Jessica Buchanan
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist 

Before becoming a therapist, I served on active duty in the U.S. Navy for 15 years. While serving in the military I completed three overseas deployments supporting Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. During one of my deployments, I had the honor of serving as an individual augmentee on a Joint Task Force. 

 

My interest in the mental health field began in the Navy. During that time, I was exposed to the vast need for mental health therapy services for members of the military, first responders, and their families. This firsthand experience highlighted the unique challenges faced by military personnel, and their families such as alcohol use, PTSD, suicide, etc. The Navy provided me with a deep understanding of military, paramilitary, and first responder cultures and the sacrifices made by those who serve.

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I completed my practicum therapy training at Veteran’s Village of San Diego, where I worked with veterans in residential treatment for alcohol, substance use, and comorbid disorders. Following the completion of my training I became an associate clinical therapist at VVSD. I obtained a strong clinical background in effectively treating clients with PTSD, depression, anxiety, sexual trauma, sexual harassment, sexual assault, stigma related to mental health, suicidal ideation, and addictions. I enjoy using evidenced based modalities such as mindfulness, anger management, trauma, stress tolerance, family dynamics, and healthy relationships. I am also experienced in utilizing evidence-based interventions in both individual and group therapies using MI, DBT, CBT, and CPT. I have insight and experience working with clients participating in 12-Step Programs, SMART Recovery, and Celebrate Recovery programs.

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I hold a master’s degree in counseling psychology and professional clinical counseling from National University, with a specialization in marriage and family therapy. I am committed to providing and fostering a safe therapeutic environment that nurtures healing and growth for everyone.

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