Anna Pollard, Ph.D., LP, BCB

Dr. Anna Pollard (PSY35428) is a licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director at ORCA Mental Health, a San Diego mental health treatment center. In her leadership role, she oversees clinical operations, supports high standards of care, and mentors a multidisciplinary team of mental health professionals dedicated to helping clients achieve lasting recovery and wellness.

Dr. Pollard earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology with a health emphasis from the California School of Professional Psychology, an APA-accredited program. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and is board-certified in biofeedback through the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA).

With experience across multiple levels of mental health and substance use treatment, Dr. Pollard has worked extensively with individuals experiencing mental health conditions, co-occurring substance use disorders, and complex recovery needs. Her clinical approach is person-centered, holistic, inclusive, and grounded in evidence-based practices. She integrates multicultural perspectives and, when appropriate and desired by the client, spiritual and faith-based approaches into the therapeutic process.

Dr. Pollard believes in “practicing what she preaches” and places importance on her own personal recovery and continued growth. She incorporates spirituality into her therapeutic approach, informed by her studies of Shamanism, Christianity, Buddhism, and other spiritual philosophies.

Her background also includes research in neuroimaging related to substance use disorders and depression, as well as research examining neuropsychological profiles associated with neurodegenerative diseases and congestive heart failure. This research experience complements her clinical work and contributes to her commitment to evidence-based, mind-body, culturally responsive, and integrative approaches to mental health treatment.

As Clinical Director, Dr. Pollard is committed to creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel respected, understood, and supported. Her leadership and clinical philosophy reflect ORCA Mental Health’s focus on comprehensive care that addresses the emotional, psychological, physical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of recovery.

Outside of her work in mental health treatment, Dr. Pollard enjoys playing music, continuing to learn how to surf, volunteering with a wolf education program, hiking, exploring new adventures with her family, and relaxing at home with her dog, Nala.