What is the difference between psychotherapy and talk therapy?

The terms psychotherapy and talk therapy are often used interchangeably. Both refer to structured therapy sessions where individuals work with a psychologist to explore thoughts, emotions, and behavioral patterns.

How long does individual therapy usually last?

The length of therapy varies depending on the concerns being addressed. Some individuals attend therapy for several months, while others continue longer as part of an ongoing process of personal growth.

Is 1-on-1 therapy confidential?

Yes. Individual psychotherapy is confidential, and psychologists follow strict professional and ethical guidelines designed to protect client privacy.

Can virtual therapy be as effective as in-person therapy?

For many individuals, virtual therapy is highly effective. Online sessions provide the same therapeutic conversation and psychological support while allowing clients to attend sessions from home.

Do I need a specific problem to begin therapy?

Not necessarily. Many individuals begin therapy simply to gain greater clarity about their experiences, develop self-awareness, and strengthen emotional resilience.

Individual Psychotherapy, Talk Therapy, and 1-on-1 Therapy in San Diego

Individual psychotherapy provides a space where people can explore their experiences, thoughts, and emotional patterns with the support of a licensed psychologist. Sometimes referred to as talk therapy or 1-on-1 therapy, this process allows individuals to reflect on challenges, gain insight into behavioral patterns, and develop strategies for navigating life more effectively.

At SD Psychology, individual therapy is approached thoughtfully and collaboratively. Therapy sessions provide a supportive environment where clients can better understand emotional responses, develop greater self-awareness, and work toward meaningful personal growth.

Many people seek individual psychotherapy during periods of stress, life transition, or emotional difficulty. Others pursue therapy as part of an ongoing process of personal development and self-understanding.

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When Individual Therapy May Be Helpful

People begin individual psychotherapy for many different reasons. Some are navigating a specific challenge, while others are seeking a supportive space to better understand their thoughts, emotions, relationships, or patterns.

Talk therapy may be helpful if you’re experiencing anxiety, low mood or depression, grief or loss, trauma-related distress, relationship difficulties, burnout, emotional overwhelm, or a major life transition.

Individual therapy can also support people seeking greater self-awareness, working through career or family stress, or building emotional resilience during periods of change.

Therapy can be helpful even when your concerns are less clearly defined. You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out.

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Explore Talk Therapy in San Diego

Individual psychotherapy at SD Psychology can take many forms depending on what you’re working through. Below are the focused therapy services we offer for adults and teens in San Diego.

Anxiety, Mood & Mental Health

Anxiety therapy for persistent worry, panic, or high-stress periods
Depression therapy for low mood, loss of motivation, or persistent sadness
OCD therapy for intrusive thoughts and compulsive patterns
Mental health therapy for general mental health counseling for adults

Trauma, Grief & Life Transitions

Trauma therapy for PTSD and trauma-related distress
Grief & loss therapy for processing the loss of a loved one or a major life chapter
Adjustment disorder therapy for navigating major life changes or transitions
Postpartum therapy for new parents adjusting to the postpartum period

Personal Growth & Daily Functioning

Personal growth therapy for self-exploration, insight, and long-term development
Adult ADHD therapy for focus, organization, and emotional regulation support

Health, Career & Age-Specific Support

Chronic illness & pain management therapy for the emotional impact of chronic health conditions
Therapy for healthcare workers for burnout and stress unique to medical professionals
Health coaching for behavioral change around sleep, exercise, and lifestyle
Teen therapy for individual psychotherapy for adolescents

How 1-on-1 Therapy Supports Personal Growth

Working individually with a psychologist allows clients to focus on their own experiences, emotional patterns, and goals.

Over time, therapy can help you:

Identify patterns that influence thoughts and behavior
Develop healthier coping strategies
Strengthen emotional awareness
Navigate relationships more effectively
Build greater resilience during difficult periods

The therapeutic process is gradual and reflective. Rather than providing quick solutions, therapy focuses on helping individuals develop insight and skills that support long-term emotional well-being.

Meet Your Therapists

Individual psychotherapy at SD Psychology is provided by licensed clinical psychologists who work with adults navigating emotional challenges, life transitions, relationship concerns, and personal development. Each clinician brings a thoughtful, individualized approach to therapy.

Dr. Stamatia Daroglou

Licensed clinical psychologist and founder of SDPsychology with 30+ years of experience, specializing in adult and couples therapy, trauma, anxiety, and complex emotional care.

Dr. Ivy Kensinger

Psychological Associate (Dr. K) specializing in therapy for adults and adolescents, with expertise in trauma, chronic illness, grief, and LGBTQ+ mental health, using a personalized, strengths-based, existential approach.

Dr. Casey Adamson

Licensed Clinical Psychologist with 15+ years of experience, specializing in trauma care, veteran support, and evidence-based therapies, providing counseling for individuals, couples, and families.

Dr. Danna Gonzalez Casas

Psychological Associate specializing in adult and couples therapy, with a bilingual (Spanish/English), integrative approach focused on trauma, BIPOC and immigrant communities, and holistic, evidence-based care.

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Our San Diego Locations for Talk Therapy

We offer individual psychotherapy, talk therapy, and 1-on-1 therapy in San Diego, with in-person sessions available in La Jolla and Encinitas, along with virtual therapy across California when appropriate.

Each office is designed to provide a calm, private environment where clients can reflect, speak openly, and receive support with care and confidentiality.

For clients who prefer flexibility, virtual therapy sessions are available across California. Online sessions allow individuals to connect with a psychologist from home while still engaging in structured psychotherapy.

Begin Individual Psychotherapy at SD Psychology

If you would like to learn more about individual psychotherapy, talk therapy, or 1-on-1 therapy at SD Psychology, you can schedule a first consultation. This is a chance to ask questions, share what you are looking for, and determine whether our practice feels like the right fit.

Reach out to us today to get started.