Strength-Based Therapists in La Jolla, CA

Photo of Sandra Dimery, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Dimery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Hi, my name is Sandra Dimery a License Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about helping people improve their view of themselves and their well-being. I deliver effective and compassionate care.
Hi, my name is Sandra Dimery a License Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about helping people improve their view of themselves and their well-being. I deliver effective and compassionate care.
(858) 264-3210 View (858) 264-3210
Photo of Alysia Wong, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alysia Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92093
My name is Alysia Wong and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I primarily work with adults who need support with mood disorders, trauma, domestic violence, life transitions, or anxiety. I approach treatment with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I may incorporate Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Trauma Informed, and Applied Behavioral Analysis modalities as well. I have been working in the mental health system of care since 2013 in various settings (inpatient, outpatient, private practice, court-mandated).
My name is Alysia Wong and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I primarily work with adults who need support with mood disorders, trauma, domestic violence, life transitions, or anxiety. I approach treatment with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and I may incorporate Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Trauma Informed, and Applied Behavioral Analysis modalities as well. I have been working in the mental health system of care since 2013 in various settings (inpatient, outpatient, private practice, court-mandated).
(858) 422-3282 View (858) 422-3282
Photo of Anne Rubio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne Rubio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
She has a collaborative approach to therapy that is strength-based, using art, cognitive behavioral, person-centered, play, strength-based, solution-focused, and mindfulness-based therapies.
Anne specializes in children, adolescents, and young adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues, and significant life changes. Her goal is to help people live fully, intentionally, and purposefully.
She has a collaborative approach to therapy that is strength-based, using art, cognitive behavioral, person-centered, play, strength-based, solution-focused, and mindfulness-based therapies.
Anne specializes in children, adolescents, and young adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues, and significant life changes. Her goal is to help people live fully, intentionally, and purposefully.
(858) 365-8047 View (858) 365-8047
Photo of Kaivalya Kerr, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaivalya Kerr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Thank you for reaching out and trusting me in the first step of your healing journey. This may not be easy at times, but we will take this journey together. I like to utilize a strength-based approach in therapy while incorporating modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Post-Modern/Solution Focused Therapy, Relaxation and Mindfulness techniques, etc. I also like to focus on both insight building and skill building, helping clients be co-participants in their treatment. Life is ever changing. Circumstances arise, stressors emerge, relationships are tested, and we are asked to adapt, cope and push forward.
Thank you for reaching out and trusting me in the first step of your healing journey. This may not be easy at times, but we will take this journey together. I like to utilize a strength-based approach in therapy while incorporating modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Post-Modern/Solution Focused Therapy, Relaxation and Mindfulness techniques, etc. I also like to focus on both insight building and skill building, helping clients be co-participants in their treatment. Life is ever changing. Circumstances arise, stressors emerge, relationships are tested, and we are asked to adapt, cope and push forward.
(858) 923-4425 View (858) 923-4425
Photo of Irene Choi, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Irene Choi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
My treatment is tailored to meet each individual's needs to manage the challenges raised by life’s circumstances. I provide a safe environment for clients to tell their story, discover their internal dialogue, and "unstuck" themselves from what is preventing them to live an authentic life. I utilize humor and bring a positive energy to support my clients in their therapeutic process. I work with individuals using an integrative, strength-based, culturally aware approach.
My treatment is tailored to meet each individual's needs to manage the challenges raised by life’s circumstances. I provide a safe environment for clients to tell their story, discover their internal dialogue, and "unstuck" themselves from what is preventing them to live an authentic life. I utilize humor and bring a positive energy to support my clients in their therapeutic process. I work with individuals using an integrative, strength-based, culturally aware approach.
(415) 704-7356 View (415) 704-7356
Photo of Mary Papagolos, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Papagolos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Licensed Therapist practicing in California via telehealth. Living your fullest life is the framework to my practice and the grounding motto I choose to live my own life by. Living your fullest life is a way of embracing the many ebbs and flows that life has to offer. Learning to do this gracefully and without resistance can sometimes take guidance and support. I have been helping individuals, children and families for over 14 years on a variety of treatment issues.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Therapist practicing in California via telehealth. Living your fullest life is the framework to my practice and the grounding motto I choose to live my own life by. Living your fullest life is a way of embracing the many ebbs and flows that life has to offer. Learning to do this gracefully and without resistance can sometimes take guidance and support. I have been helping individuals, children and families for over 14 years on a variety of treatment issues.
(209) 370-0935 View (209) 370-0935
Photo of Terry Wilke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terry Wilke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Solution Focused therapist with over 30 years of experience providing services to children, teens, young adults and families dealing with stress/anxiety, improving self esteem, managing with ADHD, and dealing with school issues. Together we will use a strength based approach to work toward specific emotional or behavioral goals. I engage with children and families through play therapy activities and teens/young adults through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) talk therapy activities.
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Solution Focused therapist with over 30 years of experience providing services to children, teens, young adults and families dealing with stress/anxiety, improving self esteem, managing with ADHD, and dealing with school issues. Together we will use a strength based approach to work toward specific emotional or behavioral goals. I engage with children and families through play therapy activities and teens/young adults through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) talk therapy activities.
(619) 648-3668 View (619) 648-3668
Photo of Stephanie Adams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Stephanie! Over the past five years, I have had the privilege of working closely with both young and older adults who have bravely faced the challenges of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. In my practice, I believe in the power of evidence-based therapies to help my clients navigate their journey towards healing. I draw upon a diverse set of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness/Meditation, Strength-Based Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. Whether you are seeking relief from anxiety, a path to overcome depression, or simply someone to confide in, I am here for you every step.
Hi there, I'm Stephanie! Over the past five years, I have had the privilege of working closely with both young and older adults who have bravely faced the challenges of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. In my practice, I believe in the power of evidence-based therapies to help my clients navigate their journey towards healing. I draw upon a diverse set of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness/Meditation, Strength-Based Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. Whether you are seeking relief from anxiety, a path to overcome depression, or simply someone to confide in, I am here for you every step.
(657) 366-5536 View (657) 366-5536
Photo of Tala Kolb, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tala Kolb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I specialize working with individuals experiencing a variety of life's challenges and mental health issues, such as life transitions and adjustments, anxiety, depression, self esteem, relationship and family issues, coping skills, new parent parenting, effects of the pandemic, eating disorders, children and parents of and going through divorce, bullying and other issues that arise around teens and social media. I often work with pre-teens, teens and young adults.
I specialize working with individuals experiencing a variety of life's challenges and mental health issues, such as life transitions and adjustments, anxiety, depression, self esteem, relationship and family issues, coping skills, new parent parenting, effects of the pandemic, eating disorders, children and parents of and going through divorce, bullying and other issues that arise around teens and social media. I often work with pre-teens, teens and young adults.
(858) 240-8368 View (858) 240-8368
Photo of Dana Glasser, LCSW, MSW, CLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Glasser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Life is a rollercoaster, full of ups and downs and unexpected outcomes. It is a journey we learn to navigate with a combination of our personal strengths, fears, profound life experiences, values and beliefs. During the most difficult times, our beliefs, opinions and attitudes are challenged and this has a significant impact on our mind and body. By taking the first big step and being open to working with me, I will be providing a safe, non judgmental, kind and empathetic client centered relationship with you. We will work on difficult relationships, challenging experiences and transitions in your life, one step at a time.
Life is a rollercoaster, full of ups and downs and unexpected outcomes. It is a journey we learn to navigate with a combination of our personal strengths, fears, profound life experiences, values and beliefs. During the most difficult times, our beliefs, opinions and attitudes are challenged and this has a significant impact on our mind and body. By taking the first big step and being open to working with me, I will be providing a safe, non judgmental, kind and empathetic client centered relationship with you. We will work on difficult relationships, challenging experiences and transitions in your life, one step at a time.
(619) 349-9667 View (619) 349-9667
Photo of Kathleen Winfrey, PMHNP
Kathleen Winfrey
PMHNP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92093
I utilize a holistic approach, integrating motivational interviewing and strength-based modalities to tailor therapy to your individual needs.
Navigating college life can be incredibly stressful, often leading to anxiety and depression. You might feel overwhelmed by academic pressures, social expectations, and the challenge of managing independence. These struggles can make daily life feel unmanageable, affecting your emotional well-being and overall quality of life. I understand these unique challenges and am here to provide the support you need to regain balance and find your path forward.
I utilize a holistic approach, integrating motivational interviewing and strength-based modalities to tailor therapy to your individual needs.
Navigating college life can be incredibly stressful, often leading to anxiety and depression. You might feel overwhelmed by academic pressures, social expectations, and the challenge of managing independence. These struggles can make daily life feel unmanageable, affecting your emotional well-being and overall quality of life. I understand these unique challenges and am here to provide the support you need to regain balance and find your path forward.
(760) 971-4434 View (760) 971-4434
Photo of Harmony Rousseau, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Harmony Rousseau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I am a strength-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist—one who believes we each have the inner resources we need to be successful and happy in our lives. During our life journeys, many of us may need assistance with finding and/or highlighting our inner strengths so we can breakthrough our struggles, whether they be past traumas, family patterns/dynamics, relationship/attachment issues or a simple and current need for change. My hope is to help my clients build on their strengths, pinpoint their patterns, rewrite their stories, and find their way back to the positive aspects of life they deserve to experience.
I am a strength-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist—one who believes we each have the inner resources we need to be successful and happy in our lives. During our life journeys, many of us may need assistance with finding and/or highlighting our inner strengths so we can breakthrough our struggles, whether they be past traumas, family patterns/dynamics, relationship/attachment issues or a simple and current need for change. My hope is to help my clients build on their strengths, pinpoint their patterns, rewrite their stories, and find their way back to the positive aspects of life they deserve to experience.
(415) 687-4216 View (415) 687-4216
Photo of Michelle Nelson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I love working with individuals with complex needs and challenges and am passionate about building a supportive, empathic and strength-based relationship with the individuals I work with.
Hi! My name is Michelle Nelson, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of California. I obtained both my bachelors and masters degrees from San Jose State University and am a Bay Area native. I have over 10 years of behavioral health experience, including work with children, families and adults facing various mental health and substance use challenges.
I love working with individuals with complex needs and challenges and am passionate about building a supportive, empathic and strength-based relationship with the individuals I work with.
Hi! My name is Michelle Nelson, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of California. I obtained both my bachelors and masters degrees from San Jose State University and am a Bay Area native. I have over 10 years of behavioral health experience, including work with children, families and adults facing various mental health and substance use challenges.
(831) 603-2529 View (831) 603-2529
Photo of Denise L Buchanan, PhD, Psychologist
Denise L Buchanan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
My passion is to help my clients feel empowered in their lives and to live more resiliently. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to achieve the best version of themselves, repair their relationships, and find more meaning and joy in their lives. I am a Christian therapist and have had the privilege to be in private practice for over 20 years, working with individuals and couples. I am confident from my clinical experience that therapy works to improve clients' sense of wellbeing and overall satisfaction in their lives.
My passion is to help my clients feel empowered in their lives and to live more resiliently. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to achieve the best version of themselves, repair their relationships, and find more meaning and joy in their lives. I am a Christian therapist and have had the privilege to be in private practice for over 20 years, working with individuals and couples. I am confident from my clinical experience that therapy works to improve clients' sense of wellbeing and overall satisfaction in their lives.
(619) 853-4097 View (619) 853-4097
Photo of Darlene Caasi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darlene Caasi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned my Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Guam and my Masters in Social Work with a concentration in mental health from Washington University in St. Louis. I have over 3 years of experience providing client-centered, strength-based, solution-focused, and trauma-informed therapy in community-based mental health services. My training has allowed me to work with diverse populations including adults with severe mental illness and substance use disorders, people who were formerly incarcerated, human trafficking survivors, refugees, and immigrants.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I earned my Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Guam and my Masters in Social Work with a concentration in mental health from Washington University in St. Louis. I have over 3 years of experience providing client-centered, strength-based, solution-focused, and trauma-informed therapy in community-based mental health services. My training has allowed me to work with diverse populations including adults with severe mental illness and substance use disorders, people who were formerly incarcerated, human trafficking survivors, refugees, and immigrants.
(562) 573-7428 View (562) 573-7428
Photo of Hans Reihling, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hans Reihling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
My strength-based approach builds upon research, clinical practice, and personal experience.
Do you feel like living with a roommate in marriage? I provide transformative counseling for couples and individual men who want to be empowered to become better partners. There is a way out of chronic stress, irritability, and out of control sexual behavior. I strongly believe that you are so much more than the problems you are facing right now. If you want to be a better partner, parent, or person, contact me and get a free consultation. It is my passion to provide the attention and care you deserve.
My strength-based approach builds upon research, clinical practice, and personal experience.
Do you feel like living with a roommate in marriage? I provide transformative counseling for couples and individual men who want to be empowered to become better partners. There is a way out of chronic stress, irritability, and out of control sexual behavior. I strongly believe that you are so much more than the problems you are facing right now. If you want to be a better partner, parent, or person, contact me and get a free consultation. It is my passion to provide the attention and care you deserve.
(619) 404-2579 View (619) 404-2579
Photo of Anastacia C Tobin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anastacia C Tobin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Life is full of uncertainty and challenges and sometimes our usual coping, resources, and knowledge are not enough to help manage these situations. We might notice an increase in worry, distress, sadness, grief, or relational conflict that appear to have no resolution. Sometimes we experience abrupt and traumatic situations that leave us feeling unsafe, disoriented, and confused by our emotional and physiological responses. Any of these experiences can be overwhelming, but a supportive therapeutic relationship combined with empirically based treatments can be helpful in managing the situations and finding resolutions.
Life is full of uncertainty and challenges and sometimes our usual coping, resources, and knowledge are not enough to help manage these situations. We might notice an increase in worry, distress, sadness, grief, or relational conflict that appear to have no resolution. Sometimes we experience abrupt and traumatic situations that leave us feeling unsafe, disoriented, and confused by our emotional and physiological responses. Any of these experiences can be overwhelming, but a supportive therapeutic relationship combined with empirically based treatments can be helpful in managing the situations and finding resolutions.
(858) 252-0341 View (858) 252-0341
Photo of Mitra Golriz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mitra Golriz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I am multilingual and provided two years of live TV show in a local TV station in Orange County offering psychoeducation to Farsi speaking communities around the world to decrease stigma about mental illness and empower and inspire families and individuals to recognize mental illness and seek professional help when needed.
I am multilingual and provided two years of live TV show in a local TV station in Orange County offering psychoeducation to Farsi speaking communities around the world to decrease stigma about mental illness and empower and inspire families and individuals to recognize mental illness and seek professional help when needed.
(415) 727-8136 View (415) 727-8136
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Madakasira, PhD, LPC, LPCC, C-IYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Kimberly Madakasira
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LPCC, C-IYT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor, Health Psychologist and an International Certified Yoga Therapist. I have been a licensed professional counselor since 2000 with experience treating adults utilizing various techniques and therapies in both group and individual settings. I provide CBT, Mindfulness, Yoga Therapy, etc. which have been shown to be beneficial for depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, eating disorders among other issues. I obtained my PhD in Health Psychology from Walden University where I studied somatic issues. My areas of interest include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and health issues.
I am a licensed professional counselor, Health Psychologist and an International Certified Yoga Therapist. I have been a licensed professional counselor since 2000 with experience treating adults utilizing various techniques and therapies in both group and individual settings. I provide CBT, Mindfulness, Yoga Therapy, etc. which have been shown to be beneficial for depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, eating disorders among other issues. I obtained my PhD in Health Psychology from Walden University where I studied somatic issues. My areas of interest include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and health issues.
(769) 500-1371 View (769) 500-1371
Photo of Mea Parker, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mea Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
If you are looking for a safe place to share your emotional journey as you experience life, I could be the therapist for you. I am passionate about working with adults seeking healing, understanding and acceptance of life circumstances through person-centered and solution focused approaches. Whether you are experiencing challenges coping with symptoms of depression, anxiety or in need of a support person to listen and help you process your thoughts and feelings about relationships, trauma and low self esteem, I am dedicated to meeting you where you are without judgement.
If you are looking for a safe place to share your emotional journey as you experience life, I could be the therapist for you. I am passionate about working with adults seeking healing, understanding and acceptance of life circumstances through person-centered and solution focused approaches. Whether you are experiencing challenges coping with symptoms of depression, anxiety or in need of a support person to listen and help you process your thoughts and feelings about relationships, trauma and low self esteem, I am dedicated to meeting you where you are without judgement.
(858) 330-0165 View (858) 330-0165
1
...
Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.