Alva Ward, LPCC, CA | Psychotherapist

About Alva Ward

Focus areas

Addiction / Substance Abuse

Bereavement / Grief Counseling

Parenting Counseling

Anxiety

Coping Mechanism Development

Psychological Trauma

Behavioral Problems

Domestic Violence

Clientele seen

Young adults (18-24)

Individuals

Adults (25-64)

Teenagers (13-17)

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Interpersonal

EMDR

Psychodynamic

Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)

Humanistic

Identity

Gender

Male

Ethnicity

Indigenous American or Alaska Native, White

Languages spoken

English

Getting to know Alva Ward

I am here to help empower you to navigate difficult emotions, thoughts, and memories of past experiences that are blocking you from effectively managing stress and a complex nervous system, while assisting you in adaptively pursuing the change you desire. My goal is to help you feel more in control, even when many things are out of your control. My approach Therapy can be uncomfortable. Safety, in the form of choice and permissions, is the number one priority. My person-centered approach keeps you in control, and what you want at the forefront. I incorporate EMDR, infused with ACT, and mindfulness strategies, alongside Extended Family Systems Theory. My focus Our brains strive for, and sometimes demand, certainty and meaning from events inside of us and outside of us in our environment. First, I will seek to understand where you are in your therapeutic journey, and I will meet you there. Together, we build strength and skills to help carry you further toward insight, integration, and inspiration. My communication style I prioritize clear, open communication to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I practice active listening and will give you opportunities to reflect on your experiences with me as an empathetic partner. If we’re working through something challenging, you can expect me to be calm and patient. My journey to mental healthcare I was inspired by therapists who assist others to heal from traumatic experiences and overwhelming life events. Personally, I listened to stories of healing and positive change. My journey started in the substance use recovery field, then community mental health with adults, then specialty mental health with teens, youths, and families. My goals for you There are common factors that are a part of every problem, every DSM diagnosis, every interpersonal issue, and every goal and/or desired achievement. They are thoughts, emotions, beliefs, memories, and physical sensations.

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In-network insurances

Aetna

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200+ more in-network plans

Popular visit reasons

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Depression

Mood Swings

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Therapy

Worry

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Depression

Mood Swings

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)

Education and background

Practice names

Rula Health - San Diego

Education and training

Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, Master's in Counseling

NPI number

1891294799

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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Alva Ward?

Generally, Alva Ward has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Alva Ward's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

Is Alva Ward accepting new patients?

Alva Ward generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Alva Ward's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

Does Alva Ward accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Alva Ward is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Alva Ward online?

Yes, you can make an appointment online with Alva Ward using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

What practice does Alva Ward work with?

Alva Ward works with Rula Health - San Diego.

What are common reasons for patients to see Alva Ward?

Alva Ward frequently sees patients for Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Alva Ward on their profile.