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Marisa Zens, PsyD

Marisa Zens, PsyD

she/her

Licensed in CA #26812
Insurances Accepted: Anthem Blue Cross, Aetna, Health Net/MHN
My approach is to provide an empathic, warm and supportive environment, and work collaboratively to identify and make sense of your unique struggles and particular obstacles.

My Therapy Style

One of the most important ingredients in successful therapy is a good therapeutic fit. My approach is to provide an empathic, warm and supportive environment, and work collaboratively to identify and make sense of your unique struggles and particular obstacles. I work with adults and use both insight-oriented and skills-based approaches to find short and long-term solutions to intercept the patterns that are interfering with your personal growth.

Education & Training

PsyD - Clinical Psychology, California School of Professional Psychology

Post-Doctoral Training - Psychodynamic and Mentalization-Based Treatments

Post-Doctoral Training - Motivational Interviewing, Counseling Center, San Diego State University

Get to Know Me

Why did you become a mental health professional?

Before studying psychology, I earned my BA in international relations. I was always interested in the intersectionality of national identity with social and cultural identities. When I changed my focus to study clinical psychology and psychotherapy specifically, I didn’t lose my interest in culture, but narrowed from the macro to the micro. More specifically, my doctoral dissertation focused on the challenges of bi-cultural/international couples during early marriage. I have made it a priority in my career to both work with people from culturally diverse backgrounds, and to continue to grow and develop my cultural competencies.

What are your interests outside of work?

I enjoy exercise, walking my dogs, and spending time with my family.

What book have you read more than once?

Mother Nature by Sarah Blaffer Hrdy opened my interest in evolutionary anthropology and the complexity of biology, evolution and human consciousness. I have found myself returned several times over the years.

Favorite organization/non-profit?

My favorite non-profit is Planned Parenthood because it bravely and meaningfully faces inequities in our health-system and advocates for female reproductive rights.

Do you have any pets?

I have 2 dogs. I have so many good pet stories. My husband brought our 1-year-old puppy home to my son late one night last February. He was woken up to little puppy licks on his face. Watching them bond that first night will remain one of my favorite memories.