Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Psychiatrists in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
What would you like to achieve? Achieve improved mental health, balance, freedom from past trauma, or happiness? The wellness we all seek is both unique and achievable. Let me walk beside you on your journey. I take a holistic approach to treatment and explore both the biological and psychosocial factors contributing to your struggles. While many patients benefit greatly from medication or therapy alone, others do best with additional treatments such as lifestyle changes, exercise and sleep. As I get to know you, and your story, we will work collaboratively to create a treatment plan that will help you achieve your goals.
What would you like to achieve? Achieve improved mental health, balance, freedom from past trauma, or happiness? The wellness we all seek is both unique and achievable. Let me walk beside you on your journey. I take a holistic approach to treatment and explore both the biological and psychosocial factors contributing to your struggles. While many patients benefit greatly from medication or therapy alone, others do best with additional treatments such as lifestyle changes, exercise and sleep. As I get to know you, and your story, we will work collaboratively to create a treatment plan that will help you achieve your goals.
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Do you Over-Think things? Over-Experience your emotions? Do you struggle to focus or complete tasks? Difficulty sleeping? Putting off your mental health is no longer an option! With over 75 clinical experts, WellPsyche and MediPsych providers provide Empathetic Psychotherapy and Personalized Medication Management services for Children, Adolescents, and Adults. 100% of our visits are conducted via Zoom, and we are available mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Meet with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of home or work. We are simplifying the mental health experience so you can become the best version of you!
Our providers offer testing and diagnosis, medication management, various modalities of therapy such as CBT, and telepsychiatry appointments.
Accepting New Patients – Welcome to Bonmente! We know asking for help takes courage, and finding the right provider shouldn’t add stress. That’s why we offer same-week appointments and can often see you within 3–5 days. We accept most major insurance plans (including Aetna, Anthem Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Cigna, and United) and provide care through compassionate, highly trained professionals. With insurance-covered telemedicine sessions, you can connect from the comfort of home or office. Our supportive team makes starting your mental health journey simple, so you can ffocus on what matters most — feeling better and moving forward.
Our providers offer testing and diagnosis, medication management, various modalities of therapy such as CBT, and telepsychiatry appointments.
Accepting New Patients – Welcome to Bonmente! We know asking for help takes courage, and finding the right provider shouldn’t add stress. That’s why we offer same-week appointments and can often see you within 3–5 days. We accept most major insurance plans (including Aetna, Anthem Blue Shield, Blue Cross, Cigna, and United) and provide care through compassionate, highly trained professionals. With insurance-covered telemedicine sessions, you can connect from the comfort of home or office. Our supportive team makes starting your mental health journey simple, so you can ffocus on what matters most — feeling better and moving forward.
Dr. Ellen Akemi Machikawa, MD, is a Board Certified Psychiatrist also practicing at SavantCare-Rancho Santa Margarita (Phone: 949 490-6362), SavantCare-Orange (Phone: 657 657-7673 ) and SavantCare-Long Beach (Phone: 559 550-1764). Dr. Ellen Machikawa's ideal client seeks compassionate psychiatric care, spanning geriatric patients facing complex mental health challenges to individuals with acute psychiatric distress. These clients value comprehensive evaluations, collaborative treatment plans, and a multidisciplinary approach. They aspire to enhance their mental well-being, seeking support for chronic mental conditions
Dr. Ellen Akemi Machikawa, MD, is a Board Certified Psychiatrist also practicing at SavantCare-Rancho Santa Margarita (Phone: 949 490-6362), SavantCare-Orange (Phone: 657 657-7673 ) and SavantCare-Long Beach (Phone: 559 550-1764). Dr. Ellen Machikawa's ideal client seeks compassionate psychiatric care, spanning geriatric patients facing complex mental health challenges to individuals with acute psychiatric distress. These clients value comprehensive evaluations, collaborative treatment plans, and a multidisciplinary approach. They aspire to enhance their mental well-being, seeking support for chronic mental conditions
Thomas uses CBT along with other evidence-based approaches, selecting methods that best align with your goals, symptoms, and comfort level.
Welcoming new patients!
I am Dr. Mottsin Thomas, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, or a complex mood disorder, feeling that past treatments haven't fully addressed your needs. My ideal client is seeking more than just a prescription; you want to feel truly heard, understood, and validated. Whether you are facing trauma, ADHD, or treatment resistant depression, my goal is to offer a safe, culturally sensitive space where we can find stability together.
Thomas uses CBT along with other evidence-based approaches, selecting methods that best align with your goals, symptoms, and comfort level.
Welcoming new patients!
I am Dr. Mottsin Thomas, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, or a complex mood disorder, feeling that past treatments haven't fully addressed your needs. My ideal client is seeking more than just a prescription; you want to feel truly heard, understood, and validated. Whether you are facing trauma, ADHD, or treatment resistant depression, my goal is to offer a safe, culturally sensitive space where we can find stability together.
Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming — whether you’re worried about your child or trying to make sense of what you're feeling.
Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming — whether you’re worried about your child or trying to make sense of what you're feeling.
Marina Riad, PA-C, is a certified psychiatric physician assistant and a proud California native. She provides comprehensive and compassionate mental health care to patients at Even Better Mood Clinic in Irvine, California.
Marina earned her undergraduate degree in kinesiology from California State University, Long Beach, where she developed a strong foundation in human movement and wellness. She then went on to complete her graduate education in physician assistant studies at West Coast University, Center for Graduate Studies in Los Angeles.
Marina Riad, PA-C, is a certified psychiatric physician assistant and a proud California native. She provides comprehensive and compassionate mental health care to patients at Even Better Mood Clinic in Irvine, California.
Marina earned her undergraduate degree in kinesiology from California State University, Long Beach, where she developed a strong foundation in human movement and wellness. She then went on to complete her graduate education in physician assistant studies at West Coast University, Center for Graduate Studies in Los Angeles.
Welcoming New Patients! Riz Ahmad, known as Dr. Riz, is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Originally from New York, Dr. Riz grew up in a Pakistani-American family of 70+ first-degree relatives, an experience that piqued his interest in interpersonal relationships and human psychology. He is the recipient of multiple awards for excellence in psychiatric care and leadership and is known for bringing an unassuming familiarity in his everyday interactions.
Welcoming New Patients! Riz Ahmad, known as Dr. Riz, is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Originally from New York, Dr. Riz grew up in a Pakistani-American family of 70+ first-degree relatives, an experience that piqued his interest in interpersonal relationships and human psychology. He is the recipient of multiple awards for excellence in psychiatric care and leadership and is known for bringing an unassuming familiarity in his everyday interactions.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my practice.
I'm Hannah, I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving patients in California, Nevada, Alaska and Hawai'i through Telehealth. I help children, teens, adults and their families, supporting you and your loved ones to thrive. I'm an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Practitioner with many years of experience in mental health, working with individuals to understand themselves and their needs better optimizing wellness. I am able to fully manage your psychiatric mental health care needs, including medication management and supportive psychotherapy with psychiatric medical visits.
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my practice.
I'm Hannah, I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving patients in California, Nevada, Alaska and Hawai'i through Telehealth. I help children, teens, adults and their families, supporting you and your loved ones to thrive. I'm an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Practitioner with many years of experience in mental health, working with individuals to understand themselves and their needs better optimizing wellness. I am able to fully manage your psychiatric mental health care needs, including medication management and supportive psychotherapy with psychiatric medical visits.
I am a results-driven professional specializing in clear communication, problem-solving, and delivering practical solutions across diverse projects. I combine analytical thinking with creativity to help clients achieve their goals efficiently. With a focus on reliability, adaptability, and continuous learning, I strive to provide high-quality service, build strong relationships, and contribute meaningful value in every collaboration with lasting impact. Your first session with PMHMP is designed to establish a clear foundation for our work together, ensuring we begin on the same page.
I am a results-driven professional specializing in clear communication, problem-solving, and delivering practical solutions across diverse projects. I combine analytical thinking with creativity to help clients achieve their goals efficiently. With a focus on reliability, adaptability, and continuous learning, I strive to provide high-quality service, build strong relationships, and contribute meaningful value in every collaboration with lasting impact. Your first session with PMHMP is designed to establish a clear foundation for our work together, ensuring we begin on the same page.
I’m excellently bilingual in English and Mandarin Chinese 中文國語. Completed training in UCSF and have practiced as RN for more than a decade.
Growing up in an Eastern metropolitan city, I relocated to San Francisco, CA and Manhattan, NYC in my early adulthood to explore Western bicoastal cultures across diverse socioeconomic populations.
Currently I base in sunny Southern California and enjoy outdoor activities, such as walking along water, kayaking. I also love reading and visiting different types of art and museums.
I’m excellently bilingual in English and Mandarin Chinese 中文國語. Completed training in UCSF and have practiced as RN for more than a decade.
Growing up in an Eastern metropolitan city, I relocated to San Francisco, CA and Manhattan, NYC in my early adulthood to explore Western bicoastal cultures across diverse socioeconomic populations.
Currently I base in sunny Southern California and enjoy outdoor activities, such as walking along water, kayaking. I also love reading and visiting different types of art and museums.
Welcoming New Patients! Dr. Okoye is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Known as "Dr. O," she is passionate about helping individuals achieve mental wellness and holistic health. Dr. Okoye treats clients with a patient-centered philosophy, fostering a collaborative and open therapeutic relationship, attentively listening to each patient's unique narrative, and respecting individual experiences and cultural backgrounds.
Welcoming New Patients! Dr. Okoye is a board-certified psychiatrist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. Known as "Dr. O," she is passionate about helping individuals achieve mental wellness and holistic health. Dr. Okoye treats clients with a patient-centered philosophy, fostering a collaborative and open therapeutic relationship, attentively listening to each patient's unique narrative, and respecting individual experiences and cultural backgrounds.
We will match you with a provider who specializes in your needs. Our clinicians provide personalized care to ensure that your specific needs are addressed and a customized treatment plan is established. You will have access to our clinicians and support teams from your Patient Portal. And you can schedule visits online.
We will match you with a provider who specializes in your needs. Our clinicians provide personalized care to ensure that your specific needs are addressed and a customized treatment plan is established. You will have access to our clinicians and support teams from your Patient Portal. And you can schedule visits online.
Dr. Heather Mak is a psychiatrist with experience in helping patients with issues like hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Dr. Heather Mak is a psychiatrist with experience in helping patients with issues like hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Welcoming New Patients! Holly is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She brings a diverse clinical background, having experience working in inpatient, outpatient, and correctional nursing settings. As a PMHNP, her mission is to be a guiding light for individuals struggling with their mental health by fostering a safe and compassionate space.
Welcoming New Patients! Holly is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She brings a diverse clinical background, having experience working in inpatient, outpatient, and correctional nursing settings. As a PMHNP, her mission is to be a guiding light for individuals struggling with their mental health by fostering a safe and compassionate space.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained, struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood changes, or challenges related to pregnancy, postpartum, or life transitions. You want support that feels safe, compassionate, and culturally sensitive. You’re looking for a provider who listens, explains options clearly, respects your values, and works collaboratively with you to help you feel balanced, supported, and empowered in your mental health journey. I provide culturally competent, compassionate, individualized care in a welcoming, judgment-free space and am bilingual in English and Spanish.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained, struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood changes, or challenges related to pregnancy, postpartum, or life transitions. You want support that feels safe, compassionate, and culturally sensitive. You’re looking for a provider who listens, explains options clearly, respects your values, and works collaboratively with you to help you feel balanced, supported, and empowered in your mental health journey. I provide culturally competent, compassionate, individualized care in a welcoming, judgment-free space and am bilingual in English and Spanish.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Albert Telfer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Albert Telfer is a highly skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, solution-focused mental health care. With a background in addiction treatment and comprehensive psychiatric care, Albert supports patients in navigating a wide range of mental health challenges, from anxiety and depression to complex trauma and more. He is adept at prescribing most psychotropic medications and works closely with his patients to create personalized treatment plans that promote long-term wellness. Albert accepts a variety of insurances which are listed in this profile.
Albert Telfer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Albert Telfer is a highly skilled Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, solution-focused mental health care. With a background in addiction treatment and comprehensive psychiatric care, Albert supports patients in navigating a wide range of mental health challenges, from anxiety and depression to complex trauma and more. He is adept at prescribing most psychotropic medications and works closely with his patients to create personalized treatment plans that promote long-term wellness. Albert accepts a variety of insurances which are listed in this profile.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
Are you or your loved ones struggling with depression, anxiety, focus, attention issues, or other issues affecting your work, health, or personal life? If so, you have made the first step in the right direction to make a positive change. Medard Sison, DNP is a Doctorate Prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, OCD, & other mental health disorders. Dr. Sison believes in treating each client and their family with respect, care, and professionalism. Medard focuses on your needs and tailors his treatment plan to keep you informed.
Alexandra uses psychiatric medication minimally and believes that the best outcomes are achieved with a combination of medication and therapy. One her favorite parts of her job is gradually helping people come off medication when appropriate. She also uses acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) as a therapeutic approach to provide a mindfulness-based and person-centered treatment plan. Alexandra’s work is motivated by curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for her fellow humans. Her greatest fulfillment comes from witnessing someone feel empowered enough to make a positive change in their life and subsequently reap the rewards.
Alexandra uses psychiatric medication minimally and believes that the best outcomes are achieved with a combination of medication and therapy. One her favorite parts of her job is gradually helping people come off medication when appropriate. She also uses acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) as a therapeutic approach to provide a mindfulness-based and person-centered treatment plan. Alexandra’s work is motivated by curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for her fellow humans. Her greatest fulfillment comes from witnessing someone feel empowered enough to make a positive change in their life and subsequently reap the rewards.
See more therapy options for Rancho Santa Margarita
Nearby Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Psychiatrists Searches for Rancho Santa Margarita
- Aliso Viejo
- Dana Point
- El Toro
- Irvine
- Laguna Beach
- Laguna Hills
- Laguna Niguel
- Lake Forest
- Mission Viejo
- North Tustin
- San Juan Capistrano
- Tustin
FAQ - Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Psychiatrists
Do psychiatrists provide cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?
Yes, many psychiatrists provide CBT as a therapeutic approach in sessions with clients. CBT is an evidence-based form of therapy that focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to mental health challenges. Psychiatrists who provide CBT can be particularly valuable when your condition may benefit from both therapy *and* medication, such as depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD or PTSD. However, some psychiatrists choose to focus primarily on medication management rather than ongoing therapy. When evaluating potential psychiatrists, it can be helpful to confirm that they actively incorporate CBT techniques into their practice (rather than focusing solely on prescribing medication)
What is the difference between CBT with a psychiatrist versus a therapist?
The primary difference between CBT with a psychiatrist versus a therapist is that a psychiatrist can integrate medication management with CBT treatment, while non-psychiatrist therapists (such as psychologists, counselors, or social workers) provide CBT without the ability to prescribe medications. In a CBT session with a psychiatrist, you will work on the same core techniques as you would with any CBT provider, such as identifying cognitive distortions or challenging negative thought patterns. However, a psychiatrist can also monitor how medication affects your symptoms. This integrated approach can be especially helpful for conditions like major depression or bipolar disorder, where medication often works together with therapy to produce better outcomes than either treatment alone.
Should I see a psychiatrist or therapist for CBT?
The choice to see a psychiatrist or therapist depends on the severity of your symptoms and whether medication might be part of your treatment plan. A psychiatrist who provides CBT is appropriate when you have more severe mental health symptoms that may require medication. A non-psychiatrist therapist may be appropriate when your symptoms are mild to moderate, you prefer to try therapy without medication first, or you are already stable on medication prescribed by another provider. It is worth noting that psychiatrists typically charge higher rates than other therapists due to their medical training, and psychiatry sessions are not always covered by insurance. Therefore, some people start with a therapist for CBT and later add a psychiatrist to their treatment team if medication becomes necessary.