HEALING HEARTS COUNSELING CENTER

OUR MISSION

To promote behavioral health and wellness for our clients to obtain a high quality of life within themselves, their family and their community. We work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that include assessment, short-term solution focused interventions, consultation with other providers, and crisis intervention. If you are feeling stuck, stressed from life circumstances, or having trouble adjusting to new transitions, then please contact us. We are here for you!

MEET OUR TEAM OF THERAPISTS

Encinitas Office Location

Jennifer Little MS, LPCC #2992, Supervisor, Owner

The best counselors in San Diego are those that have gone through trials and tribulations- then to survive, overcome, and teach others how to do the same. I grew up as a caretaker for my single mother who suffered from mental health issues. She committed suicide when I was only fifteen after struggling with several debilitating symptoms.

This initially motivated me to get through college to become a special education teacher working with students in public middle schools. I absolutely loved my students; however, being a teacher prevented me from becoming closer with each student that needed a role model- an adult they could trust and turn to for help.

With the limitations placed on school teachers, I found this dilemma very frustrating. Therefore, I decided to obtain another degree in mental health counseling in order for me to open up my own practice. As a counselor, I am now able to establish deeper relationships with my clients, both children, and adults. I strive every day to help my clients grow in every aspect of their lives.

Regardless of their circumstances, I want my clients to recognize their true potential, their capacity to become, and achieve anything. Every time I help a person who is struggling with suicide, medical illnesses, or mental health issues- I reflect upon my own mother and reassured that being a counselor is what God had planned for me all along.

I also have experience with eating disorders, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, all mood disorders, pre and post-natal, grief, addictions, and family dynamics. As well as case management for more severe disorders, such as schizophrenia and bipolar. I conduct neurofeedback with people ages four years old until end of life for anxiety, anger, depression, insomnia, migraines, seizures, ADHD, autism, ODD, DMDD, memory, focus, and peak performance. I utilize EMDR to treat various forms of PTSD. Play therapy, CBT, and DBT are approaches used in both individual and group settings.

EDUCATION & BACKGROUND

• Master’s degree in Special Education at the University of Nevada Las Vegas
• Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling at Walden University.
• Five years of teaching adolescent age students with special needs.
• Owner of Healing Hearts Counseling Center SD INC private practice and supervisor of other therapists.

CERTIFICATIONS

• EMDR Specialist
• Play and Sand-tray Therapist under the ACAC division
• Somatic Experiencing

Accumulation of clinical experience in a variety of settings:

• Non-profit community agencies in Las Vegas, Nevada and NAMI for individual patients and their families seeking out mental health assistance.

Dana Alavi, AMFT #145882

I hold a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and firmly believe that our actions, words, and thoughts both influence and are influenced by those around us. This belief in interconnectedness drives my commitment to the therapeutic relationship, as I believe it has the power to inspire healing and change when desired. As your therapist, I will guide you down the path of your choosing, while we explore new perspectives, unlock doors, and open our minds to new ideas together.

I love working with all populations but have a special passion for working with teenagers. They are open to new ideas, learning, and growth, making it a privilege to help guide them through such an important stage of life. I run a weekly DBT skills group for teens, providing them with a safe space to build social skills, self-esteem, and manage their emotions. Additionally, I find couples therapy incredibly rewarding, as I witness the most miracles occur when two people work together toward change.

In my personal life, I am a divorced mother of two boys who has remarried and now co-parents. Having navigated the fears and anxieties of divorce, I remain a firm believer that we are our best selves when in a deep and loving connection. In my free time, I enjoy dancing and am a member of a talented dance team.

During my career, I have advocated for foster youth and worked as a therapist in a halfway house in Newark, NJ, where I helped families heal and reunify after incarceration. I am also EMDR-trained and passionate about supporting clients on their healing journeys. As part of the Healing Hearts Counseling Center, I aim to help individuals, couples, or families navigate any challenges that may arise.

Caitlin Mikulicich, LMFT #133130, Supervisor

It’s been found that the most important factor in creating lasting change in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can process your emotions and begin transforming pain into growth. I take a client-centered, culturally sensitive approach, considering all aspects of who you are, mind, body, and spirit—while specifically focusing on trauma recovery. I use research-backed methods, including DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and art therapy, tailoring my approach to meet your unique needs.

Jessy Milligan, LMFT #140774

I have always been a relational person, and since high school I’ve enjoyed listening to other people’s stories and getting to know people on deeper levels. I also grew up with a grandmother who was—and still volunteers as—a therapist, and I greatly admire the person she is and the way she is able to help others. As a result, I have always felt a passion for helping others and have felt drawn to the field of psychology and to become a therapist. 

I achieved my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Point Loma Nazarene University and went on to complete a master’s in clinical psychology with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy from Azusa Pacific University. Since then I have gained experience working with adults healing from past traumas and substance abuse, as well as other mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. 

I believe the primary tool for healing is the therapeutic relationship between a therapist and her client; I aim to create a safe space for clients to process what they need and to build a trusting, collaborative relationship to reach their goals. I want to meet my clients where they are emotionally to help them reach their goals. I use empirically-based therapies, including CBT, psychodynamic, narrative, existentialism, and EMDR, tailoring sessions toward a client’s individual needs. I enjoy helping my clients gain insight into themselves and into past experiences that impact their thought patterns, behaviors, and relationships—and help them develop tools to experience healing and change and to begin reaching their full potential.  

Jazlynn Schmall, LPCC #19863

Hi everyone, my name is Jazlynn Sipplen. I have always taken an interest in helping people with their emotional and behavioral needs. Since an early age people have always felt comfortable telling me about their experiences and problems that they may be facing. It has been interesting to see how our mind and emotions can have such a significant impact on our daily functioning. I grew up in a household where both of my parents worked in the healthcare field, so the idea of helping others was instilled in me at an early age.  

I achieved my bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Central Florida and completed my master’s degree in counseling and human development at Lindsey Wilson College. This has led me to gain experience working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and other mental health challenges.  

I believe the most effective tool in therapy is the relationship between client and therapist. Having a good therapeutic relationship can help pave the way for a healthy outcome. I aim to provide a safe and supportive environment to help clients achieve their goals and long term success. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution focused therapy in which I tailor strategies and treatment to benefit each client. I absolutely enjoy helping clients gain insight into their thoughts and behaviors and practice strategies to improve these thoughts and behaviors to better reflect the best version of themselves.  

Amy Scher, ACSW #129025

I’m an associate therapist with a Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University and a B.A. in psychology. My background combines clinical training with real-life experience, and I bring a warm, down-to-earth presence to my therapy work. 

Before becoming a therapist, I spent many years working in nonprofit organizations as an educator and program director, creating programs that helped people feel more connected and supported. I’ve designed community-based initiatives for universities and agencies, with a focus on parenting, women’s issues, and emotional well-being. I love helping to build strong communities that foster growth, connection, and belonging. 

As a therapist, I’m passionate about helping youth and adults of all ages grow and make meaningful change. I use a client-centered, strengths-based approach and deeply believe that each person is the expert on their own experience. Together, we can find new ways of coping creatively with whatever is holding you back. I draw from many different approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and family systems therapy, among others. I use a blend of techniques in order to focus on what helps you feel best supported at the time you need it. 

I work with youth and adults on everything from anxiety and depression to life transitions, self-esteem, identity, parenting, and relationship stress. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed or in pain, we’ll work together to get you some relief and clarity—without judgment, and at your pace. My style is compassionate and authentic, and I provide a warm space where you can feel heard, supported, and empowered. I enjoy bringing curiosity, humor, and play into our work together. 

I live in San Diego and am a single mom to two spirited kids – and one wildly enthusiastic pup (who you may choose to meet!) As a parent myself, I understand firsthand the joys and challenges that come with parenting. Outside of work, I love music and dancing of all kinds, as well as cooking and baking (sometimes at odd hours), doing puzzles, and exploring new hobbies that bring playfulness and creativity to life.

Julie Choi Trepkau, AMFT #147728

My journey to this work has been anything but linear, yet every step has led me here. I began my academic path studying Art History at Barnard College in New York City before earning an MSc from The London School of Economics and Political Science (Social Anthropology and Development Studies). After working in the corporate world in Hong Kong, my life took an unexpected turn when I discovered Ashtanga Yoga. This sparked a deep interest in mindfulness, meditation, and the mind-body connection, leading me to share these practices with others. 

I then moved to Hamburg, Germany, where I embraced motherhood, deepened my yoga practice with extended trips to India, and experienced firsthand the profound connection between movement, breath, and emotional well-being. Returning to the U.S. after 15 years abroad, I settled in Encinitas and taught elementary school, where I became increasingly fascinated by the ways in which trauma is held in the body—and how somatic practices can support healing. Witnessing the transformative power of mindfulness, breathwork, and embodied movement, I felt called to expand my work into the field of psychotherapy.  I pursued my MA in Counseling Psychology at National University to bridge the worlds of mindfulness and therapy, allowing me to support others in healing, self-discovery, and emotional regulation. 

My approach integrates trauma-informed, evidence-based practices—including humanistic and psychodynamic therapies, CBT, and DBT—with somatic and mindfulness-based techniques such as IFS and Brainspotting. I believe in co-creating personalized, systems-sensitive care that is tailored to your unique needs, supporting sustainable mental health and meaningful transformation.  I’m passionate about helping individuals cultivate self-awareness, calm their nervous systems, and develop tools for lasting well-being. I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey toward growth and healing.

Jessica Urrutia, AMFT #154043

Hello, my name is Jessica, and I am a Bilingual (Spanish) Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Master’s degree from the University of Massachusetts, Global. I have had a diverse work background, including healthcare experience and military service, which both led me into the field of mental health. I am very happy and excited for your mental health journey and finding out if we can be a match. I have worked with people of all ages, and have experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, and suicidal ideation. During my time in school I specialized working with older adults dealing with depression, anxiety, abuse, trauma, end of life, and grief. I also assisted in running grief support groups for people who have lost their spouse. 

In the therapy room, I use an eclectic approach, utilizing tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. I believe in collaboration within the therapy room-yes, I am the professional, but you are the expert in your life and I am here to help guide you through the journey that you want to live.

Outside of the therapy room I try to practice what I preach: maintaining good work-life balance. I have a blended family, my husband and I both work full time jobs, we have 3 dogs, and we love the outdoors; camping and off-roading is our thing. 

Megan Young ACSW #111308

Hi everyone! I’m Megan. I currently am registered as an Associate Clinical Social Worker who strives to help others through their life’s challenges. I completed my education at California State University of San Marcos with a Masters in Social Work.

My desire to help others began when I was a teen going through one of life’s many obstacles. One of those obstacles, that became more prominent in my teen years, has been my diagnosis of Epilepsy (seizures). By no means has living with this diagnosis been “easy”, although, I do believe it has helped me build grit and strive to become a better human being and clinician. We don’t have light without some shadows, and Epilepsy happens to be my shadow. Despite this diagnosis, I have been able to complete my education, build and sustain healthy relationships in all environments, navigate life’s curveballs, and increase that resilience that I was once so obstinate from building. I’m grateful this obstacle has led me down the path of helping others heal – it’s been a gift.

I do believe it is incredibly important to create a strong therapeutic alliance through authenticity and vulnerability. My hope for any person I interact with is they can feel safe speaking their truth and telling their story. I genuinely feel each person deserves to be heard and feel that there is someone in their corner no matter what the circumstance may be. I am passionate about helping others increase their insight into what hinders them utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, facilitating emotional regulation through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and working through various traumas with Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

It is my belief that each individual has the strength within themselves to overcome daily and lifelong challenges. We cannot see the light without shadows just like we cannot have the sun without the moon. Our experiences, both challenging and smooth, help us become individuals who can strive toward greatness. Take a deep breath (as ‘ugh’ as that sounds), and lean into the challenge toward creating the life you want.

Hailey Jackson LPCC #17786

Hi, my name is Hailey. I am grateful to be in this profession where I get to experience all the human complexities that make you, you.

I started my work in psychotherapy doing crisis care in a youth shelter. This environment helped to develop a deep compassion for humanity and the skills to be able to advocate for human rights. It was at this job that I knew being a therapist was what I was meant to do. I have experience working with students in high schools and community colleges, doing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression.

When you partner with me as a client you can expect to walk into a comforting and non-judgmental environment. I will always be my extroverted and energetic authentic self in session to promote you to be comfortable being authentic as well. However you show up, and whatever you present to me, you will be unconditionally accepted. I will work with you to challenge thoughts and behaviors that are contradictory to your personal goals. I will be validating and sensitive to your feelings. I will hear you and actively listen to what you say.

Things that I am passionate about include:

• Working with teenagers and young adults (Transitional age youth)
• Treating issues around anxiety, depression, ADHD, Trauma, PTSD, and grief
• Psychodynamic therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Client Centered Approach, CBT, DBT

Kirsten Hansen, AMFT #154052

I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist who brings authenticity, empathy, and a deep passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges. I believe we each carry the inner resources we need to heal—but we may not know how to access them on our own. I consider myself a holistic practitioner acknowledging the interconnectedness of mental, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. I am also a mother of two teenage girls.

Whether you’re facing life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges, I offer a supportive and trusted presence to help guide your healing journey. I work with children, couples, and adults using a trauma-informed and person-centered approach that draws from modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, Narrative Therapy, Brainspotting, and parts work. Your unique needs will inform and shape each session.

I am an avid traveler who was raised and educated in both Australia and the United States, which has given me a global perspective and a deep respect for the diversity of people, cultures, and lived experiences. You’ll find me to be open, compassionate, transparent, and non-judgmental as we work together through life’s challenges.

I was drawn to the mental health field in my early twenties; however, with a little twist of fate, I ended up pursuing a successful career in marketing. During the pandemic, I experienced a shift in purpose and recognized that I no longer found true meaning in my work, so I took the bold leap to embrace my true calling and begin a new career. I now hold a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from National University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara. I also earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Marketing from Curtin University in Western Australia. I currently serve on the Board of Directors for the San Diego North County CAMFT chapter supporting our passionate community of professionals. 

Cristina Chance, AMFT #140106, APCC #16066

 I am a psychotherapist with a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling. I help people navigate the wild rollercoaster of emotions, relationships, and life’s general weirdness—without resorting to interpretive dance. A firm believer that healing doesn’t have to be boring, I bring humor, honesty, and a touch of nonconformity to the therapy room. Whether you’re untangling relationship knots or just trying to figure out why your brain refuses to cooperate, I am here to help, no judgment, just good therapy (and maybe a few existential jokes along the way).

I have experience working with people of all ages and genders because, let’s be honest, life doesn’t discriminate when it comes to throwing curveballs. My passion for working with and for people started young and hasn’t let up since, probably because humans are endlessly fascinating.

I believe there’s always light at the end of the tunnel, even if sometimes it’s just the glow of your phone at 3 AM. Life hands out lemons daily, and they’re here to help you turn them into the juice that fuels resilience and inner strength. Using a person-centered approach and a mix of eclectic interventions tailored to each individual, I guide people through life’s challenges. Outside the therapy room, I am a nature lover, animal enthusiast, avid traveler, hiker, swimmer, and cultural explorer; if not helping people untangle their thoughts, I am probably somewhere in the wild, befriending stray dogs or contemplating life from the top of a mountain.

I am also a proud single mom to an amazing adult daughter, a Great Pyrenees who believes she run the house, and an orange cat with a superiority complex. *** EMDR TRAINED

Anna Piecuch, APCC #20692

Hello, my name is Anna! I am grateful to have the opportunity to meet and engage with people from all walks of life, with such unique strengths that you bring to the table. 

I am an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with my master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. I completed my education at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, where I also obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Journalism.

I believe all people are the experts of themselves! Wherever you are on the road of life, I hope to best meet you where you are at with empathy and presence. You deserve to lead a life that brings joy and fulfillment, and I hope to provide a trusting, non-judgmental atmosphere in our work together to establish a foundation of safety for our budding therapy alliance. I utilize a person-centered, trauma-informed approach with a Multicultural Feminist Therapy lens in my work, as I am passionate about consciousness-raising pertaining to issues of power dynamics and societal structures that impact our ability to not only survive, but thrive.

I am passionate about self-compassion, advocacy work, family systems theory, DBT, ACT, IFS, values-based living, somatic experiencing, the Window of Tolerance in trauma processing, and the authentic telling of human stories. I invite you to be yourself in our time together, and I always welcome feedback from you so I may know how I can serve you best and meet your needs.

I began my journey in the mental health realm serving as a Decision Support Coordinator in rural Pennsylvania for an outpatient recovery center. Here, I helped to ensure clear communication and bridging between clients and their medical prescriber team, in collaboration of meaningful recovery treatment plans. I then continued my experience in community mental health settings as an outpatient therapist, serving all ages within client-centered, strengths-based counseling relationships. I am also BCAT certified, as I have worked in the San Diego area with neurodivergent populations using evidence-based, play-based therapy with children and adolescents. I believe play, dance, and leisure are vital to our expression as humans, as play and creativity serve as outlets for what words cannot always express.

Rancho Bernardo Office Location

Caroline Hawkes, AMFT #158035

I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals, couples, and families as they navigate life’s challenges and discover pathways to growth and healing. I earned my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and, through my extensive training and experience, have had the privilege of working with clients of all ages across diverse backgrounds and circumstances.

I find fulfillment in helping adolescents and teens work through the complexities of growing up—from identity questions and peer pressure to family conflicts and academic stress. These formative years can feel overwhelming, and I understand that beneath every challenging behavior or difficult emotion is a young person trying to make sense of their world.

I know starting therapy takes tremendous courage and can feel intimidating, building a strong, trusting relationship is always my top priority. I strive to create a genuinely safe and welcoming space where clients feel heard, understood, and unconditionally supported as they work toward meaningful change.

I have extensive experience helping clients with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, complex family dynamics, grief and loss, major life transitions, relationship and interpersonal struggles, trauma, and behavioral challenges. My approach is thoughtfully integrative, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), family systems work, and a client-centered framework.

I believe therapy works best when it’s engaging and tailored to each individual’s unique needs and learning style. With creativity and flexibility, I meet each person exactly where they are and support them in navigating their specific challenges. My goal is to empower clients with practical tools, deep insights, and lasting coping strategies to help them build healthier, more authentic, and genuinely fulfilling lives.

Allie Craig, AMFT

Hi everyone! My name is Allie Craig, and I believe in healing through connection. I’m an associate therapist with my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University. I am passionate about walking alongside individuals, children, and families as they navigate life’s challenges and create meaningful change. My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and person-centered—I believe that healing happens when clients feel truly seen, understood, and supported.

As a therapist, I deeply value tailoring each session to the unique needs and personality of my client. Whether through play and creative expression with children, or thoughtful dialogue with adults and families, I aim to create a safe, nurturing space where growth and resilience can flourish. I believe in a holistic approach to wellness and healing, supporting not only mental and emotional well-being, but also the ways our relationships, environments, and daily practices shape our lives.

My clinical experience has given me the privilege of working with diverse populations in school-based, community, and private settings. I have worked supporting clients with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, family stress, and life transitions. I’ve also served as a crisis counselor, which taught me the importance of presence, compassion, and meeting clients exactly where they are.

At the heart of my work is a deep belief that therapy is not “one size fits all”, and I honor my clients for all aspects of who they are. I put my full heart into everything I do, and my hope is that you feel this care and dedication in our time together!

Sami Metivier, Office Manager

We provide in-person mental health therapy and counseling to residents throughout north San Diego County, including Encinitas, Carlsbad, Oceanside, Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Cardiff, Leucadia, Del Mar, Carmel Valley, Rancho Bernardo, Poway, Escondido, San Marcos, Rancho Peñasquitos, 4S Ranch, Scripps Ranch, and Vista. We also offer telehealth services to clients throughout California.