Janna Wernli

Associate Clinical Social Worker 
ACSW #140862
(Supervised by Catherine Banks LPCC #14100)

Welcome! My name is Janna and I am a therapist for youth and adults. I am especially passionate about supporting kids, teens, and families through life’s challenges. In addition, I can support individuals and couples.

My approach is strengths-based and person-centered. Each individual is the expert of their own experience and I am here to support my clients in setting and reaching their goals in therapy. In our work together, I will integrate evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Parent Management Training, and Family Systems Therapy. With youth, I often use art and a play-based approach to build rapport and support skill building. Depending on the presenting need, I will also use some specific programs tailored to youth such as Zones of Regulation, Trauma-focused CBT, and Unstuck and OnTarget. 

I support clients with anxiety, depression, adjustment during a major life transition, difficult relationship dynamics, ADHD, Autism, complex trauma, PTSD, eating and body image issues, and family system challenges.

I have worked with youth and their families for over 30 years. I am also a mom to two wonderful young adults and understand the joys and challenges that come with parenting and relationships in all of the stages of development and through difficult seasons. 

I received my bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Arizona.  While teaching, I earned a master’s degree in Education with an emphasis in literacy instruction.  In my years as a teacher, mom, and community volunteer, I developed a passion for supporting mental health needs.  I found many youth, families, and individuals were seeking quality support. I wanted to be part of the solution. I pursued a master’s in social work and trained as a clinician with Rady Children’s Outpatient Psychiatry.  In addition, I have proudly served on several volunteer committees and boards in the school district and community and am currently an active member of the Parent Advisory Committee at UCSD Eating Disorder Center. I am honored to do this work and walk alongside others on their journey.

In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, staying active outdoors, watching and playing sports, cooking, traveling, and learning new things. 

Even in life’s most difficult moments, there is a way forward. In my time with clients, families, and couples, the goal is to provide a safe, non-judgemental space to explore challenges and find solutions that feel right for them.  Every person and relationship has unique circumstances.   Our time together will be devoted to goals that are designed to support emotional identification, alleviate emotional distress, build coping strategies, and foster self-awareness. The healing and growth work that happens in therapy can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life.  

I’m glad you’re here and look forward to supporting you!