Therapists in Carlsbad, Encinitas, & Vista

Psychologists who go deeper

Doctoral-level therapy for individuals, couples, teens, and groups in Carlsbad, Encinitas, and Vista — because real change asks for depth, not shortcuts.

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Call or text · (760) 334-6262

4.9/5 on Google · 90+ reviews across three locations.

our services

01.

individual therapy

One-on-one therapy with a doctoral-level psychologist — for adults, teens, and young adults working through anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship patterns, identity, or life transitions. We don't do surface-level check-ins. We help you understand what's driving the problem so the changes actually last.

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02.

couples therapy

Relationships don't break overnight, and they don't heal with superficial fixes. Our psychologists help couples move past conflict, rebuild trust, and reconnect — whether you're trying to repair something that's been hurting for years or strengthen something that's already good.

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03.

group therapy

90 minutes per session. A fraction of the cost of individual therapy. Led by doctoral-level psychologists. Our therapy groups give you something individual therapy can't — the experience of being seen, challenged, and supported by people who aren't paid to care about you. Groups are forming now at our Vista and Carlsbad offices.

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04.

psychological testing

When the path forward isn't clear, testing brings clarity. We offer comprehensive evaluations for ADHD, autism, learning differences, and personality — so you or your loved one can stop guessing and start getting the right support.

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meet a few of our psychologists

Not sure where to start? Our care coordinator can match you with the right psychologist based on your needs, schedule, and goals. Or scroll through our team below to learn about each clinician.

Chelsea Dudley, PsyD

Chelsea Dudley, PsyD

Director of Psychological Testing

Teens + Adults Specializes in: trauma, ADHD & autism testing, personality assessment. Carlsbad & Vista

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Lisette Montañez, PsyD

Lisette Montañez, PsyD

Director of Team Experience

Teens + Adults + Couples | Specializes in: relationships, identity, animal-assisted therapy. Carlsbad & Vista

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Clare Edwards, PhD

Clare Edwards, PhD

Vista Site Director

All Ages + Couples Specializes in: maternal health, family dynamics, child & teen therapy. Vista

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we're psychologists, and that matters

Every therapist on our team holds a doctorate in psychology. That's not a technicality — it changes everything about how we work.

Doctoral training means more hours in the room before we ever practice independently. It means we're trained in psychological testing, research methods, and evidence-based approaches — not just one modality, but the range needed to match the right approach to the right person. It means we consult with each other as a team, not as isolated practitioners sharing an office.

we're a group practice, and that also matters

Every week we meet as a team to learn together and from each other. We consult on cases, review testing data, bring in expert consultants, and coordinate care across our practice. That kind of collaboration doesn't just make us better clinicians — it means our patients are never working with someone who's figuring it out alone.

We didn't start out this way — it's something we built on purpose. Learn more about our story.

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therapy groups forming now

90 minutes. A third of the cost. Led by doctoral-level clinicians. Our Vista clinic is becoming North County's home for group therapy.

The Social Lab is an adults process group led by Dr. Lisette Montañez

Adult Therapy Group

New group recruiting members.

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young adults therapy

Adult Therapy Group

Now running and one seat open.

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Connected Parenting Group therapy in Carlsbad with Dr. Aguilera Rice

Parenting Therapy Group

For parents of children ages 4-8 years-old.

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DBT Skills Are For Everyone

DBT Skills Group

Needs three more members to start.

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See all groups

ready to get started?

1. Free Consultation

Call or email today. We will match you with a therapist and schedule a free 15-minute consultation call or a full session.

2. Sort the Details

You will receive access to online client portal where you can complete paperwork prior to your first session.

3. First Session

It's time to meet your therapist! Our therapists will help you discuss your concerns, hopes, and goals for therapy.

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Common questions about therapy at CTG

What kind of therapists are at Coastal Therapy Group?

Every clinician on our team holds a doctorate in psychology (PsyD or PhD). That means more years of supervised clinical training, research expertise, and the ability to provide both therapy and psychological testing under one roof. We're a true group practice — our psychologists consult with each other to make sure you're getting the best possible care.

How much does therapy cost?

Coastal Therapy Group is a private-pay practice. Sessions are not billed through insurance, but superbills are provided that can be submitted to your insurance company for potential out-of-network reimbursement. Many clients are surprised by how much their plan covers. Visit the Cost + Info page for current rates.

How do I get started?

Reach out by phone at (760) 334-6262 or through the website to schedule a free 15-minute consultation call. The team will match you with a therapist and get your first session on the calendar, typically within a week.

Do you offer online therapy?

Yes. Coastal Therapy Group offers online therapy to anyone located in California. Many clients split between in-person and online sessions. In-person offices are located in Carlsbad, Encinitas, and Vista.

What's the difference between a psychologist and a therapist?

All psychologists are therapists, but not all therapists are psychologists. A psychologist holds a doctoral degree (PsyD or PhD) and completes significantly more supervised training hours before practicing independently. Psychologists are also trained in psychological testing and research methods. At Coastal Therapy Group, every clinician is a doctoral-level psychologist.

Do you offer group therapy?

Yes. Therapy groups meet weekly, run 90 minutes, and cost roughly a third of individual therapy. Groups are led by doctoral-level clinicians at the Vista and Carlsbad offices. Current groups include process groups for adults and teens, grief therapy, DBT skills, connected parenting, and more.

Do you offer psychological testing?

Yes. Coastal Therapy Group provides comprehensive psychological evaluations for ADHD, autism, learning differences, and personality. Testing is conducted by doctoral-level psychologists and includes a detailed report with clear recommendations.

cost & insurance

We are a private-pay practice. Many clients with PPO plans are reimbursed for a significant portion of their sessions. For more information about our rates and how to use out-of-network insurance benefits, visit our Cost + Info page.

a few areas of specialty

Our therapists in Carlsbad, Encinitas, and Vista specialize in many different areas. Learn more about a few here, or reach out today to match with a psychologist who can meet your specific needs.

Get in-person therapy with a psychologist in Carlsbad, Encinitas, or Vista

Addresses:

2564 State Street, Unit B
Carlsbad, CA 92008

169 Saxony Road, #211
Encinitas, CA 92024

1800 Thibodo Road, #110
Vista, CA 92081

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