What patients are saying
Overall rating
5.00
“the best therapist i have ever encountered. makes me feel completely empowered and lets me think of my own solutions and tools to my problems. I came out of a deep depression thanks to Dr. McDowell. I am truly grateful for her and love her!”
Less than 1 month ago
“Dr. McDowell is very attentive, caring, and warm. I know I can trust her, which is very important to me.”
Less than 1 month ago
About Tahja McDowell
Focus areas
Bereavement / Grief Counseling
Peer Relationship Struggles
Sexual Abuse Counseling
Depression
Self Esteem Issues
Women's Mental Health Issues
Panic Attack
Self-Harm / Injury
Clientele seen
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Teenagers (13-17)
Treatment approaches
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Exposure Response Prevention
Compassion Focused
Family Systems
Culturally Sensitive
Humanistic
Identity
Gender
FemaleEthnicity
White
Languages spoken
English
Getting to know Tahja McDowell
Hi there, I'm Tahja!
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California, providing comprehensive mental health care via Telehealth. I work with individuals ages 12 and older, using an integration of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic psychology, and culturally sensitive approaches to support those navigating mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
My approach
I take a collaborative, non-judgmental approach, empowering clients to challenge unhelpful thoughts, reconnect with their authentic selves, and navigate their unique cultural and social experiences. Using evidence-based therapy, compassion, and sensitivity, I foster a safe, supportive space for clients to explore emotions, improve coping skills, and achieve personal transformation.
My focus
With extensive experience working with ages 12 and older, I address a wide range of mental health concerns. I am passionate about creating an inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorders, grief, and life transitions.
My communication style
Creating a safe space for therapy is a cornerstone of effective treatment. I foster an environment where clients feel heard, respected, and understood so we can openly explore thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I collaborate with clients to move at a safe, comfortable pace toward their treatment goals.
My journey to mental healthcare
I was drawn to clinical psychology because of my understanding of lifestyle challenges and a passion for helping others live their best lives—cultivating resilience, finding inner strength, and achieving peace and purpose. I believe everyone deserves support in navigating life’s hurdles, so I strive to create a safe, compassionate space where clients can explore feelings, uncover potential, and work toward lasting positive change.
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In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
Popular visit reasons
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Depression
Postpartum Depression
Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit
Therapy
Women's Mental Health Issues
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Depression
Postpartum Depression
Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- California School of Professional Psychology (PsyD)
- California State University, Fullerton (Bachelor's)
NPI number
1346578184
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
5.00
Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
11 reviews
Most relevant
Tahja is great at listening and will guide you through questions, to making the right decisions for yourself.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
Dr. McDowell is very attentive, caring, and warm. I know I can trust her, which is very important to me.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
Extremely caring and helpful during difficult times. Would definitely recommend her.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
the best therapist i have ever encountered. makes me feel completely empowered and lets me think of my own solutions and tools to my problems. I came out of a deep depression thanks to Dr. McDowell. I am truly grateful for her and love her!
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
Dr. McDowell is such a sweetheart! She really listens and is totally understanding of my feelings. I look forward to our sessions where I can be completely transparent and count on Dr. McDowell to always have the most comforting things to say! I appreciate her feedback and positive guidance. I love that I can be completely myself and know I will never be judged! Dr. McDowell is simply the best!
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
She always makes me feel comfortable and heard. When I work through my feelings, she never makes me feel judged or irrational, which allows me to get to a constructive conclusion.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
As a therapist, Dr. McDowll is open to accept my perceptions and is gentle in helping me adjust portions of my life that aren't working well for me. She is kind and funny and utterly nonjudgmental. She has helped me prioritize things that aren't fitting well and to find those things that might be a better fit, or a better option to those things that are causing me distress. She has helped me through grief, too, which has been a huge gift.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
Tahja is very personable and easy to talk to. She has been a great support in helping me navigate my emotions and continues to show warmth and empathy at each session. I feel like I can really open up to her.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
I have had an outstanding experience with Dr. Tahja McDowell, Psychologist, LCP. For the past four to five years, she has provided compassionate, professional, and knowledgeable support. She has gone above and beyond to help me through difficult times, and I am truly grateful for her guidance and care. I highly recommend Dr. McDowell.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
She asks excellent, insightful questions to help guide your own reflection and self-development. She is an amazing listener. The first therapist with which I finally feel I am making real progress. Truly, I could not recommend her more.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
I’ve been a patient for several years and have nothing but wonderful things to say. She is patient and caring and encouraging. Def a safe place to share my feelings.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
How soon can I make an appointment with Tahja McDowell?
Generally, Tahja McDowell has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Tahja McDowell's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Tahja McDowell accepting new patients?
Tahja McDowell generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Tahja McDowell's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Tahja McDowell accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Tahja McDowell is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Tahja McDowell online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Tahja McDowell using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Tahja McDowell work with?
Tahja McDowell works with Rula Health - San Francisco/Oakland.
What are common reasons for patients to see Tahja McDowell?
Tahja McDowell frequently sees patients for Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Tahja McDowell on their profile.
What languages does Tahja McDowell speak?
Tahja McDowell speaks English.