Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in La Mesa, CA

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, but more importantly, I am a safe space, an advocate, a collaborator, and a sounding board. I specialize in trauma/intergenerational trauma, depression, anxiety, identity incongruency, and general life stage/cycle challenges. I am EMDR trained, and a Certified Grief Informed Counselor.

A lot of people who find their way to me have spent years in a world that wasn't quite built for the way their brain works, and they're still figuring out what that means. I'm Brittany, a Neurodiversity affirming Licensed Clinical Social Worker working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I specialize in supporting Autistic teens and adults, including those who received their diagnosis later in life, alongside people navigating anxiety, OCD, trauma, ADD/ADHD, and relationship challenges. Clients often tell me I'm the first therapist who has really understood them.

I have always had a deep passion for working with children, teens, and their families. With nearly 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I bring a compassionate, collaborative approach to therapy. I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology, which I earned in 2012. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting young people through many of life’s challenges.

One of my greatest strengths is my ability to connect with individuals across ages, cultures, and experiences. This connection is grounded in authenticity and relatability, which is nurtured through a strong therapeutic alliance. I believe therapy offers a safe space to explore, learn, and grow—and I strive to help clients build resilience, strengthen relationships, and develop into their best selves.

I believe that healing begins when you feel truly seen, understood, and safe to be yourself. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in both evidence-based therapy and mind–body awareness.

Many of my clients are high-achieving professionals, caregivers, or individuals navigating life transitions who feel anxious, stuck, or disconnected from themselves.

Together, we’ll explore not just what’s happening in your mind, but how your body and emotions respond — so you can reconnect with clarity, calm, and confidence.

I bring curiosity, compassion, and a touch of humor to each session. My goal is to help you slow down, breathe, and find the insight and direction that’s already within you.

Welcome! I am a multi-state counselor (TX, CO, OR - LPC, CA - LPCC) with over 15 years of experience in mental health and recovery-oriented care. At my practice, The Person Center, PLLC, I specialize in supporting high-functioning adults who may look successful on the outside, but internally feel exhausted by chronic stress, anxiety, relational patterns, or burnout. I focus on serving introspective achievers, caretakers, and professionals who are stuck in a cycle of overthinking, "buzzing" anxiety, or sudden emotional shutdown. My goal is to help you step out of chronic survival mode and into genuine, lasting peace.

Hi, I’m Jessica Castro, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I’m a mother of two and have been married for 15 years, which gives me a deep, personal understanding of the joys and challenges that come with relationships and family life. With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in working with individuals who are seeking clarity, healing, and stronger connections. My clients often share that therapy with me helps them feel heard, empowered, and better equipped to handle life’s stressors. I’m committed to creating a safe, supportive space where meaningful change can happen.

I'm a licensed psychologist working with adolescents, adults, and seniors navigating anxiety, depression, grief, significant life changes, or challenges with attention and focus. My goal is to offer a safe, affirming space to explore your life, your story, and what matters most to you — your experiences, your values, and where you hope to go. You are a complex, whole person made up of many parts — and there is room here for all of them.

Nice to meet you!

If you’ve been dealing with depression, anxiety, panic, sleep problems, or mood swings, you may feel worn down, stuck, or unsure what to try next. You want relief, but also clear answers, practical options, and someone who takes your concerns seriously. I work with young adults, adults, and seniors who are ready to better understand what’s happening and take steady steps toward feeling more balanced and in control of their mental health.

I believe therapy is a journey, one in which the client is the navigating driver. As a Licensed marriage and family therapist, I take the passenger seat and support my clients in the direction they chose to go with in their therapeutic journey. I tailor each session to meet the unique needs of my clients, drawing on empathy, respect, and transparency to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment.