Connect with Compassion Focused therapy in San Diego, CA

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ Compassion Focused therapy providers

Quality care comes first at Rula

We regularly review providers to ensure quality

50+ Compassion Focused therapy providers
A headshot image of Michelle Brown

Michelle Brown

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Michelle Brown, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Michelle has a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy from California Lutheran University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Domestic Violence
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Gentle
Collaborative

I provide bilingual therapy in English and Spanish to youth and adults. I help clients impacted by complex trauma, domestic violence, physical and sexual abuse, gang-related trauma, immigration experiences, and acute mental disorders.

Michelle is very personable and knows how to communicate with me. She validates me when I need it and is also able to allow me to reflect on myself and my actions. I enjoy talking with her very much. I recommended her to a friend of mine, and she also enjoys Michelle very much.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Gina Cordato

Gina Cordato

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LCSW
5+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Gina Cordato, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Gina has a Master of Social Work (MSW) Public Child Welfare and Community, Organization, Planning and Administration from University of Southern California.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Curious

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) committed to providing compassionate, effective therapy tailored to each person's unique journey. I create a safe and supportive space where individuals facing various challenges can openly explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while feeling heard, understood, and empowered.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ida Greene

Ida Greene

LMFT
46+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Ida Greene, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ida has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) from East West University and a Master of Science (MS) in Counseling from San Diego State University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
ADHD
Behavioral Issues
Relationship Issues
Spirituality
Women's Issues
Style
Directive
Warm
Motivational

I'm an educator and certified intuitive coach who has counseled individuals in private and academic settings. I specialize in working with children and adults on ADHD and anger management. I look forward to helping you find solutions to your concerns.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Abimbola Ogundeji

Abimbola Ogundeji

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
17+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Abimbola Ogundeji, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Abimbola has a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Educational Psychology from Capella University and a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from National University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Mood Disorders
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Warm
Empowering

When we feel discouraged, it's easy to think no one understands what we're going through, that we're alone in the journey. But we don't have to walk alone. I believe in your inherent strength and possibilities. Sometimes we just need someone to help us reach within ourselves to find them.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Margaret Stauffer

Margaret Stauffer

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Margaret Stauffer, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Margaret has a Master of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy from Loma Linda University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Aging
Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Grief
Stress
Style
Insightful
Gentle
Curious

Feeling overwhelmed by illness, grief, or the challenges of caregiving? You’re not alone. My goal is to help you come to terms with these major life transitions and foster strength and resilience so that you can live life as meaningfully as possible.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Rachel Tribble

Rachel Tribble

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Rachel Tribble, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Rachel has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Syracuse University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
LGBTQIA+
Transgender Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Affirming

I am a queer-identified therapist who practices through an intersectional, multicultural, and decolonizing lens. In our work together, I offer a reflective space to explore who you are, what matters to you, and how to navigate life in a way that centers your agency, affirms your lived experience, and supports empowerment and symptom relief.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Alexis Lockwood

Alexis Lockwood

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Alexis Lockwood, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Alexis has a Master of Arts (MA) in Marital and Family Therapy from University of San Diego.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Codependency
Self Esteem
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Warm
Supportive

My goal is to support you in gaining further insight and knowledge into past patterns that continue to impact your present. I will support you in facing the dark parts of yourself and your experiences in order to heal and feel free to embody your authentic self. I offer a balance of compassion and directness to empower you in your process.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Erin Daley

Erin Daley

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LMFT
4+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Erin Daley, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Erin has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from National University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Empowering

I'm passionate about supporting clients as they heal and reveal the natural potential they have inside of them.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jenifer Ludwig

Jenifer Ludwig

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LMFT
5+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Jenifer Ludwig, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jenifer has a Master of Science (MS) in Marriage Family Child Therapy from University of Phoenix.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Candid
Curious

I work with individuals, couples, and families to facilitate growth, empowerment, and insight. My goal is to help you discover healing and build a balanced life—to remain present, make space for emotions, release unhelpful thoughts, and develop mastery through mindfulness and action.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Julie Zhu

Julie Zhu

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW
2+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Julie Zhu, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Julie has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Arizona State University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Supportive

I work with clients who seek to develop a more compassionate relationship with themselves and to cultivate a deeper awareness of their inner dialogue and thinking processes while fostering a relationship with their emotional body to heal their nervous system.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Michael Reina

Michael Reina

LMFT
35+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Michael Reina, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Michael has a Master of Science (MS) Counselor Education from San Diego State University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Depression
Life Transitions
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Gentle
Empowering

I work with individuals, families, and groups facing severe mental illness, schizophrenia, and bipolar conditions. I also support adults healing from traumatic past experiences, depression, and anxiety symptoms.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Laura Pennelle

Laura Pennelle

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Laura Pennelle, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Laura has a Master of Social Work (MSW) Title IVe and Administrative Social Work from San Diego State University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Candid
Empowering

I focus on treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, stress, self-esteem, addictions, grief, and life changes. I also help people navigate relationship conflict, domestic violence, codependency, and co-parenting challenges. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Ahlam Axelrod

Ahlam Axelrod

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
8+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Ahlam Axelrod, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Ahlam has a Master of Science Psychology (MSPSY) in Counseling from Chapman University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Cultural Stress
Divorce
Relationship Issues
Women's Issues
Style
Outcome-oriented
Candid
Curious

When you experience communication deficits in relationships, question your self-worth, or feel preoccupied with others' approval, it can feel isolating. I am here to support you through these times and help you develop the life you deserve and want to live.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Vera Khalitova

Vera Khalitova

LMFT
1+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Vera Khalitova, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Vera has a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling Psychology from National University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Substance Use
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Responsive
Attuned
Curious

I help individuals achieve mental wellness through creating a balanced, meaningful, and connected life. I embrace a holistic approach and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress, substance abuse, and addictions, using cognitive, mindfulness, existential, and values-based approaches, along with EMDR and IFS for trauma.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Angelita Cortez

Angelita Cortez

LPCC

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Angelita Cortez, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Angelita has a Masters of Arts (MA) Art Therapy & Counseling from Southwestern College.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Grief
Self Esteem
Stress
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Empowering

I specialize in utilizing art therapy. My mission is to help you reach your full potential so you can start feeling better and thrive. I offer individual therapy to adults experiencing issues ranging from stress, anxiety, self-esteem and grief and loss. If you're looking for an outlet for self-expression, please reach out.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Terry Surinsky

Terry Surinsky

LCSW
12+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Terry Surinsky, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Terry has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Washington University, Saint Louis.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Relationship Issues
Style
Responsive
Gentle
Curious

Welcome, and thank you for taking a moment to learn about my background. My name is Terry Surinsky, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults 18 and older, dealing with stress, relationship challenges, and life transitions.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Richelle Rojas-Basuil

Richelle Rojas-Basuil

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
1+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Richelle Rojas-Basuil, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Richelle has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of Southern California.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Grief
Relationship Issues
Stress
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Collaborative

I specialize in helping adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and relationship challenges. I take a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and client-centered approach.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Josephine Obregon

Josephine Obregon

Recognized for high quality patient care

LCSW
7+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Josephine Obregon, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Josephine has a Master of Social Work (MSW) in Mental Health from University of Southern California.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Directive
Warm
Empowering

I am a licensed clinical social worker. I believe in a therapeutic approach that starts where you are in your experiences, as you are the expert of your own life. My focus is to improve your quality of life in the areas you determine are of value and importance to you.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Kathleen Spencer

Kathleen Spencer

LPCC
1+ years

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs), like Kathleen Spencer, are mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Kathleen has a Master's in Counseling (MC) in Professional Counseling with an Emphasis in Trauma from Grand Canyon University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Alcohol Use
Anxiety
Depression
Substance Use
Style
Responsive
Approachable
Affirming

I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives, and I am there to help them navigate their current concerns while also guiding them to rediscover their internal strengths and resilience.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Travis Knowlton

Travis Knowlton

Many new patients continue care with this provider

LCSW
2+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Travis Knowlton, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Travis has a Master of Social Work (MSW) Social Work from University of Southern California.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Depression
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Directive
Attuned
Empowering

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is that of being strength-based, and my goal is to make you your own mental warrior!

Available virtually

A headshot image of Connor Seidler

Connor Seidler

LMFT
2+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Connor Seidler, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Connor has a Master of Science (MS) in Couples and Family Therapy from University Of Oregon.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Bipolar Disorder
Borderline Personality
Depression
Psychosis
Style
Exploratory
Attuned
Curious

I specialize in systemic and relational therapy, helping individuals and couples build insight and move toward meaningful change. My work draws from Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Emotion Focused Therapy to support you in creating the life and relationships you envision.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Marina Walker

Marina Walker

LMFT
23+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Marina Walker, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Marina has a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Spirituality
Trauma and PTSD
Women's Issues
Style
Insightful
Attuned
Supportive

Your journey is unique and ever unfolding. Whether you're struggling through difficult times or seeking greater joy, I offer support that's kind, wise, safe, and nurturing. Finding perspectives that bring relief, peace, and freedom—especially during transitions and suffering—is part of how we heal and thrive.

She has been the best! Understands, listens, compassionate. Responds as needed, lifesaving🩷

Available virtually

A headshot image of Linda Nichols

Linda Nichols

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Linda Nichols, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Linda has a Master in Counseling (MC) from National University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Substance Use
Style
Exploratory
Approachable
Collaborative

I'm passionate about helping individuals, families, and couples achieve emotional well-being and growth. I work with people navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and self-defeating patterns.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Vittorio Roberti

Vittorio Roberti

Recognized for high quality patient care

LMFT
1+ years

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), like Vittorio Roberti, are mental health professionals trained in family systems who can diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Vittorio has a Master of Arts (MA) in MFT/PCC from National University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Addiction
Life Transitions
Relationship Issues
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Exploratory
Candid
Motivational

I help people from all walks of life, including veterans, first responders, former inmates, at-risk youth, and those with alternative lifestyles. I've worked extensively with mental health and addiction issues. My goal is to connect with your humanity and help you feel better, do better, and be happy.

Available virtually

A headshot image of Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer Johnson

Patients consistently give high satisfaction ratings

LCSW
9+ years

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), like Jennifer Johnson, are social workers trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues and substance misuse with psychotherapy and counseling.

Jennifer has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from San Diego State University.

San Diego, CA
Specialties
Anxiety
Spirituality
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Style
Insightful
Warm
Collaborative

Warm greetings! I am honored you are here. I have a mind, body, energy, and emotional approach to my practice. I identify closely with my Osage heritage and Native American background.

Available virtually

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