Book a therapist or psychiatrist in San Diego, CA covered by Aetna

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.

Hello and welcome! There is so much I want to share with you!

I acknowledge that finding a therapist can sometimes feel overwhelming because you want to find a good fit, someone who “gets” you, so I thank you for being here.

I identify as a Latinx, cis gender woman, feminist, BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ ally, and spiritual. I am the granddaughter of immigrants from Mexico and the daughter of working class parents. Before coming to Marriage and Family Therapy, I earned a Master’s degree in Women’s Studies, and wrote my thesis on the jurisprudence of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I am aware of the dominant societal structures, narratives, expectations and pressures that can impact your story and how you live it. I look forward to being alongside you as you write a preferred story – one that is fully authored by you.

Prior to focusing on Marriage and Family Therapy, I worked for close to nineteen years in higher education leadership, advising and mentoring college students at a public university in Southern California. The relationships I fostered with students and the stories they shared with me inspired me to move into Marriage and Family Therapy. Like my work with the students, my therapy work is filled with compassion, empathy and understanding. And while there may sometimes be difficult conversations and tears in our work, I also invite in laughter, lightness and joy.

I am currently scheduling online and in-person appointments. I am available Mondays- Thursdays, and Saturdays.

I am passionate about the power of the therapeutic process and helping individuals and families find hope and healing. Together, we will set goals and work towards achieving them - all at a pace that works best for you.

I specialize in working with adults, adolescents and families living with depression, anxiety, trauma, and challenges in relationships. I have significant experience working in higher levels of care settings and with folks navigating suicidal ideation and self-harm.

Hello, and welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in San Diego, CA. I specialize in helping individuals overcome the lasting effects of childhood experiences, as well as present traumas they may be facing. I have worked with adults, children and families in a variety of settings. I have provided space for people during the toughest of life transitions while teaching them tools to cope with the overwhelming emotions of grief and trauma. I’d like to be there for you too!

I’m passionate about helping those seeking change in their lives. My education in multi-cultural counseling and social justice means that I approach each individual with empathy and awareness when it comes to navigating racial and gender identities, and life experiences. I understand we each have our own story and challenges, making the recovery and healing process unique for each of us. I help clients to identify and achieve small-scale, doable goals which build a foundation for lasting change.

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 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.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety disorders, OCD, phobias, and trauma.

You can visit my website for more information: https://www.thiwlodarskilmft.com