LGBTQ+ Therapists in Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA
Dr. Ida Fariba
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
I also have a passion for working with members of the LGBTQ+ community.
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 believe in the power of vulnerability and connection to ourselves and others. 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 also have a passion for working with members of the LGBTQ+ community.
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 believe in the power of vulnerability and connection to ourselves and others. 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.
Andrew Thomas Brandon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
As a gay therapist, I am passionate about serving the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I bring an open, non-judgmental, and empathetic approach to therapy. I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I started my career as an HIV test counselor, supporting people through what can be a scary and difficult time. I later earned my master's in social work from San Diego State University, where my area of study was community mental health. Serving the community and connecting with individuals has been a driving force in my career. I know it is really difficult to be human. My values of compassion and empathy drive me to do this work.
As a gay therapist, I am passionate about serving the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I bring an open, non-judgmental, and empathetic approach to therapy. I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I started my career as an HIV test counselor, supporting people through what can be a scary and difficult time. I later earned my master's in social work from San Diego State University, where my area of study was community mental health. Serving the community and connecting with individuals has been a driving force in my career. I know it is really difficult to be human. My values of compassion and empathy drive me to do this work.
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.
Bedford Palmer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92126 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a diverse clientele and specialize in providing social justice oriented psychotherapy to Black people and other POC, as well as members of LGBTQIA+ communities. I provide culturally responsive therapy, which focuses on the strengths you already have. I tend to use a cognitive-behavioral theoretical approach (CBT), while also paying attention to your environment and access to social support. I work with you to build a safe space where you can share your experiences without the fear of being judged, and where you can focus on becoming clear about what you want, and how you want to go about making that happen.
I work with a diverse clientele and specialize in providing social justice oriented psychotherapy to Black people and other POC, as well as members of LGBTQIA+ communities. I provide culturally responsive therapy, which focuses on the strengths you already have. I tend to use a cognitive-behavioral theoretical approach (CBT), while also paying attention to your environment and access to social support. I work with you to build a safe space where you can share your experiences without the fear of being judged, and where you can focus on becoming clear about what you want, and how you want to go about making that happen.
Michelle Payton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
I specialize in treating clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD/ trauma, disordered eating, and identity issues including LGBTQIA+.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR therapist whose passion is for helping clients overcome strong and distressing feelings through understanding the root of these emotions and working through them. I am fully trained in Safety and Attachment- Focused (S.A.F.E) EMDR Therapy and am confident in my abilities to help you navigate and heal from any past trauma, big or small. As a therapist with an additional background as a certified personal trainer, I work with clients who are open and interested in understanding the importance of mind and body health and are motivated for change.
I specialize in treating clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD/ trauma, disordered eating, and identity issues including LGBTQIA+.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR therapist whose passion is for helping clients overcome strong and distressing feelings through understanding the root of these emotions and working through them. I am fully trained in Safety and Attachment- Focused (S.A.F.E) EMDR Therapy and am confident in my abilities to help you navigate and heal from any past trauma, big or small. As a therapist with an additional background as a certified personal trainer, I work with clients who are open and interested in understanding the importance of mind and body health and are motivated for change.
Dr. Jason N Linder & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
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.
Alexis Gilliam Lerner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
I also enjoy working with BIPOC clients' challenges and joy, male clients' trauma and difficulties, support for female clients in all aspects and stages of life, our wonderful Geriatric population, LGBTQIA+ clients, and adolescents.
Thank you for reviewing my profile. Looking for a therapist can be mutually daunting and exciting. It takes a tremendous amount of courage and vulnerability to decide to get support in any area of your life, and I am available to empower and guide you on your therapeutic journey. I offer a Relational Gestalt approach to therapy, which means that we build an alliance together focusing on embodiment and what is present for you in the moment. I bear witness and support you in increasing your awareness of your experience as we share space for your transformational healing.
I also enjoy working with BIPOC clients' challenges and joy, male clients' trauma and difficulties, support for female clients in all aspects and stages of life, our wonderful Geriatric population, LGBTQIA+ clients, and adolescents.
Thank you for reviewing my profile. Looking for a therapist can be mutually daunting and exciting. It takes a tremendous amount of courage and vulnerability to decide to get support in any area of your life, and I am available to empower and guide you on your therapeutic journey. I offer a Relational Gestalt approach to therapy, which means that we build an alliance together focusing on embodiment and what is present for you in the moment. I bear witness and support you in increasing your awareness of your experience as we share space for your transformational healing.
Dr. Calix earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Psychology in 1980. She completed her postdoctoral internship with the U. S. Navy treating patients with substance abuse disorders and military adjustment issues. Dr. Calix has extensive training and experience in her field working with adolescents and adults. She has been practicing, award-winning psychologist for over 40 years. She is licensed to practice psychology in California.
Dr. Calix earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Psychology in 1980. She completed her postdoctoral internship with the U. S. Navy treating patients with substance abuse disorders and military adjustment issues. Dr. Calix has extensive training and experience in her field working with adolescents and adults. She has been practicing, award-winning psychologist for over 40 years. She is licensed to practice psychology in California.
Che Leseur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
Che LeSeur is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and licensed since 1999. Che is of mixed background, African-American and West Indian descent. Che earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of California at Santa Cruz in 1990. She later earned her Master of Social Work degree in 1994 from San Diego State University. She later earned her Master of Psychology degree in 2006 from Alliant International University, CSPP with a clinical psychology and forensic psychology emphasis.
Che LeSeur is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and licensed since 1999. Che is of mixed background, African-American and West Indian descent. Che earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of California at Santa Cruz in 1990. She later earned her Master of Social Work degree in 1994 from San Diego State University. She later earned her Master of Psychology degree in 2006 from Alliant International University, CSPP with a clinical psychology and forensic psychology emphasis.
Christopher Lawver
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
I often talk about how empaths and narcissists have a magnetic attraction to one another which is true, but an empath who stays in such an environment is usually an unhealed empath. An empath who over gives without boundaries. An empath who holds onto false hope that the other person will change. Become a self care warrior, and empowered. You Do You! Am empath will carry unhealed wounds, that they're responsible for another persons behavior and moods.
I often talk about how empaths and narcissists have a magnetic attraction to one another which is true, but an empath who stays in such an environment is usually an unhealed empath. An empath who over gives without boundaries. An empath who holds onto false hope that the other person will change. Become a self care warrior, and empowered. You Do You! Am empath will carry unhealed wounds, that they're responsible for another persons behavior and moods.
Leslie Salas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
Leslie Salas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2023. Leslie, as a first-generation Mexican American, is passionate about providing mental health support to those who are bilingual or monolingual (Spanish/English). She understands and empathizes with the challenges faced by individuals coming to the United States. Leslie offers Evidence-Based Therapy approaches such as DBT, ACT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Leslie Salas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2023. Leslie, as a first-generation Mexican American, is passionate about providing mental health support to those who are bilingual or monolingual (Spanish/English). She understands and empathizes with the challenges faced by individuals coming to the United States. Leslie offers Evidence-Based Therapy approaches such as DBT, ACT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy.
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Dusti Romans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
Dusti D. Romans is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2013. She has a Masters in Social Work from USC. Change only happens during difficult times. Dusti wants to stand by you through these times while giving you the skills to be able to handle the challenges of life on your own. Dusti loves her pets and works with local shelters and rescues and fosters often.
Dusti D. Romans is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2013. She has a Masters in Social Work from USC. Change only happens during difficult times. Dusti wants to stand by you through these times while giving you the skills to be able to handle the challenges of life on your own. Dusti loves her pets and works with local shelters and rescues and fosters often.
Diane Dameron
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
Diane Dameron is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 1991. She has a B.A. in Child Development and an M.S. in Counseling Psychology. Diane’s hope for you is that you feel heard, respected, and as comfortable in your appointments as possible. Together you and Diane can utilize the appointments to identify and work on goals, discuss the impact of recent issues and events, or just talk about how to build strengths and overcome negative feelings. She has experience working in nonprofit, group practice and has spent many years on the military base working with active-duty military members
Diane Dameron is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 1991. She has a B.A. in Child Development and an M.S. in Counseling Psychology. Diane’s hope for you is that you feel heard, respected, and as comfortable in your appointments as possible. Together you and Diane can utilize the appointments to identify and work on goals, discuss the impact of recent issues and events, or just talk about how to build strengths and overcome negative feelings. She has experience working in nonprofit, group practice and has spent many years on the military base working with active-duty military members
Karly Bastrire is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 2020. Karly provides evidence-based treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of challenges such as mood disorders (e. g. anxiety, depression), trauma, behavioral issues, personality disorders, and help transitioning through different stages of life. Karly is passionate about utilizing an integrated approach and providing individualized treatment to each patient that allows them to develop coping skills and the personal insight needed to improve their overall functioning and expand their quality of life.
Karly Bastrire is a Psychologist in California who has been practicing since 2020. Karly provides evidence-based treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of challenges such as mood disorders (e. g. anxiety, depression), trauma, behavioral issues, personality disorders, and help transitioning through different stages of life. Karly is passionate about utilizing an integrated approach and providing individualized treatment to each patient that allows them to develop coping skills and the personal insight needed to improve their overall functioning and expand their quality of life.
Shanmei Lo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
Sammie Lo is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2013. Sammie has worked with many diverse populations, child and family services, foster care, family reunification, in schools, and with couples. She has specialty training with addiction, couple relationship, family dynamic, postpartum, multi-generation parenting influence, motivational interviewing, and behavioral therapy. If you feel lost about life and want to find someone to walk with you in this path to discover options and opportunities, come find Sammie.
Sammie Lo is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2013. Sammie has worked with many diverse populations, child and family services, foster care, family reunification, in schools, and with couples. She has specialty training with addiction, couple relationship, family dynamic, postpartum, multi-generation parenting influence, motivational interviewing, and behavioral therapy. If you feel lost about life and want to find someone to walk with you in this path to discover options and opportunities, come find Sammie.
Yana Drukin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
Yana Drukin is a Board Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social work and a Masters in Clinical Social Work from Israel. In addition, she completed 3 years of Psychoanalytically Oriented Psychotherapy study and training. She has 13 years of experience working in outpatient mental health clinics and private practice settings. In her practice she utilizes multimodal therapeutic approaches as psychodynamic, CBT, brief intervention, psycho-educational, coaching, and can adapt her treatment approach to meet the client's needs.
Yana Drukin is a Board Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social work and a Masters in Clinical Social Work from Israel. In addition, she completed 3 years of Psychoanalytically Oriented Psychotherapy study and training. She has 13 years of experience working in outpatient mental health clinics and private practice settings. In her practice she utilizes multimodal therapeutic approaches as psychodynamic, CBT, brief intervention, psycho-educational, coaching, and can adapt her treatment approach to meet the client's needs.
Sharna Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
Sharna Miller is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2018. Sharna provides a warm, empathic approach focused on building a healthy therapeutic relationship and working together to empower the client. She additionally is strengths-based and likes to address what is already working well for a client. With her social work background, Sharna is very skilled at finding and helping clients utilize resources in the community. Outside of work, Sharna loves to spend time with her friends and family whether it's getting lunch, walking the farmers market, going to the beach, or going on a walk.
Sharna Miller is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2018. Sharna provides a warm, empathic approach focused on building a healthy therapeutic relationship and working together to empower the client. She additionally is strengths-based and likes to address what is already working well for a client. With her social work background, Sharna is very skilled at finding and helping clients utilize resources in the community. Outside of work, Sharna loves to spend time with her friends and family whether it's getting lunch, walking the farmers market, going to the beach, or going on a walk.
Alina P. Halonen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129
Struggling with unresolved trauma, persistent anxiety, or depression? Coping through substance use or feeling overwhelmed by your emotions? Your journey matters, and I'm here to guide you. With over a decade of experience in trauma and addiction therapy, I offer a compassionate, integrative, and holistic approach to healing. My personal battles with trauma, addiction, and life's challenges have deepened my empathy and expertise. I provide alternative approaches to the traditional 12-step program as well as the option of outdoor walk therapy, allowing us to explore unique avenues of support.
Struggling with unresolved trauma, persistent anxiety, or depression? Coping through substance use or feeling overwhelmed by your emotions? Your journey matters, and I'm here to guide you. With over a decade of experience in trauma and addiction therapy, I offer a compassionate, integrative, and holistic approach to healing. My personal battles with trauma, addiction, and life's challenges have deepened my empathy and expertise. I provide alternative approaches to the traditional 12-step program as well as the option of outdoor walk therapy, allowing us to explore unique avenues of support.
Emily Essid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129 (Online Only)
I'm a compassionate psychologist specializing in individual and couples therapy for adults, with expertise in infertility and maternal mental health. Tailoring my approach to each person's journey, I draw from Psychodynamic Theory to guide clients toward healing and growth. I create a space of trust and acceptance, offering empathy and gentle support through challenges. My expertise includes depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, and identity exploration. I'm fluent in French, embrace diversity, and invite individuals and couples to join me in a journey of self-discovery and healing.
I'm a compassionate psychologist specializing in individual and couples therapy for adults, with expertise in infertility and maternal mental health. Tailoring my approach to each person's journey, I draw from Psychodynamic Theory to guide clients toward healing and growth. I create a space of trust and acceptance, offering empathy and gentle support through challenges. My expertise includes depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, and identity exploration. I'm fluent in French, embrace diversity, and invite individuals and couples to join me in a journey of self-discovery and healing.
Azita Hickey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego, CA 92129 (Online Only)
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.
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.
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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.