Sydney Kitz, M.A.

Hi! I’m Sydney, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist.

I know firsthand that life and relationships are complicated, and can leave us feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or without hope. Many of my clients struggle with feeling burdened by anxious thoughts, low self-esteem, or events from the past that linger in the present. If you are seeking counseling, you may find yourself feeling one or all of these things.

I believe our emotions are messengers that give us insight into our inner world, including what may need more careful attention. I deeply enjoy partnering with clients to help build awareness of their emotional experience and what it’s communicating. I believe that more effective coping and increased resilience are always possible. 

If you resonate with this and long to build healthier connections with others, yourself, or God, we may be a good fit. Asking for help is a courageous step, and I’d be honored to come alongside you.

THERAPEUTIC APPROACH
My therapeutic approach is relational and collaborative. As a therapist, people describe me as warm, attentive, and grounded. I prioritize meeting my counselees where they are in their journey with grace, while gently encouraging growth that leads to a richer, more abundant life. 

Some base theories I draw from are psychodynamic, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) when working with couples. Some themes I typically work on with clients include: establishing healthy boundaries in relationships, processing painful memories, gaining perspective in the midst of grief and loss, navigating complicated life transitions, cultivating a healthier thought life, and exploring parts of themselves that may feel shut down or misaligned with the person they want to be.

My values as a therapist are rooted in my Christian faith–Biblical wisdom and truth significantly inform the way I view change and healing. I understand what it is like to feel both close to and distant from God. Regardless of religious background, my hope for my clients is that developing emotional insight leads to greater wholeness and freedom and helps them adapt with resilience when navigating hardship.

PROFESSIONAL & PERSONAL BACKGROUND
I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology from San Diego State University and my Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling from Point Loma Nazarene University. During my practicum training, I worked at The Elizabeth Hospice providing grief counseling to people of all ages. This experience gave me a unique perspective on the many layers and hardships of loss. 

While my education and clinical experience have equipped me with skills in various theories, I have received specific training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples and Cognitive Processing Therapy, a first-line treatment for trauma. I have also been trained in Formational Prayer with Healing Care Ministries, a framework developed by Dr. Terry Wardle. I am committed to continued learning so that I can more effectively support my clients.

I was born and raised in San Diego, so I naturally love the sunshine and the ocean. I enjoy creative hobbies, whether it’s baking, embroidery, or crafting a mood board on Pinterest. I’m big on quality time with loved ones, especially my husband Zach and our Jack Russell pup, Oliver.

To schedule your free consultation with Sydney Kitz, click the link below.