Marina Zaher Nakhla, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist providing services to adults in English and Arabic.

Dr. Nakhla earned her doctorate from the San Diego State University (SDSU)/University of California San Diego (UC San Diego) Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in neuropsychology. Her clinical training includes externships at the VA San Diego Healthcare System, UC San Diego, and SDSU; an internship at the VA West Los Angeles Healthcare Center; and a one-year postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology and health psychology at OC neuroPSYCH, affiliated with Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian.

Dr. Nakhla works with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, chronic pain, and insomnia, as well as those adjusting to medical illness or disability or navigating life transitions and stress. She also supports adults with attention, memory, and executive functioning difficulties, including those related to ADHD, mild neurocognitive disorder, and mild dementia.

Her approach is collaborative, grounded in evidence-based practices, and tailored to each individual’s needs, strengths, and values. Her primary therapeutic orientation is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with integration of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) principles. Her background in neuropsychology and health psychology informs her care.

Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Nakhla is actively involved in disability advocacy and diversity initiatives, particularly within the limb loss community. She has spoken on disability and mental health awareness and provided resources to the limb loss and Middle Eastern communities. Her advocacy has been highlighted by the NIH NIGMS Blog, Hanger Clinic, and CBC Egypt. She was recognized as a Disability Champion by the Egyptian Ministry of Emigration and Expatriate Affairs. In her clinical practice, she values culturally responsive care and understanding each person’s lived experience.