LGBTQ+ Therapists in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA
Emily Ruth
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123 (Online Only)
Hi! Thanks for reading through my profile. Seeking support outside of your social circle can feel vulnerable. You’re here because you know there’s something inside of you ready to be explored, attended to, and integrated. Therapy is a space of collaboration and curiosity, a space to inquire about who we think we are and the limits of our beliefs, a space to delve into new shapes. I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults (particularly the queer community) for a wide range of concerns including recovery from substance abuse, trauma, stress, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and anxiety.
Hi! Thanks for reading through my profile. Seeking support outside of your social circle can feel vulnerable. You’re here because you know there’s something inside of you ready to be explored, attended to, and integrated. Therapy is a space of collaboration and curiosity, a space to inquire about who we think we are and the limits of our beliefs, a space to delve into new shapes. I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults (particularly the queer community) for a wide range of concerns including recovery from substance abuse, trauma, stress, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and anxiety.
Debra Berl is a Licensed Clinical Social worker who completed her graduate degree in 1991 and was licensed in 1995. She has been working in the field of Social Work and Counseling since 1991. Debra treats clients from all backgrounds with a focus on adults and adolescents. Debra's area of experience and training include: grief and loss, coping with chronic pain and illness, depression, women's issues, LGBTQ concerns, supporting parents of children with special needs and treating anxiety disorders.
Debra Berl is a Licensed Clinical Social worker who completed her graduate degree in 1991 and was licensed in 1995. She has been working in the field of Social Work and Counseling since 1991. Debra treats clients from all backgrounds with a focus on adults and adolescents. Debra's area of experience and training include: grief and loss, coping with chronic pain and illness, depression, women's issues, LGBTQ concerns, supporting parents of children with special needs and treating anxiety disorders.
Nathan Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123
I specialize in working with people within the BIPOC and LGBTQ communities and all are welcome here.
Do you feel stuck in your patterns of thought and behavior? Do you feel like there must be a better way to live as an individual and in relationships? Do you struggle to live with the impacts of depression, anxiety, or ADHD? You are not alone and I'm here to help. So much of how you experience yourself, others, and the world can be understood through experiences you had within your family, school, and culture. Understanding these influences and the ideas that they made reality, can free up space for you to choose your own experiences and relationships.
I specialize in working with people within the BIPOC and LGBTQ communities and all are welcome here.
Do you feel stuck in your patterns of thought and behavior? Do you feel like there must be a better way to live as an individual and in relationships? Do you struggle to live with the impacts of depression, anxiety, or ADHD? You are not alone and I'm here to help. So much of how you experience yourself, others, and the world can be understood through experiences you had within your family, school, and culture. Understanding these influences and the ideas that they made reality, can free up space for you to choose your own experiences and relationships.
Bridget Suzanne Kermorris
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, JD, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123
Searching for someone to support you during what is likely a difficult time and/or a season of change can be a big deal. In my therapeutic relationships, I walk alongside clients as they work to transform their most important relationships with loved ones and with themselves. I have a heart for and offer affirming care to all people. I am committed to learning and growing in my care for people in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. I have a speciality in journeying with parents as they navigate reconnecting with and supporting their teens. I also specialize in treating complex PTSD.
Searching for someone to support you during what is likely a difficult time and/or a season of change can be a big deal. In my therapeutic relationships, I walk alongside clients as they work to transform their most important relationships with loved ones and with themselves. I have a heart for and offer affirming care to all people. I am committed to learning and growing in my care for people in the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. I have a speciality in journeying with parents as they navigate reconnecting with and supporting their teens. I also specialize in treating complex PTSD.
Sharlene Justo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123
It is so courageous to be human, especially for QTBIPOC folx. The freedom to be or express ourselves can feel impossible. The big emotions with life transitions and internal crises can be overwhelming. The pressures of family and cultural expectations can make you feel lost or inadequate. The confusion of answering existential questions: “Who am I?” or “Why am I like this?” can be a never ending spiral. We are not meant to navigate our humanness alone. Together, we can hold the tenderness and expansion of life. I am a queer Khmer Filipinx gender fluid person with roots from the Central Valley of CA.
It is so courageous to be human, especially for QTBIPOC folx. The freedom to be or express ourselves can feel impossible. The big emotions with life transitions and internal crises can be overwhelming. The pressures of family and cultural expectations can make you feel lost or inadequate. The confusion of answering existential questions: “Who am I?” or “Why am I like this?” can be a never ending spiral. We are not meant to navigate our humanness alone. Together, we can hold the tenderness and expansion of life. I am a queer Khmer Filipinx gender fluid person with roots from the Central Valley of CA.
Micah Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123 (Online Only)
Whether it’s shame, helplessness, unhealthy behavioral patterns you’re trying to break, or simply feeling like you’re never enough, you’ve come to the right place. It takes courage to admit you’re struggling, and even more so to ask for help. The environment, culture, and family we grow up in affect how we navigate the world. As a second-generation queer-identifying Filipina American, I know how difficult it is growing up in two different cultures and upbringings. My goal as a therapist is to make you feel seen and heard in a safe, supportive environment. I aim to co-create a space tailored to your emotions, needs, and experiences.
Whether it’s shame, helplessness, unhealthy behavioral patterns you’re trying to break, or simply feeling like you’re never enough, you’ve come to the right place. It takes courage to admit you’re struggling, and even more so to ask for help. The environment, culture, and family we grow up in affect how we navigate the world. As a second-generation queer-identifying Filipina American, I know how difficult it is growing up in two different cultures and upbringings. My goal as a therapist is to make you feel seen and heard in a safe, supportive environment. I aim to co-create a space tailored to your emotions, needs, and experiences.
Yaron Pruginin, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD, ABSNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123
I am fluent in English, Spanish and Hebrew and I work with many culturally diverse clients, including LGBTQ, the Jewish community, the Military community and immigrants from all backgrounds.
My approach is based on neuro-developmental, psychodynamic and attachment theories, with a strong focus on creativity and self-empowerment.
I am fluent in English, Spanish and Hebrew and I work with many culturally diverse clients, including LGBTQ, the Jewish community, the Military community and immigrants from all backgrounds.
My approach is based on neuro-developmental, psychodynamic and attachment theories, with a strong focus on creativity and self-empowerment.
Chye Hong Liew 刘彩虹
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92111 (Online Only)
Do you wish to find healing after important losses, tame your inner critic, or seek self-compassion and personal growth? You may be in pain because important family members, friends, or pets died. You feel alone, question why you are still grieving, or worry about overwhelming others with your grief. Or you may be in pain because you blame yourself for being not good enough. Our inner critics are often voices we have internalized from family, friend, or society, especially when you have had to prove yourself as a person with marginalized identities (person of color, woman, immigrant or international students, LGBTQIA+, low income).
Do you wish to find healing after important losses, tame your inner critic, or seek self-compassion and personal growth? You may be in pain because important family members, friends, or pets died. You feel alone, question why you are still grieving, or worry about overwhelming others with your grief. Or you may be in pain because you blame yourself for being not good enough. Our inner critics are often voices we have internalized from family, friend, or society, especially when you have had to prove yourself as a person with marginalized identities (person of color, woman, immigrant or international students, LGBTQIA+, low income).
Sandra M Koellmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123
Do you want to live a more pleasure-positive life? Don’t allow stigma, guilt, or judgment to hold you back from the life you crave and the love you deserve. Sexual pleasure is a birthright. If you’re looking to create more intimacy in your life and relationships, I offer affirming care for you as a whole person. As a member of the LGBTQ community and a kink identified therapist with over 15 years of study and work in sexual health, I am familiar with the thriving spectrums of Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) and the many ways in which love can be both offered and received in relationships.
Do you want to live a more pleasure-positive life? Don’t allow stigma, guilt, or judgment to hold you back from the life you crave and the love you deserve. Sexual pleasure is a birthright. If you’re looking to create more intimacy in your life and relationships, I offer affirming care for you as a whole person. As a member of the LGBTQ community and a kink identified therapist with over 15 years of study and work in sexual health, I am familiar with the thriving spectrums of Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) and the many ways in which love can be both offered and received in relationships.
Hello! I am Dr. Melissa Kae, a licensed psychologist offering online therapy in California. Are you struggling with clarifying your identity or with fitting into the LGBTQ+ community? Are you struggling with anxiety, self doubt, beating yourself up mentally or having low self esteem? Have you been feeling overwhelmed, struggling with perfectionism or have difficulty making active choices in your life? I can help you manage these difficulties more effectively to achieve better balance, improve relationships and get to the core of unresolved difficult experiences. To learn more visit my website at www.forgethekey.com.
Hello! I am Dr. Melissa Kae, a licensed psychologist offering online therapy in California. Are you struggling with clarifying your identity or with fitting into the LGBTQ+ community? Are you struggling with anxiety, self doubt, beating yourself up mentally or having low self esteem? Have you been feeling overwhelmed, struggling with perfectionism or have difficulty making active choices in your life? I can help you manage these difficulties more effectively to achieve better balance, improve relationships and get to the core of unresolved difficult experiences. To learn more visit my website at www.forgethekey.com.
Kelly Goldsteinholm
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123
You have found a safe, judgment-free space for kinksters, non-monogamists, swingers, and people with otherwise “alternative” relationship structures, dynamics, and roles to discuss issues of sexuality and identity. As a gay, kinky, queer therapist, I understand the complexities and importance of relationships - both with each other and with ourselves. If you experience disordered eating, we will work together, utilizing the Healthy at Every Size (HAES) approach, to holistically heal and restructure your overall mindset toward food and your physical body. Because bodies of all sizes deserve to be loved and respected.
You have found a safe, judgment-free space for kinksters, non-monogamists, swingers, and people with otherwise “alternative” relationship structures, dynamics, and roles to discuss issues of sexuality and identity. As a gay, kinky, queer therapist, I understand the complexities and importance of relationships - both with each other and with ourselves. If you experience disordered eating, we will work together, utilizing the Healthy at Every Size (HAES) approach, to holistically heal and restructure your overall mindset toward food and your physical body. Because bodies of all sizes deserve to be loved and respected.
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Are you looking for a supportive space to learn from the past, consider the present, and determine the possibilities for a better future? If you’re looking to explore various aspects of yourself with a candid spirit, I can help you orient toward joy, harmony, and well-being in your life and relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and proud ally of the LGBTQ community. I offer a non-judgmental space for you to open your mind and heart toward a more hopeful, optimistic, and happier future. In granting yourself that space, you gift yourself freedom to love—to love yourself—and to express, give and receive love in relationships.
Are you looking for a supportive space to learn from the past, consider the present, and determine the possibilities for a better future? If you’re looking to explore various aspects of yourself with a candid spirit, I can help you orient toward joy, harmony, and well-being in your life and relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and proud ally of the LGBTQ community. I offer a non-judgmental space for you to open your mind and heart toward a more hopeful, optimistic, and happier future. In granting yourself that space, you gift yourself freedom to love—to love yourself—and to express, give and receive love in relationships.
Dr. Jason N Linder & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123
I help people, especially entrepreneurs, have better relationships, resolve painful memories (I'm certified & train in EMDR), embrace who they are, and decrease anxiety. I adjust my approach to fit your needs and preferences. Expert in transgender, ESA, VA, immigration, and trauma evaluations. Advanced in trauma, addiction, relationships, and mindfulness (I write about them on Psychology Today). You can usually expect change in 2-8 sessions. As a psychology doctor and professor, I’m updated on the latest research, and am dedicated, caring, and collaborative. You should feel understood, hopeful, and safe in your confidential therapy.
I help people, especially entrepreneurs, have better relationships, resolve painful memories (I'm certified & train in EMDR), embrace who they are, and decrease anxiety. I adjust my approach to fit your needs and preferences. Expert in transgender, ESA, VA, immigration, and trauma evaluations. Advanced in trauma, addiction, relationships, and mindfulness (I write about them on Psychology Today). You can usually expect change in 2-8 sessions. As a psychology doctor and professor, I’m updated on the latest research, and am dedicated, caring, and collaborative. You should feel understood, hopeful, and safe in your confidential therapy.
Skyler White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123
As a neurospicy, queer therapist with lived experience in non-monogamous relationships, I provide a safe place for you to explore yourself, your sexuality, and your relationships.
It is possible to create lasting change and build the life you want for yourself. In today’s on-the-go culture, it’s easy to feel swept up in the current of productivity and success, leaving little room to slow down, replenish, and heal. This often results in overwhelming stress, anxiety, or depression that interferes with holistic wellness, happiness, and experience of being. With compassion, curiosity, and a non-judgmental approach, I can help you develop skills to ride the tides of your emotional waves instead of being swept into the storm that brews when attempting to numb, avoid, repress, or deny feelings.
As a neurospicy, queer therapist with lived experience in non-monogamous relationships, I provide a safe place for you to explore yourself, your sexuality, and your relationships.
It is possible to create lasting change and build the life you want for yourself. In today’s on-the-go culture, it’s easy to feel swept up in the current of productivity and success, leaving little room to slow down, replenish, and heal. This often results in overwhelming stress, anxiety, or depression that interferes with holistic wellness, happiness, and experience of being. With compassion, curiosity, and a non-judgmental approach, I can help you develop skills to ride the tides of your emotional waves instead of being swept into the storm that brews when attempting to numb, avoid, repress, or deny feelings.
Dr. Laura Castro
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123
LGBTQIA+ and Gender Affirmative Therapy for adolescents, adults, and their families. Are you struggling with identity- or relationship-related problems? Do you feel stuck or long to overcome trauma, anxiety, & depression? Whether it's dealing with patterns of unhealthy or unsatisfying relationships, societal injustices (transphobia, homophobia, racism, discrimination, and more), or the effects of violence, trauma, or familial rejection, your feelings are valid, and you're not alone. Together, we can work towards healing and building the life you desire in an affirming and supportive environment.
LGBTQIA+ and Gender Affirmative Therapy for adolescents, adults, and their families. Are you struggling with identity- or relationship-related problems? Do you feel stuck or long to overcome trauma, anxiety, & depression? Whether it's dealing with patterns of unhealthy or unsatisfying relationships, societal injustices (transphobia, homophobia, racism, discrimination, and more), or the effects of violence, trauma, or familial rejection, your feelings are valid, and you're not alone. Together, we can work towards healing and building the life you desire in an affirming and supportive environment.
Lisa Wasnock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92111
Hi, and welcome! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent individuals and families dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma/abuse, high conflict divorce, and emotional/behavioral concerns. I have experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults, families, and adults. I support through a client centered and collaborative approach and create a safe therapeutic environment for clients to make progress on their goals. My practice is neurodivergent and LGBTQ affirming.
Hi, and welcome! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I specialize in working with Neurodivergent individuals and families dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, trauma/abuse, high conflict divorce, and emotional/behavioral concerns. I have experience providing therapy to children, teens, young adults, families, and adults. I support through a client centered and collaborative approach and create a safe therapeutic environment for clients to make progress on their goals. My practice is neurodivergent and LGBTQ affirming.
Positive Psychology Inc./Dr.Taeko Uchino
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92111
Positive Psychology Inc. is a team of compassionate social justice-oriented psychologists committed to helping you find happiness and fulfillment in your life. Our focus is on enhancing your overall well-being, not just eliminating negatvity. We maintain that certain "disorders" only indicate diversity and help you live authentically. We can help you tap into your ancestral or cultural knowledge to find solutions and resources. We take insurance to make treatment accessible because we believe everyone is entitled to emotional well-being. At Positive Psychology Inc., we are committed to inclusivity, creating a safe space for all.
Positive Psychology Inc. is a team of compassionate social justice-oriented psychologists committed to helping you find happiness and fulfillment in your life. Our focus is on enhancing your overall well-being, not just eliminating negatvity. We maintain that certain "disorders" only indicate diversity and help you live authentically. We can help you tap into your ancestral or cultural knowledge to find solutions and resources. We take insurance to make treatment accessible because we believe everyone is entitled to emotional well-being. At Positive Psychology Inc., we are committed to inclusivity, creating a safe space for all.
Esau Valdez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2022. He has an MA in Psychology from Brandman University. Esau helps in reducing and eliminating these symptoms that have impacted functioning for the individual by providing a welcoming and safe environment where the individual can talk about their problems without judgment, shame, or guilt. Esau has worked and works with people who experience depression, anxiety, social anxiety, grief, loss, work stress, and various family issues.
Esau Valdez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2022. He has an MA in Psychology from Brandman University. Esau helps in reducing and eliminating these symptoms that have impacted functioning for the individual by providing a welcoming and safe environment where the individual can talk about their problems without judgment, shame, or guilt. Esau has worked and works with people who experience depression, anxiety, social anxiety, grief, loss, work stress, and various family issues.
Pablo Garcia Hurtado
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92123
Pablo Hurtado is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2017. Pablo is a non-judgmental person who is passionate about mental health. In his spare time, Pablo enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, and traveling.
Pablo Hurtado is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2017. Pablo is a non-judgmental person who is passionate about mental health. In his spare time, Pablo enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, and traveling.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and supportive space in which my clients can freely explore, challenge, and eventually transform the parts of themselves that are in need of attention. I strive to validate and empower my clients, providing them with new tools and strategies to help create the changes they desire in their lives. My holistic approach integrates the mind, body and spirit as an essential part of the healing process. My approach focuses on building trust and rapport with my clients. I believe that the client-therapist relationship is paramount to a successful outcome.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and supportive space in which my clients can freely explore, challenge, and eventually transform the parts of themselves that are in need of attention. I strive to validate and empower my clients, providing them with new tools and strategies to help create the changes they desire in their lives. My holistic approach integrates the mind, body and spirit as an essential part of the healing process. My approach focuses on building trust and rapport with my clients. I believe that the client-therapist relationship is paramount to a successful outcome.
See more therapy options for Kearny Mesa, 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.