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Headshot of Melinda Katahara, LCSW

Melinda Katahara

Therapist
13 years of experience
  • Virtual & in-person
  • Family issues, Stress management, Trauma, PTSD
  • Individual therapy, Child or adolescent therapy, Couples therapy

Great to meet you!

I see therapy as a collaborative process. Together, we identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck, develop healthier coping strategies, and build on your existing strengths to foster lasting change. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, or major life transitions, I aim to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and capable of creating the life you want.

My approach to therapy

I take an integrative, client-centered approach—drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT/DBT) and /or Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) with the use of a Mindfulness-Based and Strengths-Based lens. I tailor my methods to each client’s unique needs, values, and goals, ensuring that therapy is both practical and personal.

What you can expect from me

Clients describe my style as warm, authentic, and empowering. I balance empathy and compassion with gentle honesty and encouragement for growth. In our sessions, you can expect a supportive environment where you can explore difficult emotions, gain insight, and practice new skills without fear of judgment.

About me

  • I identify as
    Asian, Latinx, Woman
  • My style is
    Direct, Open Minded, Solution Oriented

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    13 years of experience
  • Training
    MSW (Master of Social Work) at San Diego State University
  • License type
    LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) (California, Hawaii)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Hawaii, Blue Shield of California, Carelon Behavioral Health, Carelon Behavioral Health Medicare Advantage, Cigna, Providence Health Plan

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Family issues, Stress management, Trauma, PTSD
  • More specialties
    Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Anger management, Grief or loss, Relationship issues
  • Therapy methods
    Seeking Safety, Play, Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Gottman Method / Gottman Couples, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Biofeedback, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, Attachment Based, Behavior Modification, Behavior Management
  • Care types
    Individual therapy, Child or adolescent therapy, Couples therapy
  • Ages served
    Adolescents, Adults, Seniors, Children
  • Languages
    English
  • Location
    3150 El Camino Real Ste C
    Carlsbad, CA 92008