Meet Our Trauma Therapists in San Diego, California

Compassionate, evidence-based care for trauma, anxiety, and attachment wounds.

If you’re looking for a trauma therapist in San Diego, you’re in the right place. bAt Cove Counseling Group, our therapists specialize in helping adults heal from complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and relationship struggles. We offer a warm, trauma-informed approach rooted in evidence-based modalities like EMDR therapy, parts work therapy, and attachment-focused therapy.

Our team is here to support you with compassionate care that’s tailored to your pace, your story, and your goals.

Meet Our Team

Diana Rabban, LCSW, trauma therapist in San Diego at Cove Counseling Group

Diana Rabban, LCSW

Co-founder and Therapist

(she/her)

“Healing comes in waves. On some days you will drown, and on other days you will float. On some days you will feel broken, and on other days you will feel renewed. Be patient with yourself."

Hi! My name is Diana Rabban and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been fortunate to work in this field for over 10 years in various settings. Life can be tough and starting therapy can be too, but you’re not alone.

My work has been primarily focused on helping individuals with complex trauma find healing. In my practice, I use a trauma informed and client centered approach. I incorporate techniques from a variety of treatment modalities including EMDR, CBT, and SFBT. But more important than any treatment modality is the therapeutic relationship. My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming place for you. I use a collaborative approach with each person because you are the expert on yourself.

As a daughter of immigrants, my identity always felt complicated. Learning to embrace all my parts helped me feel whole. If you feel like you’re not enough or are struggling with understanding who you are, then you’ve come to the right place. I help clients to heal their wounded parts and learn to be compassionate to themselves in the process.

Please contact me with any questions and to schedule a free consultation. Whether it’s here or elsewhere, I truly hope that you find what you are looking for in a therapist and wish you well on your journey.

Leah Aguirre Barnes, LCSW, trauma therapist in San Diego at Cove Counseling Group

Leah Aguirre Barnes, LCSW

(she/her)

Co-founder and Therapist

Hi, I’m Leah!

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Therapist. I’ve been in the mental health field for over 12 years, and my passion for this work runs deep—both professionally and personally.

Like many of my clients, I’ve had my own struggles with anxiety and self-worth. I know what it’s like to be in the thick of it, and I also know the healing that’s possible when you have a safe, supportive space to work through it. I’m a firm believer that therapists should go to therapy too—because doing our own work helps us show up more fully for others.

I specialize in helping adults navigate the impact of childhood and attachment trauma. Whether you're breaking free from emotionally abusive relationships or learning how to date and connect from a place of self-worth and empowerment, I’m here to support you every step of the way.

In sessions, I draw from evidence-based approaches like EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing. My style is warm, collaborative, and solution-focused. We’ll work together to get curious about your patterns, build on your strengths, and create meaningful change that aligns with who you really are.

Outside of the therapy room, I’m also an author. I co-wrote The Girl’s Guide to Relationship, Sexuality and Consent, and my upcoming book Is This Really Love? is set to release in Spring 2025. Both projects reflect my dedication to helping people better understand themselves, their relationships, and their worth.

My goal is to help you feel more empowered, connected, and at home within yourself—because you deserve nothing less.

Blake Baum, LPCC

Group Therapy Facilitator

Hello!

My name is Blake and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who specializes in working with those dealing with depression, anxiety, and women’s issues.

I am passionate about working with individuals to build self-esteem, challenge negative thoughts, set clear boundaries, and enhance relationships. I tend to utilize a holistic approach and incorporate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, solution-focused therapy, as well as others.

I believe that mental health and physical health are strongly connected and often encourage time outdoors, exercise, and self-care strategies for those who find themselves dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, chronic pain, and other medical conditions.

I feel that connectedness to others and the outside world are important components of our well-being. It is because of this that I see great benefits to group work, relationship-building, and continuous learning.

I aim to ensure the therapeutic space is one that feels completely safe and judgement free. It is a place in which collaboration and direct communication are encouraged, progress is celebrated, and change is possible. 

  • Join us this May for a unique group therapy experience through the pages of a powerful book!

    This four week group includes:

    • Weekly sessions based on selected book chapters

    • Explore attachment and attachment wounds

    • Reflect on healing and personal growth

    • Therapist-led, supportive group discussions

    • Connect with others through shared stories

    This cycle we’ll be using Attached by Amir Levine & Rachel Heller to guide our journey together.

    Wednesdays | 12-1pm via telehealth

    Starting 5/14/25

    $25/week

    Email us to reserve your spot!

    info@covecounselinggroup.com

FAQs

How do I choose the right trauma therapist for me?

Choosing a therapist is a personal decision, and we’re here to make it easier. You can read through our therapists' bios to see whose style or background resonates with you. If you're unsure, we’re happy to match you with a therapist based on your needs, preferences, and goals during your free consultation.

What makes your therapists qualified or experts?

Our therapists are specifically trained in trauma-focused care, including EMDR therapy, parts work, and attachment-based approaches. Each clinician has completed approved training in their areas of specialty and brings extensive experience working with PTSD, complex trauma, and relational wounds.

We stay current through advanced training, consultation, and continued education—so you receive care that’s not only compassionate, but also grounded in the latest research. Most importantly, we offer a safe, respectful space where your healing process is honored every step of the way.

What if I’m not sure who I want to work with?

No problem! Many clients aren’t sure at first. Our intake process is designed to help you find the best fit. After a brief 15-min consultation call, we’ll suggest a therapist who specializes in the areas you want to work on, like trauma recovery, EMDR, attachment healing, dating/relationships or anxiety.

What does “trauma-informed” mean?

Being trauma-informed means we understand how trauma—whether from childhood, relationships, or life events—impacts how you think, feel, and relate to others. Trauma-informed therapists prioritize emotional safety, choice, and trust in the therapy process.

In short: trauma-informed care means you're met with compassion, not judgment—and your healing happens on your terms.

Do you offer EMDR therapy online or is it in-person only?

Both! We offer EMDR therapy in-person at our San Diego office and online through secure telehealth sessions. Virtual EMDR is available to all residents of California, allowing you to access specialized trauma care from wherever you feel most comfortable. Many clients find virtual EMDR just as effective and appreciate the flexibility and convenience it offers.

Do you take insurance or provide superbills?

We are currently in-network with Aetna and also offer private pay options. If you have a different insurance provider, we can provide a superbill that you can submit for potential out-of-network reimbursement.

We also accept FSA and HSA cards (Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts), which many clients use to cover therapy costs.