Therapists for Narcissistic Abuse in San Diego, CA: Top 8 Local Experts for Recovery

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Emily Thompson

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Experiencing narcissistic abuse can have lasting effects on emotional well-being and self-worth.

Many people in San Diego look for specialized support to heal from these challenging relationships.

Finding a therapist who understands narcissistic abuse is important for recovery and personal growth.

With the right help, individuals can work toward rebuilding confidence and learning healthy relationship patterns.

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1) Ross Kellogg – Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Therapy

A male therapist sitting in a bright, modern office with plants and bookshelves, looking warm and approachable.

Ross Kellogg is a licensed marriage and family therapist based in San Diego.

He offers specialized therapy for those recovering from narcissistic abuse.

Individuals can access support both in-person and online.

Kellogg also uses trauma-informed and goal-focused therapy methods.

He serves adults, couples, and survivors of emotional abuse.

He is available for clients in California, Washington, and North Carolina.

Learn more about Ross Kellogg’s therapy services and his experience as a therapist.

2) Brenda Stephens – Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center

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Brenda Stephens is a licensed counselor in San Diego who focuses on helping people recover from narcissistic abuse.

She also has experience working with trauma survivors and military families.

Brenda leads the Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center, where she provides therapy and coaching using trauma-informed care.

Her personal experience shapes her work with clients.

Learn more about Brenda Stephens at Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center and Stephens Therapy.

Ad, keeps our community free. The perspectives presented on this website are genuinely our own and we do not accept money for reviews.

betterhelp logo
review

4.5 (7,802+) FROM TRUSTPILOT

Fill out a brief questionnaire and get matched with an experienced therapist online in as little as 24 hours.

✓ Over 35K licensed professionals

✓ Subscriptions as low as $65/week, billed every four weeks

✓ Financial aid available

✓ Cancel plan or change therapist anytime

20% off your first month through Therapy Helpers

3) Jacqueline Struck – Complex Trauma and Narcissistic Abuse Specialist

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Jacqueline Struck is a licensed clinical social worker in San Diego who focuses on complex trauma, codependency, and narcissistic abuse.

Her approach often includes cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-informed care to help adults heal.

She has experience working with emotional abuse and insecure attachment.

Jacqueline is accepting telehealth appointments and has expertise in mood regulation and trauma bonding.

Learn more on the Clear Mind Counseling SD website and her Instagram profile.

4) Stephens Therapy Associates – Focus on Well-being

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Stephens Therapy Associates provides therapy for people dealing with narcissistic abuse and trauma in San Diego.

The team uses a variety of approaches to support healing and personal growth.

They offer a safe space for clients from all backgrounds.

Their therapists focus on conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and relationship issues.

Stephens Therapy Associates has experience with clients with military backgrounds as well.

Find out more at Stephens Therapy Associates’ official website and their Yelp page.

5) Inward Healing Therapy – Trauma and Narcissistic Abuse

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Inward Healing Therapy in San Diego offers support for people recovering from narcissistic abuse and complex trauma.

Their therapists use methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Brainspotting to help clients heal emotionally.

They focus on creating a safe space for clients to rebuild confidence after difficult experiences.

Learn more about their team and services at Inward Healing Therapy’s website and view their profile for more details.

6) Scott D. Altamirano, LMFT – Narcissistic Personality Specialist

A middle-aged male therapist sitting in a bright office with a bookshelf and city view behind him, smiling warmly.

Scott D. Altamirano, LMFT, provides therapy in San Diego focused on issues like toxic relationship patterns and narcissistic abuse.

He works with adults dealing with challenges such as addiction, codependency, trauma, and family conflicts.

Scott helps individuals and couples build healthier relationships and learn practical coping skills.

He is experienced in supporting clients working through complex emotional pain and recovery.

Learn more by visiting Psychology Today (Scott D. Altamirano – San Diego) and Monarch (Narcissistic Personality Therapists in San Diego).

7) Melissa Willard, MA, LMFT – Narcissistic Abuse Therapy

A female therapist sitting in a comfortable office with natural light and plants, looking empathetic and professional.

Melissa Willard is a licensed marriage and family therapist with training in narcissistic abuse recovery.

She uses a trauma-informed and empathetic approach to help clients rebuild their sense of self and confidence.

Her therapy style is supportive, nonjudgmental, and focused on collaboration.

Clients can expect a safe space to explore their experiences.

Learn more about Melissa Willard’s services at melissawillardlmft and Psychology Today.

8) Park Mental Health Treatment – NPD Therapy in San Diego

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Park Mental Health Treatment offers therapy for those dealing with Narcissistic Personality Disorder and narcissistic abuse.

Their team includes psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinicians.

They use evidence-based talk therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy.

Individualized treatment plans are created to fit each client’s needs.

Learn more about Park Mental Health Treatment’s NPD therapy and mental health services.

Frequently Asked Questions

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San Diego offers a variety of licensed therapists and counseling centers focusing on recovery from narcissistic abuse.

Options include individual therapy, support groups, and solutions for those who do not have insurance.

What qualifications should I look for in a therapist specializing in narcissistic abuse recovery?

Look for licensed professionals such as LMFTs (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists), LCSWs (Licensed Clinical Social Workers), or psychologists with specific training in trauma and abuse recovery.

Strong experience with clients affected by narcissistic relationships is important.

Many specialists list credentials and experience on their websites for easy reference.

How can I find a licensed professional with experience in treating survivors of narcissistic abuse in San Diego?

Several therapists and centers in San Diego, such as the Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center led by Brenda Stephens and Ross Kellogg, focus on narcissistic abuse recovery.

Websites like Psychology Today offer searchable directories for local professionals based on specialty and insurance coverage.

What types of therapy are most effective for dealing with the aftermath of narcissistic abuse?

Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and trauma-informed approaches have shown strong results.

Some therapists, like Jacqueline Struck, also use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and polyvagal theory in their work with survivors.

Can you suggest support groups for narcissistic abuse survivors in the San Diego area?

Some local practices provide group therapy for narcissistic abuse recovery.

The Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Center and organizations like Inward Healing Therapy may offer group or community resources.

Online support groups are also available for those who cannot attend in person.

What should I expect during the initial therapy sessions for narcissistic abuse recovery?

First sessions usually focus on building trust, identifying personal goals, and assessing the impact of the abuse.

Therapists often introduce coping tools and begin to outline a plan for healing.

You can expect a professional, compassionate environment where your experience is validated.

Are there any therapy options available for those without insurance seeking help for narcissistic abuse in San Diego?

Some therapists and centers offer sliding scale rates or reduced fees for clients without insurance.

Centers like Inward Healing Therapy and other community mental health organizations may have affordable services or connect you to low-cost options.

Online therapy platforms can also be a cost-effective choice.

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About the author

Emily Thompson

Emily Thompson

Hello there! I'm Emily Thompson, a proud Londoner and writer with a fervor for breaking down the complexities of therapy in this modern, digital era. My roots are in London, right in its bustling heart, and it was here at King's College London that I earned my degree in journalism. It was during those transformative years at university that my curiosity for mental health was ignited, propelling me to further study and earn a Masters in Clinical Psychology. I have a unique ability to simplify intricate therapy notions into easily understandable and relatable content, essentially bridging the chasm between the clinical environment and everyday folks like you and me.Social

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