Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Encinitas, CA

I work in a collaborative process with older teens (15yrs old and above), couples, and individual adults who are motivated to find their inner voice and know their highest selves. My clients are focused on setting boundaries, assertive and effective communication skills, healthy relationships, self-advocacy, and self-efficacy. My clients are willing to reflect on sessions outside of the therapeutic hour, and are receptive to occasional homework. I am here to meet you halfway.

Are you feeling stuck, fearful, hopeless, or uncomfortable with yourself or your relationships? Pain is unavoidable, but I can help you carry that burden as we work towards solutions together.

I am Dr. Bonnie Blackman, PhD, MA in Psychology, and a licensed therapist. For over 30 years, I work with both children and adults. My aim is to create a non-judgmental, supportive space as we navigate your concerns and fears to find safe, secure, and comfortable solutions.

You have probably been carrying something for a while without saying it out loud: anxiety that will not switch off, grief that still ambushes you, drinking that stopped feeling like a choice, or trauma your body has not put down. Helping people find their way through that feels like my sacred calling. Ever since I was young, I've been the person who deeply listens, and I've always sensed the healing that happens when we finally have a trusted, compassionate witness to our story. The story you carry about your past can be the source of your suffering or the key to your freedom, and together we can gently begin to shift it. Whatever pain you're holding, you don't have to hold it alone. I work with individuals, and with couples and families who want to find their way back to each other.

I have a deep passion for helping others find healing, growth, and hope. As a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to create a warm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and supported. I offer telehealth sessions in both English and Spanish, allowing you to express yourself in the language that feels most comfortable. I support adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, divorce, infidelity, and major life transitions. Together, we will work toward greater self-awareness, healing, and meaningful change. As a woman of faith who believes in God, I value the role spirituality and personal beliefs can play in the healing journey. I welcome exploring these areas when they are meaningful to you while honoring and respecting each person’s unique story and background.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 28 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Hunter School of Social Work and have lived and practiced in California for over three decades. My professional background includes extensive work with older adults, individuals experiencing homelessness, and adults living with severe and persistent mental illness. I am known for my patient, compassionate, and attentive approach, and I strive to be fully engaged and present with every client I serve. My goal is to provide thoughtful, individualized support that helps clients feel understood and empowered in their therapeutic journey.