AJ Pollard, Ph.D. (Hillcrest)

(She/Her/Hers) Psychological Associate supervised by Dr. Karen Hyland

Hi! I’m Dr. AJ Pollard, a postdoctoral therapist in San Diego at Hillcrest Psychological Associates (Psychological Associate #94028388, supervised by Dr. Karen Hyland, PSY17839).

I work with young adults, adults, and couples with diverse identities and ethnic backgrounds, and struggling with neurodivergence (ADHD & Autism), LGBTQ+ issues, relationships/attachment, sexual health, identity development, college/graduate school, cultural adjustment, and anxiety.

As a therapist, my goal is to build an egalitarian and collaborative relationship, as well as to create a safe space that is empowering, compassionate, and non-judgmental. My therapeutic approach tailors treatment to your unique needs by incorporating a variety of evidence-based insight and skills-building strategies. Specifically, my work integrates Psychodynamic, ACT/CBT, Relational-Cultural Therapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, and Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy interventions.

I completed my B.A. in Psychology and Women/Gender Studies at California State University, Fullerton. I then earned my M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at University of Rochester, where I also taught Abnormal Psychology and Psychology of Human Sexuality undergraduate courses. Most recently I completed a postdoctoral residency at UCSD Counseling & Psychological Services, providing therapy to undergraduate and graduate students, and provided outreach programs using positive psychology to improve well-being.

So if you’re looking for a warm and genuine, LGBTQ+ identified therapist in San Diego to help you manage ADHD, increase  personal growth and self-acceptance, or improve relationships, you came to the right place!

In my free time I love to spend time with my friends, family, two cats, Padmé and Leia, and dog Silas.

I am in-network with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Cigna, and UCSD Ship.