CBT Therapist Directory

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Deana Porter, LMFT

Licensed California marriage and family therapist
  • Relationship and family therapy
  • Trauma and intimacy focus
  • 29 years experience

About Deana Porter

Deana Porter is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California with 29 years of clinical experience. She works with individuals, couples, and families on relationship concerns, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related difficulties, and a range of emotional and life challenges including self-esteem, motivation, anxiety, grief, and coping with change.

Her approach is grounded in respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and she adapts conversations and treatment plans to meet each person’s distinct needs. Deana brings practical strategies alongside supportive guidance to help clients strengthen communication, navigate family dynamics, and rebuild connection after difficult experiences.

Clients seeking help with parenting, blended-family issues, adoption and foster care, or caregiver stress will find experience that addresses both practical and emotional aspects of those roles. She also supports people dealing with depression, bipolar disorder, eating and sleeping concerns, anger, and career-related stress.

Recognizing that beginning therapy takes courage, Deana provides steady support as clients explore goals and develop tools for healthier relationships and greater personal well-being. She collaborates with each person to create a plan aimed at meaningful, sustainable progress.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem

Also Specializes In

Stress, AnxietyGriefEating disordersSleeping disordersParenting issuesAnger managementCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue

Additional Focus Areas

Adoption and foster careAging and geriatric issuesAttachment issuesBlended family issuesCaregiver issues and stressCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsDependent personalityDivorce and separationDomestic violenceEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesGuilt and shameHoardingImpulsivityInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposeMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesNarcissismSexual dysfunctionSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesWorkplace issues

Therapeutic Approach

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Gottman Method Internal Family Systems

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Deana Porter have?

Deana Porter has 29 years of professional experience.

Is Deana Porter a licensed therapist?

Yes. Deana Porter holds the LMFT credential. She is licensed in California as CA LMFT 46489.

In which languages does Deana Porter provide therapy?

Deana Porter provides therapy in English.

Where is Deana Porter located?

Deana Porter is located in California.

How can I work with Deana Porter as my therapist?

You can work with Deana Porter through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Deana Porter work with international clients?

Deana Porter does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Deana Porter cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Deana Porter integrates evidence-informed methods to address relationship and personal concerns. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thought and behavior patterns and developing practical skills to manage anxiety, mood, and stress-related difficulties. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) emphasizes emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and improving interpersonal effectiveness - skills that often help people coping with intense emotions, relationship conflict, or chronic stress. The Gottman Method offers targeted tools for couples to improve communication, resolve recurring issues, and rebuild trust through structured interventions.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Deana works collaboratively with clients to assess their needs, goals, and preferences, and she tailors interventions so the approach fits the person rather than forcing a single method.

Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, providing flexibility for busy schedules, caregiving responsibilities, or geographic limitations. These formats allow licensed professionals and therapists to deliver consistent support and practical strategies while making it easier for clients to access care in a way that suits their life.

Ready to start therapy with Deana Porter?

Take the first step toward a better you.