Sydney Walla, APCC

Sydney Walla APCC individual therapist for anxiety and depression

Hi, I’m Sydney Walla, an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) based in San Diego, California. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples who may feel overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or disconnected from themselves or one another.

In my work with individuals, I often support clients who constantly overthink or second-guess themselves, struggle to set boundaries or speak up in relationships, feel stuck despite trying their best, or feel unsure about what they truly want. I am especially passionate about helping individuals navigate anxiety, self-doubt, burnout, emotional overwhelm, identity development, relationship concerns, and major life transitions.

I also work with couples experiencing anxiety within their relationship, communication difficulties, recurring conflict, emotional disconnection, and stress related to major life transitions. These transitions may include marriage, career changes, parenting, family stress, or other circumstances that place pressure on the relationship.

I utilize the Gottman Method in my couples therapy session to help you and your partner slow down difficult interactions, better understand one another’s experiences, and develop practical tools for creating a healthier and more secure relationship.

My Philosophy on the Therapeutic Experience and Change

My therapeutic style is warm, genuine, and collaborative, with directness when it supports your growth. I believe the foundation of meaningful therapy is a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. I strive to create a space where you feel safe to be fully yourself and where you are met with compassion, curiosity, and authenticity.

While I bring clinical knowledge and guidance, I believe you are the expert on your own life. Healing does not come from me “fixing” you. Instead, my role is to help you reconnect with the strengths, insight, and resilience that already exist within you.

My individual therapy approach draws from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness-based practices. These approaches can support greater self-awareness, emotional flexibility, and alignment with your values. Together, we will work to understand the patterns that may be keeping you stuck, clarify what matters most to you, and navigate obstacles with greater confidence and self-compassion.

Whether I am working with an individual or a couple, I aim to balance empathy and support with thoughtful challenges that promote insight, growth, and lasting change. I see therapy as a collaborative journey—one where you do not have to navigate difficult experiences alone, but can feel supported as you move toward a more grounded, meaningful, and authentic life.

Academic Background & Certifications

  • Associate Professional Clinical Counselor - APCC #14869

  • Supervised by Farnaz Safaei, LMFT #140876

  • M.A. Clinical Counseling - Point Loma Nazarene University

  • B.A. Psychology - Azusa Pacific University

  • Internal Family Systems Trauma Treatment Program

  • Intensive ACT Training: Acceptance & Commitment Therapy

  • Gottman Method Level 1 & Level 2 Certified

Feel free to contact Novara Counseling, when you feel ready to connect with the strongest and most authentic version of yourself.

Offering in-person therapy located in San Diego, and virtual sessions available all throughout California!

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