Marriage Therapy in San Diego – Personalized Couples Counseling at S.A.G.E.
I work with couples every week, and one striking fact I often share is this: nearly half of partnered adults say communication gaps cost them sleep and peace of mind. That scale of stress shows why focused care matters.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, recognized by ThreeBest Rated as one of the Top 3 marriage counselors in San Diego, I offer evidence-based couple therapy San Diego methods in a warm, results-oriented setting. Within S.A.G.E. Therapy Center, I focus on each couple’s goals and values so that every session remains practical and clear.
I offer secure teletherapy alongside in-person counseling to fit busy life schedules. My work helps you feel heard and respected while we rebuild trust, improve communication, and set concrete steps for a healthier relationship.
From our first meeting, we map outcomes that matter to you and move forward with simple, proven tools. I draw on years of clinical experience to keep sessions focused, collaborative, and tailored to your unique strengths.

Build a stronger relationship through personalized couples therapy at S.A.G.E. Therapy Center
At S.A.G.E. Therapy Center, I tailor each care plan so couples get support that fits daily life. I create a safe and respectful space where both partners can speak at their own pace.
With evidence-based methods, I focus on improving communication and addressing the issues that matter most. This approach blends practical skills, short exercises, and clear milestones so progress shows up in a visible, steady way.
“A tailored plan helps two people move from conflict toward connection with realistic steps.”
I bring both partners into the process collaboratively and provide flexible options, including in-person sessions in San Diego and secure, HIPAA-compliant teletherapy. Many new clients begin with a complimentary phone consultation to confirm fit and scheduling.
- I take time to understand your strengths, stressors, and goals to keep counseling focused and relevant.
- We collaboratively design a roadmap that includes simple practices and clear session themes.
- I provide brief between-session check-ins and coordinate with other therapists or individuals when helpful.
Evidence-based approaches I use so couples can create lasting change
In my work I pair established models to create a tailored path toward lasting change. I select methods that focus on clear skills and small, steady gains so progress fits into your life.
Gottman Method tools for communication, conflict management, and repair
I use Gottman interventions to teach calm ways to talk, de-escalate conflict, and perform reliable repair after fights. These tools help build shared meaning and routines that reduce reactivity.
Emotionally Focused Therapy to rebuild connection and trust
With EFT I help partners see the emotional cycles that feed distance. Shifting those patterns increases safety, closeness, and lasting trust.
Practical progress with CBT and Solution Focused strategies
By blending CBT and solution-focused approaches, I help identify thoughts that push partners apart while highlighting exceptions and successes. Together we turn insights into simple practices—including check-ins, rituals, and step-by-step repair sequences you can use between sessions.
- Together we select approaches that fit your goals and personalities.
- I coach de-escalation and clear tools for real-world use.
- As time goes on, these methods help couples build measurable change in the relationship and in daily life.
marriage therapy San Diego: my focused, compassionate way of working
My work blends structure and warmth to keep sessions productive and to make honest change feel possible. I offer clear feedback and evidence-based care, and I tailor each session so you leave with a short list of next steps.
Improving communication, lowering conflict, and deepening understanding
I balance structure and compassion so sessions stay focused while giving you space to be heard. We focus on the moments when conversations go sideways and install small communication shifts that reduce conflict and increase understanding.
- Short, repeatable exercises are used that fit your weekly rhythm so change lasts between sessions.
- My coaching style is gentle but direct—I challenge unhelpful patterns and highlight strengths.
- When sensitive issues arise, I guide you step by step to keep the process paced and respectful.
Restoring intimacy, rebuilding emotional and physical trust
I support you in rebuilding trust through clear agreements, transparent follow-through, and routines that help intimacy feel safe again. No matter if we meet in person in San Diego or via HIPAA-compliant teletherapy, the goal stays the same: a calmer, kinder way of relating that supports everyday life.
“You will leave with a brief list of priorities so you always know the next small step to take together.”
What to expect in your first appointment (and beyond)
Your first visit is intentionally designed to feel straightforward and supportive, so you can focus on what matters.
I usually begin with a brief, complimentary phone consultation to align schedules and answer basic questions. In the first appointment, I listen closely to both of you and learn what’s been hardest lately.
A clear plan with goals, session structure, and tools tailored to your needs
Together we set 2–3 initial goals and outline the session structure so you understand how time will be spent. I pick a few practical tools you can try right away. These include short check-ins, repair steps, and rituals you can fit into daily life.
- We review confidentiality, logistics, and how progress will be measured over time.
- You receive simple exercises to practice between sessions that respect your schedule as a family or as individuals.
- If it’s helpful, I coordinate with other providers or a support person to keep the work consistent.
- We select a cadence that fits your life—often weekly at first and then tapering as goals are met.
Before booking, you’re welcome to request a short consultation so you can feel confident this is the right first step for you.
Convenient therapy options to fit your life in San Diego
Many people juggle work, family, and travel—so I make scheduling simple and reliable. My goal is to remove barriers so care remains accessible and useful over time.
In-person sessions at a comfortable San Diego location
If you prefer a quiet, private place for focused counseling, I offer in-person sessions in San Diego. The office is calm and intentionally designed to minimize distractions so your appointment time is well used.
Secure teletherapy through HIPAA-compliant platforms
If travel or childcare makes in-person visits challenging, I provide secure teletherapy for your virtual sessions. This HIPAA-compliant platform works statewide, so you can join sessions from home or while traveling.
Flexible times for couples, individuals, and family involvement
A mix of daytime and limited evening slots is available so sessions can fit your work and family life. Whether you come for couples therapy, individual counseling, or family sessions, I adapt the format and timing to your goals.
- I offer consistent scheduling strategies for frequent travelers or shift workers.
- Short between-session touchpoints can be coordinated to help apply skills in real time.
- If you need help with tech setup, I offer a simple checklist so you can focus on the work, not the software.
From first contact through ongoing scheduling, I aim to keep access to care straightforward, reliable, and respectful of your time and life.
Why choose me as your Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
With steady clinical experience and a practical focus, I help couples move from stuck places to a steadier footing. At S.A.G.E. Therapy Center, I lead with integrity, warmth, and a commitment to meaningful results.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (MFC #83023), I’m recognized by ThreeBest Rated among the Top 3 Marriage Counselors. These credentials reflect years of specialized training plus ongoing professional development.
Experienced Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I bring years of focused work supporting difficult conversations in a safe, steady way. I use evidence-based approaches and keep learning so your care reflects current best practices.
Client-centered care that’s warm, balanced, and results-oriented
I blend warmth and structure so sessions feel both compassionate and productive. I focus on practical skills that quickly reduce issues while still addressing deeper patterns for long-term growth.
- You get clear, collaborative feedback and a few concrete next steps each session.
- The process is paced so both partners feel respected, understood, and genuinely empowered.
- Flexible options for in-person and HIPAA-compliant teletherapy help keep progress steady when life changes.
I often hear from clients that the mix of empathy, clarity, and accountability helps them notice real change in everyday life.
Real-world results you can feel: better communication, more confidence, and growth
Small, practical changes in how you talk and listen can lead to big differences in daily life.
At S.A.G.E. Therapy Center, my goal is for you to notice real change at home—less tension, more ease, and a stronger connection with your partner.
I use Gottman Method, EFT, CBT, and Solution Focused strategies to create a focused approach that delivers tangible improvements in communication and trust.
Many couples share that they feel calmer, clearer, and more connected as they practice simple routines that fit their everyday lives.
- Challenging topics become easier because you learn what to say, how to listen, and how to repair when things get rough.
- Small habits—like a short daily check-in—bring steadier support for family and shared life.
- People often report renewed teamwork, more laughter, and a steadier bond as confidence grows.
- Over time, the work builds lasting change—individuals gain self-awareness and regulation that strengthens relationships outside of sessions.
“We don’t just talk about change—we build it step by step until progress shows up at home.”
My care remains focused on the outcomes you want most so you leave with a clear sense of what helps and how to sustain growth long after counseling ends.
Take the first step today: schedule your couples counseling session
Begin today with a short call so I can learn your needs and confirm an appointment that fits your schedule.
In-person sessions in San Diego and secure, HIPAA-compliant teletherapy are both available for flexible care. A brief phone consultation helps us confirm fit and logistics before your first appointment.
In our first counseling session, we set clear goals, outline structure, and pick a few practices you can use right away at home. I keep the plan simple and focused so you can feel confident about your next steps.
If you’re ready to feel more connected, let’s book an appointment and map your first step toward calmer, stronger relationships and steady growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which issues do you help couples and families with?
I support partners and families through communication breakdown, trust repair, recurring conflict patterns, intimacy concerns, relationship-related anxiety, blended family challenges, and life transitions such as becoming parents or navigating career changes. I use evidence-based tools to address immediate issues and deeper patterns so couples see lasting, meaningful change.
What approaches do you use during sessions?
I use the Gottman Method for communication and conflict management, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to rebuild connection, and CBT with solution-focused strategies for practical, day-to-day progress. Because my work is tailored, I mix methods according to your goals and what fits your relationship best.
What happens in the first appointment?
In the first session I gather your history, clarify goals, and assess interaction patterns. I also explain session structure and lay out a clear plan with concrete tools you can begin using immediately. We set expectations and discuss whether couples, individual, or family sessions will best support your needs.
Do you offer remote sessions if we can’t come in person?
Yes, I provide secure teletherapy on HIPAA-compliant platforms for couples and individuals needing flexible support. These remote sessions are structured and effective, and I’ll help you get the most benefit from online work.
How long does it usually take to see results?
Progress varies by couple and issue. Many clients notice improved communication and reduced conflict within a few sessions, while deeper patterns take longer. I focus on measurable change and provide tools so improvements can continue between appointments.
Are you licensed, and what qualifications do you have?
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have years of clinical experience with couples and families. My training includes certified modalities like the Gottman Method and EFT, and I stay current with best practices to provide balanced, client-centered care.
How do I know if couples counseling is right for us?
If you’d like to improve communication, cut down on recurring fights, restore intimacy, or rebuild trust, couples counseling can be beneficial. When one partner is hesitant, an intake session can usually clarify what to do next. I offer a compassionate assessment process so you can decide on a focused plan together.
What availability and session options do you offer?
I provide in-person sessions at a comfortable San Diego office and flexible teletherapy times to accommodate busy schedules. I see couples, individuals, and families and try to accommodate evenings when possible to support working partners.
How much do your sessions cost, and do you take insurance?
Fees vary by session type. I provide transparent pricing during booking and can discuss insurance coverage, sliding scale options, or superbill receipts for out-of-network reimbursement. We review payment and scheduling before your first appointment.
What if one partner won’t attend counseling?
I also work with individuals to address relationship concerns and help them develop communication and coping strategies. Often one partner’s work leads to shifts that encourage the other to join. I respect readiness and focus on practical steps you can take now.