Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Chula Vista, CA covered by Aetna

Hi, I'm Dora, a licensed therapist with extensive experience working with a diverse range of populations, including teens, young adults, parents, and adults facing multiple life changes. I have training in DBT, Incredible Years parenting, and holistic approaches.

I am a clinical psychologist working in San Diego, with over 20 years of experience. I earned a BA in Psychology from University of California Santa Barbara, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University (formerly California School of Professional Psychology). I completed a postdoctoral fellowship in substance use disorders at the San Diego Veteran's Affairs Healthcare System. I have expertise in working with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use problems, relationship issues, and assertiveness. I also conduct psychological testing for questions around ADHD, Autism, mood disorders, giftedness, learning problems, and personality issues, among others. I believe psychotherapy is a collaborative process to help clients understand themselves better, achieve goals, and become one's best self.

Hey, I'm really glad you're here.

I know reaching out for therapy can feel intimidating, so my first goal is to make sure you feel comfortable and at ease. I'm not here to judge or tell you what to do — I’m here to listen, support you, and figure things out together.

My style is pretty laid-back, warm, and real. I’ll meet you where you’re at, and we'll work together to help you move toward where you want to be. I pull from a few different approaches like CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR, and somatic tools that help with nervous system regulation — but honestly, it all comes down to finding what works best for you.

Clients often tell me they feel really safe with me, like they can just be themselves without having to filter or explain everything. I love helping people reconnect with their own strength, especially those navigating ADHD, trauma, perfectionism, or the pressure of being a first-generation success story. (All things I get on a personal level too.)

If you're looking for a space where you can be yourself, talk things through, and feel supported while you make real changes, I’d love to connect.

My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him). I have been working as a mental health therapist for over five years. My practice has primarily been specialized in working with LGBTQ+ youth. However, I have worked with couples, families, emerging adults, and adults from all backgrounds. I am a client-centered therapist who enjoys working collaboratively with my clients to meet their goals.

I’m passionate about helping those seeking change in their lives. My education in multi-cultural counseling and social justice means that I approach each individual with empathy and awareness when it comes to navigating racial and gender identities, and life experiences. I understand we each have our own story and challenges, making the recovery and healing process unique for each of us. I help clients to identify and achieve small-scale, doable goals which build a foundation for lasting change.

Hello, and welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in San Diego, CA. I specialize in helping individuals overcome the lasting effects of childhood experiences, as well as present traumas they may be facing. I have worked with adults, children and families in a variety of settings. I have provided space for people during the toughest of life transitions while teaching them tools to cope with the overwhelming emotions of grief and trauma. I’d like to be there for you too!

I am a passionate clinical therapist who loves working with children, women, couples and families going through challenging times. Are you and your your child having trouble communicating? Are you and your spouse having trouble communicating? Do you see them going through a hard time, long to help but don't know how? Do you suffer from Bipolar Disorder? I am here for you. Do you feel undone by anxiety or depression and don't know how to "shake it off"?

If you’re facing challenges with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or other mental health concerns, I’m here to help. I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related conditions, and co-occurring substance use disorders. I offer a personalized, evidence-based approach that combines medication management with therapeutic techniques, tailored to your unique needs. My goal is to help you find relief, build resilience, and regain control over your life.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field (12 in private practice). I work with individuals ages 3 and up, as well as couples. I am trauma informed, a certified clinical supervisor, and EMDR trained (currently not accepting EMDR patients). I hold a plethora of CEUs in mental health disorders and have owned my own practice for several years, offering in person and telehealth services.

CSUB BA Psychology 2002

CSUB Master of Social Work 2004