Female Therapists in Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA

Photo of Leticia Cantor-Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leticia Cantor-Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
My name is Leticia Cantor-Lopez. I am a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with 11 years of experience in the mental health field. My approach is client centered. My interventions include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma informed, interpersonal psychotherapy, solution focused, problem solving skills, self-regulation and mindfulness techniques, and coping techniques. My experience includes treating children, adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, adjustment, behavioral issues, relationships issues, and acute stress.
My name is Leticia Cantor-Lopez. I am a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with 11 years of experience in the mental health field. My approach is client centered. My interventions include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma informed, interpersonal psychotherapy, solution focused, problem solving skills, self-regulation and mindfulness techniques, and coping techniques. My experience includes treating children, adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, adjustment, behavioral issues, relationships issues, and acute stress.
(858) 321-8286 View (858) 321-8286
Photo of Sonia Aguilar, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sonia Aguilar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have been practicing as a clinician since 2006. Firstly, building a meaningful therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my approach. In individual, couples, and adolescent therapy sessions, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) skills along with mindfulness to recognize and reevaluate how previous life experiences have possibly negatively impacted your beliefs, coping skills, cognitions, emotions, and behaviors, which might be keeping you stuck in feelings of anxiety, depression or unhealthy ways of relating.
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have been practicing as a clinician since 2006. Firstly, building a meaningful therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my approach. In individual, couples, and adolescent therapy sessions, I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) skills along with mindfulness to recognize and reevaluate how previous life experiences have possibly negatively impacted your beliefs, coping skills, cognitions, emotions, and behaviors, which might be keeping you stuck in feelings of anxiety, depression or unhealthy ways of relating.
(858) 330-2996 View (858) 330-2996
Photo of Emily Essid, PsyD, Psychologist
Emily Essid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
As a compassionate and down-to-earth psychologist, I believe that therapy doesn’t always need to be serious—sometimes, a touch of humor can shed light on even the darkest moments. Specializing in individual and couples therapy for adults, I create a safe, welcoming space where you can feel truly understood and supported. Whether you’re navigating life’s challenges, dealing with trauma, or exploring your identity, we’ll work together with empathy, insight, and a bit of humor. My goal is to help you find clarity, build resilience, and foster personal growth in a supportive and engaging environment.
As a compassionate and down-to-earth psychologist, I believe that therapy doesn’t always need to be serious—sometimes, a touch of humor can shed light on even the darkest moments. Specializing in individual and couples therapy for adults, I create a safe, welcoming space where you can feel truly understood and supported. Whether you’re navigating life’s challenges, dealing with trauma, or exploring your identity, we’ll work together with empathy, insight, and a bit of humor. My goal is to help you find clarity, build resilience, and foster personal growth in a supportive and engaging environment.
(858) 567-1780 View (858) 567-1780
Photo of Courtney Swanson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
My name is Courtney Farrell Swanson, and I am an LCSW. I provide strengths-based, client-centered therapy. I believe that connection is an important part of the therapeutic relationship, whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, a mood disorder, psychosis, PTSD or other traumas. I have worked with a wide spectrum of mental health issues, ranging from mild depression and anxiety to severe mental illness, as well as co-occurring disorders. I have worked with many clients from the LGBTQIA community, as well as all age groups. I prefer transitional-aged youth to the elderly population.
My name is Courtney Farrell Swanson, and I am an LCSW. I provide strengths-based, client-centered therapy. I believe that connection is an important part of the therapeutic relationship, whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, a mood disorder, psychosis, PTSD or other traumas. I have worked with a wide spectrum of mental health issues, ranging from mild depression and anxiety to severe mental illness, as well as co-occurring disorders. I have worked with many clients from the LGBTQIA community, as well as all age groups. I prefer transitional-aged youth to the elderly population.
(858) 434-1428 View (858) 434-1428
Photo of Meagan McKinstry - Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
I Specialize in Men's and Women's issues: Anger, Relationship, Depression, Anxiety and Alcohol and drug dependency, Autism and developmental disabilities Life changing trauma is part of many of these issues and I help you to find a way to live your life more fully.
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of my approach. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more My approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals.
I Specialize in Men's and Women's issues: Anger, Relationship, Depression, Anxiety and Alcohol and drug dependency, Autism and developmental disabilities Life changing trauma is part of many of these issues and I help you to find a way to live your life more fully.
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of my approach. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more My approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals.
(858) 264-0917 View (858) 264-0917
Photo of Anat Mor Betzalel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anat Mor Betzalel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
Life is full of surprises and not all should handle alone. It's human to feel overwhelmed with work demands, adapting to a new country, navigating peripartum, managing family life, or facing relationship challenges. It's challenging to experience self-doubt or pursue unachievable perfection. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, trouble sleeping, or impacts of past traumas might arise, making life much more difficult. This is where therapy can make a significant difference, offering a space for self-reflection and strengthening your relationship with yourself and others.
Life is full of surprises and not all should handle alone. It's human to feel overwhelmed with work demands, adapting to a new country, navigating peripartum, managing family life, or facing relationship challenges. It's challenging to experience self-doubt or pursue unachievable perfection. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, trouble sleeping, or impacts of past traumas might arise, making life much more difficult. This is where therapy can make a significant difference, offering a space for self-reflection and strengthening your relationship with yourself and others.
(858) 215-2234 View (858) 215-2234
Photo of Azita Hickey, PhD, Psychologist
Azita Hickey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in women's mental health and psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist that utilizes evidenced based treatment modalities to help you manage stress, depression, anxiety, grief, identity conflicts, and perinatal mental health. I can help you navigate relationship difficulties, managing chronic stress, conquering perfectionism, and finding the balance you seek in life. Life is full of transitions, and I'm dedicated to being your support through them all, whether you're facing graduation, considering a career change, navigating the complexities of breakups and relationships, or dealing with the with the uncertainties of parenthood and fertility.
I have extensive training in women's mental health and psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical psychologist that utilizes evidenced based treatment modalities to help you manage stress, depression, anxiety, grief, identity conflicts, and perinatal mental health. I can help you navigate relationship difficulties, managing chronic stress, conquering perfectionism, and finding the balance you seek in life. Life is full of transitions, and I'm dedicated to being your support through them all, whether you're facing graduation, considering a career change, navigating the complexities of breakups and relationships, or dealing with the with the uncertainties of parenthood and fertility.
(619) 771-0514 View (619) 771-0514
Photo of Jennifer Konzen, PsyD, LMFT, CST, CCDC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Konzen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CST, CCDC
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92120  (Online Only)
I work with couples to renew the fire in their love life and sexual relationship, couples affected by addiction, as well as couples who are no longer communicating or are on the brink of divorce. I counsel men and women who have experienced depression, anxiety, and OCD. I work with individuals dealing with grief, trauma, sexual abuse, and childhood or partner violence. I also work with parents and adolescents. I am a Certified Sex Therapist and a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor.
I work with couples to renew the fire in their love life and sexual relationship, couples affected by addiction, as well as couples who are no longer communicating or are on the brink of divorce. I counsel men and women who have experienced depression, anxiety, and OCD. I work with individuals dealing with grief, trauma, sexual abuse, and childhood or partner violence. I also work with parents and adolescents. I am a Certified Sex Therapist and a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor.
(858) 217-4992 View (858) 217-4992
Photo of Dr. Marcia Garceau, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Marcia Garceau
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, PhD, LMFT with over 16 years of clinical experience helping individuals and couples acquire strategies and tools to overcome issues/disorders that interfere with functioning and enjoying life. Key areas of expertise include OCD as well as anything on the anxiety spectrum including general anxiety, social anxiety, panic, PTSD, phobias. Also work extensively with depression, relationship and adult attachment problems, other self-sabotaging behaviors, positive aging, career and life transitions, grief, and parenting/family issues.
Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, PhD, LMFT with over 16 years of clinical experience helping individuals and couples acquire strategies and tools to overcome issues/disorders that interfere with functioning and enjoying life. Key areas of expertise include OCD as well as anything on the anxiety spectrum including general anxiety, social anxiety, panic, PTSD, phobias. Also work extensively with depression, relationship and adult attachment problems, other self-sabotaging behaviors, positive aging, career and life transitions, grief, and parenting/family issues.
(858) 281-2734 View (858) 281-2734
Photo of Elisabeth Caetano, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elisabeth Caetano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92127
How in the world do I navigate the ups and downs of life? You are an accomplished woman who has juggled and spun plates at the same time and have gotten through tough times before. But this ONE thing has you spiralling down the rabbit hole. You might be asking, what has changed? Why the heck am I so out of whack? You want to feel hopeful towards the future and get back in touch with balancing the real you with trusting your instincts.
How in the world do I navigate the ups and downs of life? You are an accomplished woman who has juggled and spun plates at the same time and have gotten through tough times before. But this ONE thing has you spiralling down the rabbit hole. You might be asking, what has changed? Why the heck am I so out of whack? You want to feel hopeful towards the future and get back in touch with balancing the real you with trusting your instincts.
(858) 780-4222 View (858) 780-4222
Photo of Sandra Milstein-Ostrom, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra Milstein-Ostrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you hurting or lonely and want to make some changes so you can feel better? Do you feel stuck in a life that doesn't seem to be going anywhere? Do you constantly worry about money, your weight, your sleep, your relationships, but things don't seem to change? Maybe others don't really know what's really going on inside of you. They all seem to have their act together, yet you don't. Are you tired of pretending that everything's fine, when inside you feel a deep sense that something is missing? Do you put yourself down, often blaming yourself for your troubles, yet being tough on yourself is not helping? Tired of being tired?
Are you hurting or lonely and want to make some changes so you can feel better? Do you feel stuck in a life that doesn't seem to be going anywhere? Do you constantly worry about money, your weight, your sleep, your relationships, but things don't seem to change? Maybe others don't really know what's really going on inside of you. They all seem to have their act together, yet you don't. Are you tired of pretending that everything's fine, when inside you feel a deep sense that something is missing? Do you put yourself down, often blaming yourself for your troubles, yet being tough on yourself is not helping? Tired of being tired?
(858) 251-6685 View (858) 251-6685
Photo of Roseann Larson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roseann Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
Because each person is different, there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to therapy. Ultimately, the right therapist can help you develop a greater sense of peace and self-fulfillment. So it is important to choose someone with whom you feel safe; someone who will listen, empathize, and respect your needs; and someone with the skills necessary to support you in reaching your goals. In the process, you will acquire greater self-awareness, and learn to cope more effectively with life issues. This is my approach to therapy.
Because each person is different, there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to therapy. Ultimately, the right therapist can help you develop a greater sense of peace and self-fulfillment. So it is important to choose someone with whom you feel safe; someone who will listen, empathize, and respect your needs; and someone with the skills necessary to support you in reaching your goals. In the process, you will acquire greater self-awareness, and learn to cope more effectively with life issues. This is my approach to therapy.
(619) 722-3116 View (619) 722-3116
Photo of Jennifer B Lofft, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer B Lofft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
If you are here today because your teen or child is feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, unmotivated, or your family is stuck in conflict; you are in the right place. Parenting a struggling child can be a frightening and isolating experience and you don't have to do it alone. Using your feelings of fear, frustration, and maybe grief; to push for help and change, is pure courage. Returning to that place, where your child feels good again and your family feels like home, is a beautiful and realistic goal.
If you are here today because your teen or child is feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depressed, unmotivated, or your family is stuck in conflict; you are in the right place. Parenting a struggling child can be a frightening and isolating experience and you don't have to do it alone. Using your feelings of fear, frustration, and maybe grief; to push for help and change, is pure courage. Returning to that place, where your child feels good again and your family feels like home, is a beautiful and realistic goal.
(760) 573-2386 View (760) 573-2386
Photo of Marni Stueland, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marni Stueland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
I have been working in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy for over 25 years. I graduated from The University of Southern California in 1994 and received my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at The University of San Diego in 1997. My focus is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My goal is to bring a sense of warmth and compassion to the therapy process, valuing a focus on each individual's strengths and resiliency. I bring my clinical knowledge as well as my personal life experiences to the therapy process.
I have been working in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy for over 25 years. I graduated from The University of Southern California in 1994 and received my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at The University of San Diego in 1997. My focus is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My goal is to bring a sense of warmth and compassion to the therapy process, valuing a focus on each individual's strengths and resiliency. I bring my clinical knowledge as well as my personal life experiences to the therapy process.
(858) 217-5840 View (858) 217-5840
Photo of Mirna Mejia, PhD, Psychologist
Mirna Mejia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to help every client achieve a more balanced and meaningful life. Whether it's by helping you sleep better, manage your pain more effectively, or facilitate the healing process following a trauma, my aim is to ease suffering and get you back on track to health & resiliency.
My goal as a therapist is to help every client achieve a more balanced and meaningful life. Whether it's by helping you sleep better, manage your pain more effectively, or facilitate the healing process following a trauma, my aim is to ease suffering and get you back on track to health & resiliency.
(858) 667-4150 View (858) 667-4150
Photo of Sheena Moore, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheena Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92128
I help people who have experienced trauma gain feelings of peace and freedom. Feelings such as anxiety, numbness, and physical exhaustion are what I want to help you deal with and transform. Do you feel like a piece of you was hurt or broken, and now you can't connect with your true self? Perhaps these negative reactions you are having seem to continually affect your life. My goal is to help you have a better chance of reaching your whole self. The scars of your past do not need to effect your future. I want to help you repair and heal that piece of you that was hurt from your trauma.
I help people who have experienced trauma gain feelings of peace and freedom. Feelings such as anxiety, numbness, and physical exhaustion are what I want to help you deal with and transform. Do you feel like a piece of you was hurt or broken, and now you can't connect with your true self? Perhaps these negative reactions you are having seem to continually affect your life. My goal is to help you have a better chance of reaching your whole self. The scars of your past do not need to effect your future. I want to help you repair and heal that piece of you that was hurt from your trauma.
(858) 943-0604 View (858) 943-0604
Photo of Dr. Ida Fariba, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Ida Fariba
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I specialize in sex, BDSM, kink, and ethical non-monogamy. Taking the first step toward transformation is the hardest part, and you just did it! I use an integrative and holistic approach to help you pull out the weeds from the roots. I work from a foundation of attachment theory and I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I am trained in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and also incorporate the body, yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and music all as tools to expand and explore what is happening in your life.
I specialize in sex, BDSM, kink, and ethical non-monogamy. Taking the first step toward transformation is the hardest part, and you just did it! I use an integrative and holistic approach to help you pull out the weeds from the roots. I work from a foundation of attachment theory and I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I am trained in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and also incorporate the body, yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and music all as tools to expand and explore what is happening in your life.
(858) 683-1915 View (858) 683-1915
Photo of Jordanne Stacy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jordanne Stacy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, addiction, relationship struggles, or generally missing something in life? Feeling stuck in an endless cycle of procrastination, fears about the uncertainty of the future, or guilt, shame and resentments from the past? If so, you are not alone! Many people spend their entire lives in this mental and emotional agony and that doesn't have to be you. Overcoming these challenges can be difficult on your own, working with a licensed professional may save you years of learning by trial and error. You can overcome and balance the emotional and behavioral impediments in your life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, addiction, relationship struggles, or generally missing something in life? Feeling stuck in an endless cycle of procrastination, fears about the uncertainty of the future, or guilt, shame and resentments from the past? If so, you are not alone! Many people spend their entire lives in this mental and emotional agony and that doesn't have to be you. Overcoming these challenges can be difficult on your own, working with a licensed professional may save you years of learning by trial and error. You can overcome and balance the emotional and behavioral impediments in your life.
(858) 358-7312 View (858) 358-7312
Photo of Ahlam H Axelrod - Loving Life Counseling CC , Ahlam , Axelrod, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Loving Life Counseling CC
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ahlam , Axelrod, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92127  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging at times. When you are experiencing loss, difficulty in your relationships, transitioning through different life phases, not sure about the career you chose or how to gain some sense of balance, it can feel like you are alone. I am here to support you in working through these times and help guide you in developing the life you want to live.
Life can be challenging at times. When you are experiencing loss, difficulty in your relationships, transitioning through different life phases, not sure about the career you chose or how to gain some sense of balance, it can feel like you are alone. I am here to support you in working through these times and help guide you in developing the life you want to live.
(858) 544-0145 x760680 View (858) 544-0145 x760680
Photo of Emily Gaines, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Gaines
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
Depression, anxiety, past traumas or life changes can present roadblocks that negatively impact your life. Does that sound familiar to what you are experiencing? It can feel hopeless and overwhelming when faced with these roadblocks, but I can help you. I work with individuals and families to assess what issues are impacting your life, then we collaboratively develop a plan to navigate a path of healing.
Depression, anxiety, past traumas or life changes can present roadblocks that negatively impact your life. Does that sound familiar to what you are experiencing? It can feel hopeless and overwhelming when faced with these roadblocks, but I can help you. I work with individuals and families to assess what issues are impacting your life, then we collaboratively develop a plan to navigate a path of healing.
(530) 680-1874 View (530) 680-1874
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See more therapy options for Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego

Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.