Existential Therapists in Escondido, CA

Photo of Janelle Gervais, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janelle Gervais
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92026
I am also heavily trauma and addiction focused with my adult clients and often view both through a growth-based and existential lens.
Hi there! My name is Janelle Gervais and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Sacramento, CA working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults, adolescents, children, and family systems and specialize in treating trauma, addiction, depression/anxiety, family conflict, and parenting/behavior management from a humanistic person-centered approach.
I am also heavily trauma and addiction focused with my adult clients and often view both through a growth-based and existential lens.
Hi there! My name is Janelle Gervais and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Sacramento, CA working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults, adolescents, children, and family systems and specialize in treating trauma, addiction, depression/anxiety, family conflict, and parenting/behavior management from a humanistic person-centered approach.
(341) 999-4055 View (341) 999-4055
Photo of Hope Portney, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hope Portney
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92026
My foundation is in existential theory, which explores how increasing self-awareness, addressing uncertainties, and identifying and creating meaning in life can help individuals lead more authentic lives.
Hi, I'm Hope Portney, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Beginning or returning to therapy after time away can be a daunting experience. It takes courage to reach out for support and to begin the process of working on yourself and your relationships. I strive to be a supportive, objective, and collaborative partner on your journey, whether that is healing past hurts, finding new ways of thinking, learning to show up differently in relationships, or reducing symptoms that are interfering with your life.
My foundation is in existential theory, which explores how increasing self-awareness, addressing uncertainties, and identifying and creating meaning in life can help individuals lead more authentic lives.
Hi, I'm Hope Portney, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Beginning or returning to therapy after time away can be a daunting experience. It takes courage to reach out for support and to begin the process of working on yourself and your relationships. I strive to be a supportive, objective, and collaborative partner on your journey, whether that is healing past hurts, finding new ways of thinking, learning to show up differently in relationships, or reducing symptoms that are interfering with your life.
(858) 330-4509 View (858) 330-4509
Photo of Alexis Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexis Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
I approach therapy from a trauma-informed, client-centered lens focused on empathy and compassion to support the creation of long-term, effective changes. I strive to equip my clients with the hope that it is normal to feel any and every kind of emotion but also give them tools to cope effectively and learn from those emotions. My goal is to provide a trusting environment to uncover those human emotions, find what works or does not work, and collaborate to reach new and healthier goals for life.
I approach therapy from a trauma-informed, client-centered lens focused on empathy and compassion to support the creation of long-term, effective changes. I strive to equip my clients with the hope that it is normal to feel any and every kind of emotion but also give them tools to cope effectively and learn from those emotions. My goal is to provide a trusting environment to uncover those human emotions, find what works or does not work, and collaborate to reach new and healthier goals for life.
(442) 200-5179 View (442) 200-5179
Photo of Steven T Griggs, PhD, Psychologist
Steven T Griggs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
I'm an informal, low-keyed warm fuzzy type. I deal directly with problems, using CBT, emphasizing support/non-judgment. I've completed 15 ebooks. The subjects are Assertiveness, How To Change Children's Behavior (Quickly), How to Assess and Treat ADHD (Children and Adults), Self Esteem, Why Relationships Fail, How to diagnose and Treat Anxiety, Anger Management, Types I and II,, Kids and Divorce, Child Visitation and Self-Esteem, How To Change Teenagers Behavior, The Psychology of Procrastination, The Psychology of Guilt, The Psychology of Forgiveness and Weight Loss (Free), The Psychology of All Addictions and How to Diagnose and Treat Mood Disorders.
I'm an informal, low-keyed warm fuzzy type. I deal directly with problems, using CBT, emphasizing support/non-judgment. I've completed 15 ebooks. The subjects are Assertiveness, How To Change Children's Behavior (Quickly), How to Assess and Treat ADHD (Children and Adults), Self Esteem, Why Relationships Fail, How to diagnose and Treat Anxiety, Anger Management, Types I and II,, Kids and Divorce, Child Visitation and Self-Esteem, How To Change Teenagers Behavior, The Psychology of Procrastination, The Psychology of Guilt, The Psychology of Forgiveness and Weight Loss (Free), The Psychology of All Addictions and How to Diagnose and Treat Mood Disorders.
(760) 746-8355 View (760) 746-8355
Photo of Julie Anne Crist, MAC, LMFT   , Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Anne Crist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
I am passionate about empowering individuals to thrive in life. Therapy is essential for uncovering and understanding self-destructive behaviors and working through, not around, loss and grief. I work with adults and teens, specializing in trauma, divorce, anxiety, depression, disordered eating, broken relationships, life transitions and identity. Therapy can be overwhelming at first, therefore, I provide a safe and trusting environment to uncover and explore new and healthier approaches to life.
I am passionate about empowering individuals to thrive in life. Therapy is essential for uncovering and understanding self-destructive behaviors and working through, not around, loss and grief. I work with adults and teens, specializing in trauma, divorce, anxiety, depression, disordered eating, broken relationships, life transitions and identity. Therapy can be overwhelming at first, therefore, I provide a safe and trusting environment to uncover and explore new and healthier approaches to life.
(831) 264-7511 View (831) 264-7511
Photo of Nancy Ly - Be Free with Nancy Ly, CHT, CDP
Be Free with Nancy Ly
CHT, CDP
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
My ideal client has an awareness of their presenting problem (unproductive thought pattern, emotions or behavior), and is ready to release it. The client realizes something is not working and ready to breakthrough their current situation. Many have often tried other traditional therapy or personal development and may even have hit a mental health crisis (anxiety, suicidal thoughts, depression, rage, etc.) Some clients simply want to level-up their mindset to further their personal, relational or career goals. Many choose to work with me with issues of self-love/confidence, emotional/relational instability, or behavioral change.
My ideal client has an awareness of their presenting problem (unproductive thought pattern, emotions or behavior), and is ready to release it. The client realizes something is not working and ready to breakthrough their current situation. Many have often tried other traditional therapy or personal development and may even have hit a mental health crisis (anxiety, suicidal thoughts, depression, rage, etc.) Some clients simply want to level-up their mindset to further their personal, relational or career goals. Many choose to work with me with issues of self-love/confidence, emotional/relational instability, or behavioral change.
(760) 274-0658 View (760) 274-0658
Photo of Rachael Stracka, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachael Stracka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
You're likely here because you're tired of feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and like you don't know where else to turn. We all have a story to tell, but not everyone feels empowered to share theirs. There are ALWAYS reasons why you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, chronically stressed, angry, or depressed. We will uncover each and every one of your symptoms and put the pieces of the puzzle together so that you can feel content and secure - inside and out.
You're likely here because you're tired of feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and like you don't know where else to turn. We all have a story to tell, but not everyone feels empowered to share theirs. There are ALWAYS reasons why you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, chronically stressed, angry, or depressed. We will uncover each and every one of your symptoms and put the pieces of the puzzle together so that you can feel content and secure - inside and out.
(760) 489-1092 View (760) 489-1092
Photo of Stephan Paul Ouellette, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephan Paul Ouellette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
Hello, my name is Stephan Paul Ouellette. I have been a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California since 2000. I approach therapy from a client-centered, collaborative, empathic, and strengths-based perspective. I have 25-plus years of experience working with folks living with HIV/AIDS and from the LGBTQ-plus communities. My primary focus is helping clients to proactively respond to such conditions as depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, substance use and abuse concerns, and adjustment to chronic and sometimes life-threatening health conditions.
Hello, my name is Stephan Paul Ouellette. I have been a licensed clinical social worker in the state of California since 2000. I approach therapy from a client-centered, collaborative, empathic, and strengths-based perspective. I have 25-plus years of experience working with folks living with HIV/AIDS and from the LGBTQ-plus communities. My primary focus is helping clients to proactively respond to such conditions as depression, anxiety, grief and bereavement, substance use and abuse concerns, and adjustment to chronic and sometimes life-threatening health conditions.
(442) 245-3645 View (442) 245-3645
Photo of Monika - Grace, PhD, MDiv, ThM, MA, Psychologist
Monika - Grace
Psychologist, PhD, MDiv, ThM, MA
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
I am Rev. Dr. Monika Maria Grace and I welcome you to my page! In our first session together, I also welcome you to my real or virtual office and I invite you to make it your own safe space. I explain that therapy is a process, a relationship, and an adventure. It's also a gift of discovery and renewal that only you can give to yourself, especially in our challenging days. In this process, my role is to listen, to support, to challenge, to guide, and to celebrate you as you are becoming more courageous to face the parts of yourself you were avoiding, more accepting of yourself and of others, and fully present in your life.
I am Rev. Dr. Monika Maria Grace and I welcome you to my page! In our first session together, I also welcome you to my real or virtual office and I invite you to make it your own safe space. I explain that therapy is a process, a relationship, and an adventure. It's also a gift of discovery and renewal that only you can give to yourself, especially in our challenging days. In this process, my role is to listen, to support, to challenge, to guide, and to celebrate you as you are becoming more courageous to face the parts of yourself you were avoiding, more accepting of yourself and of others, and fully present in your life.
(619) 430-4996 View (619) 430-4996
Photo of Steven East, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven East
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
My name is Steven East. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Certified Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR) Therapist. I help clients struggling with Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, Addiction, Thought Disorders, Anger, Grief, Co-dependency, Family and Marital Discord, My approach is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
My name is Steven East. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Certified Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR) Therapist. I help clients struggling with Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, Addiction, Thought Disorders, Anger, Grief, Co-dependency, Family and Marital Discord, My approach is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
(925) 307-8972 View (925) 307-8972
Photo of Michael Bjornson, LCP, Psychologist
Michael Bjornson
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
Hello, my name is Dr. Michael Bjornson. Most of my clients simply refer to me as Dr. "B". I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 26 years, with active licenses in California, Utah, and Wyoming. I am honored that you are considering me to help you in whatever life challenges have led you to seek help. Whether this may be your first-time seeking help or not, I recognize starting therapy is a big decision requiring courage and trust in another human being, to be there for you in a professional, caring capacity, to facilitate and guide you through important and difficult concerns.
Hello, my name is Dr. Michael Bjornson. Most of my clients simply refer to me as Dr. "B". I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 26 years, with active licenses in California, Utah, and Wyoming. I am honored that you are considering me to help you in whatever life challenges have led you to seek help. Whether this may be your first-time seeking help or not, I recognize starting therapy is a big decision requiring courage and trust in another human being, to be there for you in a professional, caring capacity, to facilitate and guide you through important and difficult concerns.
(424) 396-5080 View (424) 396-5080
Photo of Tajia Trone, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tajia Trone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
I am a person-centered therapist who believes in tailoring therapy to her clients individual needs and believes in going into each session with an open mind allowing the client to take hold of each session. I believe in helping the client identify situations or behaviors that have contributed to their illnesses or struggles and together we work to change these behaviors and overcome challenges. I believe that therapy should include unconditional positive regard, compassion, genuineness, and understanding where the client is at. I specialize in working to improve individuals’ self-worth, self-esteem, and self-compassion.
I am a person-centered therapist who believes in tailoring therapy to her clients individual needs and believes in going into each session with an open mind allowing the client to take hold of each session. I believe in helping the client identify situations or behaviors that have contributed to their illnesses or struggles and together we work to change these behaviors and overcome challenges. I believe that therapy should include unconditional positive regard, compassion, genuineness, and understanding where the client is at. I specialize in working to improve individuals’ self-worth, self-esteem, and self-compassion.
(619) 651-9843 View (619) 651-9843
Photo of Mary Speight, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Speight
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
Hello, my name is Mary Speight, LMFT 51793. I've 20+ years of experience in the field of behavioral and mental health. I am a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP) certified in Integrated Mental Health. I believe I'm eclectic in my work with clients. Therapy isn't one size fits all. We all may have similar experiences, but how we behave and react may not always be the same.
Hello, my name is Mary Speight, LMFT 51793. I've 20+ years of experience in the field of behavioral and mental health. I am a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP) certified in Integrated Mental Health. I believe I'm eclectic in my work with clients. Therapy isn't one size fits all. We all may have similar experiences, but how we behave and react may not always be the same.
(562) 553-8673 View (562) 553-8673
Photo of Rafael James, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rafael James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92029
I'm licensed in New York, California, and Florida and have over the 30 years of experience in the field of social work and mental health. My private practice is based on three principles which are building rapport, trust, and chemistry. Together we identify cognitive distortions and maladaptive behaviors and employ behavioral strategies to achieve the goal of greater peace of mind. I have a solution based approach to help you feel better and make progress in your personal journey. We will work on building a trusting environment and a safe place where you can share your story. I look forward to working with you to improve your life.
I'm licensed in New York, California, and Florida and have over the 30 years of experience in the field of social work and mental health. My private practice is based on three principles which are building rapport, trust, and chemistry. Together we identify cognitive distortions and maladaptive behaviors and employ behavioral strategies to achieve the goal of greater peace of mind. I have a solution based approach to help you feel better and make progress in your personal journey. We will work on building a trusting environment and a safe place where you can share your story. I look forward to working with you to improve your life.
(561) 903-2950 View (561) 903-2950
Photo of Danielle Gersh, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Gersh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92027
My name is Danielle Gersh, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I am a people person. I believe relationships help build trust and I would like to get to know you, so I can better understand what approach fits your needs. I believe different approaches are effective for different folks, since "one size" does not fit all. We can explore your feelings that are holding you back, patterns of behaviors that are not working well for you, and/or focus on how to move past an unexpected event. We will work together to better understand your needs.
My name is Danielle Gersh, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I am a people person. I believe relationships help build trust and I would like to get to know you, so I can better understand what approach fits your needs. I believe different approaches are effective for different folks, since "one size" does not fit all. We can explore your feelings that are holding you back, patterns of behaviors that are not working well for you, and/or focus on how to move past an unexpected event. We will work together to better understand your needs.
(510) 454-8417 View (510) 454-8417
Photo of Fariba Rostami, MA, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fariba Rostami
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
I obtained doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. My license qualification is a Marriage and Family Therapy. Currently, in my private practice, I work with individuals, children, and adolescents, and administer psychotherapy for couples and families. Diagnosis of ADHD for all populations utilizing Test of Variables of Attention (T.O.V.A.), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), PE, Behavioral Modification for children and adolescents, working with adolescents experiencing acculturation issues, Parenting Skills, Couples & Family developmental communication strategies, and attachment realignment.
I obtained doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. My license qualification is a Marriage and Family Therapy. Currently, in my private practice, I work with individuals, children, and adolescents, and administer psychotherapy for couples and families. Diagnosis of ADHD for all populations utilizing Test of Variables of Attention (T.O.V.A.), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), PE, Behavioral Modification for children and adolescents, working with adolescents experiencing acculturation issues, Parenting Skills, Couples & Family developmental communication strategies, and attachment realignment.
(858) 381-4108 View (858) 381-4108
David J Cain
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, CGP
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
I PREFER TO WORK WITH ADULTS AND COUPLES WHO ARE INVESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT THEMSELVES AND THEIR RELATIONSHIPS AS A MEANS TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEMS THEY CURRENTLY EXPERIENCE. I VIEW PROBLEMS AS OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH AND SEE MY ROLE AS HELPING YOU DRAW ON YOUR PERSONAL RESOURCES TO BECOME THE PERSON YOU WISH TO BE.I HAVE WORKED WITH ALL AGE GROUPS AND MOST ALL KINDS OF PROBLEMS IN CLINICAL, UNIVERSITY AND PRIVATE PRACTICE SETTINGS. PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDE TEACHING AND SUPERVISING PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATE STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONAL THERAPISTS, WRITING, EDITING, PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOPS AND PRESENTATIONS AND SERVICE TO MY PROFESSION.
I PREFER TO WORK WITH ADULTS AND COUPLES WHO ARE INVESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT THEMSELVES AND THEIR RELATIONSHIPS AS A MEANS TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEMS THEY CURRENTLY EXPERIENCE. I VIEW PROBLEMS AS OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH AND SEE MY ROLE AS HELPING YOU DRAW ON YOUR PERSONAL RESOURCES TO BECOME THE PERSON YOU WISH TO BE.I HAVE WORKED WITH ALL AGE GROUPS AND MOST ALL KINDS OF PROBLEMS IN CLINICAL, UNIVERSITY AND PRIVATE PRACTICE SETTINGS. PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDE TEACHING AND SUPERVISING PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATE STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONAL THERAPISTS, WRITING, EDITING, PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOPS AND PRESENTATIONS AND SERVICE TO MY PROFESSION.
(760) 530-4786 View (760) 530-4786
Photo of Jan O Wagman, PhD, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jan O Wagman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
When your life isn’t what you want it to be – Is less fulfilling and satisfying then it should be –– Might be burdened with sadness or depression -- I offer guidance, support and comfort in a safe healing environment that can help turn your life around. Help you discover how wondrous it is to find the emotional strength and freedom you need to recognize then pursue -- and finally realize your full potential
When your life isn’t what you want it to be – Is less fulfilling and satisfying then it should be –– Might be burdened with sadness or depression -- I offer guidance, support and comfort in a safe healing environment that can help turn your life around. Help you discover how wondrous it is to find the emotional strength and freedom you need to recognize then pursue -- and finally realize your full potential
(760) 652-3445 View (760) 652-3445
Photo of Freddie Garcia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Freddie Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92026
Hi. My name is Freddie Garcia and I am a Marriage & Family Therapist. My goal is to support people to create positive change in their lives that will produce the healthy relationships, sense of self, and peace of mind they desire.
Hi. My name is Freddie Garcia and I am a Marriage & Family Therapist. My goal is to support people to create positive change in their lives that will produce the healthy relationships, sense of self, and peace of mind they desire.
(559) 546-4993 View (559) 546-4993
Photo of Kelly M. Kaitson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly M. Kaitson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Escondido, CA 92026
Are you feeling like you’re not living as your best self? Maybe you’re feeling confused, scared, or disconnected, and not sure how to move forward. I want you to know that you’re not alone, and I’m here to help. If emotions or behaviors are becoming overwhelming and affecting other areas of your life, I encourage you to reach out. My goal is to support you through this journey, and I truly believe that positive change, success, and growth are possible. Together we’ll work on practical tools and strategies to help you not just cope, but truly thrive.
Are you feeling like you’re not living as your best self? Maybe you’re feeling confused, scared, or disconnected, and not sure how to move forward. I want you to know that you’re not alone, and I’m here to help. If emotions or behaviors are becoming overwhelming and affecting other areas of your life, I encourage you to reach out. My goal is to support you through this journey, and I truly believe that positive change, success, and growth are possible. Together we’ll work on practical tools and strategies to help you not just cope, but truly thrive.
(760) 415-0085 View (760) 415-0085
1
Existential Therapists

How does existential therapy work?

Existential therapy focuses on a patient’s inner experiences. The therapist tries to help the individual comprehend and alleviate symptoms by exploring their interior life. By confronting negative disquiet and emotions, the individual will hopefully become more open to finding meaning and purpose. This therapy can be administered to individuals or groups.

Is existential therapy evidence-based?

Existential therapy is an evidence-based practice. Research has determined that existential therapy can lead to significant improvement in the mental health of patients, and for some people it can be just as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy. The benefits of existential therapy are enduring, even long after treatment has ended.

How long does existential therapy last?

The goal of existential therapy is to understand a person’s internal experiences, which may sound like a lengthy process, but it does not have to be so in-depth. However, sessions are not short-term, and therapy can continue for months or up to a year. And because patients learn the theory behind existential therapy during treatment, they can also practice its tenets throughout life after therapy sessions have been completed.

Is existential therapy effective?

According to research, many patients find success with existential therapy. Researchers note that the therapy is particularly useful in improving feelings of isolation, feelings of purposelessness, as well as conditions such as anxiety and depression. Improvements in problem areas can persist even after the end of existential therapy, as individuals can continue working on themselves by using the tools they’ve developed during treatment.