; however, I can assure you that you’re not alone.
When problems come up in our lives, they often make up us feel alone. It’s not that we can’t handle the problems, but sometimes it just feels overwhelming. Often, we feel like the problems are not going away or that everybody else is living a better life; however, I can assure you that you’re not alone.
Well Psychology, Inc
PhD, CGP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130 (Online Only)
Our patients at Well are diverse and come to us exactly as they are. We provide clinical care to patients neglected in the traditional in-person mental health care treatment model, and we focus on delivering evidence-based treatments that work, tailored to your needs. We partner with patients to eliminate barriers like access, stigma, or cost, and our patients feel at home no matter where they are with our patient-centered clinicians. We are California’s online solution to today’s mental health challenges: patient-centered, modern, collaborative. Well is here for you.
Our patients at Well are diverse and come to us exactly as they are. We provide clinical care to patients neglected in the traditional in-person mental health care treatment model, and we focus on delivering evidence-based treatments that work, tailored to your needs. We partner with patients to eliminate barriers like access, stigma, or cost, and our patients feel at home no matter where they are with our patient-centered clinicians. We are California’s online solution to today’s mental health challenges: patient-centered, modern, collaborative. Well is here for you.
Vivian Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
My name is Vivian E. Johnson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I predominately utilize the psychodynamic approach. I work with individuals, families, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I help clients recognize their recurring unhelpful thought, emotional and behavioral patterns, and the defense mechanisms they've developed to avoid distress and cope with stress. This insight may allow them to begin changing those patterns and develop more helpful and healthier ways to cope with life stressors.
My name is Vivian E. Johnson, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I predominately utilize the psychodynamic approach. I work with individuals, families, and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I help clients recognize their recurring unhelpful thought, emotional and behavioral patterns, and the defense mechanisms they've developed to avoid distress and cope with stress. This insight may allow them to begin changing those patterns and develop more helpful and healthier ways to cope with life stressors.
Dan Vaci
Marriage & Family Therapist, Aetna, United, Optum, Cigna
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
When life gets tough, it forces us to look for ways to change, heal and grow. It helps to have somebody walk with us through these challenging periods. Let's see if we can get your life and your relationships back on the right track. There was a time when you felt more fully connected, more confident, less anxious & better able to move through those stuck places. It's time to break those old patterns that hold you back from realizing your full potential. Let's work together to create the life changes you've been wanting. You deserve it! I am In-Network with Aetna, Optum, United Healthcare and Cigna.
When life gets tough, it forces us to look for ways to change, heal and grow. It helps to have somebody walk with us through these challenging periods. Let's see if we can get your life and your relationships back on the right track. There was a time when you felt more fully connected, more confident, less anxious & better able to move through those stuck places. It's time to break those old patterns that hold you back from realizing your full potential. Let's work together to create the life changes you've been wanting. You deserve it! I am In-Network with Aetna, Optum, United Healthcare and Cigna.
Kelly Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
You have made it this far – I hope that you can take a deep breath. I honor your courage in taking this first step to seek healing in your life. Perhaps you are here because you feel stuck in your life, marriage or family; whatever pain you may be experiencing, it would be a privilege to partner with you on your journey towards greater peace and freedom. I am a level II trained restoration therapist which I use to equip individuals, couples and families break free of painful cycles and embrace peace in their lives and relationships.
You have made it this far – I hope that you can take a deep breath. I honor your courage in taking this first step to seek healing in your life. Perhaps you are here because you feel stuck in your life, marriage or family; whatever pain you may be experiencing, it would be a privilege to partner with you on your journey towards greater peace and freedom. I am a level II trained restoration therapist which I use to equip individuals, couples and families break free of painful cycles and embrace peace in their lives and relationships.
Maegan K A Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing narrative therapy in California. I am committed to providing anti-racist, gender-affirming, respectful care to each person with whom I meet; and to help each person discover and remember the abilities they have, which can help them move through life despite the obstacles they may encounter. I am passionate about standing alongside the individuals, couples, and families I collaborate with against the problems that show up in their lives.
Welcome! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing narrative therapy in California. I am committed to providing anti-racist, gender-affirming, respectful care to each person with whom I meet; and to help each person discover and remember the abilities they have, which can help them move through life despite the obstacles they may encounter. I am passionate about standing alongside the individuals, couples, and families I collaborate with against the problems that show up in their lives.
Syed Imam
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92139 (Online Only)
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California with more than a decade of experience serving clients with variety of issues.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist based in California with more than a decade of experience serving clients with variety of issues.
Paul Standal
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92110 (Online Only)
I am hopeful that you perceive me as warm, easy to talk to, and a good listener. I am committed to making it safe for you to express your feelings, explore issues, solve problems, and to pursue personal goals. I believe that I offer a depth of experience along with understanding, empathy and compassion. My goal is to provide you with tools to gain awareness and insight into your issues so that negative feelings and self-limiting behaviors can be confronted and resolved. In learning healthier coping skills, you will ultimately gain a greater sense of personal satisfaction in your relationships and in your life!
I am hopeful that you perceive me as warm, easy to talk to, and a good listener. I am committed to making it safe for you to express your feelings, explore issues, solve problems, and to pursue personal goals. I believe that I offer a depth of experience along with understanding, empathy and compassion. My goal is to provide you with tools to gain awareness and insight into your issues so that negative feelings and self-limiting behaviors can be confronted and resolved. In learning healthier coping skills, you will ultimately gain a greater sense of personal satisfaction in your relationships and in your life!
Gehan Halim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131
I provide my client with a safe space, respect, and understanding. Life can be challenging and confusing at times; my therapeutic approach is client center, solution-focused and strength-based. I utilize different theoretical approaches that are most appropriate for presenting symptoms/problems. I work conjointly with my clients to meet their goals in therapy. I am currently seeing adult women as patients.
I provide my client with a safe space, respect, and understanding. Life can be challenging and confusing at times; my therapeutic approach is client center, solution-focused and strength-based. I utilize different theoretical approaches that are most appropriate for presenting symptoms/problems. I work conjointly with my clients to meet their goals in therapy. I am currently seeing adult women as patients.
Claire Fox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I have experience working with adults who are facing grief and loss, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. Life can be challenging and we are not meant to navigate it alone; I believe that within a safe therapeutic space we can find peace, healing, and clarity in our lives. If you are in pain, feeling stuck, overwhelmed by emotions, or facing a life transition, I invite you to reach out. I am LGBTQ+ affirming.
I have experience working with adults who are facing grief and loss, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. Life can be challenging and we are not meant to navigate it alone; I believe that within a safe therapeutic space we can find peace, healing, and clarity in our lives. If you are in pain, feeling stuck, overwhelmed by emotions, or facing a life transition, I invite you to reach out. I am LGBTQ+ affirming.
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Emily Sebald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Now accepting clients in both CA and WA! Feeling overwhelmed, racing thoughts, constant worry, and low self-confidence may be things you have become familiar with. Maybe you have recently experienced some life changes or maybe the way you typically cope just isn’t cutting it. Some days it may feel like your worries, fears, and self-doubt are completely taking over. No matter how hard you try, you can't seem to shake the "What ifs." You want to get through your day without feeling completely overwhelmed by work, school, or caring for your children. You want to stop that voice in your head that tells you that you’re not doing enough.
Now accepting clients in both CA and WA! Feeling overwhelmed, racing thoughts, constant worry, and low self-confidence may be things you have become familiar with. Maybe you have recently experienced some life changes or maybe the way you typically cope just isn’t cutting it. Some days it may feel like your worries, fears, and self-doubt are completely taking over. No matter how hard you try, you can't seem to shake the "What ifs." You want to get through your day without feeling completely overwhelmed by work, school, or caring for your children. You want to stop that voice in your head that tells you that you’re not doing enough.
Mary McWalters
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Hello and welcome! My name is Mary (she/her) and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker and a San Diego native. I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship conflicts. Whether you are coming to therapy for the first time or reconnecting with it, we can work together to achieve an improved and more rewarding quality of life.
Hello and welcome! My name is Mary (she/her) and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker and a San Diego native. I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship conflicts. Whether you are coming to therapy for the first time or reconnecting with it, we can work together to achieve an improved and more rewarding quality of life.
Colleen Cambra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154
Hi and welcome! My name is Colleen Cambra, LCSW. I have been a clinical social worker since 1992. I know how to listen and hear your thoughts and feelings with care in a supportive and warm environment. Our work together will be interactive and collaborative. I work with a blend of evidence-based therapies including CBT and DBT. I also enjoy using mindfulness and visualization techniques to help reduce stress.
Hi and welcome! My name is Colleen Cambra, LCSW. I have been a clinical social worker since 1992. I know how to listen and hear your thoughts and feelings with care in a supportive and warm environment. Our work together will be interactive and collaborative. I work with a blend of evidence-based therapies including CBT and DBT. I also enjoy using mindfulness and visualization techniques to help reduce stress.
Christopher Schell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
Christopher Schell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego, California and works with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from National University. Christopher works with children, adolescents and adults and specializes in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. His passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing. Christopher's approach to his work is always centered around the specific needs of the client.
Christopher Schell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego, California and works with clients statewide via telehealth and in-person visits. He has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from National University. Christopher works with children, adolescents and adults and specializes in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute stress, and various other client issues. His passion is to create a safe and nurturing space for personal growth and healing. Christopher's approach to his work is always centered around the specific needs of the client.
Riley Cormack
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120 (Online Only)
Riley works with individuals, couples, families, and groups on a wide range of issues, including relationship concerns, sexuality, depression, personal development, LGBT issues, parenting, finances, business & career and more.
Riley works with individuals, couples, families, and groups on a wide range of issues, including relationship concerns, sexuality, depression, personal development, LGBT issues, parenting, finances, business & career and more.
Shirley Babior
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
My specialty-working with you to finally overcome your anxiety problems, OCD, or relationship issues benefits from my 30+ years of helping others. I review all new research. I have written self-help books on anxiety disorders and research papers with UCSD on social anxiety. Compassion, warmth, and skill in individualizing therapy aid in recovery. You can also visit my platform using stressreleasesd.com. My approach to helping you is based on current evidence-based cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and exposure-response prevention for OCD.
My specialty-working with you to finally overcome your anxiety problems, OCD, or relationship issues benefits from my 30+ years of helping others. I review all new research. I have written self-help books on anxiety disorders and research papers with UCSD on social anxiety. Compassion, warmth, and skill in individualizing therapy aid in recovery. You can also visit my platform using stressreleasesd.com. My approach to helping you is based on current evidence-based cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and exposure-response prevention for OCD.
Breffni Barrett
Psychologist
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
My approach to therapy is to meet with the person, couple or family, to assess the issues and see if we can problem solve together. Former clients have described me as warm, competent, compassionate and effective as a therapist. I have been licensed as a psychologist and marriage and family therapist for more than 30 years, and have served as an expert witness as a forensic psychologist. I have been trained in mediation and worked with family businesses. My service to my profession includes being President of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and Treasurer of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I believe we are here to help one another, and look forward to working with you.
My approach to therapy is to meet with the person, couple or family, to assess the issues and see if we can problem solve together. Former clients have described me as warm, competent, compassionate and effective as a therapist. I have been licensed as a psychologist and marriage and family therapist for more than 30 years, and have served as an expert witness as a forensic psychologist. I have been trained in mediation and worked with family businesses. My service to my profession includes being President of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and Treasurer of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I believe we are here to help one another, and look forward to working with you.
Emma Porterfield
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Teenage life can be hard to understand, even when things are going well. Offering individual therapy for teens and pre-teens. Family therapy or parenting training available as well. All of us are living on a spectrum of surviving---------thriving. Whether you need support just getting through each day, or things are more stable and you're looking to grow, I'm here to support you wherever you are at!
Teenage life can be hard to understand, even when things are going well. Offering individual therapy for teens and pre-teens. Family therapy or parenting training available as well. All of us are living on a spectrum of surviving---------thriving. Whether you need support just getting through each day, or things are more stable and you're looking to grow, I'm here to support you wherever you are at!
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,
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 |
73% | 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.