Dance Movement Therapy in Mission Viejo, CA

Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PsyD
Online Only
I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy that helps my understanding of my clients.
I am grateful to be able to walk along my clients as they develop and grow to be their own best version of self. It is important to find ways to enjoy the life we have been given and make sense of the life lessons that have come along our path.
I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy that helps my understanding of my clients.
I am grateful to be able to walk along my clients as they develop and grow to be their own best version of self. It is important to find ways to enjoy the life we have been given and make sense of the life lessons that have come along our path.
(949) 273-2912 View (949) 273-2912
Shruti Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling stressed, anxious, tired or lonely? Having low motivation? Struggling to understand your emotions, to communicate your needs, or unsure where to start? You're not alone. If you're dealing with the weight of past trauma, current life stressors, or just feeling overwhelmed, taking the first step towards healing is the hardest part—but you don’t have to go through this alone. Let's work together to understand your feelings, find clarity, and harness your strengths to create a path toward healing and a more balanced self.
Feeling stressed, anxious, tired or lonely? Having low motivation? Struggling to understand your emotions, to communicate your needs, or unsure where to start? You're not alone. If you're dealing with the weight of past trauma, current life stressors, or just feeling overwhelmed, taking the first step towards healing is the hardest part—but you don’t have to go through this alone. Let's work together to understand your feelings, find clarity, and harness your strengths to create a path toward healing and a more balanced self.
View
Lacey Everett
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! My name is Lacey (she/her), and I work under two different practices: The Mind Health Institute (MHI) in Dana Point and Newport Beach (Supervisor: Dr. Chelsea O'Haire) and PCIT Kids (Supervisor: Dr. Ian Schere) in San Diego. I utilize a Humanistic, Person-Centered, Culturally Informed approach backed by more evidence-based practices such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness-based strategies.
Hello! My name is Lacey (she/her), and I work under two different practices: The Mind Health Institute (MHI) in Dana Point and Newport Beach (Supervisor: Dr. Chelsea O'Haire) and PCIT Kids (Supervisor: Dr. Ian Schere) in San Diego. I utilize a Humanistic, Person-Centered, Culturally Informed approach backed by more evidence-based practices such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness-based strategies.
(858) 544-1639 View (858) 544-1639
Walk Intuit Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Walk Intuit, healing happens through horses, movement, the nervous system, and the therapeutic relationship, because insight alone isn't enough.
We specialize in Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, EMDR, Somatic Therapy, and Expressive Arts within a relational, attachment-focused framework. We work with the body, not just the mind. Most insurance accepted. Sliding scale available. In-person in Orange County; telehealth statewide.
At Walk Intuit, healing happens through horses, movement, the nervous system, and the therapeutic relationship, because insight alone isn't enough.
We specialize in Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, EMDR, Somatic Therapy, and Expressive Arts within a relational, attachment-focused framework. We work with the body, not just the mind. Most insurance accepted. Sliding scale available. In-person in Orange County; telehealth statewide.
(213) 286-1031 View (213) 286-1031

More Therapists Nearby

Maria Malo EMDR & Ketamine Assisted Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Irvine, CA 92612
Feeling stuck in old patterns or weighed down by trauma, anxiety, or depression? I help therapists and adults find lasting relief and emotional freedom through EMDR and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). EMDR rewires how your brain processes painful memories, while KAP opens the door to deep insight and transformation. Together, we create a safe, supportive space to release what holds you back and reconnect with your authentic self. Take the first step—schedule a session and start your journey to healing today.
Feeling stuck in old patterns or weighed down by trauma, anxiety, or depression? I help therapists and adults find lasting relief and emotional freedom through EMDR and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). EMDR rewires how your brain processes painful memories, while KAP opens the door to deep insight and transformation. Together, we create a safe, supportive space to release what holds you back and reconnect with your authentic self. Take the first step—schedule a session and start your journey to healing today.
(415) 912-8055 View (415) 912-8055
Julie Mullen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I love movement, and I have over 20 years of experience teaching dance as well as pilates and yoga.
As a Somatic Therapist, I help you understand how stress, trauma, and life experiences affect both your mind and body. Using body-based approaches and attachment theory, we'll build nervous system regulation, deepen self-awareness, and create lasting change. I tailor therapy to your unique needs and specialize in anxiety, trauma, neurodivergence, relationship challenges, and blended families. Together, we'll strengthen resilience, foster secure relationships, and help you feel more connected, grounded, and empowered.
I love movement, and I have over 20 years of experience teaching dance as well as pilates and yoga.
As a Somatic Therapist, I help you understand how stress, trauma, and life experiences affect both your mind and body. Using body-based approaches and attachment theory, we'll build nervous system regulation, deepen self-awareness, and create lasting change. I tailor therapy to your unique needs and specialize in anxiety, trauma, neurodivergence, relationship challenges, and blended families. Together, we'll strengthen resilience, foster secure relationships, and help you feel more connected, grounded, and empowered.
(530) 684-1538 View (530) 684-1538
Arasha Alcaraz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, R-DMT
Santa Ana, CA 92701
I provide trauma-informed, social-justice-oriented practices and use existential, humanistic, psychodynamic, CBT, and dance movement therapy modalities.
Healing is not linear, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I understand that therapy can be a difficult place for expression and a process that takes time and patience. I offer a warm and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your unique experiences and perspectives. I aim to provide a safe space to help you explore emotions, thoughts, and difficulties. I help you create a solid foundation for the therapeutic process, establish trust, and prompt your autonomy as you take an active role in your healing process.
I provide trauma-informed, social-justice-oriented practices and use existential, humanistic, psychodynamic, CBT, and dance movement therapy modalities.
Healing is not linear, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I understand that therapy can be a difficult place for expression and a process that takes time and patience. I offer a warm and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your unique experiences and perspectives. I aim to provide a safe space to help you explore emotions, thoughts, and difficulties. I help you create a solid foundation for the therapeutic process, establish trust, and prompt your autonomy as you take an active role in your healing process.
(657) 571-3234 View (657) 571-3234
Aubrey Nova
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Aubrey Nova, MSW, ACSW. I'm a clinical therapist dedicated to creating a safe, affirming, and collaborative space for healing, growth, and self-discovery. I specialize in navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I work with adults, couples and families; and I have a passion for supporting: • BIPOC individuals and communities • Single parent households • LGBTQIA+ individuals • Survivors of complex trauma • Those experiencing high-functioning anxiety or burnout • Helping professionals, first responders, front line workers • Those navigating identity, grief, or spiritual transitions
Hi, I’m Aubrey Nova, MSW, ACSW. I'm a clinical therapist dedicated to creating a safe, affirming, and collaborative space for healing, growth, and self-discovery. I specialize in navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I work with adults, couples and families; and I have a passion for supporting: • BIPOC individuals and communities • Single parent households • LGBTQIA+ individuals • Survivors of complex trauma • Those experiencing high-functioning anxiety or burnout • Helping professionals, first responders, front line workers • Those navigating identity, grief, or spiritual transitions
(818) 301-0264 View (818) 301-0264
Rosa Zuniga
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Rosa! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working as a therapist since 2010. I started working as a community mental health therapist, primarily doing individual, case management, and family therapy. I facilitated group therapy such as parenting, anger management, and domestic violence, and I have done couples counseling and coaching. One of my goals as your therapist is to offer a supportive environment where you can express your thoughts and feelings openly, gain insight and awareness, and take steps to improve your life.
Hi there, I'm Rosa! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working as a therapist since 2010. I started working as a community mental health therapist, primarily doing individual, case management, and family therapy. I facilitated group therapy such as parenting, anger management, and domestic violence, and I have done couples counseling and coaching. One of my goals as your therapist is to offer a supportive environment where you can express your thoughts and feelings openly, gain insight and awareness, and take steps to improve your life.
(510) 544-6427 View (510) 544-6427
Jennifer C Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACL, LMFT, C-IAYT, RYT 500
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
(562) 454-0709 View (562) 454-0709
Patricia Chan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing evidence-based counseling, psychotherapy, and psychological assessments across diverse populations. As the founder of LiveWell Therapy, I specialize in individual, couples, family therapy, groups, forensic evaluations, and clinical supervision for therapists, integrating behavioral health with adjunctive natural approaches to support whole-person care.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing evidence-based counseling, psychotherapy, and psychological assessments across diverse populations. As the founder of LiveWell Therapy, I specialize in individual, couples, family therapy, groups, forensic evaluations, and clinical supervision for therapists, integrating behavioral health with adjunctive natural approaches to support whole-person care.
(818) 643-6411 View (818) 643-6411
Paola Abicic
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, C-IAYT, BSP
1 Endorsed
Tustin, CA 92780
Hello and welcome! My name is Paola Abicic and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist & certified Yoga Therapist. I work with individuals and couples who are ready to dive deeper than traditional talk therapy can offer. As a trauma-informed, certified Brainspotting practitioner and somatic psychotherapist, I guide you in bridging the gap between mind and body to promote deep, lasting healing. I am fully bilingual (Spanish) and passionately integrate a multicultural lens into our work together.
Hello and welcome! My name is Paola Abicic and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist & certified Yoga Therapist. I work with individuals and couples who are ready to dive deeper than traditional talk therapy can offer. As a trauma-informed, certified Brainspotting practitioner and somatic psychotherapist, I guide you in bridging the gap between mind and body to promote deep, lasting healing. I am fully bilingual (Spanish) and passionately integrate a multicultural lens into our work together.
(562) 573-1413 View (562) 573-1413
Bianca Hur
Psychologist, PsyD
Irvine, CA 92614
My ideal clients are thoughtful, sensitive, and often high-functioning adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or ready for deeper healing. Many come to therapy after realizing that insight alone is not enough and want to understand their patterns, but also feel meaningful change in their body, relationships, and sense of self. I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship patterns, life transitions, grief, identity exploration, and spiritual growth. My approach is integrative and experiential, blending depth-oriented therapy, somatic awareness, trauma-informed care, hypnotherapy, and mindfulness.
My ideal clients are thoughtful, sensitive, and often high-functioning adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or ready for deeper healing. Many come to therapy after realizing that insight alone is not enough and want to understand their patterns, but also feel meaningful change in their body, relationships, and sense of self. I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship patterns, life transitions, grief, identity exploration, and spiritual growth. My approach is integrative and experiential, blending depth-oriented therapy, somatic awareness, trauma-informed care, hypnotherapy, and mindfulness.
(714) 695-5566 View (714) 695-5566
Lindsey Krogh, LCSW & Joy Dance Play Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
As a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, I offer a tailored experience to help you and your child/teen learn ways to cope with stress through play therapy tools that include art, games, toys, mindfulness, sand tray, movement/ dance, and practical coping skills.
Need help to tackle those tantrums, not listening & attention seeking behaviors? Had a really stressful/traumatic event & you all need help coping? I believe we all have a spark inside of us that helps us through difficult times to find joy again. We empower parents to find your confidence to set boundaries and help your child regulate through their emotions. We give kids and teens tools to build their confidence, self-esteem & create healthy relationships with others. We specialize in Play Therapy for treatment of depression, anxiety, grief/loss, stressful events & to build life skills for ADHD & Autistic individuals.
As a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, I offer a tailored experience to help you and your child/teen learn ways to cope with stress through play therapy tools that include art, games, toys, mindfulness, sand tray, movement/ dance, and practical coping skills.
Need help to tackle those tantrums, not listening & attention seeking behaviors? Had a really stressful/traumatic event & you all need help coping? I believe we all have a spark inside of us that helps us through difficult times to find joy again. We empower parents to find your confidence to set boundaries and help your child regulate through their emotions. We give kids and teens tools to build their confidence, self-esteem & create healthy relationships with others. We specialize in Play Therapy for treatment of depression, anxiety, grief/loss, stressful events & to build life skills for ADHD & Autistic individuals.
(949) 835-5416 View (949) 835-5416
Swanhilda Ochoa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Thank you for reaching out! This is the hardest step to do! Finding a therapist that we truly connect with is not an easy process. I always tell my clients not to hesitate to change when they do not feel comfortable with a therapist. The relationship and allegiance created between therapist and client is sacred; it should be genuine, approached with respect, kindness, humility, and compassion. We are living difficult times. Covid has turned everyone's lives upside down and, coping with every day stressors is overwhelming.
Thank you for reaching out! This is the hardest step to do! Finding a therapist that we truly connect with is not an easy process. I always tell my clients not to hesitate to change when they do not feel comfortable with a therapist. The relationship and allegiance created between therapist and client is sacred; it should be genuine, approached with respect, kindness, humility, and compassion. We are living difficult times. Covid has turned everyone's lives upside down and, coping with every day stressors is overwhelming.
(323) 709-7912 View (323) 709-7912
Xochitl Machado Loyola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide compassionate mental health support through telehealth. Offering a safe, supportive, and accessible space for individuals to explore challenges, strengthen coping skills, and foster personal growth. I take a holistic, culturally aware, and client-centered approach to mental health. Beginning therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming, which is why finding a therapist who feels like the right fit is so important. I am committed to providing a supportive, collaborative space where you can work toward balance, healing, and your personal mental health goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide compassionate mental health support through telehealth. Offering a safe, supportive, and accessible space for individuals to explore challenges, strengthen coping skills, and foster personal growth. I take a holistic, culturally aware, and client-centered approach to mental health. Beginning therapy can sometimes feel overwhelming, which is why finding a therapist who feels like the right fit is so important. I am committed to providing a supportive, collaborative space where you can work toward balance, healing, and your personal mental health goals.
(510) 443-6691 View (510) 443-6691
Carlos Mares
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Serves Area
As a therapist committed to helping youth (young children, Tweens, Teens, and early adult life) and the adults who care for them, I'm here to support you in finding peace in the chaos of your days. I am passionate about youth mental health and helping youth and their caregivers go from a place of stress and survival to inspired and thriving. Let’s get you back to a place where you can innately feel the support and love you’re always giving out to everyone around you.
As a therapist committed to helping youth (young children, Tweens, Teens, and early adult life) and the adults who care for them, I'm here to support you in finding peace in the chaos of your days. I am passionate about youth mental health and helping youth and their caregivers go from a place of stress and survival to inspired and thriving. Let’s get you back to a place where you can innately feel the support and love you’re always giving out to everyone around you.
(714) 867-1285 View (714) 867-1285
Elizabeth Wenger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? You’re not alone. I help clients navigate anxiety, self-doubt, and life changes with curiosity, compassion, and humor. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected—to yourself and the life you want to create. Struggling with navigating menopause? I work with peri- and post menopausal women during these compelling life transitions and the challenges. Together, we’ll build coping skills and create a personalized plan for growth that feels empowering, achievable, and even fun!
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? You’re not alone. I help clients navigate anxiety, self-doubt, and life changes with curiosity, compassion, and humor. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected—to yourself and the life you want to create. Struggling with navigating menopause? I work with peri- and post menopausal women during these compelling life transitions and the challenges. Together, we’ll build coping skills and create a personalized plan for growth that feels empowering, achievable, and even fun!
(949) 356-9475 View (949) 356-9475
Miyuki Kanda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, BC-DMT
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
I enjoy working with adults and couples from diverse backgrounds. I have a particular passion for supporting API clients who want to deepen their emotional connection with themselves and their loved ones. Some of the areas I support clients with include relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, grief, unresolved trauma, and challenges related to identity. I’m bilingual in English and Japanese and can offer sessions in either language—or a mix of both. I also understand how our cultural background and family history can shape the way we experience the world, and I bring that awareness into the work we do together.
I enjoy working with adults and couples from diverse backgrounds. I have a particular passion for supporting API clients who want to deepen their emotional connection with themselves and their loved ones. Some of the areas I support clients with include relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, grief, unresolved trauma, and challenges related to identity. I’m bilingual in English and Japanese and can offer sessions in either language—or a mix of both. I also understand how our cultural background and family history can shape the way we experience the world, and I bring that awareness into the work we do together.
(562) 548-7258 View (562) 548-7258
Mitra Golriz Counseling & Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
Certified in DBT and EMDR providing individual and group therapy to help with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, self destructive behaviors, childhood trauma, that is impacting your adult life. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all, let me assess what is going on for you and learn about the areas of stress in your life. I use a variety of methods including Mindfulness, Emotionally Focused therapy, Trauma focused, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) .
Certified in DBT and EMDR providing individual and group therapy to help with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, self destructive behaviors, childhood trauma, that is impacting your adult life. Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all, let me assess what is going on for you and learn about the areas of stress in your life. I use a variety of methods including Mindfulness, Emotionally Focused therapy, Trauma focused, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) .
(949) 429-4683 View (949) 429-4683

See more therapy options for Mission Viejo

Dance Movement Therapy
What can I expect from dance/movement therapy?
During dance therapy, the therapist will guide the client through dance movements that metaphorically represent a particular challenge, reflect their internal emotional state, or otherwise express physically what is happening for the client mentally. The therapist may “mirror” the client’s movements or simply observe. The client may be encouraged, as they dance, to pay attention to their breath or other physical sensations. Afterward, the therapist and client will often debrief to help the client process the experience. Is dance/movement therapy evidence-based? A small body of research has found that dance therapy can help treat conditions like depression, PTSD, anxiety, and eating disorders, as well as nonclinical issues like low self-esteem or family conflict. However, some experts caution that the evidence in favor of dance therapy is not as robust as that of other, more established therapies, and some of the published research is of low quality. Many recommend that dance therapy be used as a complementary rather than stand-alone treatment. Can dance therapy help with depression? Some research suggests that dance/movement therapy can aid in the treatment of depression, especially when combined with other therapies; some studies, for example, report that dance therapy combined with antidepressants or talk therapy is more effective than those treatments alone. The positive effects of dance therapy may come from the movement itself, as it’s well-known that physical activity can improve mood and bolster motivation in those struggling with depression. What are the limitations of dance therapy? People with disabilities or other conditions that hinder movement may find it more challenging to participate in dance therapy, though a well-trained therapist will take a client’s physical limitations into account when designing a treatment plan. Experts also warn that certain conditions, particularly eating disorders, should never be treated with dance therapy alone; it may, however, be used as an adjunct therapy.

Is dance/movement therapy evidence-based?
A small body of research has found that dance therapy can help treat conditions like depression, PTSD, anxiety, and eating disorders, as well as nonclinical issues like low self-esteem or family conflict. However, some experts caution that the evidence in favor of dance therapy is not as robust as that of other, more established therapies, and some of the published research is of low quality. Many recommend that dance therapy be used as a complementary rather than stand-alone treatment.

Can dance therapy help with depression?
Some research suggests that dance/movement therapy can aid in the treatment of depression, especially when combined with other therapies; some studies, for example, report that dance therapy combined with antidepressants or talk therapy is more effective than those treatments alone. The positive effects of dance therapy may come from the movement itself, as it’s well-known that physical activity can improve mood and bolster motivation in those struggling with depression.

What are the limitations of dance therapy?
People with disabilities or other conditions that hinder movement may find it more challenging to participate in dance therapy, though a well-trained therapist will take a client’s physical limitations into account when designing a treatment plan. Experts also warn that certain conditions, particularly eating disorders, should never be treated with dance therapy alone; it may, however, be used as an adjunct therapy.