Imago Therapists in Mission Viejo, CA
I use psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, relational, and IMAGO as the base for our work together.
I strive to provide an inclusive feeling in my practice where everyone’s uniqueness is embraced, explored, and celebrated. I utilize a variety of modalities including Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and Mindfulness. After practicing for more than 20 years what I have learned is that therapy is not one size fits all, success and progress look different for each person, everybody is doing their best always no matter what, and in the end the best predictor of treatment success is the relationship we create in our work together. If we can build a trusting relationship then the journey will be successful.
I use psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, relational, and IMAGO as the base for our work together.
I strive to provide an inclusive feeling in my practice where everyone’s uniqueness is embraced, explored, and celebrated. I utilize a variety of modalities including Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, and Mindfulness. After practicing for more than 20 years what I have learned is that therapy is not one size fits all, success and progress look different for each person, everybody is doing their best always no matter what, and in the end the best predictor of treatment success is the relationship we create in our work together. If we can build a trusting relationship then the journey will be successful.
I'm Arifa (pronounced ar-fuh), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about de-stigmatizing Mental Health and providing individuals with the proper therapeutic interventions they deserve! I have a wide range of experience with children, adults, and seniors, and have worked with individuals and families. I am Competent in evidence-based therapies and committed to delivering high-quality care and promoting positive outcomes for clients.
I'm Arifa (pronounced ar-fuh), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about de-stigmatizing Mental Health and providing individuals with the proper therapeutic interventions they deserve! I have a wide range of experience with children, adults, and seniors, and have worked with individuals and families. I am Competent in evidence-based therapies and committed to delivering high-quality care and promoting positive outcomes for clients.
As a clinical psychologist I practice cognitive behavioral therapy which focuses on teaching coping skills and solving problems and has been demonstrated by research to be highly effective in producing results. I help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and grief. I am committed to helping couples make their marriages or relationships work. I will help you to understand the underlying issues contributing to your conflict and assist you with strategies for improvement. I approach a couple's relationship issues through the application of research-based methods for marital assessment and diagnosis.
As a clinical psychologist I practice cognitive behavioral therapy which focuses on teaching coping skills and solving problems and has been demonstrated by research to be highly effective in producing results. I help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and grief. I am committed to helping couples make their marriages or relationships work. I will help you to understand the underlying issues contributing to your conflict and assist you with strategies for improvement. I approach a couple's relationship issues through the application of research-based methods for marital assessment and diagnosis.
Weekend and evening availability. Dr. Hebert has years of experience in the field of psychology and has had extensive training in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. Her practice currently focuses on helping adults and teens with problems with feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, down, anxiety, and anger. Dr. Hebert has also has extensive expertise in helping people with relationship issues including personality disorders. She also provides high quality marriage and couples counseling using approaches that move away from just rehashing old arguments and moving towards better connection & care.
Weekend and evening availability. Dr. Hebert has years of experience in the field of psychology and has had extensive training in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. Her practice currently focuses on helping adults and teens with problems with feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, down, anxiety, and anger. Dr. Hebert has also has extensive expertise in helping people with relationship issues including personality disorders. She also provides high quality marriage and couples counseling using approaches that move away from just rehashing old arguments and moving towards better connection & care.
Are you feeling stuck? I can help. Raising a family, excelling at your work and maintaining healthy relationships can all be challenging. Sometimes those challenges can result in fulfillment and sometimes they can be so stressful as to make us feel anxious, depressed, sad, angry or uncertain. Therapy can provide perspective and offer new skills to promote positive change. I offer a supportive environment to assist you in working through your life and relationship challenges in order to create more satisfaction and joy in your life. See more details at leslierennick.com.
Are you feeling stuck? I can help. Raising a family, excelling at your work and maintaining healthy relationships can all be challenging. Sometimes those challenges can result in fulfillment and sometimes they can be so stressful as to make us feel anxious, depressed, sad, angry or uncertain. Therapy can provide perspective and offer new skills to promote positive change. I offer a supportive environment to assist you in working through your life and relationship challenges in order to create more satisfaction and joy in your life. See more details at leslierennick.com.
Are you exhausted from fighting fear? Many people come to therapy believing they need to become someone different—to be less sensitive, less anxious, or less affected by life. Have you spent years trying to push fear away, avoid it, or overcome it, only to feel more disconnected from yourself. But what if fear was never the enemy? Fear is your nervous system’s attempt to protect you. Together, we explore your relationship with fear, understand what it is trying to communicate, and create space for healing, connection, and freedom. Therapy is not about changing who you are; it is about developing a safer relationship with yourself.
Are you exhausted from fighting fear? Many people come to therapy believing they need to become someone different—to be less sensitive, less anxious, or less affected by life. Have you spent years trying to push fear away, avoid it, or overcome it, only to feel more disconnected from yourself. But what if fear was never the enemy? Fear is your nervous system’s attempt to protect you. Together, we explore your relationship with fear, understand what it is trying to communicate, and create space for healing, connection, and freedom. Therapy is not about changing who you are; it is about developing a safer relationship with yourself.
If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in patterns with food, or weighed down by painful experiences from the past, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken. Often, the symptoms that bring people to therapy are signals that something inside needs care, attention, and change. I see therapy as a place where we gently listen to those signals together.
If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in patterns with food, or weighed down by painful experiences from the past, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken. Often, the symptoms that bring people to therapy are signals that something inside needs care, attention, and change. I see therapy as a place where we gently listen to those signals together.
My style is collaborative, client-centered, positive-energy, and solution-focused. I support my clients in developing solutions based on their goals and aspirations.
My ideal client is one who is willing to "go deep," to learn about aspects of personality, behavior, and character that can contribute to developing a more profound sense of joy and fulfillment. I have extensive experience treating relationship issues, anxiety, depression, couples issues, all forms of addiction issues, substance abuse, childhood trauma, codependency, issues related to growing up in a dysfunctional family and self esteem difficulties.
My style is collaborative, client-centered, positive-energy, and solution-focused. I support my clients in developing solutions based on their goals and aspirations.
My ideal client is one who is willing to "go deep," to learn about aspects of personality, behavior, and character that can contribute to developing a more profound sense of joy and fulfillment. I have extensive experience treating relationship issues, anxiety, depression, couples issues, all forms of addiction issues, substance abuse, childhood trauma, codependency, issues related to growing up in a dysfunctional family and self esteem difficulties.
I work with driven professionals who look successful from the outside but are quietly running on empty — burnout, career pressure, perfectionism, and the toll of always being 'on.' Many aren't in crisis; they want to protect what's working or rebuild coping tools that no longer hold up under pressure. I also work with clients facing substance use, co-occurring conditions, trauma, and crisis stabilization, drawing on four years in detox, PHP, and IOP settings. That work is trauma-informed and structured, building safety before deeper processing — including EMDR, which I'm currently certifying in.
I work with driven professionals who look successful from the outside but are quietly running on empty — burnout, career pressure, perfectionism, and the toll of always being 'on.' Many aren't in crisis; they want to protect what's working or rebuild coping tools that no longer hold up under pressure. I also work with clients facing substance use, co-occurring conditions, trauma, and crisis stabilization, drawing on four years in detox, PHP, and IOP settings. That work is trauma-informed and structured, building safety before deeper processing — including EMDR, which I'm currently certifying in.
Looking to find the right therapist for you? Start with this important question: "What creates success in therapy?" I'd answer that it's important to find the best trained and most relatable therapist possible for YOU. If this were a life-threatening illness for a loved one, you would do a lot of research and find the most qualified and experienced doctor. You would do whatever you could to have the very best help available. Don't settle for less when choosing a therapist for yourself. I think you're worth it! So I recommend looking at two important factors when choosing a therapist, whether that's myself or someone else.
Looking to find the right therapist for you? Start with this important question: "What creates success in therapy?" I'd answer that it's important to find the best trained and most relatable therapist possible for YOU. If this were a life-threatening illness for a loved one, you would do a lot of research and find the most qualified and experienced doctor. You would do whatever you could to have the very best help available. Don't settle for less when choosing a therapist for yourself. I think you're worth it! So I recommend looking at two important factors when choosing a therapist, whether that's myself or someone else.
For more than 40 years, I've helped individuals and couples in Australia and the United States create healthier, more fulfilling lives. My career has included serving as Director of the Family Therapy Program in Sydney and working with the Family Institute at Northwestern University.
As both a therapist and an author, I see you as the main character in your life story. Every meaningful story includes adversity. My goal is to help you identify the old scripts that keep you stuck in anxiety, depression, or relationship conflict and rewrite them to create resilience, healthier relationships, personal growth, and lasting change.
For more than 40 years, I've helped individuals and couples in Australia and the United States create healthier, more fulfilling lives. My career has included serving as Director of the Family Therapy Program in Sydney and working with the Family Institute at Northwestern University.
As both a therapist and an author, I see you as the main character in your life story. Every meaningful story includes adversity. My goal is to help you identify the old scripts that keep you stuck in anxiety, depression, or relationship conflict and rewrite them to create resilience, healthier relationships, personal growth, and lasting change.
I offer strategies and support to empower women through transitions such a divorce, parenthood or golden years challenges. Women of all ages can experience anxiety embracing who they are, what they believe and confidently conveying this truth to others. When we do not behave congruently with our beliefs. depression and anxiety can easily develop. Additionally, I approach young adults with an easy manner creating a relatable and accepting atmosphere. Young people gravitate to me as they sense I attune to their experience with genuine care. No matter what your life stage, I am a capable clinician focused on cultivating your best self.
I offer strategies and support to empower women through transitions such a divorce, parenthood or golden years challenges. Women of all ages can experience anxiety embracing who they are, what they believe and confidently conveying this truth to others. When we do not behave congruently with our beliefs. depression and anxiety can easily develop. Additionally, I approach young adults with an easy manner creating a relatable and accepting atmosphere. Young people gravitate to me as they sense I attune to their experience with genuine care. No matter what your life stage, I am a capable clinician focused on cultivating your best self.
I provide professional, caring psychoanalytic oriented psychotherapy with a focus on understanding an individual's experiences, values, beliefs and how these are connected to present day behaviors, relationships, and ongoing life experiences. I view psychotherapy/psychoanalysis as a life process involving a person's mental, physical, emotional, environmental, spiritual and dream experiences. I regard each of my clients with a genuine interest and respect. During our work we will generate insights, create an atmosphere for learning, establish potential life goals, process and work through challenging and painful memories, and be more fully present in everyday life situations. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and teens.
I provide professional, caring psychoanalytic oriented psychotherapy with a focus on understanding an individual's experiences, values, beliefs and how these are connected to present day behaviors, relationships, and ongoing life experiences. I view psychotherapy/psychoanalysis as a life process involving a person's mental, physical, emotional, environmental, spiritual and dream experiences. I regard each of my clients with a genuine interest and respect. During our work we will generate insights, create an atmosphere for learning, establish potential life goals, process and work through challenging and painful memories, and be more fully present in everyday life situations. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and teens.
More Therapists Nearby
These are definitely some odd times we're living in and it's never been tougher to keep yourself relationally, emotionally, and mentally strong. Your relationship is falling apart. Your life isn't where you want it to be. You don't like who you see in the mirror. You’re feeling anxious, depressed, lost…maybe angry. Or perhaps confused because no matter what you do, things tend to stay the same. You should have the job, romance, and life you want. You’ve done everything you’re “supposed” to so what happened? Why are you still stuck?
These are definitely some odd times we're living in and it's never been tougher to keep yourself relationally, emotionally, and mentally strong. Your relationship is falling apart. Your life isn't where you want it to be. You don't like who you see in the mirror. You’re feeling anxious, depressed, lost…maybe angry. Or perhaps confused because no matter what you do, things tend to stay the same. You should have the job, romance, and life you want. You’ve done everything you’re “supposed” to so what happened? Why are you still stuck?
Are you tired of your past trauma controlling your present-day life? We are a team of dedicated psychotherapists committed to providing exceptional, high-quality mental health care for individuals and couples. We specialize in helping high-functioning professionals, anxious overachievers, survivors of abuse, and those struggling with CPTSD, PTSD, anxiety, anger, chronic pain, addictions, relationship challenges, and low self-worth.
Trauma doesn’t always come from major life events—even experiences that may seem small can leave lasting emotional and physical imprints, affecting how we think, feel, connect, and cope.
Are you tired of your past trauma controlling your present-day life? We are a team of dedicated psychotherapists committed to providing exceptional, high-quality mental health care for individuals and couples. We specialize in helping high-functioning professionals, anxious overachievers, survivors of abuse, and those struggling with CPTSD, PTSD, anxiety, anger, chronic pain, addictions, relationship challenges, and low self-worth.
Trauma doesn’t always come from major life events—even experiences that may seem small can leave lasting emotional and physical imprints, affecting how we think, feel, connect, and cope.
I am a certified EMDR therapist with complex PTSD training as well as Imago Trained.
Are you looking to make big changes in your life or maybe you are just wanting to feel better on a daily basis? I offer evidence based therapy for those who are busy professionals or lead lives with demanding schedules that don't permit for the traditional model of months or even years of ongoing weekly therapy. Whether you seek this help for Trauma, interpersonal relationships, depression, or other difficult life situations, I am here to partner with you on the journey of healing. My passion is using EMDR and other evidence based therapies with clients who are ready to live without their distressing clinical symptoms.
I am a certified EMDR therapist with complex PTSD training as well as Imago Trained.
Are you looking to make big changes in your life or maybe you are just wanting to feel better on a daily basis? I offer evidence based therapy for those who are busy professionals or lead lives with demanding schedules that don't permit for the traditional model of months or even years of ongoing weekly therapy. Whether you seek this help for Trauma, interpersonal relationships, depression, or other difficult life situations, I am here to partner with you on the journey of healing. My passion is using EMDR and other evidence based therapies with clients who are ready to live without their distressing clinical symptoms.
You may feel stuck in negative thought patterns, overwhelmed by anxiety, intrusive thoughts, unresolved trauma, or struggle with food and body image. You’re seeking emotional balance, a stronger connection to yourself, daily resilience, and relief from anxiety or depression. You don’t need to have everything figured out to start. Healing begins when you feel safe, seen, and supported. Together, we'll reduce symptoms, explore root causes, and create change. You deserve clarity, peace, and the freedom to thrive.
What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us," Ralph Waldo Emerson.
You may feel stuck in negative thought patterns, overwhelmed by anxiety, intrusive thoughts, unresolved trauma, or struggle with food and body image. You’re seeking emotional balance, a stronger connection to yourself, daily resilience, and relief from anxiety or depression. You don’t need to have everything figured out to start. Healing begins when you feel safe, seen, and supported. Together, we'll reduce symptoms, explore root causes, and create change. You deserve clarity, peace, and the freedom to thrive.
What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us," Ralph Waldo Emerson.
I work with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC adults, teens, and couples who are navigating the complexities of identity, relationships, systems, and mental health. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, or feeling disconnected from themselves and their communities. Together, we’ll create a space where your pain can be held with compassion, and where the stories you’ve carried alone can finally soften. Therapy becomes a place to untangle what feels heavy, to tend to old wounds, to reshape boundaries that no longer protect you, and to nurture relationships that bring you closer to yourself.
I work with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC adults, teens, and couples who are navigating the complexities of identity, relationships, systems, and mental health. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, or feeling disconnected from themselves and their communities. Together, we’ll create a space where your pain can be held with compassion, and where the stories you’ve carried alone can finally soften. Therapy becomes a place to untangle what feels heavy, to tend to old wounds, to reshape boundaries that no longer protect you, and to nurture relationships that bring you closer to yourself.
I am a licensed Mairrage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples , familes and teens. I have worked in several treatment facilities and facilitated groups for depression, anxiety and eating disorders. I enjoy helping clients gain a greater understanding of themselves and the important people in their life. My goal is to empower clients to be vulnerable and honest with themselves and others. This often allows clients to make life choices that are in alignment with their values and experience growth in their life and their relationships.
I am a licensed Mairrage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples , familes and teens. I have worked in several treatment facilities and facilitated groups for depression, anxiety and eating disorders. I enjoy helping clients gain a greater understanding of themselves and the important people in their life. My goal is to empower clients to be vulnerable and honest with themselves and others. This often allows clients to make life choices that are in alignment with their values and experience growth in their life and their relationships.
Life is blended with different stages, and we are made to challenge life in different ways. Never give up!.... With more than nine years of providing mental health services, I have had great experiences with my clients through their life transformations. Therapeutic sessions are such mutual teamwork. I hope to be the one who creates a miracle in your life....... I will help you even if you are in financial difficulties; just come before its too late!
Life is blended with different stages, and we are made to challenge life in different ways. Never give up!.... With more than nine years of providing mental health services, I have had great experiences with my clients through their life transformations. Therapeutic sessions are such mutual teamwork. I hope to be the one who creates a miracle in your life....... I will help you even if you are in financial difficulties; just come before its too late!
See more therapy options for Mission Viejo
Nearby Imago Therapists Searches for Mission Viejo
- Aliso Viejo
- Corona Del Mar
- Dana Point
- Irvine
- Ladera Ranch
- Laguna Beach
- Laguna Hills
- Laguna Niguel
- Newport Beach
- San Clemente
- San Juan Capistrano
- Tustin
Imago Therapists
How does Imago therapy work?
Imago relationship therapy is a form of couples counseling meant to help partners address conflict, communication problems, and related issues. Imago sessions typically involve couples sitting facing each other and participating in guided conversations. Therapy will also involve exercises such as re-imagining one’s partner as a wounded child; re-romanticizing a relationship through appreciation, surprises, and even gift-giving and restructuring frustrations by transforming complaints into requests. The ultimate goal is to re-envision the relationship as a source of safety and happiness.
What is the Imago method?
A core technique of Imago therapy is the Imago dialogue, in which partners learn to avoid hurtful statements and establish ways to interact based on each having equal space and power. In the dialogue, partners take turns as the “sender,” who shares their thoughts, and the “receiver.” The receiver is asked to “mirror,” or paraphrase, what their partner has said, without response or rebuttal, and then validate their statements, acknowledging understanding even if they do not personally agree with it. Finally, the receiver displays empathy by stating what they imagine the other is feeling, and showing appreciation for it.
How long does Imago therapy take?
As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for Imago therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core techniques of Imago coaching, some couples quickly make progress, but most should expect sessions to extend for months, encompassing at least 12 to 20 sessions, along with extensive “homework” from their therapist.
Does Imago therapy work?
There is limited empirical evidence to support the benefits of Imago therapy, but some smaller studies suggest that it does help couples, at least in the short-term. A 2017 study found that marital satisfaction increased significantly after couples completed 12 sessions of Imago therapy, and remained higher for some time after that, but did not always result in “complete recovery.” Other studies found greater empathy and fewer feelings of relationship burnout in couples after therapy. Some research suggests that Imago therapy can aid individuals as well as couples; people with ADHD in particular may benefit from the development of communication, self-control, and listening skills that form the basis of the technique.