Transgender Therapists in El Cajon, CA
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.
For example, he brings enthusiasm for working with professionals experiencing burnout, transgender people and their family members, and others going through times of significant life change that awaken questions of meaning.
Ryja (he/they) is motivated by a strong belief in each human's potential to transform suffering into wisdom, compassion, freedom, and loving action. He has immersed himself in learning different ways to facilitate this transformation. Beyond his formal training and licensure as a clinical psychologist, Ryja's orientation to his work with clients is deeply informed by his 2 and ¬Ω years living and studying full-time at a Zen monastery, and certification as a Nature and Forest Therapy Guide. Ryja has expertise in responding to times of stress, professional and caregiver burnout, and life transition.
For example, he brings enthusiasm for working with professionals experiencing burnout, transgender people and their family members, and others going through times of significant life change that awaken questions of meaning.
Ryja (he/they) is motivated by a strong belief in each human's potential to transform suffering into wisdom, compassion, freedom, and loving action. He has immersed himself in learning different ways to facilitate this transformation. Beyond his formal training and licensure as a clinical psychologist, Ryja's orientation to his work with clients is deeply informed by his 2 and ¬Ω years living and studying full-time at a Zen monastery, and certification as a Nature and Forest Therapy Guide. Ryja has expertise in responding to times of stress, professional and caregiver burnout, and life transition.
I have a special interest in working with transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming clients.
Hey there, I'm Jess Quessenberry. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a non-binary person (she/they) who works with a wide variety of individuals on many different issues. My approach is very individualized and centered on the client. People aren't one-size-fits-all, so adapting to their personalities and needs is key. I tend to use Narrative Therapy as a way to help us see other possible stories about the events in our lives.
I have a special interest in working with transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming clients.
Hey there, I'm Jess Quessenberry. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a non-binary person (she/they) who works with a wide variety of individuals on many different issues. My approach is very individualized and centered on the client. People aren't one-size-fits-all, so adapting to their personalities and needs is key. I tend to use Narrative Therapy as a way to help us see other possible stories about the events in our lives.
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.
Kelsey Kickbush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92021 (Online Only)
We will work together to help you heal your 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, adolescents aged 16 and older, and families and partners, including those in polyamorous/CNM relationships.
We will work together to help you heal your 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, adolescents aged 16 and older, and families and partners, including those in polyamorous/CNM relationships.
Live Inspired Child & Family Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92020 (Online Only)
Through a holistic approach including: Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, and Integrative Nutrition, I support clients in exploring their unique strengths and individual needs. I am a believer in the extraordinary healing powers of play! "The creation of something new is not powered by the intellect, but by the play instinct arising from inner necessity." ~ Carl Jung.
Through a holistic approach including: Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, and Integrative Nutrition, I support clients in exploring their unique strengths and individual needs. I am a believer in the extraordinary healing powers of play! "The creation of something new is not powered by the intellect, but by the play instinct arising from inner necessity." ~ Carl Jung.
Mysty Higgins
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with emotions that you don't know what to do with? Are you stuck in thought processes that are unhelpful, yet you are not sure how to change them? Do you want to learn how to regulate emotion, reduce stress, improve relationships, improve communication, reduce unwanted emotion, and feel comfortable in your own body? These are just a few of the things that I work with clients on, and I can work with you as well. I believe we are all humans doing the best that we can, and sometimes the best thing we can do is ask for help.
Are you struggling with emotions that you don't know what to do with? Are you stuck in thought processes that are unhelpful, yet you are not sure how to change them? Do you want to learn how to regulate emotion, reduce stress, improve relationships, improve communication, reduce unwanted emotion, and feel comfortable in your own body? These are just a few of the things that I work with clients on, and I can work with you as well. I believe we are all humans doing the best that we can, and sometimes the best thing we can do is ask for help.
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.
Julia Simone Hebert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92020
I approach therapy with an authentic presence which may include humor and assertive observation/reflection. Among the top factors determining “success” in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I strive to foster a safe, trusting space to collaboratively explore your internal and external worlds, identify patterns that no longer serve you, and enact coping strategies to create lasting, positive change. My professional experience includes work in residential and outpatient settings with adults and youth.
I approach therapy with an authentic presence which may include humor and assertive observation/reflection. Among the top factors determining “success” in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I strive to foster a safe, trusting space to collaboratively explore your internal and external worlds, identify patterns that no longer serve you, and enact coping strategies to create lasting, positive change. My professional experience includes work in residential and outpatient settings with adults and youth.
I seek to help people who are ready for real change. Not just the same old conversation about what’s bothering you; we will work together to come to an understanding of why you’re not thriving. Certain issues such as OCD, Hoarding Disorder, and PTSD all impact functioning on a deep level. I strive to help people with these challenges to recognize what’s getting in their way of change and come up with practical steps to enrich their lives.
I seek to help people who are ready for real change. Not just the same old conversation about what’s bothering you; we will work together to come to an understanding of why you’re not thriving. Certain issues such as OCD, Hoarding Disorder, and PTSD all impact functioning on a deep level. I strive to help people with these challenges to recognize what’s getting in their way of change and come up with practical steps to enrich their lives.
Krystle Joy Briese
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92021
New summer openings! Get your child established in therapy before the new school year starts. 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 or teen work through their struggles and help you, as their parent, help them too.
New summer openings! Get your child established in therapy before the new school year starts. 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 or teen work through their struggles and help you, as their parent, help them too.
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Does your self esteem need a boost? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma? Do you have a child struggling with their behavior, which may be affecting their learning or relationships? You may need some support for yourself, your primary relationship, or your family. Everyone needs a little extra help sometimes. There is joy in the solving and you are already on your way.
Does your self esteem need a boost? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma? Do you have a child struggling with their behavior, which may be affecting their learning or relationships? You may need some support for yourself, your primary relationship, or your family. Everyone needs a little extra help sometimes. There is joy in the solving and you are already on your way.
Balanced Life Therapy Center, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92020
Just being human can be hard, and with all that is expected of us in this life, it can seem almost impossible at times. The external world can feel overwhelming and unsafe and our internal world can feel chaotic and just as unsafe. At the heart of any therapeutic approach is the attempt to find peace within so we can learn to be at peace with what is beyond our control. At Balanced Life Therapy Center, our clinicians are trained, each in their own preferred approach to healing, to support the inner world of their clients and help them get connected to the power they hold to move towards the life they desire.
Just being human can be hard, and with all that is expected of us in this life, it can seem almost impossible at times. The external world can feel overwhelming and unsafe and our internal world can feel chaotic and just as unsafe. At the heart of any therapeutic approach is the attempt to find peace within so we can learn to be at peace with what is beyond our control. At Balanced Life Therapy Center, our clinicians are trained, each in their own preferred approach to healing, to support the inner world of their clients and help them get connected to the power they hold to move towards the life they desire.
Kandice Casillas
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
El Cajon, CA 92021
Hello, I am Kandice Casillas, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I believe that the client is the expert in their life while I am a helper in understanding and making connections with the unknown. My areas of focus are trauma, depression, anxiety, communication, boundaries, self-acceptance, and self-compassion. I use a collection of Attachment-Based, Solution Focus, Narrative, CBT, Compassion Focused, and Client Centered approaches. I like to start with the basics of understanding the client's needs, finding coping skills that work, and then diving into the real problem at hand.
Hello, I am Kandice Casillas, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I believe that the client is the expert in their life while I am a helper in understanding and making connections with the unknown. My areas of focus are trauma, depression, anxiety, communication, boundaries, self-acceptance, and self-compassion. I use a collection of Attachment-Based, Solution Focus, Narrative, CBT, Compassion Focused, and Client Centered approaches. I like to start with the basics of understanding the client's needs, finding coping skills that work, and then diving into the real problem at hand.
Sarah Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92020 (Online Only)
Is your child experiencing difficulty at school, preschool, or in day to day life? Are you a parent that is experiencing stress due to child issues? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Virginia and California, as well as a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor who can assist you and your child create a sense of calm in the current storm. While I primarily work with children, I feel that it is equally important to work with parents in conjunction or just the parents in some instances to create a better outcome for the family unit. For families in California, I would be working solely through telehealth.
Is your child experiencing difficulty at school, preschool, or in day to day life? Are you a parent that is experiencing stress due to child issues? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Virginia and California, as well as a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor who can assist you and your child create a sense of calm in the current storm. While I primarily work with children, I feel that it is equally important to work with parents in conjunction or just the parents in some instances to create a better outcome for the family unit. For families in California, I would be working solely through telehealth.
Madeline Weerts
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Cajon, CA 92019
Hello, I'm Maddie. I feel grateful to support individuals, partners, and families on their growth journeys. I work with clients to create a space where they can feel comfortable to reflect, cry, laugh, think – be authentically themselves. I have worked extensively with adolescents and adults facing anxiety and depression, negative body image and eating disorders, substance use, and other co-occurring struggles. I am passionate about guiding clients through trauma, loss, and grief - because no one should have to navigate it alone.
Hello, I'm Maddie. I feel grateful to support individuals, partners, and families on their growth journeys. I work with clients to create a space where they can feel comfortable to reflect, cry, laugh, think – be authentically themselves. I have worked extensively with adolescents and adults facing anxiety and depression, negative body image and eating disorders, substance use, and other co-occurring struggles. I am passionate about guiding clients through trauma, loss, and grief - because no one should have to navigate it alone.
Welcome! My name is Tina Karimi and I am an Afghan-American Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about working with couples and adults from various backgrounds who are seeking to improve the quality of their lives and relationships. My goal is to help you identify your needs, gain insight through processing, and make the necessary changes with the appropriate tools. My approach is gentle, supportive, and collaborative. I have extensive experience working with couples facing relationship challenges and individuals with symptoms of anxiety and depression due to trauma.
Welcome! My name is Tina Karimi and I am an Afghan-American Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about working with couples and adults from various backgrounds who are seeking to improve the quality of their lives and relationships. My goal is to help you identify your needs, gain insight through processing, and make the necessary changes with the appropriate tools. My approach is gentle, supportive, and collaborative. I have extensive experience working with couples facing relationship challenges and individuals with symptoms of anxiety and depression due to trauma.
Many people struggle with complex emotional issues and negative patterns of behavior and thought. I believe my clients are very powerful and brave to begin the journey of self-discovery and healing. As your therapist and partner in this work, I hold a safe space for you to approach your struggles by working together to understand your goals, develop greater insight and create the coping skills and strategies for a more satisfying and emotionally harmonious life.
Many people struggle with complex emotional issues and negative patterns of behavior and thought. I believe my clients are very powerful and brave to begin the journey of self-discovery and healing. As your therapist and partner in this work, I hold a safe space for you to approach your struggles by working together to understand your goals, develop greater insight and create the coping skills and strategies for a more satisfying and emotionally harmonious life.
Cassie Deacon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from San Diego State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Cassie believes in compassionate and supportive therapeutic care to assist clients to explore and achieve their mental health goals. Cassie specializes in working with PTSD, Complex PTSD, youth/adolescents, mood disorders and the stressors associated with caregiving. Cassie is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Cassie Deacon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from San Diego State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Cassie believes in compassionate and supportive therapeutic care to assist clients to explore and achieve their mental health goals. Cassie specializes in working with PTSD, Complex PTSD, youth/adolescents, mood disorders and the stressors associated with caregiving. Cassie is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
My name is Lisa Everson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, and a history of trauma, using primarily Cognitive Behavioral therapy to help my clients successfully manage their symptoms.
My name is Lisa Everson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, and a history of trauma, using primarily Cognitive Behavioral therapy to help my clients successfully manage their symptoms.
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Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.