LGBT therapists in La Mesa, CA

More that fifteen years of teaching English and drama at a Los Angeles public high school taught me many things - primarily, it taught me how often people's barriers to achievement are not due to any lack of skill or ability, but rather from emotional barriers stemming from stress, adversity and trauma. So, I went back to graduate school to pursue a new career as a therapist so that I could help in a different way. My training and experience has focused on treating anxiety disorders, PTSD (including Complex-PTSD) and also couples - helping them to navigate challenges and triggers so that they can reset and reconnect.

I've been a therapist for over 7 years. My Bachelor's in Psychology and Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy gave me a foundation working with people across the lifespan — children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I'm trained in evidence-based practices, but I always keep in mind that everyone is different and what works for one person may not work for another.

I’m Jackie Berrios, a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over a decade of experience in mental health. I'm a mother of two toddler boys, and a proud first-generation Latina from the DC area, living in CA since 2013. I help mom's struggling with depression, anxiety and adjustment to tap into their strengths and move forward confidently.

I am an empathetic and thoughtful provider that likes to include humor when possible. I help adults experiencing depression and anxiety by supporting them to understand and reframe limiting beliefs and thinking patterns. I am experienced and passionate about working with diverse communities such as LGBTQ+, first generation and BIPOC.

I’m Rachel Benjamin, and I help individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges to build more authentic, connected, and empowered lives. Together, we’ll identify the patterns and barriers that have been holding you back and work toward lasting change around your strengths and values. If you are thinking about starting therapy, or returning after some time away, but feeling unsure, you’re not alone. Taking that first step can bring up a mix of emotions. If you’re wondering whether now is the right time, it likely means you’re ready to begin exploring meaningful change.

I work with individuals who grew up with a pervasive sense that they were “outside the box.” Sometimes that comes from being neurodivergent, navigating gender or sexuality, growing up in strict or religious environments, being home-schooled or always feeling different from the people around you. Many of my clients arrive with ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, identity questions, or long-held patterns of masking to get through work, school, or life. It’s common for them to feel numb, lonely, misunderstood, or unsure about who they are and where they belong. If that resonates — you’re in the right place.

I support neurodivergent adults, ADHD/Autism, LGBTQIA+ and questioning folks, individuals exploring gender identity or transition, people processing religious trauma, chronic health struggles, grief, loss, and PTSD. I also love helping creatives, deep thinkers, and people who feel like they’ve spent years trying to “fit” rather than exist authentically.