Anxiety and depression therapists and psychiatrists in Vista, CA

I’m Dr. Cathy Evangelatos, a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I’m glad you’re here and I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward healing and growth. You have the option to choose a secular or faith-integrated approach for therapy.

Education:

· I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology. I also hold a master’s degree in Theology and offer optional Christian-integrated therapy for clients who wish to explore the intersection of mental health and their spiritual identity.

· With more than a decade of experience (pre and post doctoral), I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside people through life’s most difficult and meaningful challenges.

Specialized Training-Integrative Faith-Based Approach

With a master’s degree in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary and specialized training in the integration of Christian faith and psychology including my clinical research project on integrating theology and psychology into a faith -based practice. This training equips me to offer thoughtful, well-informed support for clients who wish to explore the intersection of mental health and their faith. This is only provided at your request, and only when it aligns with what you are seeking.

Welcome! Before becoming a psychotherapist, I spent many years in the law and advocacy field. My previous training and experience helps me relate well with many different backgrounds with a greater understanding and appreciation for the diverse issues and concerns encountered by others. I love working with adults of all ages and couples in their journey towards self-discovery, personal growth, greater connection and fulfillment.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma, PTSD/CPTSD, attachment wounds, grief, anxiety and relationship concerns. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, families, veterans, and military-connected clients. My path into psychotherapy began through fine art, consciousness studies and contemplative practice, which continue to shape my appreciation for creativity, meaning, and the complexity of each person’s experience. I earned my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, completed advanced training in psychedelic-assisted therapies at CIIS, and am pursuing a Ph.D. in Depth Psychology at Pacifica Graduate Institute.

I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, confidence, and self-compassion. I work with adolescents and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, low self-worth, family conflict, and major life transitions.

My approach is both compassionate and collaborative. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and not judged. I believe that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, so I tailor my work to meet your unique needs and goals. Together, we’ll explore patterns, build healthier coping strategies, and work toward meaningful, lasting change.

I have experience supporting clients through complex family dynamics, cultural expectations, and identity development. I also work closely with individuals dealing with disordered eating and body image concerns, helping them develop a more balanced and trusting relationship with themselves.

Clients often describe me as warm, direct, and thoughtful. I will meet you with empathy while also gently challenging you when needed to help you grow.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. My goal is to walk alongside you as you build insight, resilience, and a life that feels more aligned with who you are.

I have been in the psychology field for over 20 years. I have an extensive background treating public safety, military, hospital personnel and there families for trauma, work related stressors and family issues. I have treated people who have survived trauma and I am also a trauma survivor. I have worked substance abuse treatment facilities and both inpatient and out patient psychiatric hospitals treating moderate to severe mental heath problems.

I am experienced in conducting diagnostic testing evaluations, fitness for work and pre-employment evaluations. I am a court recognized expert in a few different areas.

Due to my time practicing and vast experience nothing suprises me. I have seen, heard or dealt with most things in the this field. You cannot put a price tag on experience. I have also lived life and have experienced many things myself that clients come into my office wanting help with. I don't know about you but I like getting help from those that have treated the issues in the past or have gone through it themselves versus those that have read about it in books.

Hi, I’m Abdel! With over 15 years of experience in healthcare, I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to providing compassionate care for individuals managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. As a bilingual speaker in English and Arabic, I specialize in creating an inclusive environment where patients from all backgrounds feel truly heard and respected. My goal is to empower you through open communication and evidence-based treatment to help you achieve lasting wellness.

(Hablo Español) I'm a warm, welcoming person who enjoys making others feel comfortable and heard. I approach conversations with an open mind, staying nonjudgmental and genuinely curious about different perspectives. I value kindness, honesty, and creating a space where people can be themselves. Whether we're solving a problem or just chatting, I aim to keep things approachable, positive, and easy to understand.

Hi, I’m Vimal Patel, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing and have a background in both psychiatric and intensive care nursing. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders using a combination of medication management and supportive therapy. My approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and centered around your unique needs and goals. I'm here to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered on your mental health journey.

The focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan. I help individuals focus on the Solution.