Gina Mendez, LCSW, CA | Psychotherapist

About Gina Mendez

Focus areas

Adoption Counseling

Men's Mental Health Issues

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Counseling

Bipolar Disorder

Mood Disorders

Stress

Codependency

Panic Attack

Clientele seen

Teenagers (13-17)

Individuals

Young adults (18-24)

Adults (25-64)

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Exposure Response Prevention

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)

Dialectical (DBT)

Person-Centered

Identity

Gender

Female

Ethnicity

White

Languages spoken

English

Getting to know Gina Mendez

My therapeutic approach is rooted in evidence-based treatments tailored to each client’s unique needs. I specialize in trauma, PTSD, OCD, and mood disorders. I utilize Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD, helping clients gradually face fears and reduce compulsive behaviors. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) addresses unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors related to trauma, anxiety, depression, and OCD. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness, especially useful for trauma and mood disorders. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages psychological flexibility by helping clients accept difficult emotions and commit to meaningful life changes. I also incorporate EAGALA Equine-Assisted Therapy, using horses to support trauma recovery, emotional processing, and mindfulness, particularly effective for first responders and military personnel. Based on my experience, my approach fits first responders, survivors of loved one suicide, military personnel, foster youth, adoptees, and individuals recovering from trauma. I take a no-nonsense, results-driven approach—because when dealing with trauma, OCD, or mood disorders, there’s no time for fluff. My style is direct, assertive, and infused with humor; sometimes laughing at the absurdity of our minds is half the battle. Therapy doesn’t have to be a painful slog; it can be engaging, challenging, and enjoyable while still effective. My journey into mental healthcare began in my early 20s, working with children in foster care, where I saw the deep impact of trauma. I learned resilience isn’t just survival—it’s finding ways to thrive despite life’s challenges. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Nevada, Reno, which has equipped me to support clients on their path to healing and growth.

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Popular visit reasons

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Childhood Trauma

Depression

Divorce Counseling

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Therapy

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Childhood Trauma

Depression

Divorce Counseling

Education and background

Practice names

Rula Health - San Diego

Education and training

University of Nevada, Reno, Master's in Social Work

NPI number

1417278706

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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Gina Mendez?

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

Is Gina Mendez accepting new patients?

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

Does Gina Mendez accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Gina Mendez is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Gina Mendez online?

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

What practice does Gina Mendez work with?

Gina Mendez works with Rula Health - San Diego.

What are common reasons for patients to see Gina Mendez?

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