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"She knew exactly what I was going through at the time and she explained to me all the resources that were needed. She was really helpful and I am so thankful to her for that."
"She was extremely knowledgeable about special education law. She was amazing, really understanding, really smart."

"I think for my daughter it was good to have somebody to talk to that wasn't in the family. Somebody who knew what she was going through. For me I think it was also someone to talk to who was objective."

Counseling PDF Print E-mail

To schedule an appointment regarding Counseling Services, please call (619) 446-6936 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Counseling is provided by a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern with specific training and experience in working with the unique issues experienced by families caring for an individual with special needs.  The Intern is supervised by a licensed psychologist.

Counseling sessions are offered on a sliding fee scale based on income, and clients are charged a per session rate.  Counseling is offered for:

Family Members (caregivers, couples, and siblings)

In working with family members, we provide counseling to individuals, couples or families depending on the need.  Our counseling services focus mainly on the following issues:

  • stress and coping
  • grief and acceptance
  • family communication
  • education for siblings
  • navigating the service system


Individuals with high functioning Autism or Asperger Syndrome and their families

We understand that there are limited resources for young adults and adults on the autism spectrum to help with adjusting to adult life, coping with emotions and also working with family members to understand the disorder.  These counseling services focus on:

  • decreasing anxiety and depression
  • addressing social skills needs
  • increasing self awareness and modifying behaviors
  • planning for adult life
  • providing family education and training on Autism Spectrum Disorders


Couples with one or more partner with a developmental or learning difference

We also understand that issues may arise in a relationship when one or more partner has a developmental or learning difference, particularly if they are also parenting a child with special needs.  These counseling services focus on:

  • education on the condition
  • communication skills
  • awareness and acceptance of learning differences
  • co-parenting issues
  • intimate relationship issues