Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Chula Vista, CA

I truly believe we are all connected in some way. Systemically, there are many ways to improve the way we relate to our own self, and with others. My philosophy is when I improve, everyone else around me improves. My own experiences have informed the way I approach problems and seek solutions, with the goal of being happier and performing better. Throughout my life, I’ve been in the service of others. I am a US Army Veteran and have many years experience training/development of others.

I grew up in a small town in Hawaii, then came to Southern California and began studying psychology in 2001. I completed my master’s degree at Fuller School of Psychology in 2010 and served children and families at a community mental health agency for 10 years, also starting a private practice in 2015. While I loved island life, I’ve put down roots here through friendships, involvement in my community, and my love of LA’s cultural diversity.

Carolyn is driven by a vision to create a kinder humanity—one nervous system at a time. She believes therapy provides a space to explore safety in an uncertain world by fostering awareness of the connection between the heart, intuition, and the nervous system. Carolyn understands that while the nervous system doesn’t lie- judgments, perceptions, and assumptions can leave individuals feeling stuck, misunderstood, or exhausted.

I earned a double Masters in Clinical Psychology and Public Administration from the University of San Francisco. I have a B.S in Kinesiology and spent over 5 years working in Exercise Science/Fitness for the YMCA of SF. I am part of the Polyvagal Equine Institute (PVEI) community-spent the last 5yrs training in equine therapy. I have over 20yrs experience teaching dance, yoga & mindfulness.

Outside of work, Carolyn nourishes her own nervous system by walking in nature, swimming, practicing yoga, horseback riding, reading, and spending quality time with her family and her partner. She is also the co-host of a podcast with her longtime best friend, where they explore current events through a clinical and social services comedic lens.

I'm a therapist offering in-person sessions in the Thousand Oaks area of Southern California, and telehealth to folks throughout California. I decided to become a therapist after many years of working in corporate America, and I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and LMFT license.

My patients can expect me to be warm, empathetic, and genuinely interested in their story. I take time to understand not just current struggles, but also personal history and experiences that have shaped who they are. I believe that mental health is deeply connected to overall health, and treating psychiatric conditions can positively impact all areas of life. I work with all patients and conditions, and I always meet people where they are. If someone isn’t ready for medications, I fully support their choice and will be there to provide guidance, education, and care until the time feels right for them. Above all, I listen, I value each person’s perspective, and I aim to create a safe space where patients feel truly heard.

I am dedicated to helping individuals make meaningful, lasting changes by developing coping skills that fit their unique life experiences. With over 20 years of experience in addiction treatment and mental health services, I bring a grounded, compassionate, and client‐centered approach to therapy. I believe that you know yourself better than anyone else, and my role is to support you in uncovering your strengths, healing from past experiences, and building a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling.

My specialties include substance use disorders, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and co‐occurring mental health challenges. I am committed to helping clients improve their relationships, reduce stress, and strengthen their sense of self‐worth. I focus on the whole person—mind, body, and environment—because growth in one area naturally supports growth in all others.

Taking the courageous step to care for your mental health is the foundation for overcoming life’s challenges. As a skilled and dedicated therapist, I will guide you in unlocking your inner strengths and building the tools you need to create a fulfilling and balanced life. I gained experience by working in outpatient and residential facilities throughout the Los Angeles community, providing individual and group support to those managing co-occurring disorders and family system challenges. I am especially passionate about working with individuals who are managing anxiety and depression, feelings of low self- worth, relationship difficulties, and impulsive behaviors. I received a BS from Boston University, and a MS in Counseling from California State University, Northridge, graduating with honors.

Making the decision to start therapy is a profound investment of your time, energy, and vulnerability. If you are looking for a blank-slate clinician who simply nods and listens, we might not be the best fit. I offer a highly engaged, malleable, and unflinching partnership.

My approach is rooted in the belief that while the work of untangling our lives is deeply structural, the room itself doesn't always have to feel heavy. I bring a grounded warmth to my practice—which means knowing how to sit quietly in the gravity of a difficult truth, but also knowing when to break the tension, exhale, and find the light in the sheer complexity of being human. I won’t just sit in silence while you do all the heavy lifting; I am an active collaborator who adapts to exactly where you are.

I’ve helped people work through trauma, burnout, ADHD, Bipolar mood concerns, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and others, in ways that honor their pace and their story. Our work together is grounded in honesty, humor, and compassion.

As a therapist in Fresno and online in CA, I help people whose minds and bodies are tired of being on high alert. You might notice every possible threat around you, feel constantly on edge, or struggle to relax even in moments that should feel safe. You may carry guilt or shame from the ways you react when overwhelmed.

As therapy continues, you begin to notice small but real shifts. The mornings feel a bit lighter. You catch yourself laughing without effort. You start to sleep better. You find it easier to connect with family or friends, to be present, to breathe. These small moments build into something bigger

— a sense of belonging in your own life again.

My name is Gillermina Alvarado and I go by Mina. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Riverside, CA, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I received my Master's from the University of Phoenix and have been practicing for 9 years.

I work with young children, adolescents, young adults, and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, grief and loss, behavioral challenges, and life changes. My communication style is calm, accommodating, and personable — I want my clients to feel comfortable speaking with me about anything and feeling safe, and I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment.

Above all, I believe that you are the expert of your own story, and that you have many strengths that will help you overcome what's challenging you. It takes courage to take the first steps toward change, and I'm here to support and empower you in that journey.

I provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care in a safe, judgment-free space.