Family therapy and counseling in Chula Vista, CA

I genuinely like people, have always love to help ,

Will take my clients through the therapeutic process, with empathy and care for their experience in therapy to be a positive one.

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 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"?

I believe every person is unique with their own story to tell. Working with people is my passion and I bring every tool I have learned both professional and in my own life to meet a person's goals in therapy.

I have a decade of experience treating adults and adolescents. I take a holistic and trauma-informed approach to mental health care. My therapeutic approach is integrative, person-centered, solution-focused, mindfulness-based, and CBT-based. I am a bilingual Latina clinician with an emphasis on the BIPOC experience.

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

I offer a genuine, welcoming, and supportive therapeutic space, balancing warmth with a direct and honest approach to help clients create meaningful change. I strive to be understanding and collaborative, meeting clients where they are while supporting growth.

I have over five years of clinical experience working across a variety of settings, including county social programs, community mental health, pediatric hospital- Rady Children’s Hospital, and specialized group practices serving BIPOC communities and children, youth, and families. Currently, I work in a practice focused on supporting children and youth with ADHD and anxiety, as well as parents through parent coaching and family-based care.

I am trained in evidence-based modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, PMT, TF-CBT, STAND, SPACE, and PCIT, and I tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs and strengths.

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.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is passionate about providing compassionate, supportive, and individualized mental health care. I work with adolescents and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, mood changes, trauma-related concerns, or life stressors.

I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, confidence, and self-compassion. I work with adolescents and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, low self-worth, family conflict, and major life transitions.

My approach is both compassionate and collaborative. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and not judged. I believe that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, so I tailor my work to meet your unique needs and goals. Together, we’ll explore patterns, build healthier coping strategies, and work toward meaningful, lasting change.

I have experience supporting clients through complex family dynamics, cultural expectations, and identity development. I also work closely with individuals dealing with disordered eating and body image concerns, helping them develop a more balanced and trusting relationship with themselves.

Clients often describe me as warm, direct, and thoughtful. I will meet you with empathy while also gently challenging you when needed to help you grow.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. My goal is to walk alongside you as you build insight, resilience, and a life that feels more aligned with who you are.