Photo of Alexandria Bekele, ACSW, CATC IV
Alexandria Bekele
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW, CATC IV
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Whatever challenging struggle prompted you to look at this page, I look forward to hearing from you with an earnest desire to support you and/or your family.
When thinking about how to introduce myself, I invariably return to what I personally require when choosing a therapist – genuine commitment, personal sincerity and clinical expertise. I'm dedicated to the core belief that a good therapist is one who gently guides a client to uncover the emotional stumbling blocks causing anxiety, pain or inertia so they can move forward in their life. My therapeutic style exudes compassion, while equally engaging in honest, candid conversations to uncover the personal pain points, challenges, and stressors that ultimately brought the client to therapy.
Whatever challenging struggle prompted you to look at this page, I look forward to hearing from you with an earnest desire to support you and/or your family.
When thinking about how to introduce myself, I invariably return to what I personally require when choosing a therapist – genuine commitment, personal sincerity and clinical expertise. I'm dedicated to the core belief that a good therapist is one who gently guides a client to uncover the emotional stumbling blocks causing anxiety, pain or inertia so they can move forward in their life. My therapeutic style exudes compassion, while equally engaging in honest, candid conversations to uncover the personal pain points, challenges, and stressors that ultimately brought the client to therapy.
(949) 649-7961 View (949) 649-7961
Photo of Teri Pokrajac, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Teri Pokrajac
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I have extensive experience with relationship difficulties and provide couples and family therapy.
A compassionate, exceptionally skilled and caring psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I am focused on helping you deal with life's challenges. I work with clients seeking to improve their lives and assist them in healing from current and past trauma and stress, finding better tools to address problems, and improve your overall life satisfaction. An expert in the field of trauma and dissociative disorders including sexual trauma & abuse, traumatic accident or injury, difficult or abusive relationships, divorce and parent-child issues. I am an engaging therapist who listens, provides useful input, and meets you where you are.
I have extensive experience with relationship difficulties and provide couples and family therapy.
A compassionate, exceptionally skilled and caring psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I am focused on helping you deal with life's challenges. I work with clients seeking to improve their lives and assist them in healing from current and past trauma and stress, finding better tools to address problems, and improve your overall life satisfaction. An expert in the field of trauma and dissociative disorders including sexual trauma & abuse, traumatic accident or injury, difficult or abusive relationships, divorce and parent-child issues. I am an engaging therapist who listens, provides useful input, and meets you where you are.
(949) 287-8074 x2 View (949) 287-8074 x2
Photo of Behzad Bernous, PsyD, Psychologist
Behzad Bernous
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Professor of Psychology. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety to parenting support, couples counseling, individual therapy, and psychological testing. I offer my services in a comfortable, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere in English and Farsi.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Professor of Psychology. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety to parenting support, couples counseling, individual therapy, and psychological testing. I offer my services in a comfortable, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere in English and Farsi.
(949) 238-6705 View (949) 238-6705
Photo of Ralph Gunther Kuechle, PhD, Psychologist
Ralph Gunther Kuechle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Crisis situations such as a divorce may cause a significant disruption of family life.
Family in crisis? Everyone in the family is impacted by the stressful environment when children refuse to follow directions and develop behaviors such as verbal aggression (disrespectful communication, degrading comments, verbally threaten others), emotional outbursts (yelling, temper tantrums), physical aggression toward self (i.e., cutting and/or burning self) or others (pushing and/or hitting others, destroying property), suicidal ideation (threat to self) and/or homicidal ideation (threat to others), and/or running away (AWOL). As a result of feelings of sadness and anger, children and parents often engage in power struggles.
Crisis situations such as a divorce may cause a significant disruption of family life.
Family in crisis? Everyone in the family is impacted by the stressful environment when children refuse to follow directions and develop behaviors such as verbal aggression (disrespectful communication, degrading comments, verbally threaten others), emotional outbursts (yelling, temper tantrums), physical aggression toward self (i.e., cutting and/or burning self) or others (pushing and/or hitting others, destroying property), suicidal ideation (threat to self) and/or homicidal ideation (threat to others), and/or running away (AWOL). As a result of feelings of sadness and anger, children and parents often engage in power struggles.
(657) 232-4751 View (657) 232-4751
Photo of Buckeye Recovery Network - Buckeye Recovery Network
Buckeye Recovery Network
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Buckeye Recovery Network was designed to approach recovery with the belief that true transformation begins with evaluating the needs of every individual who chooses to join our program. Our ideal client is someone who understands that recovery is a powerful journey that can lead to a beautiful future of opportunity and self-expression although it takes willingness and honesty to get there. We seek to accept those who are looking for an environment of healing and a family of experts to guide them to a future of endless possibilities.
Buckeye Recovery Network was designed to approach recovery with the belief that true transformation begins with evaluating the needs of every individual who chooses to join our program. Our ideal client is someone who understands that recovery is a powerful journey that can lead to a beautiful future of opportunity and self-expression although it takes willingness and honesty to get there. We seek to accept those who are looking for an environment of healing and a family of experts to guide them to a future of endless possibilities.
(714) 266-1364 View (714) 266-1364
Photo of Misha Elder - Mindful Health Solutions, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindful Health Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
As a Psychotherapist, I draws from a variety of psychotherapy orientations including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy.
I practice general psychology and works with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, prenatal and postpartum issues, anger, parenting challenges, and couples issues. I also have a concentrated interest in the family of origin trauma.
As a Psychotherapist, I draws from a variety of psychotherapy orientations including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy.
I practice general psychology and works with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, prenatal and postpartum issues, anger, parenting challenges, and couples issues. I also have a concentrated interest in the family of origin trauma.
(323) 529-0824 View (323) 529-0824
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(424) 395-5759 View (424) 395-5759
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 694-2801 View (949) 694-2801
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 694-2825 View (949) 694-2825
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 274-4852 View (949) 274-4852
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 694-3836 View (949) 694-3836
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 694-3838 View (949) 694-3838
Photo of Amber S. Sibbett - Emdr Certified, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amber S. Sibbett - Emdr Certified
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I have a high success rate in my therapy work, with clients reporting that their negative symptoms are dramatically decreasing and their quality of life is increasing. I enjoy working with individuals and couples whether in person or via online (Telehealth). I use the Gottman method when working with couples and am certified in EMDR therapy which dramatically compliments most individual therapy sessions. I have completed my academic portion for my doctorate in Forensic Psychology and I’m currently working on my dissertation which should be completed this winter of 2024.
I have a high success rate in my therapy work, with clients reporting that their negative symptoms are dramatically decreasing and their quality of life is increasing. I enjoy working with individuals and couples whether in person or via online (Telehealth). I use the Gottman method when working with couples and am certified in EMDR therapy which dramatically compliments most individual therapy sessions. I have completed my academic portion for my doctorate in Forensic Psychology and I’m currently working on my dissertation which should be completed this winter of 2024.
(562) 469-5838 View (562) 469-5838
Photo of Breanna Lynn, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Breanna Lynn
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
As a therapist my goal has always been to help people be their most authentic self. My hope for all my clients is to provide a safe, secure, and non-judgmental space to traverse the potential challenges and barriers that they feel interfere with their journey. My ideal client is someone that is curious about ways in which they can address their mental health and wanting to inquire what authenticity to them feels and looks like. I welcome people at any stage of their therapy journey and welcome the opportunity to develop goals that address what they hope to work towards using evidenced-based therapeutic modalities and interventions.
As a therapist my goal has always been to help people be their most authentic self. My hope for all my clients is to provide a safe, secure, and non-judgmental space to traverse the potential challenges and barriers that they feel interfere with their journey. My ideal client is someone that is curious about ways in which they can address their mental health and wanting to inquire what authenticity to them feels and looks like. I welcome people at any stage of their therapy journey and welcome the opportunity to develop goals that address what they hope to work towards using evidenced-based therapeutic modalities and interventions.
(949) 991-5954 View (949) 991-5954
Photo of Kenneth Garett, PhD, Psychologist
Kenneth Garett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
For over 25 years I have been practicing as a licensed psychologist providing individual counseling, clinical assessments, neuropsychological testing, and substance abuse treatment. I serve a range of populations from children to seniors, Spanish speakers, and those suffering from anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Si prefiere hablar en español, por favor hágamelo saber.
For over 25 years I have been practicing as a licensed psychologist providing individual counseling, clinical assessments, neuropsychological testing, and substance abuse treatment. I serve a range of populations from children to seniors, Spanish speakers, and those suffering from anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Si prefiere hablar en español, por favor hágamelo saber.
(760) 691-2850 View (760) 691-2850
Photo of Bobbie McDonald, PsyD, QME, Psychologist
Bobbie McDonald
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I have many years of experience helping individuals to overcome major life stress, transitions, anxiety, depression, or unresolved past traumas. I know that no matter how distressed you feel right now, there is hope. I specialize in helping you to identify the root of the problem and reach the other side, finding the path to create the life you envision for yourself. I work with both adults and adolescents to address a variety of issues.
I have many years of experience helping individuals to overcome major life stress, transitions, anxiety, depression, or unresolved past traumas. I know that no matter how distressed you feel right now, there is hope. I specialize in helping you to identify the root of the problem and reach the other side, finding the path to create the life you envision for yourself. I work with both adults and adolescents to address a variety of issues.
(833) 971-1542 View (833) 971-1542
Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.