I’m Marta Magnussen, a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) at WAVE Therapy. I earned a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from National University. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can bring your whole story, including difficult experiences and setbacks such as a return to substance use. You deserve to be met with dignity, compassion, and acceptance.

During my practicum at Veterans Village of San Diego, I provided supervised clinical services to veterans navigating homelessness and complex behavioral health concerns. I supported clients with concerns related to schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, bipolar and related disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and trauma, including PTSD. I also worked with clients experiencing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, including opioid and alcohol use disorders, as well as chronic pain, intrusive thoughts, grief, divorce, domestic violence, and low self-esteem. I work with children ages six and older, adolescents, adults, and older adults.

My primary orientation is psychodynamic and attachment-informed, with attention to how past experiences and relationship patterns may shape the present. I draw from person-centered, strengths-based, and family systems approaches, as well as CBT, ACT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), narrative therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and trauma-focused approaches. I tailor our work to your goals, strengths, preferences, culture, and readiness.

I see this work as a calling and a privilege. I’m grateful to sit with people through painful seasons, offering a calm, compassionate presence and hope for the future. I hope our work together can ease some of what feels heavy while helping you recognize your strengths and find your own voice.