Gemma Bernes, LCSW, San Diego, CA | Psychotherapist

About Gemma Bernes

Focus areas

Anxiety

Bipolar Disorder

Eating Disorder

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Childhood Trauma

Gender Affirming Counseling

Bereavement / Grief Counseling

Depression

Clientele seen

Teenagers (13-17)

Seniors (65+)

Young adults (18-24)

Individuals

Adults (25-64)

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Dialectical (DBT)

Identity

Gender

Female

Languages spoken

English

Getting to know Gemma Bernes

Gemma Bernes supports individuals across California in navigating lifes complexities with empathy, clinical skill, and a personalized approach to healing. She offers individual therapy to teens, young adults, adults, and seniors, providing a safe and affirming space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Whether someone is struggling with anxiety, depression, or identity-related challenges, Gemma works collaboratively to foster resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful growth. With a deep commitment to trauma-informed care, Gemma specializes in helping clients recover from past trauma, process grief, and build healthier relationships with themselves and others. She also brings strong clinical insight into the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, and psychosis or schizophrenia. Her approach integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), along with mindfulness and parenting skills when appropriate. Gemma is passionate about serving diverse populations, including those from the LGBTQ+ community, individuals with developmental disabilities or autism spectrum disorders, and clients navigating adoption or foster care experiences. Gemma is especially passionate about supporting teens through school-related struggles, identity exploration, and the emotional ups and downs of adolescence. Drawing from creative interventions like Narrative Therapy, Art Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy, she tailors sessions to meet the unique needs of younger clients in a way that feels accessible, engaging, and developmentally appropriate. Her trauma-focused and expressive techniques empower clients to externalize pain, reclaim their stories, and develop lasting coping tools. Outside of therapy, Gemma enjoys walking her dog, spending time at the dog beach, and relaxing with crochet projects. She also loves winding down with her favorite TV shows, whether they bring comfort or spark reflection.

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In-network insurances

Aetna

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200+ more in-network plans

Popular visit reasons

Agoraphobia

Anxiety Disorder

Depression

Mood Swings

New Patient Visit

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Therapy

Agoraphobia

Anxiety Disorder

Depression

Mood Swings

Office locations

Gemma Bernes, LCSW also offers online video visits for patients

LifeStance Health - Southern California- 2 (1 of 2)

6386 Alvarado Court, Ste 210, San Diego, CA 92120

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LifeStance Health - Southern California- 2 (2 of 2)

8989 Rio San Diego Dr, Ste 200, San Diego, CA 92108

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1 of 2

Education and background

Practice names

LifeStance Health - Southern California- 2

Education and training

San Diego State University, Master's in Social Work
San Diego State University, Master's in Psychology

NPI number

1790414720

Patient reviews

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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Gemma Bernes?

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

Is Gemma Bernes accepting new patients?

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

Does Gemma Bernes accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Gemma Bernes is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Gemma Bernes online?

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

What practice does Gemma Bernes work with?

Gemma Bernes works with LifeStance Health - Southern California- 2.

Where is Gemma Bernes's office located?

Gemma Bernes has 4 office locations in San Diego, view full addresses on Gemma Bernes's profile.

What are common reasons for patients to see Gemma Bernes?

Gemma Bernes frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Gemma Bernes on their profile.