Contessa Strother

Contessa Strother is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor in La Jolla, California, dedicated to guiding individuals and couples through significant life transitions and personal growth. Licensed since 2010, she earned her Master’s degree from California Baptist University and her Bachelor’s degree from Biola University. Her clinical focus includes supporting those managing anxiety, depression, grief, mood disorders, self-esteem challenges, interpersonal relationship issues, and stress. By fostering a safe and empowering environment, Contessa helps clients navigate fears and insecurities while gaining deeper insight into their mental health symptoms. Her treatment philosophy is grounded in evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Positive Psychology, all viewed through a strength-based lens. These frameworks are designed to help individuals interrupt unhelpful thought patterns, align choices with core values, and cultivate a mindset of hope and healing. For those seeking couples therapy, Contessa utilizes Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), an approach backed by over two decades of research. She assists partners in identifying maladaptive cycles and building new emotional connections to improve marital satisfaction and overall mental well-being. Whether working with individuals or couples, she views the therapeutic process as a sacred opportunity to build confidence, enhance self-awareness, and develop a higher perspective on life's challenges.