Briana Wagner, AMFT

Briana earned her M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from The Chicago School after a 20+ year career in nonprofit leadership. She gained a diversity of clinical experience, including in co-occurring and substance use disorders through internships in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs. She holds a B.A. from the University of Connecticut in Women’s Studies and certifications and training in nutrition from Utah State University, the University of Edinburgh, and Mesa College.

Supervised by Dr. E Matt VanDusen, Psy.D. (PSY20658), LMFT (53932), LAADC (LR02120716)

Briana is a dedicated therapist specializing in guiding individuals, couples, and families through significant life transitions. With expertise in divorce and remarriage, blended families, step-parenting, and couples counseling, she helps clients improve relationships and navigate the complexities of family dynamics. Briana also supports clients transitioning into adulthood, experiencing career transitions, job loss, major health crises, end-of-life caregiving, and other major life changes. Anxiety and depression are common bedfellows when we are in the midst of these challenges, and she can help navigate these times.

In addition to her work with individuals and families, Briana provides specialized support for those grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide, helping them process grief and find healing.

Briana takes a holistic mind-body approach to therapy, integrating mental health support with a focus on nutrition. She recognizes the impact of diet on emotional well-being and for those seeking to incorporate nutritional guidance, she will work together to use nutrition to enhance wellness.

Briana has an integrative, strength-based approach to therapy, working collaboratively with clients to achieve their personal and relational goals. Drawing on her expertise in family dynamics, life transitions, and nutrition, she empowers individuals, couples, and families to navigate challenges and foster growth.

Briana is an active member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT), ensuring she stays current with industry standards and best practices. In addition to her professional membership, she serves on several community boards and committees, where she contributes to initiatives focused on the arts and community well-being.

Briana is originally from the East Coast, having been raised and educated in New York and Connecticut. She has lived in San Diego for over 25 years, where she enjoys running, hiking, yoga, and meditation. As a former dancer and an active member of the arts community, Briana has a deep appreciation for creativity and self-expression, both in her personal life and within the therapeutic process.

Within every person lies a wellspring of strength that can be drawn upon in times of hardship.

“Not all those who wander are lost.”