Couples Counseling Therapists in Laguna Hills, CA

Having a healthy relationship with yourself and others is not always easy. There are times when it can be challenging to embody the positive support you need, rather than that inner critic that is not always helpful. I believe that improving your sense of self-worth and self-esteem through self-acceptance, compassion and appropriate boundaries, with yourself and others, is necessary to maintaining healthy relationships and imperative when working through life stressors that impact your quality of life.

I get it, you've tried to change on your own, you've read all the self help books, maybe you've even seen a therapist before; something just isn't working. Now you're ready to really do the work. Maybe you still feel stuck in feelings of shame, anxiety, depression or fear. Living like this can be incredibly draining. I understand that trauma leaves you feeling vulnerable and seeking therapy isn't for the faint of heart. This is why I create a collaborative and transparent environment throughout our work together.

Congratulations for taking the first step towards improving the quality of your life! I understand how difficult this can be and I am here to help. Together, we can work through whatever problems, frustrations, pain or other issues you may be facing. I will help you reach your goals in a way that honors your individual needs, values and beliefs. Whether you've come for couples counseling , short term help through a crisis, a stage of life transition or deeper work, I will help you through the pain, doubt and fear to reach a better place, without judgment.

My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive environment where my clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome the obstacles which are keeping them from experiencing their fullest potential. I utilize a compassionate and collaborative approach in therapy to support my clients in addressing their life, relationships and the challenges they face. Whether you are seeking healing from the past, help for the present or hope for the future I can help!

As we move through our lives, we are presented with moments of challenge and moments of opportunity, and I believe my job as a therapist is to help you prepare for both. I have found a passion in working with adults of all ages, addressing issues of identity, life transition, trauma, grief and self-acceptance. I also work with all couples ; I want to help you and your partner make sense of your relationship and help you both address your concerns and build a solid, secure and fulfilling commitment together.

A lot of times we feel stuck in life. Life can be chaotic and lonely. It is hard to make sense of the suffering. Often times we don't feel like we are in control of our emotions or understand why we do certain things. Therapy is a journey we take to unpack, increase our self-awareness and tend to our wounds. Feeling seen and heard can be a transformational journey to feel unstuck and live a satisfying, empowered, and a healthier life.

Most people seek therapy because something is out of balance in their lives. Maybe you have an idea of what that is, a relationship problem, work &/or financial stress, depression or anxiety. As many of my client’s, have said, opening up wasn’t easy but the result was well worth it. From many years of experience, I know relationships can be challenging. Do you wonder why yours is not working & want the relationship to be fulfilling again ? I create a safe & trusting environment to open the lines of communication which fosters a deeper understanding of ourselves & others.

Congratulations on taking the courageous step to begin therapy. I'm so glad you're here. Are you feeling anxious or depressed? In a relationship that's fizzling instead of sizzling? Are you running on empty, stressed or burning out? Are your kids pushing your buttons or would you like them to learn coping skills and tools to navigate life? Are you longing for better communication? Experiencing grief and loss? Do you want to feel more confident, secure and content? Together we can work to help you achieve the healthier and happier life you are seeking.

I have been a Counselor for 28 years and I feel so lucky to be able to help you on your journey. We all have times when a non-judge mental, compassionate professional can help us process and find clarity to move forward and assist in finding your highest good.

Michael Gass Ph.D is a licensed psychologist, PSY 5201, licensed clinical social worker, LCS 1051, and licensed marriage and family therapist, LMFT 3173 and is certified as a practitioner in psychodrama by the American Board of Examiners in Psychodrama, Sociometry and Group Psychotherapy. Dr. Gass is the director and psychotherapist at the Rebuilding Therapy Center, a comprehensive psychological and family treatment center in Laguna Hills, California. Dr. Gass is the developer of Rebuilding Therapy and author of the book: Overcoming the Past for a More Effective Future, published by Greenwood Publishing Group, Westport Connecticut.

I am a kind, non-judgmental, open-minded, practical therapist. I find it very important to provide relief from your pain quickly and effectively. I often use a solution-focused approach as well as strategies from many other modalities. My goal is to help you experience life's challenges better prepared, confident, hopeful, and happy. I specialize in relationship issues, dating, parenting, anxiety, depression, and addiction.

Do you often ask yourself, is this the best life has to offer? Maybe you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or coping with an addiction. Perhaps you are quick tempered or irritable at work or home. Are you feeling as if you’re losing your teen or are you struggling to connect with your aging parents? Could it be the sense of safety and love you once felt for your partner is no longer there? Or maybe you’re not sure what’s wrong – you’re just sick of feeling tired and empty all the time. I'm Eric. Let us work together to find the answers to these and many other questions that may have caused you to lose hope.

Are you struggling over a relationship issue with your spouse ?...your partner ?...your child?...your boss? Does your child need help practicing better behavior skills? Need help healing from loss, grief, crisis or divorce? Are you overwhelmed with anxiety or depression?

Your son is definitely going through something. You're worried about the pre-teen, teen, or young adult in your life. He seems down, depressed, discouraged, but then just tunes out the world with his screens. He's anxious, dealing with pressure, school, friends, & he needs to face his struggles. He won't open up much to you or other family members. He seems to be isolating more - you think he might have some addiction going on. He's not as interested in his usual activities. You're basically concerned about the direction of his life. What you really want is your kid to be happy, motivated, and moving in a good direction.