When you find a counselor who is truly skilled at what she does, it is life-changing, and you don't know it until you finally see it. There are a lot of mediocre counselors, or therapists who perhaps don't quite have the decades of experience necessary to make impactful change, and it's easy to spend months or years with an albeit well-meaning counselor but not see dramatic changes, or even to spin your wheels. That's not the case with Debbie. She truly cares but, what's more, has clearly lived her practice to a degree that makes it possible for her to be effortlessly effective and helpful, and to make room for dramatic change, and in multiple ways. During my time in counseling with Debbie, there have been both the "Ah ha!" moments that help provide clarity, but also the more sustainable, long term shifts under the surface that are arguably even more impactful -- the subtle understandings that occur over time that result in certain patterns of behavior simply falling away. I'm truly grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Debbie, and highly recommend her. read more

I left 2 messages over 2 weeks and never got a call back. I liked what I read about her and was looking forward to potentially working with her. To not even call back.....??! read more

Have been working with Debbie for some months now and she has been amazing. She is smart and really listens to what is going on. The best part is that she will call me out when I deserve it and help en thought the tough moments. I am a firm believer in therapy and Debbie is one of the best out there. read more

Debbie is truly a life saver. I have been seeing Debbie for years now, both with my family and one-on-one. I have been to other therapists when I was living in other cities and they did not even compare to Debbie. Debbie is brilliant, compassionate, and intuitive. Debbie gives great feedback and gives you useful "homework" to help you deal with your issues. She does not sit there like a lump on a log and write notes while you're talking like most therapists I've encountered. She really gets to know her patients and is very interactive in her approach, which I personally find to be very effective. I have done EMDR with Debbie and it was unbelievable how effective it was. I don't know what I would do without Debbie - I definitely would not feel as mentally healthy as I do now. I look forward to her sessions because I know it is always guaranteed that I will get something great out of it and learn something new. Plus, I just like Debbie as a person! She is quite wonderful and I couldn't recommend her more. read more

Debbie Wagner is an amazing therapist! I was seeing another therapist, whom I feel saved my life at the most terrible time of my life, the sudden and tragic loss of my beloved husband. This therapist recommended I see Debbie because of her speciality in treating trauma and grief. Debbie is a certified trauma specialist and I needed her help with my PTSD and grief big time! I am the type of person who finds it hard to trust and am a natural skeptic. I have been extremely disbelieving of being able to move on after my husbands death. Debbie, through hard work and determination has earned my respect, trust and amazement with her passion to help me and others. Her compassionate nature, loyalty and determination to see me well is sometimes overwhelming, but in a good way. If you want a therapist who doesn't challenge you, or who caters to your weaknesses and allows the same bad and harmful habits that brought you to see her to continue, then Debbie is not the therapist for you. But if you want someone who truly cares about you, is always ethical and professional, who will challenge the socks off you, who will listen and empathize with you and who will ALWAYS tell you the truth, then Debbie is the woman for you! I can honestly say that Debbie's wisdom is always in my head and she has saved me from myself on multiple occasions! She has saved my life by recognizing my dangerous moods, challenging me when I don't take my medications, and expresses her care and empathy just when I need it! If you are seeking a great therapist then Debbie is the one! read more

Debbie Wagner is a compassionate and dedicated therapist who does great work for those in need and I would unquestionably recommend my friends, family, and clients to her. I've watched EMDR change my client's lives and I've watched Debbie put effort into tough situations where other may not. I strongly believe that therapy is one of the few professional services where personal/individual investment is as important as the provider's experience and commitment, but reading some of these reviews has confirmed it! Some of these negative reviews from Debbie's prospective clients (i.e. not actual clients), is like a window into the broken nature of those around us...people blaming others, the gym, or even the equipment for their personal health, or lack there of. Debbie works on Saturdays, makes herself available by email to her clients, and is responsive and open to those in need...what more can you ask for?! Yelpers should feel confident coming to Debbie. Her 5 star reviews are earned and well deserved! read more

I don't know how to express in words my gratitude for finding a Psychologist like Debbie. I have been seeing her weekly since 2011 for one-on-one sessions and I have never felt more connected to someone invested in my success. Debbie takes her time to truly understand your concerns and needs, and addresses them in a way to make you feel comfortable. Therapy is tough when you work on the aspects of yourself that need help, but having a coach like Debbie to guide you through those nasty times is a godsend. She is truly the greatest therapist you could ever hope for, and I hope you all have an opportunity to work with her if you need help. There has never been a single moment where she has been unprofessional or broken my trust. She is exceptionally knowledgeable regarding many different disciplines within Psychology. She is awesome at explaining things you may not understand, making complicated things easier to digest. If you have an area of your life that you need help working on, hopefully you will pick up the phone and call Debbie and ask if she's accepting new patients. read more

I am writing this review to hopefully give a more fair perception of Debbie. If you are reading these reviews and looking for a therapist, I would highly recommend Debbie. My wife has been seeing her for a few years and has helped her tremendously. I have gone with my wife to a few of her appointments so that Debbie could explain what my wife was experiencing and going through. When I met Debbie, I experienced a very caring and professional person. She was patient and knowledgeable, took her time to explain in detail what my wife didn't think she would be able to explain to me. My wife has experienced multiple traumas, and I have been very fortunate to be able to watch her overcome the symptoms of PTSD, thanks to her hard work and the amazing work of Debbie. read more

I attempted three times to contact Debra Wagner asking if she was accepting new clients all of my attempts were ignored. This behavior from one in her profession says everything about her character. Disgraceful. read more

I'm writing this in hopes it reaches someone who truly wants to be healed from trauma. If you are like I was, there was NO way I was going to a therapist! I don't need help, at least, not THAT kind of help! I saw a therapist a time or two before and he needed more help than I did! One day, I was talking to a friend about the stress I was under and how I was feeling when she highly recommended Debbie. After I got over the "insult" for someone suggesting a therapist to me, I asked more about this person named Debbie. She continued by sharing that she had five therapists worth of experiences before she found Debbie. She said that Debbie provided excellent tools for her to follow which was showing up with positive changes in her life. My friend added that Debbie had a free consultation visit. The risk seemed low - no money out and my friend would like that I followed her suggestion. However, my fear had me looking for the exit and I hadn't even left my house yet! Debbie works in San Diego, I live in Temecula, so that was my exit! I was already practicing my exit speech, "Nice meeting you, Debbie. Thanks for the talk. This drive into SD would be too much for me, yadda-yadda- ..." So off I drove to meet with Debbie confidently armed with my exit plan! That first meeting with Debbie changed my life! She knew exactly how to provide a safe (if not sacred) and clear path for me to share anything, and I mean, anything without fear of judgment. Her full attention and devotion to her client's healing is palpable. Debbie's incredible insight, calm compassion, and gentle guidance shined a healthy path of recovery for me. (I've been happily driving from Temecula to San Diego regularly for 3 years.) My family and friends took notice at the shift in me! "You've really changed!" or "You've come so far!" were/are common reactions to my recovery. My oldest sister, who lives in Germany, could see the change in me over Skype. She wanted to meet this miracle worker named Debbie! So she flew in for a visit and accompanied me on several sessions. She loves Debbie and chirps the same song of praise! The next year, she flew out with her two daughters to also meet Debbie! It's safe to say that we are huge fans of Debbie's masterful approach to mental health. When you're ready to risk taking charge of your life and your mental health, and you're willing to do the work, you can change your life as I did, starting with one call. read more

I've been working with Debbie for short of a decade now, and my life has drastically improved as a result of my time with her. I believe the amount of time I have worked with Debbie is, in itself, a testament to the incredible person and professional she is. Debbie is everything you could want in a therapist- she is intelligent and well-educated, she is empathetic and considerate, and most importantly, she empowers you to take charge of your mental health and your relationships. When I first met Debbie, I was an insecure college student, alone in a new city with no friends, who just found out her jerk boyfriend had been cheating on her, and whose parents were on the brink of what would be a very painful divorce. I was struggling to find my own voice and self-confidence. I felt utterly alone. But Debbie gave me a hand and helped me lift myself up, out of the pit I felt I was stuck in. She helped me navigate these difficult transitions and gave me the tools I needed to move forward. When I was at my lowest points, Debbie was there for me. She offered me kindness and wisdom. It's been about 9 years since I started seeing Debbie, and since then, I have graduated from college, as well as law school, found employment, and I've created a healthy & happy long term relationship with my wonderful partner. Debbie has helped me believe that I deserve good things, and with her in my corner, I know I grow stronger in my mental health every day. I will be forever grateful to her for what she's done for me, and highly recommend her services. read more

Great therapist and would recommend to anyone looking for a therapist. Debbie is very professional, respectful and always has the best interest in what's best for you and your well-being. 5 stars all the way! read more

I would agree with the previous bad reviews. Judgmental, ego driven, and cold. Overall she was not good. She seems to pray on vulnerable people. She can explain away her actions but overall just really unethical how she proceeded with me. read more

I've been seeing Debbie for the last two years and I can honestly say that I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for her guidance! She takes pride in her job and has gone out of her way to help me with my process! She has helped me overcome so many obstacles and has brought so much joy and balance to my life. I would highly recommend Debbie! read more

Debbie has helped me tremendously over the past 2 years. She is extremely thoughtful and uses our time together very strategically. She is very warm which makes her very easy to open up to which has made the process of therapy such a positive experience. I wish everyone could meet with her so they can see what I'm saying! read more

I was fortunate to have Debbie as a professor during my final semester of completing my Masters . She is not only a brilliant educator , but was a mentor and an inspiration to the kind of therapist I hope to become. I believe she is such an effective therapist because she is able to combine a vast knowledge of evidence based practices, years of experience, and genuine empathy and compassion. Professor Wagner has a wealth of knowledge and insight. My only disappointment is that I had her at the end of my degree, or I would have most certainly signed up for another course taught by her. read more

Debbie Tessier-Wagner is the best therapist I have found out there. She is compassionate, understanding, caring , knowledgable and has answers to the big, complicated questions. With Debbie's support and unique form of therapy, which utilizes EMDR and her facilitating a safe space to process all my emotions. With her help, I have finally moved passed the intense anxiety caused by PTSD, So that it no longer rules my life. Debbie has helped me to change my life and I am eternally grateful. If you want to feel joy again, feel all your emotions and really start living again. There is no one I would recommend more than Debbie Wagner. She gives you a safe place to explore uncomfortable memories and emotions and then leave them in your past. She really cares about you getting free to live your best life. read more

When I first started seeing Debbie, I was in a very bad place and heading downhill fast. I have generalized anxiety disorder (diagnosed a little later by a psychiatrist on Debbie's recommendation) plus a lot of emotional trauma that I had never even allowed myself to acknowledge was still a problem. I've had three talk therapists in my life, and Debbie is the first one to make a truly noticeable impact on my life. Not everyone needs the same thing in a therapist, though, so I thought I'd share what makes her the best therapist for me. First and foremost, she is incredibly insightful, good at teasing apart behavior and getting to the conscious and subconscious reasons behind them. She explains psychological terms very clearly, so I can understand what they are and how they affect me. That, plus her ability to call out cognitive distortions (a term she taught me), has really helped me learn how to pay closer attention to what my brain is doing. In addition to being incredibly knowledgeable about psychology, Debbie is also incredibly kind and encouraging. She's helped me be more confident in just about every aspect of my life. Now, almost two years since I first started seeing her, I'm in the best place I've ever been, and only improving. No, not every weird thing my brain does is cured, but I have confidence that they can at least be treated. Reprogramming a brain is a long and difficult process, but I could not be in better hands. read more

There are no words to describe how wonderful it has been working with Debbie. I had never gone to therapy before so I was extremely nervous in the beginning! From the moment I met her I immediately felt more calm and really felt connected to her. I have always had a difficult time expressing my feelings but I feel so comfortable telling her anything. I love the way she explains why our minds work the way they do and why humans feel the way they do. Not only do I feel so much better after every session but i've also learned a lot about the human mind which is so interesting to me. I would definitely recommend her to everyone! read more

Terrible therapist! She was disrespectful, judgemental, and unethical. She greeted my girlfriend and I with a cold and callous look. She asked us what the problem was and we told her that we were fighting, which was what we expected to be considered typical for going to a couples therapist for. She then stated "so you are verbally abusive to each other?" Followed by "I don't work with verbal abuse because it's against my ethical guidelines." We were shocked and asked why us arguing and yelling at each other was such a problem? She then said the biggest lie I could ever imagine. She stated that "verbal abuse is worse than physical abuse." She scowled at us with contempt the whole time then asked us to leave without any referrals. Her only advice from that 2 minute conversation was "you both need significant amounts of individual therapy." "I can't help you." We were shocked and offended. She then said sorry and opened the door for us to leave. Debbie has some personal problems that she needs to take care of instead of practicing therapy. Do not go to her, you will only feel worse. In response to the therapist's tacky and petty review: She has broken confidentiality and lied! We were never abusive. Now because of her I can never post my picture on yelp. In our session we disclosed that we yelled like many couples and then, out of left field she called it abuse. Would anyone go to a person that would write such things about a client? She will be hearing from my lawyer and I hope they take her license. Please do not subject yourself to such an angry and bitter person that will put your business all over the internet and exaggerate for her own benefit. This person disgusts me and should not have a license to harm people. Lastly, this person does not know what ethics are. read more

My boyfriend and I came in for a consultation after a brief phone conversation in which Debbie explained that she is perfect for couples therapy. We found her to be extremely judgmental, scornful and fearful of conflict. When we explained why we wanted therapy -- arguments that escalate to yelling -- she abruptly explained that she cannot work with us because of the "verbal abuse" and looked at us as though she were traumatized herself. She did not ask any further questions about the details of our arguments. She did not refer us to other therapists or resources for help before ending the consultation. She stated that she cannot work with us because she assumes the abuse will just continue between sessions. As a member of a helping profession, she offered no help or comfort and made us feel hopeless as a couple. I am disgraced by how little care a therapist could show. She then repeatedly told us that we need "significant" individual therapy, without assessing our situation, as she asked few relevant personal questions. If you are seeking a skilled professional, do not waste your time at this practice. After consulting with many other professionals, I realize that Debbie does not understand the legality of her profession. All other therapists I have spoken with, including my current couple's therapist, are in disagreement with her harmful approach, were aghast that she would turn down a client without referring to at least 3 other professionals, and believe she is unaccountable to the profession's standards. I would like to remind her that confidentiality is the cornerstone of marriage and family therapy ethics and point her towards the CAMFT code of ethics 2.1 and 2.3 read more

I would highly recommend Debbie. I started seeing her almost two years ago for individual therapy. She is a compassionate, caring, and professional therapist. Her expertise, patience, and encouragement have greatly helped me go through my process. I have attempted to go to approximately 6 other therapists over the years, but no one else was able to help me get to where I am today, living a fully connected and enriching life. She is the most qualified trauma therapist that I have met. She has many credentials which allow her to adapt to her clients and their specific needs. Each individual or couple is unique and with her training, she is able to adapt and be the most effective for that specific client. I will forever be thankful to her, after surviving multiple forms of chronic abuse as a child and young adult, I never knew how wonderful life could be. read more

I concur with the negative reviews. Side note: It is clear that she asked her clients to write positive reviews after she received the initial negative review. That, in and of itself, does not seem ethical. I am writing anonymously because I believe she is someone who has so much anger and resentment that I do not trust that she would not somehow take revenge on me for expressing my feelings about the experience. She is extremely cold, cocky, and ego driven. I spent far too long seeing her. I would leave appointments feeling like I was worthless and a failure. Every time I came home despondent, my significant other would question why I continued seeing someone who was making me feel worse about myself. Yet, I did. She is extremely defensive when questioned and literally does not seem to own anything that she does wrong. I am not sure that the word "sorry" is in her vocabulary. She consistently turned it around on me. I started to feel as though I was going crazy because my reality, confirmed by those around me, was so drastically different than hers. Ultimately, it is sad. I do believe it is possible that I triggered her in some way, and that she just has not dealt with her own issues. I feel that until she does so, she should not be in practice because she is harming others. I understand that people have their own experience, so I do not know if how she treated me was unusual, and that it is possible that others have been helped. I was not one of them. I was honestly traumatized the relationship and it seemed like my seeing her became an abusive cycle. I felt such hostility from her and it was almost as though she was trying to beat me down. She would tell me that she was the most well respected trauma clinician around and made me feel like she was the only one who could help me. After talking to others in the field, I found out otherwise. She literally told me point blank that I was the "only" person she had ever worked with that failed to make progress. Gratefully, I left, and found a provider who is warm and compassionate and helped me heal from my demons. I am now happy and healthy and living life like I was meant to. I want others who have had a horrible experience to know that your experience matters, so do not be afraid to own your power and speak up. read more

My husband and I have been seeing Debbie for the last six months, and she has helped us tremendously to grow closer to one another. We were having the same arguments over and over again, caught up in this dance. He blamed and criticized, and I became defensive and raised my voice, telling him to leave if he wasn't happy in the marriage. Using Emotionally Focused Therapy, EFT, Debbie helped us to identify our primary emotions: fear, sadness, loneliness, hurt and not go to our secondary, reactionary feelings, which for me is anger. When she helped us to have conversations from our primary emotions, in our vulnerable state, we were able to listen to each other and understand where the other was coming from and the history behind the primary emotions. And when we practiced pausing before reacting, we could have a calm conversation that enabled us to connect to each other deeply and more meaningfully. We've been married for nearly six years and together for over eight, and things were looking a little daunting but Debbie, with her invaluable knowledge and insight, has been able to help us transform our marriage. We are more in love today than we have been since that honeymoon phase of the first couple years of our relationship. My husband and I are so incredibly grateful to Debbie. We have worked with three other couples' therapists throughout our relationship and none have come even close to being as effective as Debbie. With her years of experience and EFT approach, she is hands-down the best therapist we have ever worked with! We are so lucky to have found her! read more