Multicultural Therapists in La Mesa, CA

Photo of Joey Guzman-Kuffel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joey Guzman-Kuffel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you find yourself feeling stuck in life? Are you overrun by hopelessness, anxiety, shame, depression or anger? Are you struggling with identity issues, infertility, family conflict, behavior patterns that negatively impact your relationships, or confronting challenges that accompany you every day? If this is what you are experiencing, you are not alone. It takes a lot of courage to seek help and the fact that you have come to this point to be reading this, you are one step closer to making positive change in your life. Through the power of human connection, collaboration and the therapeutic relationship, I can help you.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck in life? Are you overrun by hopelessness, anxiety, shame, depression or anger? Are you struggling with identity issues, infertility, family conflict, behavior patterns that negatively impact your relationships, or confronting challenges that accompany you every day? If this is what you are experiencing, you are not alone. It takes a lot of courage to seek help and the fact that you have come to this point to be reading this, you are one step closer to making positive change in your life. Through the power of human connection, collaboration and the therapeutic relationship, I can help you.
(619) 268-8952 View (619) 268-8952
Photo of Michele Bussell - Amber Monroe, LMFT Counseling Services Inc., MA, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amber Monroe, LMFT Counseling Services Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
Hello, my name is Michele Bussell, LMFT and I respect how much courage it takes to do this emotional work and healing. It is my belief that all clients have untapped wisdom & strengths. We will use your personal resources to increase insight, healing, and improved functioning. I thoroughly enjoy working with adults, teens and couples. I have valuable experience working with a variety of populations. I have worked in crisis and residential treatment programs, school-based counseling programs, adult drug court substance programs, and behavioral health centers.
Hello, my name is Michele Bussell, LMFT and I respect how much courage it takes to do this emotional work and healing. It is my belief that all clients have untapped wisdom & strengths. We will use your personal resources to increase insight, healing, and improved functioning. I thoroughly enjoy working with adults, teens and couples. I have valuable experience working with a variety of populations. I have worked in crisis and residential treatment programs, school-based counseling programs, adult drug court substance programs, and behavioral health centers.
(619) 831-8694 View (619) 831-8694
Photo of Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
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.
(619) 304-3617 View (619) 304-3617
Photo of Denise R. Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise R. Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
I love to see others be over-comers and feel privileged when I can be a part of that process. I recognize that one of God´s specialties is to "make a way" in the desert. Sometimes the desert is the parent-child relationship, a trauma in the life of the adult or the child, depression and anxiety, a learning or developmental difference, difficulty crossing cultures, etc. Sometimes our own difficulties with self esteem, boundaries, or trauma make day-to-day responsibilities difficult. The kids I worked with in Mexico for many years taught me a lot about overcoming trauma, regulating their emotions, etc. (They also taught me Spanish!)
I love to see others be over-comers and feel privileged when I can be a part of that process. I recognize that one of God´s specialties is to "make a way" in the desert. Sometimes the desert is the parent-child relationship, a trauma in the life of the adult or the child, depression and anxiety, a learning or developmental difference, difficulty crossing cultures, etc. Sometimes our own difficulties with self esteem, boundaries, or trauma make day-to-day responsibilities difficult. The kids I worked with in Mexico for many years taught me a lot about overcoming trauma, regulating their emotions, etc. (They also taught me Spanish!)
(619) 627-0954 View (619) 627-0954
Photo of Ryan Berwold, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryan Berwold
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
Hello, my name is Ryan. I’m a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist practicing in San Diego, California. I am glad that you are reaching out by just reading this, thank you. You already have great strengths and talents which can be amplified in therapy. I guide people towards health with deep care while exploring your strengths and your wounds of the mind and heart.
Hello, my name is Ryan. I’m a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist practicing in San Diego, California. I am glad that you are reaching out by just reading this, thank you. You already have great strengths and talents which can be amplified in therapy. I guide people towards health with deep care while exploring your strengths and your wounds of the mind and heart.
(858) 281-2943 View (858) 281-2943
Photo of Kate L. Kutner, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate L. Kutner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
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.
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.
(619) 492-5680 View (619) 492-5680
Photo of Julie M Hayden, MRS, MACP, PsyD, Psychologist
Julie M Hayden
Psychologist, MRS, MACP, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
Addiction is not a problem to be fixed, but rather a person. I have worked with many people with various addictions and realize that addressing one problem from one perspective is not enough. I specialize in getting to know a person first and then helping that person heal from past hurts, learn skills for problem-solving, improve communication, build strong relationships, practice ways to manage strong emotions, learn to slow down and change their harmful or intrusive thoughts, draw from their faith for strength, develop strong support systems, and with all this, hope of long-term recovery can become reality.
Addiction is not a problem to be fixed, but rather a person. I have worked with many people with various addictions and realize that addressing one problem from one perspective is not enough. I specialize in getting to know a person first and then helping that person heal from past hurts, learn skills for problem-solving, improve communication, build strong relationships, practice ways to manage strong emotions, learn to slow down and change their harmful or intrusive thoughts, draw from their faith for strength, develop strong support systems, and with all this, hope of long-term recovery can become reality.
(844) 262-8310 View (844) 262-8310
Photo of Elizabeth (Lizzy) Ritti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth (Lizzy) Ritti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
I provide mental health care to youth, families, and adults coping with life transitions, chronic family stress, and identity development. These circumstances have led many individuals to experience symptoms of depression, trauma, anxiety, and feelings of loss. It is a sign of bravery and strength to seek support when these stressors are difficult to manage on your own. I am here to explore ways to improve your quality of life and identify unmet needs contributing to mental health symptoms.
I provide mental health care to youth, families, and adults coping with life transitions, chronic family stress, and identity development. These circumstances have led many individuals to experience symptoms of depression, trauma, anxiety, and feelings of loss. It is a sign of bravery and strength to seek support when these stressors are difficult to manage on your own. I am here to explore ways to improve your quality of life and identify unmet needs contributing to mental health symptoms.
(619) 881-0303 View (619) 881-0303
Photo of Wesley-Martin Ervin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wesley-Martin Ervin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
My name is Wesley Ervin, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist living in small town Lemoore, California. I work with adolescents and adults, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, and queer identity. I work with queer therapy, geek therapy, and an eclectic approach including CCT, CBT, and EFT. I enjoy working with all sorts of clients but tend to be a better fit for queer clients and those who enjoy nerdy interests. I have experience working with a variety of identities withing the LGBTQ+ community, and especially enjoy working with my gender expansive siblings to help them with their transitions.
My name is Wesley Ervin, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist living in small town Lemoore, California. I work with adolescents and adults, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, and queer identity. I work with queer therapy, geek therapy, and an eclectic approach including CCT, CBT, and EFT. I enjoy working with all sorts of clients but tend to be a better fit for queer clients and those who enjoy nerdy interests. I have experience working with a variety of identities withing the LGBTQ+ community, and especially enjoy working with my gender expansive siblings to help them with their transitions.
(858) 758-2342 View (858) 758-2342
Shirley Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
I work with you toward: Understanding/coping with depression, sadness, guilt, or loss of self esteem; Dealing with sudden anxiety or continuing worry or stress; Achieving a more satisfying relationship with your mate/dealing with continuing, unresolved problems in your relationship; Dealing with a sudden, stressful life event, such as a divorce or the death of someone close; Facing the challenges of single parenting or co-parenting with a new spouse; Coping with someone you care about who drinks too much or uses drugs; Resolving continuing problems with coworkers or work-related stress.
I work with you toward: Understanding/coping with depression, sadness, guilt, or loss of self esteem; Dealing with sudden anxiety or continuing worry or stress; Achieving a more satisfying relationship with your mate/dealing with continuing, unresolved problems in your relationship; Dealing with a sudden, stressful life event, such as a divorce or the death of someone close; Facing the challenges of single parenting or co-parenting with a new spouse; Coping with someone you care about who drinks too much or uses drugs; Resolving continuing problems with coworkers or work-related stress.
(619) 736-8206 View (619) 736-8206
Photo of Virgina (Ginny) Powell, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(619) 377-8842 View (619) 377-8842
Photo of Hais Lindeman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hais Lindeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91941  (Online Only)
My specializations include individuals, families and relationships with co-occurring and complex mental health, substance use, problem gambling and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a special interest in women and couples who are experiencing a broad spectrum of fertility challenges, pregnancy losses, in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, and postpartum concerns.
My specializations include individuals, families and relationships with co-occurring and complex mental health, substance use, problem gambling and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a special interest in women and couples who are experiencing a broad spectrum of fertility challenges, pregnancy losses, in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, and postpartum concerns.
(619) 480-0245 View (619) 480-0245
Photo of Jeffrey Andrew Gordon - Behavioral Health Consultant, MS, ACSW, Admin, Pre-Licensed Professional
Behavioral Health Consultant
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, ACSW, Admin
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941
Remember that the change starts with you! Being aware of past issues may lead to unwanted emotions or behaviors that can affect your present life. Instead of letting these past issues affect your self-esteem, try to improve them and see them as "Hero" badges. By taking the time to explore these issues and seeking guidance, you can have more control over your emotions and behaviors. I'm here to support your mind, body, and spirit, so don't hesitate to reach out if you need help.
Remember that the change starts with you! Being aware of past issues may lead to unwanted emotions or behaviors that can affect your present life. Instead of letting these past issues affect your self-esteem, try to improve them and see them as "Hero" badges. By taking the time to explore these issues and seeking guidance, you can have more control over your emotions and behaviors. I'm here to support your mind, body, and spirit, so don't hesitate to reach out if you need help.
(619) 279-5643 View (619) 279-5643
Photo of Adam Moore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adam Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
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.
(619) 345-5939 View (619) 345-5939
Photo of Keziyah Mack, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Keziyah Mack
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
Hello, I'm Keziyah. I have experience working with children, adolescents and their families working through a wide range of general and extreme life stressors. As a Navy Veteran, I also have a passion for working with active duty and veterans alike to assist in processing current and previous experiences while serving our country. ​I have an interest in working with BIPOC populations. Navigating the world through the lens as a POC, veteran, and woman, I would like to be a sense of support for those who lack representation, and who would like to feel seen and heard.
Hello, I'm Keziyah. I have experience working with children, adolescents and their families working through a wide range of general and extreme life stressors. As a Navy Veteran, I also have a passion for working with active duty and veterans alike to assist in processing current and previous experiences while serving our country. ​I have an interest in working with BIPOC populations. Navigating the world through the lens as a POC, veteran, and woman, I would like to be a sense of support for those who lack representation, and who would like to feel seen and heard.
(619) 815-8838 View (619) 815-8838
Photo of Rachel Pittsley - Grow Through Life Counseling La Mesa, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grow Through Life Counseling La Mesa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
Hello and welcome! Grow Through Life Counseling is a group private practice welcoming both in person clients in La Mesa, CA and via Telehealth in CA. We have immediate openings and are accepting new clients. Our Mission is to provide quality counseling for all ages throughout life. We provide culturally sensitive and inclusive care for all children, teens, adults, couples and families. We respect each family member's unique identities, perspectives and experiences in life. With effective and creative psychotherapeutic interventions, we support emotional growth and development during the various stages of life to be healthier.
Hello and welcome! Grow Through Life Counseling is a group private practice welcoming both in person clients in La Mesa, CA and via Telehealth in CA. We have immediate openings and are accepting new clients. Our Mission is to provide quality counseling for all ages throughout life. We provide culturally sensitive and inclusive care for all children, teens, adults, couples and families. We respect each family member's unique identities, perspectives and experiences in life. With effective and creative psychotherapeutic interventions, we support emotional growth and development during the various stages of life to be healthier.
(619) 541-6011 View (619) 541-6011
Photo of Debbie Lee, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Debbie Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
Life, given to us without choice, often delivers challenging experiences. Sometimes, these experiences cripple us by making us feel helpless. However, each of us is created with a remarkable design for renewal. If seeking change, regardless of circumstances, anyone can hope for a better tomorrow. This is my belief, and it guides my approach to every client I meet.
Life, given to us without choice, often delivers challenging experiences. Sometimes, these experiences cripple us by making us feel helpless. However, each of us is created with a remarkable design for renewal. If seeking change, regardless of circumstances, anyone can hope for a better tomorrow. This is my belief, and it guides my approach to every client I meet.
(619) 202-8116 View (619) 202-8116
Photo of Ethan John Messer, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ethan John Messer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently accepting new clients for in-person counseling. I am able to provide counseling services for couples, families, individuals, children & adolescents. I have experience in helping individuals with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, self-harm and suicidal thoughts and in counseling children who are experiencing negative effects from divorce and have extensive experience in working with children/adolescents in a wide variety of settings.
I am currently accepting new clients for in-person counseling. I am able to provide counseling services for couples, families, individuals, children & adolescents. I have experience in helping individuals with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, self-harm and suicidal thoughts and in counseling children who are experiencing negative effects from divorce and have extensive experience in working with children/adolescents in a wide variety of settings.
(619) 536-0812 View (619) 536-0812
Photo of Julie Hayden - New Vision Counseling Center, MACP, PsyD, Psychologist
New Vision Counseling Center
Psychologist, MACP, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
New Vision Counseling Center is a nonprofit organization offering low fee therapy to those who cannot afford traditional therapy costs. The prelicensed therapists are under the direct supervision and guidance of experienced therapists.
New Vision Counseling Center is a nonprofit organization offering low fee therapy to those who cannot afford traditional therapy costs. The prelicensed therapists are under the direct supervision and guidance of experienced therapists.
(619) 736-9741 View (619) 736-9741
Photo of Theresa Leal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa Leal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941
Theresa Leal, LCSW...I am an older practitioner and have worked a lot with families, young adults, and teens. I am very goal-oriented and will work with clients to help them identify their needs and help them work toward solutions, I believe in being positive and looking for how to help my clients develop their own answers so they have ownership of them. I am currently working with a family and teenager, I am also working with two teens on their own and I have a number of young adults in their 20s I am working with. I have been working with Oppositional Defiant, PTSD, sexual abuse, racism, and gender issues.
Theresa Leal, LCSW...I am an older practitioner and have worked a lot with families, young adults, and teens. I am very goal-oriented and will work with clients to help them identify their needs and help them work toward solutions, I believe in being positive and looking for how to help my clients develop their own answers so they have ownership of them. I am currently working with a family and teenager, I am also working with two teens on their own and I have a number of young adults in their 20s I am working with. I have been working with Oppositional Defiant, PTSD, sexual abuse, racism, and gender issues.
(619) 943-3475 View (619) 943-3475
1
Multicultural Therapists

What type of therapy is multicultural therapy?

Multicultural therapy is not tied to any specific therapy; rather, it is an overarching approach to therapy that aims to acknowledge and address the influence that factors like race, gender identity, and cultural background can have on someone’s life. Multicultural approaches can be applied to CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and others, and can be practiced with individuals, couples, families, or groups.

What can I expect from multicultural therapy?

Multicultural counseling should be tailored to the client’s unique identity and cultural needs. Such approaches often prioritize the building of trust so that the client feels comfortable exploring various aspects of their identity and any challenges caused by mismatches between their identity and the dominant culture. Beyond that, the format and timeline of therapy will be heavily influenced by the therapist’s preferred therapy approach and the specific problems for which the client sought therapy.

Can multicultural therapy help treat trauma?

Yes. Cultural factors such as racial background, gender identity and or sexuality, and immigration or refugee status can influence both whether someone experiences trauma and how they cope afterward. Multicultural approaches to trauma-informed care will be aware of these influences, helping the client recognize how their response to trauma may be shaped by their cultural background and identify coping mechanisms that take their identity into account.

What are the benefits of seeing a multicultural therapist?

Members of minority groups who seek therapy are sometimes frustrated by providers who don’t understand their cultural background or dismiss the ways in which race, gender, or other facets of their identity influence their lived experience. Seeing a multicultural therapist can help these clients feel seen, understood, and able to develop solutions to life challenges that take their upbringing, beliefs, and past experiences into account.