Depression Counseling in San Diego, CA.

Leading therapy for major depression, bipolar, postpartum depression, SAD and mood disorders in San Diego, California.


Aleksandra Drecun, Psy.D.
Depression Counselor

Aleksandra Drecun, Psy.D.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

12526 High Bluff Drive, Suite 300, San Diego, California 92130 | (858) 792-3541

Experiencing the symptoms of depression can be debilitating. Individuals do not have to suffer in silence with depression. Effective treatment is available to alleviate symptoms of depression. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a research-validated treatment approach to eradicating depression. Freeing oneself from depression will allow the individual to reclaim their life, improve their mood and return to a previous level of functioning. Living free of depression is essential to attaining a high quality of life and a meaningful existence.

Preston Lavin, AMFT
Depression Counselor

Preston Lavin, AMFT

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

5055 N Harbor Dr Suite 320, San Diego, California 92107 | 619-510-0005

Depression can feel isolating and overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. In depression counseling, I work collaboratively with clients to explore the root causes of their feelings and provide compassionate support in navigating their emotions. Through a combination of evidence-based therapies like Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MCBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), we’ll focus on identifying negative thought patterns, building emotional resilience, and fostering a sense of hope. Together, we’ll explore practical strategies to shift your mindset, increase self-compassion, and help you rediscover a sense of purpose and joy in your life.

Jean Stapp, PhD
Depression Counselor

Jean Stapp, PhD

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Menifee, California 92584 | 951-249-3576

In treating depression, I take care to understand the circumstances which have led to you feeling the way you do. Then, we work together to help you develop new coping strategies that will help you manage your difficult emotions as well as take steps towards meaningful actions in your life. I use tools drawn from several different evidence-based therapies, which are therapies have proven effective in research studies.

Ross L. Kellogg, LMFT
Depression Counselor

Ross L. Kellogg, LMFT

Licensed Individual, Marriage, and Family Therapist

San Diego , California 92101 | 619-771-1797

I use a blend of cutting-edge therapeutic techniques such as sensorimotor psychotherapy, internal family systems, and object-relations psychotherapy to create a personalized healing journey. Focused on working with individuals who desire more permanent solutions to their emotional pain, my approach to depression therapy is as compassionate as it is transformative. By engaging with these specifically tailored methods, clients find themselves nurtured, understood, and empowered, unlocking new pathways to well-being and joy. This personalized care provides clients with a value-driven and life-enhancing experience that goes beyond traditional therapy.

Cynthia Valentine, MA
Depression Counselor

Cynthia Valentine, MA

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

2816 Adams Ave., SAN DIEGO, California 92116 | 619-289-7644

Depression is one of the most crippling mental health concerns out there. With therapy, we will look at the thoughts, feelings and behaviors contributing to your experience of depression. Depression puts a dark cloud on things that once were really important to you. In ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) we will look at what small actions you can take in order to have you doing the things that are important to you.

Philip Starkman, MSW, RSW
Depression Counselor

Philip Starkman, MSW, RSW

Registered Psychotherapist

Available for Online Therapy

When one is depressed the range of thoughts and feelings encompass a wide spectrum. Sadness and despair might be pervasive. One can feel as if they have fallen into a deep dark pit where everything is covered in negativity and hopelessness. In this state, one can feel inadequate, discouraged, unable or unwilling to make decisions. In addition, guilt, shame, profound low self-esteem and loss of interest in relationships, sex, career and even life itself are commonly found. A variety of evidence-based tools, specific to the needs of the individual, applied skillfully at the right time, can dramatically lift one out of that deep, dark pit and help avoid relapse.

Kimberly Greene Royce, LMFT
Depression Counselor

Kimberly Greene Royce, LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

9580 Oak Ave Parkway, Suite 7-210, Folsom, California 95630 | 916-757-2681

I will help you view your depressive state with curiosity and without judgment, in an effort to understand and heal the source of the depression. Simple identification of the source of depression can enhance treatment outcomes and provide some relief from depression. I can help you recognize and access your inner strength, autonomy, and capacity for change.

David Peters, MS, MFT
Depression Counselor

David Peters, MS, MFT

Marriage and Family Therapist

2525 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 205, San Diego, California 92108 | 619-491-3492

If you are experiencing sadness that just won't go away, or a hopelessness that is immobilizing you, it may be clinical depression. There are a variety of very effective ways to treat depression, from cognitive therapy, exercise, nutritional supplements, biblio-therapy, or medication. The least effective is to get a medication from your primary physician and wait. I will help you plan a full intervention that will give you the earliest relief possible. Whether your depression is mild or crippling, I know how to take care of you. Sometimes, just getting to be listened to brings new hope and some relief. But we will do whatever it takes to bring you to health again.

Well Coached Life, PhD, MA, SEP
Depression Counselor

Well Coached Life, PhD, MA, SEP

WELL COACHED LIFE| Individuals | Couples | Youth

Available for Online Therapy

I work with a depressed nervous system by working with the body. Often we struggle to sleep, eat, or accomplish relatively simple tasks. Our bodies are stuck with the brake on. When our body thinks it is futile, out mind follows quickly thereafter and we begin to tell ourselves how pointless things are and how worthless we are. I work with the whole body to re-regulate the body to enable you to get back to a whole integrated self.

Kevin Fleming, Ph.D.
Depression Counselor

Kevin Fleming, Ph.D.

Coach/Change Agent/Consultant

San Diego, California 92101 | 1-877-606-6161

Grey Matters International, Inc. and the work of Kevin J. Fleming, Ph.D. handles depression and other emotional disorders in a very unique way. Most of therapy or counseling processes utilize validation, unconditional positive regard, and reframing as common techniques to get someone to heal from their depression. Though this can be helpful, it rarely fixes the core problem behind it and for tough cases we then refer them usually to a psychiatrist for medication which can have tons of side effects. Instead, why not try a natural and arguably more effective way to not just change your mind, but change the brain--where the depression is rooted. Contact us at kevin@kevinflemingphd.com.

Rika Tanaka, Ph.D.
Depression Counselor

Rika Tanaka, Ph.D.

Licensed Psychologist

Carlsbad, California 92008 | 619-554-0120

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy effective for treating depression. Through CBT, we can learn how to identify and challenge thoughts that work to maintain our low mood and regain a sense of well-being and enjoyment in the things we do. As a skilled and experienced licensed psychologist, I can help clients find relief from symptoms, gain valuable skills tailored to their unique needs, and reestablish a sense of purpose, satisfaction, and joy in their lives.

Tami Chelew, MA, CSAT
Depression Counselor

Tami Chelew, MA, CSAT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - LMFT #79759

10065 Old Grove Rd Ste 102, San Diego, California 92131 | 858-254-6169

I am an Emotionally Focused therapist (EFT). Research shows that those who suffer from depression actually benefit quite well from EFT therapy. Depression can be very isolating. The pain of isolation is inherently traumatizing. We are meant to be in relationship with others. I work with indiviudals and couples who struggle with depression by strengthening their relationship so that there is a deeper felt sense that the person who is suffering from depression can experience that they do matter, that they are important, that they are cared for and loved by another. This helps create a more secure attachment to self and others which is therapeutic and needed for healing.

Roxanne Strauss, M.A., LMFT
Depression Counselor

Roxanne Strauss, M.A., LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

2840 Fletcher Pkwy., #123, El Cajon, California 92020 | 619-987-1790

Understanding that there are different types of depression, different levels of severity, and various causes, I work with each individual to assess what kind of depression they are experiencing and possible causes. Often anxiety and depression occur together. Along with providing a safe, non-judgmental place and therapeutic relationship for people to talk about their depressive feelings/emotions and experience, I also utilize research-based therapies that have proven effective for treating depression and anxiety.

John Kane, LMFT
Depression Counselor

John Kane, LMFT

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Available for Online Therapy

I use several methods for helping you overcome depression. I support you in maintaining safety. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I help you to identify unhelpful thoughts and learn how to restructure your thoughts. I help you identify root causes of your depression and find ways to reduce their impact by replacing them with activities and relationships that support you in increased positive mood and personal responsibility. Depression can be comorbid with other issues you may be struggling with and I take a holistic approach to help you address what is needed in order to become a more fulfilled, and satisfied individual.

Madeleine Foster, MA, AMFT, APCC
Depression Counselor

Madeleine Foster, MA, AMFT, APCC

Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

Available for Online Therapy

Depression can be debilitating and lonely. I understand the complexities of depression and have found that my psychodynamic, psychoanalytically-minded technique is very successful in treating depression. I have found psychotherapy to be very effective in helping individuals find a way to overcome their struggles and reclaim energy and purpose in their lives.

Steve Rose, PhD
Depression Counselor

Steve Rose, PhD

Addiction Counsellor

Available for Online Therapy

When struggling with depressed moods, everything feels heavy and you lack a sense of meaning and purpose. Even the most simple tasks can feel impossible. If you find yourself turning to alcohol, substances, or other addictive behaviours to cope with depressed moods, there is a way out. I help clients with addictions overcome the depressed moods causing them to turn to substances or addictive behaviours to cope. Everyone is different, so I work with you to develop a plan that fits your unique situation. If you are unsure where to start, send me a message. If I'm not the right fit, I can connect you to resources that will allow you to start getting help today, without having to wait.

Regina Knox, PH.D
Depression Counselor

Regina Knox, PH.D

Marriage & Family Therapist

La Mesa, California 91942 | 888-595-8565

Dr. Regina Knox brings an innovative and empathetic approach to Depression Counseling and Treatment. Understanding that depression is not a one-size-fits-all ailment, Dr. Knox delves deep into the unique contexts and factors influencing each client's mental health. By employing a combination of evidence-based techniques and personalized therapeutic strategies, she provides clients with the tools and insights necessary to confront and manage their symptoms. Her warm and nurturing environment allows clients to express themselves freely, ensuring they feel validated and heard. Through her expert guidance, individuals are empowered to reclaim joy, resilience, and equilibrium in their lives.

Paul Santero, Psy. D.
Depression Counselor

Paul Santero, Psy. D.

Licensed Psychologist

3252 Holiday Dr. #205, La Jolla, California 92037 | 619-750-0970

Like most issues that people experience today, depression can be caused by un-resolved trauma in one's past. When trauma has not been processed and resolved it can leave a wound, and not delt with, can lead to other issues including depression. An effective way to treat depression is to look at and deal with unresolved trauma in the individuals past and present. An effective way to deal with trauma is through the technique called EMDR. I am trained through the EMDR Institute and have helped individuals process and heal the wounds left by their trauma experiences. When this occurs, the depression can subside and the individual feels better.


You Have Found The Best Therapists for Depression and Mood Issues in San Diego, CA.

Are you ready to experience new freedom? Thank you for visiting our California search of licensed therapists in San Diego who specialize in helping people overcome sadness, treat major depression and mood disorders such as bipolar, postpartum depression, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Feeling down, lonely, and depressed can affect us at any station in life. Sometimes the cause may be physiological (such as hormonal or due to medication), it may be emotional, environmental, psychological or any combination of the above. Counseling for recovery and restoration from depression by a top rated therapist in San Diego will help you climb back up and start living your dreams again.

San Diego is located in San Diego County, California. It has a land area of 325.19 square miles and a water area of 47.19 square miles.  The population of San Diego is 1.39 million people with 485,091 households and a median annual income of $66,116. .


Therapy Affordability Meter for San Diego, CA

Generally Affordable

Therapists in San Diego are often within budget with some potential challenges for longer term commitments. Your mental health and well being are a top priority. If accessibility is a concern, ask your counselor about sliding scale fees or inquire about accepted insurance plans. Low cost counseling and affordable therapy are also sometimes offered by listed city and university level clinics, check with your local San Diego public health department.