Racial Identity Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Kasey Lewandowski, MA, LPCC
Kasey Lewandowski
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104
Fear and anxiety bring about feelings of vulnerability and inadequacy, along with the urge to retreat. It is easy to lose sight of the voice that reminds us of our strength and resilience. We experience deep levels of self-doubt as we are caught in a cycle of anxiety or depression. Healing and liberation can be achieved by exploring and utilizing our self-awareness, core values, and cultural identities. It requires intention and vulnerability to access that awareness and sense of self.
Fear and anxiety bring about feelings of vulnerability and inadequacy, along with the urge to retreat. It is easy to lose sight of the voice that reminds us of our strength and resilience. We experience deep levels of self-doubt as we are caught in a cycle of anxiety or depression. Healing and liberation can be achieved by exploring and utilizing our self-awareness, core values, and cultural identities. It requires intention and vulnerability to access that awareness and sense of self.
(619) 648-1753 View (619) 648-1753
Photo of Adeleine Conanan, PsyD, Psychologist
Adeleine Conanan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
My priority first and foremost is to build trust in the client-therapist relationship. It can be challenging to share painful thoughts and emotions with others, so I believe it is a privilege whenever I am allowed into someone’s internal world. I take a holistic and collaborative approach to therapy, working with clients to address life transitions, family or relationship issues, overwhelming emotions, and self-harm. Having worked extensively with ethnically- and gender- diverse populations, I especially enjoy helping young adults explore their sense of identity and find meaningful roles in their communities.
My priority first and foremost is to build trust in the client-therapist relationship. It can be challenging to share painful thoughts and emotions with others, so I believe it is a privilege whenever I am allowed into someone’s internal world. I take a holistic and collaborative approach to therapy, working with clients to address life transitions, family or relationship issues, overwhelming emotions, and self-harm. Having worked extensively with ethnically- and gender- diverse populations, I especially enjoy helping young adults explore their sense of identity and find meaningful roles in their communities.
(619) 614-7865 View (619) 614-7865
Photo of Shanice Applewhaite, APCC
Shanice Applewhaite
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
We humans are wired for connection – we need it on the most basic level. I’m here to remind you that YOU are not the problem. For real! The systems and social environments you have been in are the problem. I’m here to uproot those damaging beliefs that were put on you and in you and that continually get in the way of you remembering the icon you are. Let’s get underneath the layers of shame and unlearn cultural and systemic bullshit together.
We humans are wired for connection – we need it on the most basic level. I’m here to remind you that YOU are not the problem. For real! The systems and social environments you have been in are the problem. I’m here to uproot those damaging beliefs that were put on you and in you and that continually get in the way of you remembering the icon you are. Let’s get underneath the layers of shame and unlearn cultural and systemic bullshit together.
(619) 738-6663 View (619) 738-6663
Photo of Davis Rodríguez Meléndez, MA, LCSW, APTT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Davis Rodríguez Meléndez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, APTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104  (Online Only)
As a clinical social worker and psychotherapist, my goal is to provide a safe environment and build relationships with my clients based on mutual trust and respect. I have a non-judgmental and affirming approach. I work with individuals, couples and other relationship constellations. I specialize in mood disorder, personality disorder, HIV, LGBT, life transitions, sexuality and cultural acculturation/assimilation. I relocated to San Diego, CA, in 2023. I am also licensed in New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. I also provide services in Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese.
As a clinical social worker and psychotherapist, my goal is to provide a safe environment and build relationships with my clients based on mutual trust and respect. I have a non-judgmental and affirming approach. I work with individuals, couples and other relationship constellations. I specialize in mood disorder, personality disorder, HIV, LGBT, life transitions, sexuality and cultural acculturation/assimilation. I relocated to San Diego, CA, in 2023. I am also licensed in New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. I also provide services in Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese.
(619) 614-8646 View (619) 614-8646
Photo of Sesen Negash, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sesen Negash
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182
Acute and long-standing stress can trigger emotions, thoughts, and reactions that shape our sense of self and our relationships. If you find it increasingly difficult to cope with stressors, stay emotionally regulated, and connect to others, I can help. My approach to therapy is compassionate, culturally responsive, collaborative, and non-pathologizing. Further, I am informed by multiple evidence-based perspectives and believe that societal influences significantly contribute to the way people receive, process, and respond to stress, problems, trauma, and relationships.
Acute and long-standing stress can trigger emotions, thoughts, and reactions that shape our sense of self and our relationships. If you find it increasingly difficult to cope with stressors, stay emotionally regulated, and connect to others, I can help. My approach to therapy is compassionate, culturally responsive, collaborative, and non-pathologizing. Further, I am informed by multiple evidence-based perspectives and believe that societal influences significantly contribute to the way people receive, process, and respond to stress, problems, trauma, and relationships.
(858) 358-5951 View (858) 358-5951
Photo of Latisha J. Hill - Latisha Hill: Blueprint Counseling Solutions, LMFT, PPSC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Latisha Hill: Blueprint Counseling Solutions
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PPSC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
After many years working in the public sector, Latisha identified the need to promote and encourage strength-based dialogue surrounding mental health care at the state, county, community and individual levels. Latisha believes that with guidance and a strong support system, individuals can accomplish their goals. She created Blueprint Counseling Solutions with the belief that people aren’t aware of their true potential until they learn to navigate through resources and use their inner strength to tap into hidden talents.
After many years working in the public sector, Latisha identified the need to promote and encourage strength-based dialogue surrounding mental health care at the state, county, community and individual levels. Latisha believes that with guidance and a strong support system, individuals can accomplish their goals. She created Blueprint Counseling Solutions with the belief that people aren’t aware of their true potential until they learn to navigate through resources and use their inner strength to tap into hidden talents.
(619) 844-1345 View (619) 844-1345
Photo of Cathy A Thompson, PhD, Psychologist
Cathy A Thompson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with folks who need support in managing a wide variety of issues from self-esteem and identity concerns to the stress of dealing with multiple roles, relationships, and life demands (as students, partners, friends, parents, new professionals, family members, community activists, etc.) My clinical interests include multicultural and women's issues, racial/ethnic identity development (especially among biracial/multi-racial/ethnic/cultural individuals), sexual and gender identity development, adjustment and transition issues, and building healthy relationships through assertive communication and positive self-esteem.
I enjoy working with folks who need support in managing a wide variety of issues from self-esteem and identity concerns to the stress of dealing with multiple roles, relationships, and life demands (as students, partners, friends, parents, new professionals, family members, community activists, etc.) My clinical interests include multicultural and women's issues, racial/ethnic identity development (especially among biracial/multi-racial/ethnic/cultural individuals), sexual and gender identity development, adjustment and transition issues, and building healthy relationships through assertive communication and positive self-esteem.
(858) 925-5901 View (858) 925-5901
Photo of Christie Lee, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christie Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92122  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome. You may have arrived here because you've done everything the "right way" but that hasn't led to happiness. You wonder, what do people mean when they say "go with the flow"? Or, you can't shake that feeling you've somehow missed important life milestones, and you need a little clarity. I offer warm, empathic engagement in a safe space, where we can assess your needs, comfort level and tolerance to create a plan unique to you.
Hello, and welcome. You may have arrived here because you've done everything the "right way" but that hasn't led to happiness. You wonder, what do people mean when they say "go with the flow"? Or, you can't shake that feeling you've somehow missed important life milestones, and you need a little clarity. I offer warm, empathic engagement in a safe space, where we can assess your needs, comfort level and tolerance to create a plan unique to you.
(510) 939-7329 View (510) 939-7329
Photo of Marilyn Julia Brown, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marilyn Julia Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Are feeling lost in life? Is your confidence is at an all-time low? Are you are seeking a sense of meaning or purpose in your life that you can't seem to find no matter how hard you try? Do you wish you could just switch it all off and unplug from what's happening? Do you just feel like something is missing in your life? If so, I'm here to help. I am an authentic, engaging, soulful healer who uses my identity as a Black-disabled woman to provide culturally, LGBTQIA, disability, and gender-affirming care.
Are feeling lost in life? Is your confidence is at an all-time low? Are you are seeking a sense of meaning or purpose in your life that you can't seem to find no matter how hard you try? Do you wish you could just switch it all off and unplug from what's happening? Do you just feel like something is missing in your life? If so, I'm here to help. I am an authentic, engaging, soulful healer who uses my identity as a Black-disabled woman to provide culturally, LGBTQIA, disability, and gender-affirming care.
(424) 788-4580 View (424) 788-4580
Photo of Ruth Yong, ACSW
Ruth Yong
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Ruth with Diaspora Therapy Group. As a therapist, I am passionate about creating an inclusive and healing environment for individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. I believe in the power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship where clients can feel seen, heard, and understood. I provide support to clients facing a wide range of challenges, including exploring and reconciling their cultural identity, navigating challenging systemic barriers, exploring gender and sexual identity, developing effective stress management strategies, and healing from past traumas.
Welcome! My name is Ruth with Diaspora Therapy Group. As a therapist, I am passionate about creating an inclusive and healing environment for individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. I believe in the power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship where clients can feel seen, heard, and understood. I provide support to clients facing a wide range of challenges, including exploring and reconciling their cultural identity, navigating challenging systemic barriers, exploring gender and sexual identity, developing effective stress management strategies, and healing from past traumas.
(619) 848-3458 View (619) 848-3458
Photo of Phuong Tang, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phuong Tang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Are you someone who is trying to make a meaningful change in the world but is struggling to make significant changes in their personal life? You may be seeking therapy as a way to explore your past while understanding that it does not have to determine your future. I am an Asian American therapist who works with Asian Americans and other people of color who may identify as activists, creatives, immigrants, children of immigrants who struggle with adjustment disorder, PTSD, intergenerational trauma, depression, anxiety, burnout, perfectionism and substance use.
Are you someone who is trying to make a meaningful change in the world but is struggling to make significant changes in their personal life? You may be seeking therapy as a way to explore your past while understanding that it does not have to determine your future. I am an Asian American therapist who works with Asian Americans and other people of color who may identify as activists, creatives, immigrants, children of immigrants who struggle with adjustment disorder, PTSD, intergenerational trauma, depression, anxiety, burnout, perfectionism and substance use.
(310) 861-7884 View (310) 861-7884
Photo of Aron Sumii, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aron Sumii
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92126  (Online Only)
I first and foremost adapt my style of therapy to meet your needs. We work together to identify what best supports you toward your goals or areas of focus in therapy. Some clients progress through insight and understanding about an issue while others progress through tangible present-moment skills and tools, all of which I can provide support you with. I also feel that Identity (race, gender, sexual orientation, etc) plays an important role about how we experience the world and how the world views us and I incorporate this into therapy. I see therapy as an equal and collaborative effort between us.
I first and foremost adapt my style of therapy to meet your needs. We work together to identify what best supports you toward your goals or areas of focus in therapy. Some clients progress through insight and understanding about an issue while others progress through tangible present-moment skills and tools, all of which I can provide support you with. I also feel that Identity (race, gender, sexual orientation, etc) plays an important role about how we experience the world and how the world views us and I incorporate this into therapy. I see therapy as an equal and collaborative effort between us.
(510) 230-2498 View (510) 230-2498
Photo of Vanessa Torres, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Vanessa Torres
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Vanessa (she/they) I am an AMFT and Registered Art Therapist. I am of Zapotec heritage, raised on Tataviam lands, known today as the Northeast San Fernando Valley. Identities I hold are being queer, disabled, 1st gen, neurodiverse, and somewhere on the gender spectrum of being femme and beyond one gender. My commitment as an Anti-Imperialist/abolitionist therapist show up in the space in the ways I do not center tenants of white supremacy such as perfectionism, worship of written word, centrism/white comfort, and individualism. As a person of color, my lived experience has led me to center social justice in my work.
Hi, my name is Vanessa (she/they) I am an AMFT and Registered Art Therapist. I am of Zapotec heritage, raised on Tataviam lands, known today as the Northeast San Fernando Valley. Identities I hold are being queer, disabled, 1st gen, neurodiverse, and somewhere on the gender spectrum of being femme and beyond one gender. My commitment as an Anti-Imperialist/abolitionist therapist show up in the space in the ways I do not center tenants of white supremacy such as perfectionism, worship of written word, centrism/white comfort, and individualism. As a person of color, my lived experience has led me to center social justice in my work.
(619) 853-4410 View (619) 853-4410
Photo of Nekolas Milton, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Nekolas Milton
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92114  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Dr. Nekolas “Neko” Milton, I am a Registered Psychological Associate. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I operate from a client-centered, humanistic approach, focusing on aspects of existentialism, mindfulness, family-systems, multiculturalism, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and incorporate evidenced-based practices to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors.
Hello my name is Dr. Nekolas “Neko” Milton, I am a Registered Psychological Associate. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I operate from a client-centered, humanistic approach, focusing on aspects of existentialism, mindfulness, family-systems, multiculturalism, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and incorporate evidenced-based practices to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors.
(415) 851-8356 View (415) 851-8356
Photo of Robin Alfaro, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Alfaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
Dígame, if you just want to talk about life, stress, or just have life goals you want to reach and need motivation to take the leap. Dígame if you’re looking to focus on your mental health, heal from traumas, and/or break intergenerational cycles. Dígame about your nervios/anxiety, el espanto/trauma, or cuando te pusistes mal/depression. Let’s translate wellness and mental health into our inherent rights as defined by you. I use a Person Centered, Culturally Driven approach; Decolonizing our minds, hearts, and behaviors to break cycles and barriers. Individuals, Couples, and Families welcome. Platicas disponibles en español.
Dígame, if you just want to talk about life, stress, or just have life goals you want to reach and need motivation to take the leap. Dígame if you’re looking to focus on your mental health, heal from traumas, and/or break intergenerational cycles. Dígame about your nervios/anxiety, el espanto/trauma, or cuando te pusistes mal/depression. Let’s translate wellness and mental health into our inherent rights as defined by you. I use a Person Centered, Culturally Driven approach; Decolonizing our minds, hearts, and behaviors to break cycles and barriers. Individuals, Couples, and Families welcome. Platicas disponibles en español.
(310) 564-7459 View (310) 564-7459
Carmela Salazar
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105  (Online Only)
I believe our lived experiences and hopes for the future provide us with insights to help understand our pain, joy, struggles, triumphs, and deepest questions. The late poet and essayist Audre Lorde reminds us that "our feelings are our most genuine paths to knowledge." Using an intersectional, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed framework, I embark on a collaborative journey with clients who want to reflect on their experiences and unpack symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and trauma that may impact their relationships and daily lives.
I believe our lived experiences and hopes for the future provide us with insights to help understand our pain, joy, struggles, triumphs, and deepest questions. The late poet and essayist Audre Lorde reminds us that "our feelings are our most genuine paths to knowledge." Using an intersectional, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed framework, I embark on a collaborative journey with clients who want to reflect on their experiences and unpack symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and trauma that may impact their relationships and daily lives.
(213) 375-0650 View (213) 375-0650
Photo of Jeffrey Allen Suiter, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jeffrey Allen Suiter
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
My ideal client is anyone—individuals, couples, or families—yearning for a compassionate and culturally attuned therapeutic journey. They face life's challenges with resilience, eager to embrace the vibrancy of feeling "alive." Seeking a therapist who comprehends the impact of social inequities on wellness and life quality, they aligns with my values. Together, we navigate towards the restoration of a beloved community, unlocking the fullness of their lives beyond the burdens. My commitment lies in fostering a therapeutic space where they feel profoundly "seen" and empowered to pursue the desires of their hearts.
My ideal client is anyone—individuals, couples, or families—yearning for a compassionate and culturally attuned therapeutic journey. They face life's challenges with resilience, eager to embrace the vibrancy of feeling "alive." Seeking a therapist who comprehends the impact of social inequities on wellness and life quality, they aligns with my values. Together, we navigate towards the restoration of a beloved community, unlocking the fullness of their lives beyond the burdens. My commitment lies in fostering a therapeutic space where they feel profoundly "seen" and empowered to pursue the desires of their hearts.
(510) 726-1520 View (510) 726-1520
Photo of Jessica Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Master's in 2017 and have been practicing in the mental health fields since.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in California. I received my Master's in 2017 and have been practicing in the mental health fields since.
(424) 567-8535 View (424) 567-8535
Photo of Melissa Ramirez-Pavano, PsyD, Psychologist
Melissa Ramirez-Pavano
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychologist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional who provides individual telehealth mental health services for older adolescents (16+), young adults, and adults experiencing depression, stress, and anxiety due to history of trauma, chronic health conditions, relationship issues, work stress/ burnout, current events, family/generational issues, and racism. Unresolved stress and trauma can wreak havoc on your physical and mental health, as well as your relationships. Together in therapy, we will work on finding meaning, strength, and building resiliency.
Welcome! I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed psychologist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional who provides individual telehealth mental health services for older adolescents (16+), young adults, and adults experiencing depression, stress, and anxiety due to history of trauma, chronic health conditions, relationship issues, work stress/ burnout, current events, family/generational issues, and racism. Unresolved stress and trauma can wreak havoc on your physical and mental health, as well as your relationships. Together in therapy, we will work on finding meaning, strength, and building resiliency.
(805) 429-8605 View (805) 429-8605
Photo of Jose David Gutierrez - Seven Seas Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seven Seas Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92136  (Online Only)
Jose Gutierrez is an indigenous (Maya Lenca), male of color in tune with the intersections of his life that provide him lived experiences relatable to the distinctive subtleties of a person. Jose describes his culture as being grounded in social justice, communal learning, caretaking of the land, and the personal spiritual/philosophical understanding of how one's actions impact the next seven generations. With this knowledge he initiated Seven Seas Therapy. Jose has been in the field since 2016, he interacts with a Person-Centered approach and modality to support, guide, and assist clients in a culturally sensitive way.
Jose Gutierrez is an indigenous (Maya Lenca), male of color in tune with the intersections of his life that provide him lived experiences relatable to the distinctive subtleties of a person. Jose describes his culture as being grounded in social justice, communal learning, caretaking of the land, and the personal spiritual/philosophical understanding of how one's actions impact the next seven generations. With this knowledge he initiated Seven Seas Therapy. Jose has been in the field since 2016, he interacts with a Person-Centered approach and modality to support, guide, and assist clients in a culturally sensitive way.
(424) 499-1858 View (424) 499-1858
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