Transgender Therapists in La Mesa, CA
![Photo of Elizabeth (Lizzy) Ritti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/645246b3-84e4-4d3b-95df-a843f8922c17/1/320x400.png)
Elizabeth (Lizzy) Ritti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
I utilize my clinical training in CBT, Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities, and Exposure Response Prevention in therapy.
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 utilize my clinical training in CBT, Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities, and Exposure Response Prevention in therapy.
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.
![Photo of Chris Dooley, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2643a3c7-b58a-4919-80b4-31c899ccea9d/4/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Dooley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942 (Online Only)
If you're in a place where you're feeling stuck, worried, anxious and struggling with decisions then therapy may be the place for you to gain clarity. I strive to help clients develop insight and build new skills in order to live a more authentic and happy life. I work with adults struggling with a variety of issues and needs including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, stress management, and life exploration. Being compassionate and providing a safe space for clients are two values that inform me greatly of how I practice, as I believe we all need a safe space to be our authentic selves in order to heal.
If you're in a place where you're feeling stuck, worried, anxious and struggling with decisions then therapy may be the place for you to gain clarity. I strive to help clients develop insight and build new skills in order to live a more authentic and happy life. I work with adults struggling with a variety of issues and needs including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, stress management, and life exploration. Being compassionate and providing a safe space for clients are two values that inform me greatly of how I practice, as I believe we all need a safe space to be our authentic selves in order to heal.
![Photo of Kate L. Kutner, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f46f3b2-2929-4714-9960-a1053f3b75e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kate Webb, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2e0a9d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life is challenging. The landscape of our life picture is a continual work in progress. Sometimes we lose control of brushes, paints or both. The way out becomes muddy or messy. I work with individuals, couples, teens and children adjusting to life changes. You are not your problem. My passion; helping you separate yourself from harmful effects of blame, guilt or shame resulting from difficult experiences. I work with adjustment issues including, grief/ loss, military families, career changes, pain management and emotional distress. Whether moving through small challenges, life transitions or a difficult traumatic experience, my mission; to help you "Create a Life You Love."
Life is challenging. The landscape of our life picture is a continual work in progress. Sometimes we lose control of brushes, paints or both. The way out becomes muddy or messy. I work with individuals, couples, teens and children adjusting to life changes. You are not your problem. My passion; helping you separate yourself from harmful effects of blame, guilt or shame resulting from difficult experiences. I work with adjustment issues including, grief/ loss, military families, career changes, pain management and emotional distress. Whether moving through small challenges, life transitions or a difficult traumatic experience, my mission; to help you "Create a Life You Love."
![Photo of Briana Rodriguez, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fec16ce4-fd36-47a1-84f3-502fb3c0b539/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Mexican American clinical psychologist, Dr. Rodriguez has been trained in various evidence-based practices for children, adolescents, and adults, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, child-centered play therapy, and Family Systems. In addition to these treatments, Dr. Rodriguez works from a multicultural and trauma-informed lens to better address intersectional identities and apply interventions that are the best fit for each individual client. In her spare time, Dr. Rodriguez enjoys hiking (preferably near a water source) with her pittie, Honey.
As a Mexican American clinical psychologist, Dr. Rodriguez has been trained in various evidence-based practices for children, adolescents, and adults, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, child-centered play therapy, and Family Systems. In addition to these treatments, Dr. Rodriguez works from a multicultural and trauma-informed lens to better address intersectional identities and apply interventions that are the best fit for each individual client. In her spare time, Dr. Rodriguez enjoys hiking (preferably near a water source) with her pittie, Honey.
![Photo of Savannah Henderson, MS, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b003a580-7faa-43bb-9889-f3791a8789ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Savannah Henderson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942 (Online Only)
Welcome! I focus on the areas of attachment, sex and intimacy, relationships, healthy life balance, and queer inclusive therapy. My goal as a therapist is to empower you to explore your lived experiences, make connections between your past and present, and make changes to improve your intimate, family, and friend relationships. I support clients in embracing their sexuality and improving communication around sex and intimacy. I believe that every person is capable of making the changes they desire for their life.
Welcome! I focus on the areas of attachment, sex and intimacy, relationships, healthy life balance, and queer inclusive therapy. My goal as a therapist is to empower you to explore your lived experiences, make connections between your past and present, and make changes to improve your intimate, family, and friend relationships. I support clients in embracing their sexuality and improving communication around sex and intimacy. I believe that every person is capable of making the changes they desire for their life.
![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.
![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 Rebecca Boon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/589403ba-42a8-482a-b23e-7814f5188ee8/3/320x400.jpeg)
I will take an active, non-judgmental, and creative approach in treatment to support you in reaching your goals and sustaining meaningful growth, balance and change. In therapy, I prioritize strengths-based and client-centered approaches with respect for diverse backgrounds while offering humor, psychoeducation, and practical coping strategies to increase healthy behaviors, self-awareness, and self-compassion. I most often draw upon techniques and theories found in mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, art therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I will take an active, non-judgmental, and creative approach in treatment to support you in reaching your goals and sustaining meaningful growth, balance and change. In therapy, I prioritize strengths-based and client-centered approaches with respect for diverse backgrounds while offering humor, psychoeducation, and practical coping strategies to increase healthy behaviors, self-awareness, and self-compassion. I most often draw upon techniques and theories found in mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, art therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
![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 Stephanie Danial, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/398e797c-d427-4c59-9f82-5b97cd9b1263/1/320x400.jpeg)
Many people struggle with complex emotional issues and negative patterns of behavior and thought. I believe my clients are very powerful and brave to begin the journey of self-discovery and healing. As your therapist and partner in this work, I hold a safe space for you to approach your struggles by working together to understand your goals, develop greater insight and create the coping skills and strategies for a more satisfying and emotionally harmonious life.
Many people struggle with complex emotional issues and negative patterns of behavior and thought. I believe my clients are very powerful and brave to begin the journey of self-discovery and healing. As your therapist and partner in this work, I hold a safe space for you to approach your struggles by working together to understand your goals, develop greater insight and create the coping skills and strategies for a more satisfying and emotionally harmonious life.
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![Photo of Pooja Bakshi, MBA, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c73e7f29-00d9-43e9-94fb-8b8085559d7a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pooja Bakshi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MBA, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
My goal is to create a space that is nonjudgmental, where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether it be If you have personal struggles or relationship issues, let's work together to create a positive change. I'm here to help you build resilience, develop effective coping strategies, and find greater fulfillment in life. I believe in the power of therapy to transform lives and I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Feel free to reach out I am available to schedule a session or you can contact me to learn more about my services.
My goal is to create a space that is nonjudgmental, where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Whether it be If you have personal struggles or relationship issues, let's work together to create a positive change. I'm here to help you build resilience, develop effective coping strategies, and find greater fulfillment in life. I believe in the power of therapy to transform lives and I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Feel free to reach out I am available to schedule a session or you can contact me to learn more about my services.
![Photo of Kelsey Kickbush, LICSW, LCSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffa220a4-5f56-40e5-ac48-71b2990070fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Kickbush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
We will work together to find the wholeness that is already within you, as you develop relationships with and care for all of the parts of you to nurture healing. I am passionate about working with those who belong to the LGBTQIA2S+ community and other marginalized communities; helping professionals; military/veterans; and those with complex trauma. I currently see adults, adolescents aged 16 and older, and families and partners, including those in polyamorous/CNM relationships.
We will work together to find the wholeness that is already within you, as you develop relationships with and care for all of the parts of you to nurture healing. I am passionate about working with those who belong to the LGBTQIA2S+ community and other marginalized communities; helping professionals; military/veterans; and those with complex trauma. I currently see adults, adolescents aged 16 and older, and families and partners, including those in polyamorous/CNM relationships.
![Photo of Cassie Deacon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94068bd3-6c42-4a1a-a279-fb65688017bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassie Deacon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from San Diego State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Cassie believes in compassionate and supportive therapeutic care to assist clients to explore and achieve their mental health goals. Cassie specializes in working with PTSD, Complex PTSD, youth/adolescents, mood disorders and the stressors associated with caregiving. Cassie is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Cassie Deacon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from San Diego State University with a master's degree in Social Work. Cassie believes in compassionate and supportive therapeutic care to assist clients to explore and achieve their mental health goals. Cassie specializes in working with PTSD, Complex PTSD, youth/adolescents, mood disorders and the stressors associated with caregiving. Cassie is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
![Photo of Kelsey Giovana Barillas - Kelsey Barillas, LMFT, #133292, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e48508f-4dcb-4f3e-a876-d9d3b53e4fd9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Barillas, LMFT, #133292
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942 (Online Only)
How’s life? Want to talk about it? It can be hard to take the first step in finding a psychotherapist who is a good fit for you but, you’ve already gotten closer by exploring the web. Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and other Mental Health matters can be hard to manage and get in the way of having a peaceful and fulfilling life. If you or your teen/young adult are struggling with your emotional wellbeing, thoughts, feelings, or adjustments to life experiences, we can work together to look at how to make progress and the changes that you need to process some of the current matters you are facing.
How’s life? Want to talk about it? It can be hard to take the first step in finding a psychotherapist who is a good fit for you but, you’ve already gotten closer by exploring the web. Depression, Anxiety, Stress, and other Mental Health matters can be hard to manage and get in the way of having a peaceful and fulfilling life. If you or your teen/young adult are struggling with your emotional wellbeing, thoughts, feelings, or adjustments to life experiences, we can work together to look at how to make progress and the changes that you need to process some of the current matters you are facing.
![Photo of Desiree Guzman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7414e75c-051a-48de-baa2-45340c4e473f/1/320x400.jpeg)
People have an unlimited capacity for growth and change. People come to therapy for a wide range of reasons. My role as a therapist is to assist you in working towards your goals by offering support, validation, as well as practical tools that will assist you in working towards achieving those goals.
People have an unlimited capacity for growth and change. People come to therapy for a wide range of reasons. My role as a therapist is to assist you in working towards your goals by offering support, validation, as well as practical tools that will assist you in working towards achieving those goals.
![Photo of Dyana Michelle Clark, MA, LPCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bd4ab75-a28c-42ea-922d-20fe65d8905f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dyana Michelle Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor licensed in California and Texas, with over 9 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, confidence and self esteem issues, OCD and ADHD. I am also certified in Trauma Counseling and have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse, and various traumatic life experiences.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor licensed in California and Texas, with over 9 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, confidence and self esteem issues, OCD and ADHD. I am also certified in Trauma Counseling and have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse, and various traumatic life experiences.
![Photo of Joey Guzman-Kuffel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c1d0ed5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![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 Julie Ellen Williams, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/212dc0a1-9f13-47ce-9d64-93550e057ba1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Williams (They/She) is a compassionate, authentic, and experienced Mental Health Clinician that guides clients in gaining greater self-awareness and self-acceptance using Holistic, Transpersonal, and Somatic approaches for individual adults, teens, children, &/or families. Holistic Psychotherapy with Julie is for you if you are looking to learn ways to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or post traumatic stress through the use of mindfulness-based coping skills. Centered on each individual’s unique needs and preferences, Julie weaves together several different therapeutic approaches and psychological theories.
Julie Williams (They/She) is a compassionate, authentic, and experienced Mental Health Clinician that guides clients in gaining greater self-awareness and self-acceptance using Holistic, Transpersonal, and Somatic approaches for individual adults, teens, children, &/or families. Holistic Psychotherapy with Julie is for you if you are looking to learn ways to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or post traumatic stress through the use of mindfulness-based coping skills. Centered on each individual’s unique needs and preferences, Julie weaves together several different therapeutic approaches and psychological theories.
See more therapy options for La Mesa
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Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.