LGBTQ+ Therapists in Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA
Melody Donboli
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92128
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and find more helpful ways of living. I offer a collaborative and client-centered approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs and cultural backgrounds to help attain the personal growth you're striving for. Your life experiences and history contribute to your individual uniqueness. Sometimes it's helpful if your therapist has a base knowledge of aspects of your culture so you don't have to explain everything. Between cultural elements of the LGBTQ community, to intersectionality experiences for persons of color, my background and training aid in this understanding.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and find more helpful ways of living. I offer a collaborative and client-centered approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs and cultural backgrounds to help attain the personal growth you're striving for. Your life experiences and history contribute to your individual uniqueness. Sometimes it's helpful if your therapist has a base knowledge of aspects of your culture so you don't have to explain everything. Between cultural elements of the LGBTQ community, to intersectionality experiences for persons of color, my background and training aid in this understanding.
Alyson J Bifano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92128 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am Alyson Bifano, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker with a strong commitment to providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy. My approach to therapy is client-centered, emphasizing a safe and supportive environment that allows individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions freely. I specialize in areas such as anxiety, depression, post-partum mood disorders, infertility/IVF journey, trauma, and Couple/relationship issues, tailoring my treatment plans to meet each client's unique needs and goals.
Hello! I am Alyson Bifano, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker with a strong commitment to providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy. My approach to therapy is client-centered, emphasizing a safe and supportive environment that allows individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions freely. I specialize in areas such as anxiety, depression, post-partum mood disorders, infertility/IVF journey, trauma, and Couple/relationship issues, tailoring my treatment plans to meet each client's unique needs and goals.
Veroniki Usherenko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92128 (Online Only)
Life’s journey includes many difficulties, including challenges for individuals, couples, and families. Therapy provides a confidential and safe space where feelings can be explored, new skills can be acquired, and healing can begin. Seeking guidance is an important first step. I have experience working with those involved in domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other trauma. Trauma often surfaces in ways as we do not always know how to articulate and process our emotions. I take a collaborative approach with my clients to reinforce safety, identify problem areas, set goals, and learn to identify and express feelings.
Life’s journey includes many difficulties, including challenges for individuals, couples, and families. Therapy provides a confidential and safe space where feelings can be explored, new skills can be acquired, and healing can begin. Seeking guidance is an important first step. I have experience working with those involved in domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other trauma. Trauma often surfaces in ways as we do not always know how to articulate and process our emotions. I take a collaborative approach with my clients to reinforce safety, identify problem areas, set goals, and learn to identify and express feelings.
Hope for Healers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92128
I have successfully coached healthcare workers through burn out by creating space for healing through acknowledgement and release of the stress and trauma stored in their body. Letting go of these negative experiences, strengthens their connection to others and brings clarity to their passion and purpose. I have also led trainings on topics such as emotion regulation, conflict resolution and effective communication. I created and led various support groups and trainings related to grief, chronic pain, imposter syndrome and burnout.
I have successfully coached healthcare workers through burn out by creating space for healing through acknowledgement and release of the stress and trauma stored in their body. Letting go of these negative experiences, strengthens their connection to others and brings clarity to their passion and purpose. I have also led trainings on topics such as emotion regulation, conflict resolution and effective communication. I created and led various support groups and trainings related to grief, chronic pain, imposter syndrome and burnout.
Haley Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92128 (Online Only)
Haley Adams is an LMFT who earned her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from the University of La Verne. She went on to graduate from Pacific Oaks College with a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a specialization in trauma studies. Haley is certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP), and has a strong knowledge of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Haley’s diverse experience includes working with infants, children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings, from residential to outpatient care.
Haley Adams is an LMFT who earned her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from the University of La Verne. She went on to graduate from Pacific Oaks College with a Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a specialization in trauma studies. Haley is certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP), and has a strong knowledge of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Haley’s diverse experience includes working with infants, children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings, from residential to outpatient care.
Dr. Dale Coleman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92128
Would you like to be heard and feel supported? It is important to me that I approach therapy with an open mind, and am present and engaged in our work. I strive to create a dynamic where there is felt sense of acceptance and care. Would you like to make a change? I use a compassionate, yet direct voice to introduce alternate perspectives and possibilities for us to discuss. With this, we can collaborate towards achieving goals that are important to you!
Would you like to be heard and feel supported? It is important to me that I approach therapy with an open mind, and am present and engaged in our work. I strive to create a dynamic where there is felt sense of acceptance and care. Would you like to make a change? I use a compassionate, yet direct voice to introduce alternate perspectives and possibilities for us to discuss. With this, we can collaborate towards achieving goals that are important to you!
Katherine Pica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Katherine Pica, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92121
Feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Have you tried therapy before with no success? There is hope and you are not alone. I specialize in compassionate evidenced based therapy for Anxiety, OCD and Trauma. I am trained in ERP, CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness Skills. These are tools that we can work on together, to help you live a more fulfilled life. Therapy can help you get freedom over issues that are holding you back from your true potential and goals in life. With over 15 years of experience I can help and guide you to learn to break free from old patterns and negative thoughts to tune into our true resilience.
Feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Have you tried therapy before with no success? There is hope and you are not alone. I specialize in compassionate evidenced based therapy for Anxiety, OCD and Trauma. I am trained in ERP, CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness Skills. These are tools that we can work on together, to help you live a more fulfilled life. Therapy can help you get freedom over issues that are holding you back from your true potential and goals in life. With over 15 years of experience I can help and guide you to learn to break free from old patterns and negative thoughts to tune into our true resilience.
Gabrielle Loomis-Annett
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LISAC, LPCC, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92150 (Online Only)
I work with women who have recently experienced a traumatic event and help them return to a sense of normal. I also work with women who have experienced traumas in the distant past but who have been feeling chronically anxious, depressed, out of control and/or hopeless. Perhaps you cannot remember the last time you did not feel anxious or depressed. Or perhaps your body being in stress for so many years has created health issues. Or perhaps you have turned to compulsive behaviors to escape or numb the pain such as over drinking, over eating, perfectionism, codependency, dieting, binge watching TV and more.
I work with women who have recently experienced a traumatic event and help them return to a sense of normal. I also work with women who have experienced traumas in the distant past but who have been feeling chronically anxious, depressed, out of control and/or hopeless. Perhaps you cannot remember the last time you did not feel anxious or depressed. Or perhaps your body being in stress for so many years has created health issues. Or perhaps you have turned to compulsive behaviors to escape or numb the pain such as over drinking, over eating, perfectionism, codependency, dieting, binge watching TV and more.
Caroline Little
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92128
Does your child get taken over by anxiety? Do intrusive thoughts or compulsions keep them stuck? Are you worried your child is being held back from reaching their true potential? Maybe they have tried traditional talk therapy before but haven’t seen the changes you hoped for. Anxiety disorders amongst our kids are on the rise. They need help. Evidenced based therapy can help address the root cause and teach them tools and skills to live a fuller life and grow.
Does your child get taken over by anxiety? Do intrusive thoughts or compulsions keep them stuck? Are you worried your child is being held back from reaching their true potential? Maybe they have tried traditional talk therapy before but haven’t seen the changes you hoped for. Anxiety disorders amongst our kids are on the rise. They need help. Evidenced based therapy can help address the root cause and teach them tools and skills to live a fuller life and grow.
Kristin Flowers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92128
Hi! My name is Kristin Flowers and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist here in beautiful California. I specialize in helping anxious people to heal and recover from perfectionism, gas lighting, and toxic relationships, as well as past events or memories that may still be impacting life in a negative way. I help people who are trying to be perfect and feel exhausted and wondering who they are anymore. The people I help are feeling anxious, lonely, and stressed out to the breaking point. Sleep is difficult if not impossible. Asking for help is so hard because you're so used to fixing everything yourself.
Hi! My name is Kristin Flowers and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist here in beautiful California. I specialize in helping anxious people to heal and recover from perfectionism, gas lighting, and toxic relationships, as well as past events or memories that may still be impacting life in a negative way. I help people who are trying to be perfect and feel exhausted and wondering who they are anymore. The people I help are feeling anxious, lonely, and stressed out to the breaking point. Sleep is difficult if not impossible. Asking for help is so hard because you're so used to fixing everything yourself.
Julie Olson PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92128 (Online Only)
I'm so glad you are here! Assisting people to find strength through adversity is a joy for me. You can reduce your anxiety and/or depression. Improve your life by learning tools to feel more confident, communicate more effectively, and get more of what you want. My goal is to help you boost your resilience and find inner peace, to move your life forward toward your dreams and reduce your emotional pain & conflict. I am known to be attentive, active, calm, peaceful, inspiring, challenging, and fun. I give you suggestions, tips, and practical skills to cope and grow. Work with me conveniently and confidentially online on ZOOM.
I'm so glad you are here! Assisting people to find strength through adversity is a joy for me. You can reduce your anxiety and/or depression. Improve your life by learning tools to feel more confident, communicate more effectively, and get more of what you want. My goal is to help you boost your resilience and find inner peace, to move your life forward toward your dreams and reduce your emotional pain & conflict. I am known to be attentive, active, calm, peaceful, inspiring, challenging, and fun. I give you suggestions, tips, and practical skills to cope and grow. Work with me conveniently and confidentially online on ZOOM.
15 Second Videos
Katherine Pica
Gabrielle Loomis-Annett
Laura Wilhoit
Laura Wilhoit
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92128 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dr. Laura Wilhoit and I offer virtual therapy throughout the state of California. In my 10+ years of experience, I have worked with a variety of people, including those struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use. Outside of depression and anxiety, one of my areas of focus is helping people as they adjust to parenting challenges, including postpartum depression. I am certified through the Perinatal Mental Health Certification program (PMH-C) to help parents. As a mother of 3 children myself, I know that parenting can be challenging and parents often aren't given sufficient support.
Hello! My name is Dr. Laura Wilhoit and I offer virtual therapy throughout the state of California. In my 10+ years of experience, I have worked with a variety of people, including those struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use. Outside of depression and anxiety, one of my areas of focus is helping people as they adjust to parenting challenges, including postpartum depression. I am certified through the Perinatal Mental Health Certification program (PMH-C) to help parents. As a mother of 3 children myself, I know that parenting can be challenging and parents often aren't given sufficient support.
Peter Kehoe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel Mountain, San Diego, CA 92128
Hello! My name is Peter Kehoe, LMFT. I was licensed in 2002 and have had an eclectic and sometimes electric life experience to date. I believe in self determination and using support teams and individuals to create positive orientation. I started my journey in this field working with alcoholic adults in a group setting in the early '80s and later moved to a long term residential setting with adolescents with drug and alcohol issues. My internship was in an upper class community with the scions of these families that had substance use and behavioral disorders. Individual and family therapy were the mediums in those cases.
Hello! My name is Peter Kehoe, LMFT. I was licensed in 2002 and have had an eclectic and sometimes electric life experience to date. I believe in self determination and using support teams and individuals to create positive orientation. I started my journey in this field working with alcoholic adults in a group setting in the early '80s and later moved to a long term residential setting with adolescents with drug and alcohol issues. My internship was in an upper class community with the scions of these families that had substance use and behavioral disorders. Individual and family therapy were the mediums in those cases.
Online Therapists
Linda Huey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109 (Online Only)
My hope is to help you remove whatever is keeping you from being the best version of yourself you can be. This often means looking at the things that make us feel vulnerable.. This isn't always easy considering that vulnerability is often considered a weakness. Supporting my clients to transform vulnerabilities into strengths is what I do best. And sometimes asking for help can be the hardest thing to do. It is through connection that we grow and become our authentic selves. I have been licensed since 2001. My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, LGBTQ, and bicultural issues.
My hope is to help you remove whatever is keeping you from being the best version of yourself you can be. This often means looking at the things that make us feel vulnerable.. This isn't always easy considering that vulnerability is often considered a weakness. Supporting my clients to transform vulnerabilities into strengths is what I do best. And sometimes asking for help can be the hardest thing to do. It is through connection that we grow and become our authentic selves. I have been licensed since 2001. My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, LGBTQ, and bicultural issues.
![Photo of Pei-Ying [Ann] Lo, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd999abf-95fa-4c1e-9e8d-8e0b5f8debc9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pei-Ying [Ann] Lo
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
I understand the cultural barriers and challenges of being an immigrant, a woman, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, both professionally and personally.
Hello there, my name is Pei-Ying Lo (羅佩英), and I also go by Ann. I am a Post-Doctoral Fellow and Psychological Associate who is currently working towards full licensure under the supervision of Dr. Shawnee Brew. With my background and training, I bring a distinctive viewpoint on the therapeutic process and the external pressures we encounter. Let’s collaborate to discover the next steps for whatever you present, finding a balance between the challenges and the joys.
I understand the cultural barriers and challenges of being an immigrant, a woman, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, both professionally and personally.
Hello there, my name is Pei-Ying Lo (羅佩英), and I also go by Ann. I am a Post-Doctoral Fellow and Psychological Associate who is currently working towards full licensure under the supervision of Dr. Shawnee Brew. With my background and training, I bring a distinctive viewpoint on the therapeutic process and the external pressures we encounter. Let’s collaborate to discover the next steps for whatever you present, finding a balance between the challenges and the joys.
James Sharkey @ Grow Through Life Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Hello! I enjoy treating: grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, identity development, LGBTQ+, men’s mental health, relationship infidelity, divorce and separation, co- parenting, and communication development. I work with adults, children, teens, families, and couples. I establish a safe and affirming space, tailoring sessions to address diverse needs. I invite clients to explore their own unique journey and I am here to support you through navigating life's challenges in a self-compassionate and healing manner. I am a sensitive and thoughtful provider.
Hello! I enjoy treating: grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, identity development, LGBTQ+, men’s mental health, relationship infidelity, divorce and separation, co- parenting, and communication development. I work with adults, children, teens, families, and couples. I establish a safe and affirming space, tailoring sessions to address diverse needs. I invite clients to explore their own unique journey and I am here to support you through navigating life's challenges in a self-compassionate and healing manner. I am a sensitive and thoughtful provider.
As a frequent speaker on LGBTQ+ self-acceptance and inclusion in the church, I’m honored when I get to work with fellow members of the community looking for an empathetic and judgement-free space.
If you could hit the “pause button” on the voice of fear, shame, anger, or addiction, what would you hear instead? Is it a desire to be loved and accepted for who you really are? Is it hope for a more fulfilling life with joy, rest, purpose, or creativity? Is it faith to believe that you can finally stop beating yourself up, make peace with your past, and make different decisions going forward? You’d be amazed how many people like you and me, have bravely faced their biggest questions in therapy, and found meaningful answers. Let’s see if that can be your story too!
As a frequent speaker on LGBTQ+ self-acceptance and inclusion in the church, I’m honored when I get to work with fellow members of the community looking for an empathetic and judgement-free space.
If you could hit the “pause button” on the voice of fear, shame, anger, or addiction, what would you hear instead? Is it a desire to be loved and accepted for who you really are? Is it hope for a more fulfilling life with joy, rest, purpose, or creativity? Is it faith to believe that you can finally stop beating yourself up, make peace with your past, and make different decisions going forward? You’d be amazed how many people like you and me, have bravely faced their biggest questions in therapy, and found meaningful answers. Let’s see if that can be your story too!
I am dedicated to life-long learning and advocacy for intersectional LGBTQIA empowerment.
I have experience working with LGBTQIA communities, Transitional-Age Youth, Neurodivergent communities, Students/Academia, and Domestic Violence situations. I'm passionate about utilizing feminist and decolonial frameworks to help clients explore solutions.
I am dedicated to life-long learning and advocacy for intersectional LGBTQIA empowerment.
I have experience working with LGBTQIA communities, Transitional-Age Youth, Neurodivergent communities, Students/Academia, and Domestic Violence situations. I'm passionate about utilizing feminist and decolonial frameworks to help clients explore solutions.
Shera Daroga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
As a woman who is part of the LGBTQIA+ community and biracial, I value holding a safe and brave space for all clients’ intersecting identities — culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity.
Hi there! I'm Shera and my pronouns are she/her/hers. Thanks for stopping by! Have you been feeling isolated or lonely lately? Needing support, whether LGBTQIA+ , sexism, racism, ableism, or anything else that resonates with you? Let's work together to build your sense of self. Ready to make a significant shift in who you are and how you show up in life? Or questioning your purpose? Or perhaps you're struggling with all that is happening in our world these days and need an outlet to talk about it.
As a woman who is part of the LGBTQIA+ community and biracial, I value holding a safe and brave space for all clients’ intersecting identities — culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity.
Hi there! I'm Shera and my pronouns are she/her/hers. Thanks for stopping by! Have you been feeling isolated or lonely lately? Needing support, whether LGBTQIA+ , sexism, racism, ableism, or anything else that resonates with you? Let's work together to build your sense of self. Ready to make a significant shift in who you are and how you show up in life? Or questioning your purpose? Or perhaps you're struggling with all that is happening in our world these days and need an outlet to talk about it.
Anna Abramyan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
I am queer, trans, BDSM, non-monogamous, sex worker, and neurodivergent friendly.
I believe in meeting people where they’re at even if it’s rock bottom. I believe in radical acceptance, unconditional care, and creating a non-judgmental space when it comes to mental health. I believe in personal growth and mental health management without shame. I believe in proletarianism, equity, abolition of carceral systems, and social justice for all. I strive to be anti-racist and culturally competent.
I am queer, trans, BDSM, non-monogamous, sex worker, and neurodivergent friendly.
I believe in meeting people where they’re at even if it’s rock bottom. I believe in radical acceptance, unconditional care, and creating a non-judgmental space when it comes to mental health. I believe in personal growth and mental health management without shame. I believe in proletarianism, equity, abolition of carceral systems, and social justice for all. I strive to be anti-racist and culturally competent.
See more therapy options for Carmel Mountain, San Diego
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Carmel Mountain, San Diego
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LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.