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Grief counselors and therapists in El Cajon, CA

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Top grief and loss counseling therapists in El Cajon, CA

In El Cajon, grief counseling and therapy can help you process loss, find meaning, and move forward. Headway's network includes therapists specializing in bereavement support, complicated grief, and trauma-informed care using modalities like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Prolonged Grief Disorder Therapy. Access support from 5,630 providers with availability as soon as next day, covered by insurance.

Brian Lamoreux

Brian Lamoreux

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 15 mi away • San Diego, CA


Hi, I'm Brian! I'm a licensed counselor with a background in holistic medicine as well. I've worked with a variety of mental health concerns, with my primary specialty being treating trauma.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carson Jaffrey

Carson Jaffrey

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 17 mi away • San Diego, CA


“Grief, desperation, and self-inflicted suffering brought me to the point of reaching out for help many years ago and soon the seas began to calm.”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Kyle Glover

Dr. Kyle Glover

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 17 mi away • San Diego, CA


“Therapy can be more than "getting by"—it can be about opening space for freedom, meaning, and the life you truly want to live.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Men's issues
Humorous, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Jodi Tompkins

Dr. Jodi Tompkins

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 17 mi away • La Jolla, CA


“I provide a unique combination of psychotherapy and coaching that builds on individual strengths to improve personal, relational, professional, and family lives.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Joyce DeVera

Joyce DeVera

Therapist

In-person • 17 mi away • San Diego, CA


Are you are experiencing verbal and/or mental abuse from a romantic partner, a parent, sibling, friend, co-worker? Do you struggle with your own internal thoughts (e.g. "you’re not good enough”, "it's all your fault", “you are not a priority”). Maybe you’ve lost someone and you’re grieving. You are emotionally exhausted because of the pain you hide and the inability to say "no". You tell yourself the good is good but the bad is bad. You're scared and confused on what to do or how to "fix" things. These experiences create rumination, avoidance, trauma, anxiety, and more.

Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Family issues, Panic disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Stephanie Massey

Stephanie Massey

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 19 mi away • San Diego, CA


I am very honest, caring, real and genuine. Encouragement and support for their future journey.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Louisa Triandis

Louisa Triandis

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 22 mi away • Solana Beach, CA


“I have over 25 years of experience helping children, teens, families, adults and couples build on their strengths and get clear about what they want for their futures.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Troy Nickell

Troy Nickell

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 22 mi away • Solana Beach, CA


“I really love helping people identify purpose and create a clear and simple way to reach their goals, for the betterment of themselves and those around them.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Family issues, Identity issues, Men's issues
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Erica Bruckner

Erica Bruckner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 21 mi away • Del Mar, CA


“My style is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth, and I strive to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kristina Bailey

Kristina Bailey

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 17 mi away • San Diego, CA


“I provide a safe and warm environment where one can learn about themselves, and problem solve ways to better their mental health trajectory.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Sam Castro

Sam Castro

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 23 mi away • Escondido, CA


“My style is collaborative, thoughtful, and grounded. I believe mental health care should feel caring, not rushed or impersonal.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Substance use / addiction, Trauma
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
James McJunkin

James McJunkin

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 24 mi away • Escondido, CA


“I focus on helping clients feel safer in their bodies, understand their inner world, and move toward lasting change with compassion and clarity.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Lara Dye

Dr. Lara Dye

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • Encinitas, CA


“I utilize several therapeutic 'tools' which help my client to decrease unhealthy relationship behaviors and increase healthy attachment...”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, OCD
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Jennifer Marino-Kibbee

Jennifer Marino-Kibbee

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • Encinitas, CA


“I strive to create a safe and affirming space where you feel comfortable enough to open up and begin to trust in the relationship we're developing.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shih Chiang Tang

Shih Chiang Tang

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 18 mi away • San Diego, CA


“I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and have a particular passion for working with high-risk clients navigating suicidal ideation, self-harm, and intense emotional distress.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Sean Harris

Dr. Sean Harris

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 24 mi away • Cardiff, CA


“My approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative, focusing on integrating Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) principles.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Creative, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
John Boyce

John Boyce

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 25 mi away • Encinitas, CA


“My therapy approach is experiential, humanistic, and somatic... We engage and explore in the work of therapy together collaboratively.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Identity issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Dr. Grant Horner

Dr. Grant Horner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 30 mi away • Carlsbad, CA


“I have a holistic approach to therapy believing all areas of our life (mental, emotional, spiritual, physical, sexual) are connected and impact our overall mental health.”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Alexis Roncevich

Dr. Alexis Roncevich

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Vista, CA


I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Washington and provide outpatient psychotherapy services in-person and via telehealth. Although I have been licensed for approximately 1.5 years, I have 7 years of supervised clinical experience across rehabilitation clinics, community mental health, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, where I trained under licensed psychologists before becoming licensed myself.

I primarily work with first responders, active-duty military personnel, and veterans. These professions often involve repeated exposure to stress, uncertainty, trauma, and significant personal sacrifice, which can affect well-being, relationships, and life outside of work. My goal is to help clients navigate these challenges while also building lives that feel meaningful, fulfilling, and aligned with what matters most to them.

My clinical training and professional experience include working with veterans within the Veterans Health Administration and providing trauma-focused treatment for first responders in intensive outpatient settings. Through this work, I have gained an appreciation for the unique demands associated with careers that require individuals to perform under pressure, respond to critical incidents, and regularly place the needs of others before their own. This perspective continues to inform my work with clients as they navigate challenges both on and off the job.

Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues, PTSD
Challenging, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Randy Ogle

Randy Ogle

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 27 mi away • San Marcos, CA


“My goal is to provide a supportive, respectful space where you feel heard and understood, while also helping you develop practical tools to move forward in your life.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Elma Samantha Quintero

Elma Samantha Quintero

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Vista, CA


“I believe you are the expert of your own story—my role is to walk alongside you with compassion, encouragement, and respect.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Creative, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Shaliss Padilla Lmft

Shaliss Padilla Lmft

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 27 mi away • San Marcos, CA


I am Shaliss Padilla MA, LMFT, the Founder, CEO and Clinical Supervisor of group private practice MindbodyologyTM. I am also a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology. In addition, I am a Holistic Psychotherapist, (or what I have coined a MindbodyologistTM), also a Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Specialist. I offer live and online support groups and workshops for survivors of narcissitic abuse and toxic relationships.

Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Challenging, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ronda Jacobs Lmft

Ronda Jacobs Lmft

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 27 mi away • San Marcos, CA


I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and Lead Clinician. I received my Master of Arts from Western Kentucky University have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1996 and provided services in child welfare settings involving abused and neglected children and parents who experienced addiction, trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. I also have years of experience working in a private practice setting, working with teens, adults, couples and active duty military. I also specialize in treating trauma and PTSD using EMDR.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lisa Ritter

Lisa Ritter

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Temecula, CA


“I draw from research-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), to help you build insight, re-wire negative thinking, and strengthen emotional resilience.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, End of life care, Family issues, Identity issues
Creative, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mika Heinonen

Mika Heinonen

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Temecula, CA


Hey there—I'm Mika, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who's here for real talk and real support for adults and teens right here in Southern California. I've spent years helping people work through tough life events like trauma, addictions, ADHD, burnout from high-pressure jobs, anxiety, depression, and rocky relationships. What I love most is seeing folks step into their strength and build the life they want—I'm here to walk that path with you, no judgment, just genuine care.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
James Manley

James Manley

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Temecula, CA


Sometimes a thoughtful conversation with the right person can make all the difference. As an experienced therapist, husband, and father, I bring both professional training and real-life wisdom to help people navigate life’s challenges. Over many years of both life and clinical work, I’ve had the privilege of helping people move through difficult seasons, gain clarity, and reconnect with their strengths. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy or you’re returning after time away, it’s normal to feel uncertain. Our first conversation is simply a starting point. I often work with people facing life transitions, relationship challenges, or feeling stuck, seeking clarity and a practical path forward. Together, we’ll slow things down, understand what’s happening, and identify steps that help move you forward. If you are going through a difficult season, you don't have to navigate it alone.

Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Alene McDowell-Ibanez

Alene McDowell-Ibanez

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Temecula, CA


“My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative, helping you feel supported while working toward meaningful change.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Ruben Garcia

Ruben Garcia

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Murrieta, CA


“I believe in treating the whole person—mind, body, spirit, and environment—while empowering patients through education and shared decision-making.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Marsi Walker

Marsi Walker

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 27 mi away • San Marcos, CA


Marsi specializes in working with children, teens, young adults, and women who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, and the lingering effects of difficult life experiences. She is passionate about helping clients understand not only what they're experiencing, but why—because insight creates the foundation for lasting healing.

Her approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the latest research in neuroscience and trauma treatment. Marsi integrates evidence-based therapies including EMDR, attachment-based therapy, Polyvagal Theory, somatic interventions, cognitive and behavioral approaches, and play therapy to help clients regulate their nervous systems, process painful experiences, strengthen relationships, and develop greater resilience.

Whether someone is healing from childhood wounds or abuse, breaking generational patterns, navigating a major life transition, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life, Marsi believes lasting change is possible. She considers it a privilege to walk alongside each client as they rediscover hope, deepen self-understanding, and create meaningful, lasting change.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Kristina Smith

Kristina Smith

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Juan Capistrano, CA


Hello! I'm Kris and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and the founder of Village Wellness Center, a thriving group psychotherapy practice based in San Juan Capistrano. I have over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, and I specialize in maternal mental health, depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship challenges, and the unique needs of women and mothers.

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Sacramento State University and returned to school 15 years later to earn my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology.

The beginning of my career in mental health started in residential care helping at-risk youth, and over the course of 20 years, my work and experience evolved into leading and developing clinical programs for outpatient and court-mandated facilities while also building my specialty in perinatal mood disorders and maternal mental health in my private practice. Additionally over the past two decades, I was raising my family and actively contributing to the Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano communities.

Through my own struggles with postpartum depression and anxiety, I became a passionate advocate for maternal wellness and thriving families. This became the catalyst to opening Village Wellness Center, where the ability to serve entire families and promote holistic mental wellness with a team of therapists can be achieved.

Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nicole Lawrence Testa

Nicole Lawrence Testa

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Juan Capistrano, CA


“I connect with clients by listening and exploring without judgement. Clients have told me they appreciate my compassion...”
Grief or loss, Family issues, Infertility, Men's issues, Relationship issues
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Lisa Billings

Dr. Lisa Billings

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Laguna Hills, CA


I work with adolescents and adults and offer individual, couples, and family therapy. I help individuals identify their goals and make the changes necessary to help them lead more productive and fulfilling lives. I am directive, and I provide a warm, caring and non-judgmental environment to explore the issues and life-events with which you may be struggling.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Gretchen Shibl

Gretchen Shibl

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Laguna Hills, CA


“I strive to create a collaborative, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment where every person is treated with respect, kindness, and understanding.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Roxanne Cherry

Dr. Roxanne Cherry

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Mission Viejo, CA


“I am especially effective with kids/teens, helping families implement clear boundaries and age appropriate responsibilities & privileges.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ashley Wettlaufer

Ashley Wettlaufer

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA


Most of us aren't born knowing how to navigate relationships, understand our emotions, or process trauma. Many things influence how we react and behave, but that doesn't mean we can't grow. My goal is to help you build confidence through discovering your self-worth and practicing self-compassion. My priority is creating a safe, judgment-free environment where you feel comfortable. I show up as my authentic self to build trust with you. I'm an empathetic listener and communicate in a calm, gentle, respectful way. My job isn't to tell you what to do, but to help you process and explore topics to build self-awareness and confidence.

Grief or loss, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Carol Bartels

Carol Bartels

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Long Beach, CA


“I know that seeking therapy can be scary! It is my desire to help you feel relaxed, understand what to expect...”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Janine Ivy

Janine Ivy

Psychologist

Virtual • Thousand Oaks, CA


“I specialize in working women and people of color who want to feel better about themselves and their relationships.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Ady Benyishay

Dr. Ady Benyishay

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a licensed clinical psychologist (PsyD) with extensive experience working in residential treatment, sober living, and private practice settings since 2010. My career began as an intern in an eating disorder residential program, later expanding into adolescent dual-diagnosis treatment. Alongside completing my doctorate in clinical psychology, I launched my private practice, where I continue to work with clients through Telehealth. Currently, I also work in a sober living facility, supporting adults facing addiction and co-occurring mental health challenges.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Brody Tucker

Brody Tucker

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy can be a powerful and meaningful way to heal and grow and develop our best potential.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nidia Canello

Nidia Canello

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide culturally responsive, bilingual (English/Spanish) care informed by 17 years of experience working with foster care and complex trauma.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Trauma
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

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