Prenatal and postpartum therapists & psychiatrists in La Mesa, CA

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a Doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy (emphasis in Medical Family Therapy) from Loma Linda University and a Master’s in Psychology from Chapman University.

My career has included running a large private practice, teaching at the university level, presenting at national conferences such as AFCC, and publishing research in the field of family therapy.

I work with adult men and women navigating challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, and major life transitions. I understand that seeking help can feel daunting, so I strive to make therapy a safe and welcoming space where you can be yourself without fear of judgment.

My approach is compassionate and collaborative. I meet you where you are, and together, we work toward building insight, developing practical coping strategies, and creating a more balanced and meaningful life.

My goal with therapy is to provide a safe and open space to process and prioritize a growth mindset. I tailor my therapeutic approach to best match the needs of the client and truly believe in promoting acceptance. Some modalities I have experience with and may incorporate into therapy are Acceptance Compassion Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Here-and-now Counseling, Trauma-Informed, and Holistic. I have a passion for working with individuals who are looking to unpack complex emotions and experiences that have shaped their understanding of the world.

I received my Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California and have over 35 years of experience in clinical practice.

Specialties: Children and Adolescents, Transitional Age Youth, Adults, Self Esteem, Stress and Coping Skills, Trauma and PTSD, Depression and Anxiety, Grief and Life Transitions.

I’m a psychiatrist who practices from a psychodynamic perspective, with attention to emotional depth, meaning, and the ways our histories shape how we experience ourselves and others. My work focuses on understanding symptoms in context — as expressions of what is happening within your mind, your relationships, and our society.

I have a Master's Degree in Counseling, Marriage, and Family from Phillips Graduate Institute.

I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from UCSB.

I typically work with clients who have a history of trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, and managing anxiety, The clients I work with are very motivated to make changes in their lives.

I worked with high-risk, traumatized, and abused youth for many years. I find practicing therapy very rewarding. Assisting my clients to work through life challenges and progress in their life journey is a privilege.

Bonnie Phillips is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She earned her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University in 2005 and began her career working in schools, group homes, hospitals, and private practice. This diverse background allows her to support clients through a wide range of life challenges with compassion and understanding.

Creating a trusting and supportinve relationship is Bonnie’s top priority. She values genuineness, empathy, and active listening, and considers it a privilege to walk alongside clients as they build practical skills, access their inner strengths, and move toward greater emotional balance and well-being.