I am a licensed clinical psychologist, with over 19 years of experience. In 2018, I expanded my work and founded Urban Psych--a private practice located in the heart of East Village, San Diego, CA. Since the very beginning, my mission has been to offer quality, specialized, and in-depth psychological services, in a safe and comfortable setting, to as many individuals as possible.
My practice was built on a profound respect for others, authenticity, and genuine care for my fellow (wo)man. At Urban Psych, treatment is dynamic, tailored to fit each individual's unique set of needs. My staff and I pride ourselves on working hard to gain a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of the struggles our patients face, and work collaboratively with them to achieve the various goals they have for themselves.
My practice was built on a profound respect for others, authenticity, and genuine care for my fellow (wo)man. At Urban Psych, treatment is dynamic, tailored to fit each individual's unique set of needs. My staff and I pride ourselves on working hard to gain a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of the struggles our patients face, and work collaboratively with them to achieve the various goals they have for themselves.
Services
Dr. Sawires earned both her Masters and Doctorate degrees from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, San Diego. Beyond that, she achieved post-doctoral specialization in Adult Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy from the San Diego Psychoanalytic Center. She has over 19 years of experience serving the San Diego community.
We are located in the vibrant and lively heart of East Village, San Diego, CA, in the historic TR Office Building. We are directly across the street from Petco Park. We chose this location to both embody our urban culture, as well as be centrally located to our beloved San Diego community. We hope our space instills a sense of comfort and inspiration.
Reviews (16)
Rissa C.
Aug 23, 2021
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Dino U.
Feb 26, 2021
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Words cannot express the gratitude I feel towards Dr. Sawires. She has been a fundamental beacon guiding me through troubled waters during a difficult period in my life. Her steadfast attention to details and invaluable insight has assisted me in reviewing past paradigms and find the confidence in harnessing my inner power to progress forward in healthier ways. Her approach to therapy is forthright honesty but tempered with compassion and kindness. Dr. Sawires is well experienced and her manner put me completely at ease without feeling judged. I have learned much wisdom from this wonderful therapist
Joe B.
Dec 29, 2020
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Had a couple tragedies in my life so chose to reach out-best choice I could have made. I have worked in social services for over 25 years and was not used to being on the other side of the helping profession. I came across her profile on the Psychology Today's website. Her office was close by so I threw my hat into the ring. Dr.S provided a space that provided empathetic care, support, knowledge, genuine concern, and empowerment. Not only is she an amazingly insightful person she balances her brilliance of her craft with being down to earth and very approachable. I know my words fail to
John Venti
Jun 03, 2020
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Dr. Sawires helped me work out issues I was having in an understanding none judgmental way while showing a genuine attitude to wanting to help. I wouldn’t say Dr Sawires fixed all the problems in my life. She did however show me how to do it for myself. This is why I cannot recommend her enough.
If you’re are thinking about trying to understand yourself, resolve challenges in your life, if you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or even if you’re doing good, but you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life I can't think of anyone better
If you’re are thinking about trying to understand yourself, resolve challenges in your life, if you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or even if you’re doing good, but you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life I can't think of anyone better
Kayla B.
Oct 11, 2019
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I cannot say enough about Dr. Sawires! I entered therapy thinking that I only had minor issues to work on (and was just doing it for my doctoral program requirement) but she provided me with so much insight into what was going on internally for me. I started very numb to my emotions and grew so much during our time together! As a future psychologist I can honestly say that if I can be half the psychologist as Dr. Sawires then I will be doing great! I tell all of my friends that are still in San Diego about her! I saw that someone else mentioned one of the hardest parts of leaving San Diego was
Cem Kantarci
Jul 24, 2019
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In almost two years of seeing her on a weekly basis, I have experienced transformational positive change that will last a lifetime. I would have to go with 7 stars out of 5, but obviously that's not possible, so: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
With my strong endorsement on the record, I also want to add a general comment as it relates to the stigma around mental health: If you're reading this, chances are you're thinking about going to therapy, wondering how (or whether) it might help you. There might be a specific situation in your life you're worried about, that you're hoping to resolve. Or you could be doing
With my strong endorsement on the record, I also want to add a general comment as it relates to the stigma around mental health: If you're reading this, chances are you're thinking about going to therapy, wondering how (or whether) it might help you. There might be a specific situation in your life you're worried about, that you're hoping to resolve. Or you could be doing
Alexandra G.
Jan 30, 2019
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After reading the glowing reviews for Dr. Sawires, I decided to reach out to make an appointment to see her. Unfortunately she is not taking on any new clients at this time - what a bummer. She did offer a few alternative contacts to reach out to which is helpful, but ideally I was looking to meet with her. Good for her, goes to show she has a great practice. Maybe one day I'll get in.... :)
Kim W.
Jan 28, 2019
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It is strange to review someone who has completely changed my life, but I feel very strongly about Dr. Sawires' influence on my life and the benefits of working with her.
When I started therapy 2 years ago, I, like many people, was at a point in my life where I was convinced happiness was out of my control, and that therefore therapy was not going to help. However, from our very first interaction, Dr. Sawires truly cared about me, and showed it in obvious ways. We started off with two sessions a week, and in each session we would simply talk about whatever I wanted to talk about. That was
When I started therapy 2 years ago, I, like many people, was at a point in my life where I was convinced happiness was out of my control, and that therefore therapy was not going to help. However, from our very first interaction, Dr. Sawires truly cared about me, and showed it in obvious ways. We started off with two sessions a week, and in each session we would simply talk about whatever I wanted to talk about. That was
Kelly S.
Jan 05, 2019
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Deciding to seek out a therapist and taking the first steps to become acquainted with them can be overwhelming. At first I was nervous with the thought of starting the process. Dr Sawires made me feel safe and comfortable to open up and share my thoughts and feelings. I went to therapy with the intention to work through past trauma and with the help of Dr Sawires, worked through several other issues from my past that seemed to tie into everything else. She gives a thoughtful prospective and asks questions that leave you thinking more. I would leave my appointments feeling like I had new tools to
Tricia S.
Oct 05, 2018
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The process of seeking help is hard and vulnerable. It was not easy for me to open up but Dr. Sawires always made me feel safe and comfortable. Dr. Sawires gave me the space and time during our sessions to work towards my goals. Dr. Sawires really cares and you can see she genuinely wants the best for you. She is smart, straightforward and honest.
If you want to see your life change in a meaningful way she is the person who will be right there beside you. I saw Dr. Sawires regularly for 2 years and it wasn't always easy but it was worth it. I will forever be grateful to her and feel so fortunate
If you want to see your life change in a meaningful way she is the person who will be right there beside you. I saw Dr. Sawires regularly for 2 years and it wasn't always easy but it was worth it. I will forever be grateful to her and feel so fortunate
Reva S.
Jun 28, 2018
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Warm, caring, patient, kind, non-judgemental, trustful, wise and humble are probably not enough words to describe how wonderful of a person Dr.Sawires really is.
When I went to see Dr.Sawires I was at a point in my life where I woke up every morning not knowing how I ended up with the life that I had, I had failed in my personal life and I was at a dead end job. I didn't have any control over my life. It was my first time going through therapy, with her warm and non-judgemental personality she made it really easy for me to talk. She helped me become more self aware and understand the pattern
When I went to see Dr.Sawires I was at a point in my life where I woke up every morning not knowing how I ended up with the life that I had, I had failed in my personal life and I was at a dead end job. I didn't have any control over my life. It was my first time going through therapy, with her warm and non-judgemental personality she made it really easy for me to talk. She helped me become more self aware and understand the pattern
Candice N.
Jul 06, 2017
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I can't say enough about Dr. Sawires. Truly life pivoting. A light in my life I wish I had much sooner and wish I still had today (I moved to San Francisco and one of the toughest things about leaving was leaving her and our regular sessions). If it wasn't for the move I am certain I would see her for many many year throughout my life.
I can only speak based on my experience, but I think Dr. Sawires works wonderfully with professional women. She is someone you will respect and trust. She is patient, insightful, reflective and she holds you accountable for your actions (she did with
I can only speak based on my experience, but I think Dr. Sawires works wonderfully with professional women. She is someone you will respect and trust. She is patient, insightful, reflective and she holds you accountable for your actions (she did with
Sylva D.
May 16, 2017
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I used the services of Dr. Sawires on two different occasions . Dr. Sawires is very friendly and trustworthy. She is fully engaged, compassionate and non-judgmental. She creates a safe and supportive atmosphere to make you feel free to share what is on your mind and heart. She is prompt at her scheduled appointments and always responds to phone calls and emails. I strongly recommend Dr. Sawires for a professional evaluation and therapy.
Brittnee S.
Mar 09, 2017
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In March 2015, I wasn't in a place in life that I hoped to be as I was approaching my last year in my twenties. I had a lot of positive things going on in life, but they were easily over shadowed by the lack of enthusiasm and confidence I exhibited. After several conversations in the past few years with my best friend (who was a strong advocate for therapy) finally convinced me to give therapy a try. I began my search on Psychology Today's website when I came across Dr. Sawires' profile. I decided to shoot her an email and then she asked if I would be willing to have a conversation
Christina D.
Jul 25, 2016
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I did a multitude of research when looking for a psychologist. Many of phone calls, consults, and phone interviews were conducted- Dr. Sawires was significantly above the rest. She is very professional, attentive, helpful, and provides sound guidance. She was out of network with my insurance but helped explain to me the process of getting my claim approved. I paid out of pocket to see her for the first month until my insurance kicked in and was able to pick up the cost and not once do I regret it. I would highly suggest her to anyone from any walk of life - send her an email and inquire about her
Jason D.
Jun 13, 2014
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I know, I know everybody thinks that the Counselor that they are going to is the best, because of the transference, counter transference thing going on. But its hard not give Dr. Sawires an outstanding rating because she does sooo many things well.
1) Intense focus and active listeining.
2) Clearly defined boundaries for the sessions (No suprises)
3) She is very flexible on the times that she can see you although no weekends.
4) She takes Blue Cross Insurance major insurance carrier, and others.
5) Very dedicated to the Therapeutic Process.
6) Doesn't tell you what to do, (Thats for you
1) Intense focus and active listeining.
2) Clearly defined boundaries for the sessions (No suprises)
3) She is very flexible on the times that she can see you although no weekends.
4) She takes Blue Cross Insurance major insurance carrier, and others.
5) Very dedicated to the Therapeutic Process.
6) Doesn't tell you what to do, (Thats for you
