Psychodynamic Therapists in Mission Viejo, CA

I work with individuals, couples, and families who want to address long-term problems and patterns. It is through this kind of personal exploration that a deeper understanding can be attained and the sense-of-self can be strengthened. A psychodynamic approach can go below the surface to address problems, improve personal relationships, and stop self-destructive behavior. So often, past experiences can interfere with our present lives and we find ourselves suffering through repeated ongoing pain.

I believe the therapy process involves forming a relationship with someone who you can share with and trust. A third party who wont judge you, or share/gossip your most intimate secrets or life struggles with others. It's nice having friends and or family to share with, but that isn't always an option, nor is it always safe. I provide my clients with an environment free from judgement where you can let your guard down, vent, share and just be you. Therapy doesn't mean there's something wrong with you, it means you're ready to grow and better understand yourself, others and hopefully life. Isn't that what we're all striving for?

I'm a licensed Clinical Forensic Psychologist. I have extensive experience providing individual therapy, group therapy, couples/family therapy, crisis counseling, forensic evaluations and diagnostic testing. I specialize in alcohol/substance-abuse, addiction, trauma, bi-polar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, anxiety disorders, grief & loss, sexual issues, and marriage and family issues.

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.

Do you sometimes feel like you are just going through the motions of your life? Perhaps you are finding yourself at a crossroads, a mid-life crisis of some sort (or even a quarter-life crisis!). You may find yourself wondering in this time of transition, “who am I, really?” Maybe you’re feeling discouraged and alone and in need of extra support. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help.

I strive to help individuals develop a greater relationship with themselves, improve their self confidence, and have an overall happier life. It's a privilege to share space with someone and to hear their story. For the past 10 years, I've worked in several practice settings where I've gained a working knowledge to help meet people where they're at and assist them in healing and finding freedom. I continue to develop my knowledge to assist others in processing trauma, building self esteem, and improving their life styles.

I am a psychotherapist with 20 years experience. I am licensed to practice in 3 states, CA, NY and NJ. I provide in person therapy in beautiful San Juan Capistrano. Online therapy services are also available for some clients. I hold numerous specialty certifications and I have extensive training in, cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic (insight oriented) psychotherapy. I provide short and long term treatment, depending on a client's needs and wishes. Some of my specialties include: Anxiety disorders and stress management, physician burnout, eating disorders, substance abuse, anger management, depression, communication issues, relationship/marital issues, special education advocacy and learning disabilities

Are you tired of "being sick and tired"? Do you need to break unhealthy habits? It is time to take control. Deal with the issues that cause you to feel depressed, anxious, angry and stuck in unhealthy relationships. Stop blaming others, beating yourself up and sabotaging yourself. Stop feeling guilty and recalling mistakes you have made. Love yourself and be the best person you can be. Improve your self-confidence, your self -esteem and your relationships. It is time for you to decide " What do you want to do with your life"? You can be transformed and re-newed.

Hello. Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile and for the courage to step into the therapeutic experience. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process and that it is an honor to step into my clients' lives and innermost experiences. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, and adults with trauma, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and low self-esteem. I also specialize in working with couples and families trying to improve their overall relationship and communication. In addition, I am an EMDR practitioner trained by EMDRIA to provide Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to treat PTSD/trauma.

Looking for a caring therapist to help with solutions for anxiety or grief and loss? Are you dealing with the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship or divorce? Do you want a therapist who provides feedback as well as listening? I can help you through counseling and psychotherapy to move through your current struggle to a place of peace and healing. I am currently working with adults, couples, and adolescents and their parents, and I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with you!

You have been doing everything in your power to push through, working so hard to mask the pain and dull the feelings and memories. You feel “stuck” with these thoughts, feelings and memories that you can’t seem to get out of your head. You are hitting roadblocks in communicating with your partner. Whether it be in your career, your relationship or life in general, you are wondering about what’s to come and where you should be headed. Through the use of narrative, psychodynamic and trauma-based interventions, I am here to help you reprocess, heal and overcome.

I understand that living with anxiety can be overwhelming, but there is hope. You are not alone in your battle against anxiety. Let's manage it together. I empower my clients to live authentically, be vulnerable, and demonstrate resilience by sharing their story. My aim is to spread the message that "You Matter," promoting love, forgiveness, & acceptance in the world. I specialize in working with individuals who are dealing with anxiety, codependency, relationship difficulties, life transitions, & professional burnout. I support my clients to help them understand their unique strengths & abilities to restore hope & healing.

If you are reading this you may feel stuck, anxious, frustrated… all of the above. Are you searching for change and a way to get through it all? Change may seem scary and impossible. BUT change is possible. I am here to support you on your journey.

Thank you for visiting my page. First of all, I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here, seeking help. I am glad you’re here. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures. I am passionate about helping my clients heal and become their most authentic selves by providing them with sensitive, trauma-informed care. I approach each client with empathy, self-awareness and cultural humility, as I believe they are the experts of their own lives and my role is to guide them in discovering their ability to heal past wounds and reach deep fulfillment.

Have you looked at your life lately and thought that maybe your life hasn’t turned out the way you thought it would be? Or maybe you’ve “checked all the boxes” but you still feel numb, disconnected, anxious or depressed? Maybe you are growing your family, and no one told you becoming a mother would be so difficult. But the fact is, life can be hard. Really hard. And sometimes we need help navigating our thoughts, feelings and experiences.

Currently Accepting New Clients > > > I am a Licensed Psychotherapist who is passionate about helping people to help themselves. I utilize a strengths-based approach, as I work to help my clients gain and maintain increased insight and self-efficacy, so that they can better achieve their goals. I find joy in this work, as I realize that everyone has difficulties in life, no matter how big or small. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, negative self-image, addiction, food issues or low self-esteem, I am here to walk the path beside you, as you learn to cope in a healthy, empowered manner.

We are not meant to do life alone. As a therapist, I care deeply about creating a space where people can be seen, heard, and accepted. I value the transformative power that relationships have to offer – a sense of presence in the midst of life’s difficulties, and the opportunity to discover new ways of being.