Therapists in Aliso Viejo, CA

Valerie Armstrong is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 46903), with over two decades of experience working with children, adults and families. Valerie has extensive experience in treating child abuse/neglect and trauma. She is skilled in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Informed care. Valerie has directed state-funded mental health programs for both children and adults serving hundreds of individuals. Valerie received her Master's Degree in Clinical-Counseling Psychology from La Salle University in 2001, and received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Rutgers University in 1995.
Valerie Armstrong is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 46903), with over two decades of experience working with children, adults and families. Valerie has extensive experience in treating child abuse/neglect and trauma. She is skilled in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Informed care. Valerie has directed state-funded mental health programs for both children and adults serving hundreds of individuals. Valerie received her Master's Degree in Clinical-Counseling Psychology from La Salle University in 2001, and received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Rutgers University in 1995.

The resilience of a tree is a powerful metaphor for human growth and healing. Just as a tree requires nourishment, care, and time to flourish, we too need patience, support, and guidance to overcome life's challenges. As a therapist with over 14 years of experience, I've witnessed the unique journey of each individual, much like the distinct characteristics of every tree. I've worked with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, eating disorders, trauma, and PTSD, utilizing various evidence-based modalities to facilitate growth and healing.
The resilience of a tree is a powerful metaphor for human growth and healing. Just as a tree requires nourishment, care, and time to flourish, we too need patience, support, and guidance to overcome life's challenges. As a therapist with over 14 years of experience, I've witnessed the unique journey of each individual, much like the distinct characteristics of every tree. I've worked with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, eating disorders, trauma, and PTSD, utilizing various evidence-based modalities to facilitate growth and healing.

Hello. My name is Dana Sandoval, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), and I am based in the Inland Empire area of Southern California. I provide telehealth therapy for clients statewide. My expertise lies in working with adolescents and adults who are navigating life transitions and the various challenges that arise in everyday life. My approach to therapy is client-centered, meaning I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and validated. I believe in the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration.
Hello. My name is Dana Sandoval, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), and I am based in the Inland Empire area of Southern California. I provide telehealth therapy for clients statewide. My expertise lies in working with adolescents and adults who are navigating life transitions and the various challenges that arise in everyday life. My approach to therapy is client-centered, meaning I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and validated. I believe in the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration.

Frederick Douglass once noted that progress often arises from struggle. It's not merely the existence of challenges, but how we navigate them, that molds our journey forward. Do you ever feel stuck, facing persistent obstacles in life's various domains? Moments of anger, frustration, or hopelessness may arise, perceived as unwelcome aspects you'd rather conceal or ignore. You are not alone. These struggles are integral to your journey, and seeking support is the first step towards growth.
Frederick Douglass once noted that progress often arises from struggle. It's not merely the existence of challenges, but how we navigate them, that molds our journey forward. Do you ever feel stuck, facing persistent obstacles in life's various domains? Moments of anger, frustration, or hopelessness may arise, perceived as unwelcome aspects you'd rather conceal or ignore. You are not alone. These struggles are integral to your journey, and seeking support is the first step towards growth.

Are you feeling overwhelmed with your thoughts? Are you letting your fears get in the way of living a life you want? Anxiety can feel overwhelming - but there are ways to manage it! I want to help turn the volume down on your anxiety and intrusive thoughts so that you can live the life you want. I like to use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Mindfulness to help reduce and manage your anxiety. I am now currently accepting new clients via tele-health!
Are you feeling overwhelmed with your thoughts? Are you letting your fears get in the way of living a life you want? Anxiety can feel overwhelming - but there are ways to manage it! I want to help turn the volume down on your anxiety and intrusive thoughts so that you can live the life you want. I like to use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Mindfulness to help reduce and manage your anxiety. I am now currently accepting new clients via tele-health!

As a SOLUTION-DRIVEN psychologist, I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a focused, problem solving psychotherapy, highly effective in treating depression, anxiety, stress, anger, substance use problems (including gaming addiction), and relationship distress.
CBT is designed to provide symptom relief and personality change, prevent future symptomatic episodes, enhance quality of life, promote adaptive functioning in work/school and relationships, and increase the likelihood of making healthy and satisfying life choices.
As a SOLUTION-DRIVEN psychologist, I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), a focused, problem solving psychotherapy, highly effective in treating depression, anxiety, stress, anger, substance use problems (including gaming addiction), and relationship distress.
CBT is designed to provide symptom relief and personality change, prevent future symptomatic episodes, enhance quality of life, promote adaptive functioning in work/school and relationships, and increase the likelihood of making healthy and satisfying life choices.

The decision to begin therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. It often takes courage to reach out for help. Counseling can be the bridge that allows you to not only work through your life challenges, but also realize your own strengths and resiliencies. We will work together to help you identify the underlying causes for stress and healthier coping. I provide a safe place where you can find self understanding, gain insight, better judgment, healing, growth, restoration and empowerment for lasting change. It is my passion to help you achieve relief from distress or improve your relationships.
The decision to begin therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. It often takes courage to reach out for help. Counseling can be the bridge that allows you to not only work through your life challenges, but also realize your own strengths and resiliencies. We will work together to help you identify the underlying causes for stress and healthier coping. I provide a safe place where you can find self understanding, gain insight, better judgment, healing, growth, restoration and empowerment for lasting change. It is my passion to help you achieve relief from distress or improve your relationships.

Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, to discover the origins of your issues.
Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, to discover the origins of your issues.

I see each of my clients as far more complex and resilient than a diagnosis can define. I believe that a person experiencing disorienting life events can benefit from a therapist knowledgeable about the intense and chronic nature of their symptoms. I have many years of experience providing therapy targeted at relieving emotional overwhelm and preventing mental and physical exhaustion.
I see each of my clients as far more complex and resilient than a diagnosis can define. I believe that a person experiencing disorienting life events can benefit from a therapist knowledgeable about the intense and chronic nature of their symptoms. I have many years of experience providing therapy targeted at relieving emotional overwhelm and preventing mental and physical exhaustion.

Hello, My name is Michael Buck and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of California. Even though my experiences include multiple modalities in Behavioral Health covering all age groups, my passion lies in the area of Substance Use Services/Recovery. I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Perspective to support individual's journeys and I come with 25 plus years in this field. My communication style can vary depending on the individual, delivered without judgment, while being supportive through active listening. I've been told that my style is calm and comfortable.
Hello, My name is Michael Buck and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of California. Even though my experiences include multiple modalities in Behavioral Health covering all age groups, my passion lies in the area of Substance Use Services/Recovery. I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Perspective to support individual's journeys and I come with 25 plus years in this field. My communication style can vary depending on the individual, delivered without judgment, while being supportive through active listening. I've been told that my style is calm and comfortable.

My goal is to create a safe space where you can explore your inner world, enhance self-discovery, and nurture personal growth. I support children, adolescents, and families in overcoming conflicts, building self-esteem, and navigating LGBTQ experiences. Here, you'll find honesty and openness, allowing you to express yourself freely and authentically. Let me be your ally in achieving your personal goals and overcoming challenges.
My goal is to create a safe space where you can explore your inner world, enhance self-discovery, and nurture personal growth. I support children, adolescents, and families in overcoming conflicts, building self-esteem, and navigating LGBTQ experiences. Here, you'll find honesty and openness, allowing you to express yourself freely and authentically. Let me be your ally in achieving your personal goals and overcoming challenges.

Hola, Mi nombre es Sofía Alonso, LMFT y APCC. He trabajado con niños, adolescentes, familias, parejas e individuos en diferentes entornos y países. Amo mi trabajo y me comprometo con todos mis pacientes en su proceso terapéutico, estoy ahí cuando más me necesitan. Quiero que experimente cómo la terapia le ayuda a mejorar y alcanzar sus metas. Tengo formación en diferentes áreas donde podrá elegir y decidir qué es lo mejor para usted, ya que usted es el experto en su vida donde la terapia le ayudará a identificar y aclarar situaciones que puedan interrumpir o perturbar su rutina diaria.
Hola, Mi nombre es Sofía Alonso, LMFT y APCC. He trabajado con niños, adolescentes, familias, parejas e individuos en diferentes entornos y países. Amo mi trabajo y me comprometo con todos mis pacientes en su proceso terapéutico, estoy ahí cuando más me necesitan. Quiero que experimente cómo la terapia le ayuda a mejorar y alcanzar sus metas. Tengo formación en diferentes áreas donde podrá elegir y decidir qué es lo mejor para usted, ya que usted es el experto en su vida donde la terapia le ayudará a identificar y aclarar situaciones que puedan interrumpir o perturbar su rutina diaria.

~ ALL THINGS RELATIONAL ~ My work revolves around the interactions between & relationships among people.
~ ALL THINGS RELATIONAL ~ My work revolves around the interactions between & relationships among people.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with a wide range of clients, helping them build confidence and learn therapeutic skills to live happier lives. I received my undergraduate degree from Denison University in Ohio in 2009 and my Master of Social Work from Ohio State University in 2015. My passion is facilitating people’s transformation into becoming what they want to be. My goal is to help clients find increased fulfillment for themselves. I firmly believe being mentally healthy takes work, just like anything else we wish to succeed in.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with a wide range of clients, helping them build confidence and learn therapeutic skills to live happier lives. I received my undergraduate degree from Denison University in Ohio in 2009 and my Master of Social Work from Ohio State University in 2015. My passion is facilitating people’s transformation into becoming what they want to be. My goal is to help clients find increased fulfillment for themselves. I firmly believe being mentally healthy takes work, just like anything else we wish to succeed in.

Life sometimes throws us a curve ball. Daily life struggles and stress that we have normally handled with relative ease can suddenly seem overwhelming. Too much stress and the inability to handle it properly can begin to undermine our potential to enjoy our work and to care for ourselves and others. Finances, parenting, relationships, school, care taking, health concerns, and loss can be stressful aspects of life. When we begin to internalize these external stressors it can lead to depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, poor health, phsysical/emotional exhaustion and relationship problems.
Life sometimes throws us a curve ball. Daily life struggles and stress that we have normally handled with relative ease can suddenly seem overwhelming. Too much stress and the inability to handle it properly can begin to undermine our potential to enjoy our work and to care for ourselves and others. Finances, parenting, relationships, school, care taking, health concerns, and loss can be stressful aspects of life. When we begin to internalize these external stressors it can lead to depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, poor health, phsysical/emotional exhaustion and relationship problems.

Hello! My name is Alyssa Label and I’m a board-certified Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 16 years. With compassion and kindness, my aim is to help my clients gain coping skills that foster greater well-being and help manage difficult feelings. I specialize in grief, depression, women's health, neurodivergence, trauma, & stress management. I am trained in inclusive, Feminist, LGBTQIA, and trauma-informed care. I utilize an integrated therapeutic approach based upon your needs as there is no ‘one size fits all’ in therapy. Starting therapy can feel intimidating and vulnerable.
Hello! My name is Alyssa Label and I’m a board-certified Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 16 years. With compassion and kindness, my aim is to help my clients gain coping skills that foster greater well-being and help manage difficult feelings. I specialize in grief, depression, women's health, neurodivergence, trauma, & stress management. I am trained in inclusive, Feminist, LGBTQIA, and trauma-informed care. I utilize an integrated therapeutic approach based upon your needs as there is no ‘one size fits all’ in therapy. Starting therapy can feel intimidating and vulnerable.

My name is Tricia Righetti. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in San Luis Obispo County, California, working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adults specializing in substance use, trauma, anxiety, and depression using a strength-based approach. Currently, I am working with adults. Typically I see individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and substance use issues. I have a deep understanding of childhood trauma as it relates to mental health/substance use.
My name is Tricia Righetti. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in San Luis Obispo County, California, working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adults specializing in substance use, trauma, anxiety, and depression using a strength-based approach. Currently, I am working with adults. Typically I see individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and substance use issues. I have a deep understanding of childhood trauma as it relates to mental health/substance use.

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (California LMFT 53296 and Nevada LMFT 5031-R) providing individual, couples, and group telehealth therapy. With over a decade of experience, I specialize in treating trauma, OCD, and maternal mental health. My approach integrates evidence-based modalities, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My practice emphasizes compassion, empowerment, and tailored care to support clients in achieving their goals and enhancing their well-being.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (California LMFT 53296 and Nevada LMFT 5031-R) providing individual, couples, and group telehealth therapy. With over a decade of experience, I specialize in treating trauma, OCD, and maternal mental health. My approach integrates evidence-based modalities, including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My practice emphasizes compassion, empowerment, and tailored care to support clients in achieving their goals and enhancing their well-being.

If you are struggling with anxiety, mood disorder, chemical dependency, relationship issues, or behavioral issues, know that by taking the time to seek out professional assistance, you have already achieved the first and most important step to improving your life. I am here to assist you in taking the next steps to reach your full potential. I provide a nurturing and confidential environment to facilitate positive growth and healing for individuals, couples, and families.
If you are struggling with anxiety, mood disorder, chemical dependency, relationship issues, or behavioral issues, know that by taking the time to seek out professional assistance, you have already achieved the first and most important step to improving your life. I am here to assist you in taking the next steps to reach your full potential. I provide a nurturing and confidential environment to facilitate positive growth and healing for individuals, couples, and families.

Cornell Counseling & Behavioral Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
As Psychologists, and Marriage & Family Therapists, we treat hundreds of patients and understand the intricacies of various psychological issues that people face. Combining traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Coaching, we have successfully treated patients with Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Behavioral Issues, Relationship Issues, ADHD, and a host of other issues. Unlike traditional therapy that relies heavily on the past and understanding why you do what you do, Cornell Counseling and Behavioral Health is focused on helping you with the tools to move forward and create change. We have a more collaborative and goal-oriented approach to treatment.
As Psychologists, and Marriage & Family Therapists, we treat hundreds of patients and understand the intricacies of various psychological issues that people face. Combining traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Coaching, we have successfully treated patients with Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Behavioral Issues, Relationship Issues, ADHD, and a host of other issues. Unlike traditional therapy that relies heavily on the past and understanding why you do what you do, Cornell Counseling and Behavioral Health is focused on helping you with the tools to move forward and create change. We have a more collaborative and goal-oriented approach to treatment.
See more therapy options for Aliso Viejo
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Aliso Viejo, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in Aliso Viejo, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
82% | Relationship Issues |
79% | Self Esteem |
71% | Coping Skills |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Family Conflict |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
76% | Aetna |
58% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
58% | Optum |
How Therapists in Aliso Viejo, CA see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
16% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Aliso Viejo?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.