Adoption Therapists in La Mesa, CA
![Photo of Kate L. Kutner, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f46f3b2-2929-4714-9960-a1053f3b75e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Additionally, I have professional and personal experience with infertility, foster care, and adoption.
Hi, I'm Kate! I am a Marriage & Family Therapist, licensed in California, Colorado, Texas, and Florida. My goal as a therapist is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where you can share your experiences and enhance personal growth. Although we are not able to change the stories of our past, I believe we can learn from the behavior patterns that might be keeping us from moving forward. My approach to therapy begins by meeting you where you are, in the moment. You are the expert on your own life, and my goal is to provide a safe environment as you move toward change and growth in this journey.
Additionally, I have professional and personal experience with infertility, foster care, and adoption.
Hi, I'm Kate! I am a Marriage & Family Therapist, licensed in California, Colorado, Texas, and Florida. My goal as a therapist is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where you can share your experiences and enhance personal growth. Although we are not able to change the stories of our past, I believe we can learn from the behavior patterns that might be keeping us from moving forward. My approach to therapy begins by meeting you where you are, in the moment. You are the expert on your own life, and my goal is to provide a safe environment as you move toward change and growth in this journey.
![Photo of Angela Hicks, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eadf857-4c3d-4bba-9b24-f781ce4a9ce6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I provide therapy for adults, teenagers, and children. I work with individuals who have a history of trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression. My approach is to meet you where you are, have a laid-back approach, and at times will be candid. I typically utilize strength-based approach, solution focus intervention, client-centered, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have experience with people from diverse cultures and families that have gone through adoption process.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I provide therapy for adults, teenagers, and children. I work with individuals who have a history of trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression. My approach is to meet you where you are, have a laid-back approach, and at times will be candid. I typically utilize strength-based approach, solution focus intervention, client-centered, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have experience with people from diverse cultures and families that have gone through adoption process.
![Photo of Aisha Pope, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3771014-d7c5-4852-8649-6e74ecdf7bd9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aisha Pope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91941 (Online Only)
The decision to talk to someone about things you may be struggling with is a brave one. Whether you're struggling with a recent stressor or a chronic one, whether it's an internal conflict, a relationship conflict, parenting, work, you're having difficulty setting or reaching goals, or something else entirely, finding the right person to talk to makes all the difference. I specialize in helping people make radical and sustainable changes in their personal lives, relationships, parenting, work, and other areas. I take a non-judgmental solution focused approach to helping you set goals and reach them.
The decision to talk to someone about things you may be struggling with is a brave one. Whether you're struggling with a recent stressor or a chronic one, whether it's an internal conflict, a relationship conflict, parenting, work, you're having difficulty setting or reaching goals, or something else entirely, finding the right person to talk to makes all the difference. I specialize in helping people make radical and sustainable changes in their personal lives, relationships, parenting, work, and other areas. I take a non-judgmental solution focused approach to helping you set goals and reach them.
![Photo of Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b8a7124-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
Seeking therapy and parent coaching services can be an anxiety provoking process and I'm here to help make it as easy and possible. I would love to speak with you further to answer any questions you have to ensure that our relationship will be the right one for your and your loved ones. I pride myself in my ability to connect with children instantly and make children and families feel comfortable in seeking support, guidance care to improve relationships with their loved ones.
Seeking therapy and parent coaching services can be an anxiety provoking process and I'm here to help make it as easy and possible. I would love to speak with you further to answer any questions you have to ensure that our relationship will be the right one for your and your loved ones. I pride myself in my ability to connect with children instantly and make children and families feel comfortable in seeking support, guidance care to improve relationships with their loved ones.
![Photo of Adam Moore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e7cdb28-1409-4f0b-b1df-3d8157f75017/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in San Diego, California who has been working in the field of psychology since 2013. I have experience working in residential, schools, outpatient, and crisis settings as well as work now in my own private practice with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, social concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis situations, and general adjustment issues. I have diagnosed and helped clients work through most of the disorders listed in the DSM-5.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in San Diego, California who has been working in the field of psychology since 2013. I have experience working in residential, schools, outpatient, and crisis settings as well as work now in my own private practice with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, social concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, crisis situations, and general adjustment issues. I have diagnosed and helped clients work through most of the disorders listed in the DSM-5.
![Photo of Raul Gutierrez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81ea2eaa-1e74-4b80-a5fe-dc67289624e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been a practicing therapist for over 5 years now. I have worked with a diverse group of populations dealing with depression/anxiety all the way to psychosis diagnoses. I implement a lot of Trauma Focused CBT and Motivational Interviewing into my practice. My clients have often told me that I bring a genuine and compassionate atmosphere to sessions which helps them feel more at ease. I take a very nonjudgmental "at your own pace" type of approach. I want to ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way through your journey with mental health.
I have been a practicing therapist for over 5 years now. I have worked with a diverse group of populations dealing with depression/anxiety all the way to psychosis diagnoses. I implement a lot of Trauma Focused CBT and Motivational Interviewing into my practice. My clients have often told me that I bring a genuine and compassionate atmosphere to sessions which helps them feel more at ease. I take a very nonjudgmental "at your own pace" type of approach. I want to ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way through your journey with mental health.
![Photo of Kaely Ferrara, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53c3713c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating adults who have been affected by trauma. I use a variety of modalities including neuropsych, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Attachment Based Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Somatic Therapy. I treat a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. I have experience working with individuals diagnosed with special needs and their family members as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I also offer contract based services including on the job grief intervention for employees who have experienced trauma.
I specialize in treating adults who have been affected by trauma. I use a variety of modalities including neuropsych, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Attachment Based Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Somatic Therapy. I treat a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. I have experience working with individuals diagnosed with special needs and their family members as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I also offer contract based services including on the job grief intervention for employees who have experienced trauma.
![Photo of Kristin Steele, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bfd799a-37af-4e57-9f19-fb2ad67bf3ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for taking the time to consider me in choosing a support person for yourself or family member. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist dedicated to providing effective, specialized psychological services for Adolescents and Adults. I facilitate Psychological Evaluations/Testing, Psychotherapy, and Mental Health/Performance Coaching. I take an Individualized, Empowerment and Wellness-based approach whereby I incorporate brief, solutions focused interventions to address the overall psychological needs of a person or family to help reduce suffering and bring about optimal Well-being and long-term Recovery.
Thank you for taking the time to consider me in choosing a support person for yourself or family member. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist dedicated to providing effective, specialized psychological services for Adolescents and Adults. I facilitate Psychological Evaluations/Testing, Psychotherapy, and Mental Health/Performance Coaching. I take an Individualized, Empowerment and Wellness-based approach whereby I incorporate brief, solutions focused interventions to address the overall psychological needs of a person or family to help reduce suffering and bring about optimal Well-being and long-term Recovery.
![Photo of Dr. Sandra Konja, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afb623b6-3ec4-45a5-8971-000acfb0344e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sandra Konja
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91941 (Online Only)
You’re here today because you’re likely struggling with some aspect of womanhood or motherhood and are looking to begin your journey towards healing. Maybe you’re a new mother that’s having a difficult time adjusting to your new “normal”, which has you feeling sad and/or anxious in your role. Perhaps you’re struggling to cope with challenges in your relationship/marriage. You may be having a difficult time feeling present and connected with both yourself and the people around you. Or maybe you’re ready to begin processing and working through the difficult experiences that have been holding you captive for so long.
You’re here today because you’re likely struggling with some aspect of womanhood or motherhood and are looking to begin your journey towards healing. Maybe you’re a new mother that’s having a difficult time adjusting to your new “normal”, which has you feeling sad and/or anxious in your role. Perhaps you’re struggling to cope with challenges in your relationship/marriage. You may be having a difficult time feeling present and connected with both yourself and the people around you. Or maybe you’re ready to begin processing and working through the difficult experiences that have been holding you captive for so long.
![Photo of Dr. Edward Ramos, LCMFC, RBT, MBT, BAC, ACM, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66447ffc-2ea8-4027-a023-5fe61ffd12d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Edward Ramos
Pastoral Counselor, LCMFC, RBT, MBT, BAC, ACM
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942 (Online Only)
Are you feeling sad? distressed? overwhelmed? hurt ? betrayed? You are not alone. Let me help you. It takes courage to reach out for help and you are brave for taking this courageous step. It's certainly not easy, but there is hope. Lets go together to God to find love & healing. True healing begins when the pain is addressed where you can start your healing process. I bring a compassionate, collaborative, non-judgmental, strength based approach to marriage and family counseling to restore your relationships. As a Christian Counselor I utilize the Bible, prayer, effective curriculum, personal and professional experience to help you.
Are you feeling sad? distressed? overwhelmed? hurt ? betrayed? You are not alone. Let me help you. It takes courage to reach out for help and you are brave for taking this courageous step. It's certainly not easy, but there is hope. Lets go together to God to find love & healing. True healing begins when the pain is addressed where you can start your healing process. I bring a compassionate, collaborative, non-judgmental, strength based approach to marriage and family counseling to restore your relationships. As a Christian Counselor I utilize the Bible, prayer, effective curriculum, personal and professional experience to help you.
15 Second Videos
Sandra Konja
Positive Change Counseling Center
Jeff Williams | Pathways Family Therapy
Yaron Pruginin, Psy.D.
Krystle Joy Briese
Our emotional health is so important. It affects how we navigate each day — from how we perform at work to how we interact with the people in our lives. Depression, anxiety, and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) can be debilitating and keep us from experiencing healthy and fulfilling relationships. Trauma, abuse and self-injurious behavior, both in the past and going on today, also have a huge affect on how we function. And issues in our relationships can stop us from moving forward – whether it’s our marriage, with our children or family members or our friends. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am trained to help
Our emotional health is so important. It affects how we navigate each day — from how we perform at work to how we interact with the people in our lives. Depression, anxiety, and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) can be debilitating and keep us from experiencing healthy and fulfilling relationships. Trauma, abuse and self-injurious behavior, both in the past and going on today, also have a huge affect on how we function. And issues in our relationships can stop us from moving forward – whether it’s our marriage, with our children or family members or our friends. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am trained to help
![Photo of Melissa Stevenson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f7a5ba1-5663-4faa-82bd-d73326129c5c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Stevenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
Your sense of inner peace and healing are the focus of my practice. I am best at helping people discover and embody the best versions of themselves in the midst of challenging circumstances. I do depth work with individuals that have experienced trauma, are struggling with a major life transition or are trying to get over a major heartbreak.
Your sense of inner peace and healing are the focus of my practice. I am best at helping people discover and embody the best versions of themselves in the midst of challenging circumstances. I do depth work with individuals that have experienced trauma, are struggling with a major life transition or are trying to get over a major heartbreak.
![Photo of Virgina (Ginny) Powell, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc56ca7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Virgina (Ginny) Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942 (Online Only)
After 30 years of practice, I remain excited about new clients, new treatment approaches, and the joy of a client leaving my office with a smile and thank-you. I believe in being in the moment, being present, creating true and authentic contact, and facilitating opportunities for my clients to develop deeper understandings and practical skills. I work with a wide range of human problems, and enjoy the diversity that my practice has deliberately maintained. I work in an eclectic manner. I think meditation, laughter and play, are great for what ails us.
After 30 years of practice, I remain excited about new clients, new treatment approaches, and the joy of a client leaving my office with a smile and thank-you. I believe in being in the moment, being present, creating true and authentic contact, and facilitating opportunities for my clients to develop deeper understandings and practical skills. I work with a wide range of human problems, and enjoy the diversity that my practice has deliberately maintained. I work in an eclectic manner. I think meditation, laughter and play, are great for what ails us.
![Photo of Jennifer Winter Bernert, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d90a5bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am licensed in the state of Washington as well as California and can see clients in either state. **I'm only offering Telehealth sessions at this time** My interventions are grounded in cognitive, behavioral, and mindfulness approaches. My counseling and coaching services give you compassionate navigation of your family, children...and yourself.
I am licensed in the state of Washington as well as California and can see clients in either state. **I'm only offering Telehealth sessions at this time** My interventions are grounded in cognitive, behavioral, and mindfulness approaches. My counseling and coaching services give you compassionate navigation of your family, children...and yourself.
![Photo of Jennifer Lundy-Aguerre - Positive Change Counseling Center, MFT, PsyD, LCSW, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a811ff1a-d004-4c38-a7b9-1fed9583047d/3/320x400.png)
Positive Change Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PsyD, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
We look forward to working with you to reach your goals in therapy. Our compassionate therapists are trained in evidence-based practices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, to help you meet your goals within a short amount of time. Whether you would like to attend therapy on your own, with your partner or as a family, our therapists are ready to make a difference. You can be rest assured you are entering a non-judgemental and supportive environment when you walk through our door. Call us today to begin making positive changes in your life.
We look forward to working with you to reach your goals in therapy. Our compassionate therapists are trained in evidence-based practices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, to help you meet your goals within a short amount of time. Whether you would like to attend therapy on your own, with your partner or as a family, our therapists are ready to make a difference. You can be rest assured you are entering a non-judgemental and supportive environment when you walk through our door. Call us today to begin making positive changes in your life.
![Photo of Kasey Bogoje - The Mindful Lemon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/571c4f65-6245-4afa-89b1-1a97a6927d6f/1/320x400.png)
The Mindful Lemon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942 (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
![Photo of Nancy Ly - Be Free with Nancy Ly, CHT, CDP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27ead0f6-9e75-457c-9ecc-287ab21e098f/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Janel J King, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c69c774-13b1-4945-ac5e-201a4782a4cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are there times when you cannot explain the overwhelming emotions you are experiencing. I enjoy helping those who are seeking change and are motivated to do so. I believe people should always work toward becoming their best selves. I work with individuals, families, children, and adolescents. If your family is suffering from functioning in a loving and happy manner and you cannot figure out where the problem lies, family therapy may be the right choice for you. From learning to function with a new baby, blending, or newly transitioning teenagers, I can help.
Are there times when you cannot explain the overwhelming emotions you are experiencing. I enjoy helping those who are seeking change and are motivated to do so. I believe people should always work toward becoming their best selves. I work with individuals, families, children, and adolescents. If your family is suffering from functioning in a loving and happy manner and you cannot figure out where the problem lies, family therapy may be the right choice for you. From learning to function with a new baby, blending, or newly transitioning teenagers, I can help.
![Photo of Vanja Gale, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8df3a9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a general practice, in which I treat a variety of clients with many different challenges. I help my clients overcome their struggles, by finding better ways of coping and adjusting to these challenges. I can help clients make changes within themselves and with their relationships with others. There is always hope for change.
I have a general practice, in which I treat a variety of clients with many different challenges. I help my clients overcome their struggles, by finding better ways of coping and adjusting to these challenges. I can help clients make changes within themselves and with their relationships with others. There is always hope for change.
See more therapy options for La Mesa
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for La Mesa
- Chula Vista
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- Encinitas
- La Jolla
- National City
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- San Diego
- Santee
- Solana Beach
- Spring Valley
Adoption Therapists
Does my adopted child need therapy?
Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioral or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.
When should adoptive parents seek therapy?
Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.
Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?
Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.
What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?
A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.