Photo of Lynne Joachim, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Lynne Joachim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
Life transitions, difficulties in relationships or at work, family dynamics, friendships, raising children, self-esteem, postpartum depression, couples therapy, and support groups.
My name is Lynne Joachim and I'm a licensed Psychotherapist and have been seeing people of all ages for 30 years. I encourage people in therapy because it transforms lives and relationships in significant ways, especially the relationship with oneself. I was trained in Psychodynamic, insight-oriented therapy and am well versed in many different approaches to understanding the life span: adult development, the psychology of women, adolescents, couples therapy, and group therapy/support groups.
Life transitions, difficulties in relationships or at work, family dynamics, friendships, raising children, self-esteem, postpartum depression, couples therapy, and support groups.
My name is Lynne Joachim and I'm a licensed Psychotherapist and have been seeing people of all ages for 30 years. I encourage people in therapy because it transforms lives and relationships in significant ways, especially the relationship with oneself. I was trained in Psychodynamic, insight-oriented therapy and am well versed in many different approaches to understanding the life span: adult development, the psychology of women, adolescents, couples therapy, and group therapy/support groups.
(949) 762-8588 View (949) 762-8588
Photo of Nate Balfanz, Psychologist in San Clemente, CA
Nate Balfanz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
Given my extensive background and training in working with children of all ages, I recognize the importance of treating both the child, and the entire family system that supports that child.
I’ve been practicing psychology in a variety of settings for nearly 20 years now. Currently, I split my time between my position at Dr. Nate Psych and my secondary role as a pediatric and adolescent specialist at The Weichman Clinic, a multidisciplinary mental health clinic located within Hoag Hospital of Newport Beach. I started my own clinic as a result of my lifelong pursuit for helping children, adults, and families manage their mental health struggles in order to live a more fulfilling life. At Dr. Nate Psych, I provide a variety of therapeutic services intended for children, individuals, and families of all types.
Given my extensive background and training in working with children of all ages, I recognize the importance of treating both the child, and the entire family system that supports that child.
I’ve been practicing psychology in a variety of settings for nearly 20 years now. Currently, I split my time between my position at Dr. Nate Psych and my secondary role as a pediatric and adolescent specialist at The Weichman Clinic, a multidisciplinary mental health clinic located within Hoag Hospital of Newport Beach. I started my own clinic as a result of my lifelong pursuit for helping children, adults, and families manage their mental health struggles in order to live a more fulfilling life. At Dr. Nate Psych, I provide a variety of therapeutic services intended for children, individuals, and families of all types.
(949) 880-7997 View (949) 880-7997
Photo of Mary Christie, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Clemente, CA
Mary Christie
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92673
Located in San Clemente, I have a supportive, direct and caring approach to counseling. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 30years and truly enjoy assisting clients in their quality of life. I specialize in helping those who have depression, anxiety, problems with anger management, and those affected by domestic violence. I am certified in treating trauma, PTSD and grief with the use of EMDR. I have 5 years direct experience in working with persons diagnosed with Attachment Disorder. I work with children, adolescents and adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. My goal is to be your ally in the healing process.
Located in San Clemente, I have a supportive, direct and caring approach to counseling. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 30years and truly enjoy assisting clients in their quality of life. I specialize in helping those who have depression, anxiety, problems with anger management, and those affected by domestic violence. I am certified in treating trauma, PTSD and grief with the use of EMDR. I have 5 years direct experience in working with persons diagnosed with Attachment Disorder. I work with children, adolescents and adults, in individual, couples, and family therapy. My goal is to be your ally in the healing process.
(714) 947-1068 View (714) 947-1068
Photo of Jennifer Lafferty O'Connor, Psychologist in San Clemente, CA
Jennifer Lafferty O'Connor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92673
I am pleased to offer the services of a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Alexandra Armas) and an Associate Clinical Social Worker (Isabella Nyquist) .
Hello, I specialize in the treatment of eating and anxiety disorders. I have been featured on CNN's Newsroom, the Anderson Cooper Show and A&E's "Obsessed" due to my expertise in the treatment of OCD and related anxiety disorders. My highly specialized training has equipped me to treat individuals who struggle with various types of anxiety, worry, fear, obsessions, or compulsive behavioral patterns. I have extensive training and experience in treating eating disorders and issues related to body image distress. I treat all ages, but have specialized training in pediatric and adolescent development.
I am pleased to offer the services of a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Alexandra Armas) and an Associate Clinical Social Worker (Isabella Nyquist) .
Hello, I specialize in the treatment of eating and anxiety disorders. I have been featured on CNN's Newsroom, the Anderson Cooper Show and A&E's "Obsessed" due to my expertise in the treatment of OCD and related anxiety disorders. My highly specialized training has equipped me to treat individuals who struggle with various types of anxiety, worry, fear, obsessions, or compulsive behavioral patterns. I have extensive training and experience in treating eating disorders and issues related to body image distress. I treat all ages, but have specialized training in pediatric and adolescent development.
(949) 427-2521 View (949) 427-2521
Photo of Kerreen M Chau, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Kerreen M Chau
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
I provide individual, couple and family counseling.
I treat individuals, couples and adolescents. I specialize in couple therapy and work on issues of communication, affairs, intimacy, relationship building and divorce transition. People often believe that they are more independent than they truly are on others, less connected and affected by the people in their lives. However, research shows the opposite. It also helps to learn about our emotions. Emotions often are automatic especially when anxiety and stress is high. My work looks at affective neuroscience which integrates the scientific research of brain function and emotions that drive behavior, focus and our relationships with others."
I provide individual, couple and family counseling.
I treat individuals, couples and adolescents. I specialize in couple therapy and work on issues of communication, affairs, intimacy, relationship building and divorce transition. People often believe that they are more independent than they truly are on others, less connected and affected by the people in their lives. However, research shows the opposite. It also helps to learn about our emotions. Emotions often are automatic especially when anxiety and stress is high. My work looks at affective neuroscience which integrates the scientific research of brain function and emotions that drive behavior, focus and our relationships with others."
(949) 769-0153 View (949) 769-0153
Photo of Alexandra Armas, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Alexandra Armas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92672  (Online Only)
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University.
It is my hope to walk alongside you on your journey toward self discovery. Whether you are seeking help exploring a current or past issue, soul searching, or just looking for someone to talk to, the therapy room is a safe place to grow. When experiencing pain in relationships or feeling alone, beginning this road toward healing can seem daunting. There is courage in reaching out for support to restore your heart, body, and mind. I am committed to accompanying you in building secure and fulfilling relationships, providing warm and empathic services for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University.
It is my hope to walk alongside you on your journey toward self discovery. Whether you are seeking help exploring a current or past issue, soul searching, or just looking for someone to talk to, the therapy room is a safe place to grow. When experiencing pain in relationships or feeling alone, beginning this road toward healing can seem daunting. There is courage in reaching out for support to restore your heart, body, and mind. I am committed to accompanying you in building secure and fulfilling relationships, providing warm and empathic services for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
(949) 247-8387 View (949) 247-8387
Photo of Lauren Ryder, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Lauren Ryder
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92672
Waitlist for new clients
Is your child struggling with low self-esteem, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or are you experiencing parent-child conflict? Do you want to better understand your child's behavior and learn effective, evidence-based parenting strategies? If you find yourself getting frequently frustrated with your child's behavior, or notice yourself getting triggered while parenting, you have come to the right place! We can create harmony in your life. I provide therapy for children, families, teens, and parent coaching to create lasting change your family deserves.
Is your child struggling with low self-esteem, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or are you experiencing parent-child conflict? Do you want to better understand your child's behavior and learn effective, evidence-based parenting strategies? If you find yourself getting frequently frustrated with your child's behavior, or notice yourself getting triggered while parenting, you have come to the right place! We can create harmony in your life. I provide therapy for children, families, teens, and parent coaching to create lasting change your family deserves.
(949) 570-9504 View (949) 570-9504
Photo of Catherine Janet Girard, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Catherine Janet Girard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92672
I have been married for 36 years and raised two children, which gives me an understanding of life transitions, struggles and family dynamics.
Meeting a stranger, and sharing your life isn't easy. Trusting relationships take time-- even with a professional therapist. I have tried to create an atmosphere that will give you a safe and relaxing place where you can share your hopes, failures, struggles and goals without judgement. The years have a way of tangling us in bonds while the process takes work--healing and change can happen!
I have been married for 36 years and raised two children, which gives me an understanding of life transitions, struggles and family dynamics.
Meeting a stranger, and sharing your life isn't easy. Trusting relationships take time-- even with a professional therapist. I have tried to create an atmosphere that will give you a safe and relaxing place where you can share your hopes, failures, struggles and goals without judgement. The years have a way of tangling us in bonds while the process takes work--healing and change can happen!
(949) 565-2651 View (949) 565-2651
Photo of Sharm Lanel Luehmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Sharm Lanel Luehmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
I became a marriage and family therapist through a spiritual inspiration. My goal is to help individuals become connected to themselves and the world around them. I believe we are all wounded not broken and deserve an opportunity to heal. My methods are uniquely connected to my personality. I am both loving and direct, and desire to get to the goal as quickly as possible. I think out of the box yet remain professional. I am insightful, intuitive and creative in my approach.
I became a marriage and family therapist through a spiritual inspiration. My goal is to help individuals become connected to themselves and the world around them. I believe we are all wounded not broken and deserve an opportunity to heal. My methods are uniquely connected to my personality. I am both loving and direct, and desire to get to the goal as quickly as possible. I think out of the box yet remain professional. I am insightful, intuitive and creative in my approach.
(949) 536-8723 View (949) 536-8723
Photo of Vicky Rosales, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Vicky Rosales
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
Hi, my name is Vicky Rosales. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, CA. I am a Trauma-Informed Therapist and understand the importance of the mind, body, and spirit connection. My expertise is working with youth and families impacted by the child welfare and juvenile justice system, providing both individual and family therapy. I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic relationship where you can express your emotions and life experience without judgment.
Hi, my name is Vicky Rosales. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, CA. I am a Trauma-Informed Therapist and understand the importance of the mind, body, and spirit connection. My expertise is working with youth and families impacted by the child welfare and juvenile justice system, providing both individual and family therapy. I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic relationship where you can express your emotions and life experience without judgment.
(949) 990-3801 View (949) 990-3801
Photo of Jennifer Cooper, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Jennifer Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92673
The decision to begin therapy is often difficult. Having the right therapist will make all the difference. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience specializing in the treatment of adults and adolescents. If you are experiencing frustration or loneliness in your relationships or feeling more irritable and depressed in your life, therapy can help. It is helpful to gain a professional perspective and find solutions you may not have otherwise known were there. My personal style is warm and interactive. I use humor when appropriate to help you feel comfortable and create a caring space, without judgment. If you want someone to talk to please call me for a free 20 minute phone consultation, or write me an e-mail.
The decision to begin therapy is often difficult. Having the right therapist will make all the difference. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience specializing in the treatment of adults and adolescents. If you are experiencing frustration or loneliness in your relationships or feeling more irritable and depressed in your life, therapy can help. It is helpful to gain a professional perspective and find solutions you may not have otherwise known were there. My personal style is warm and interactive. I use humor when appropriate to help you feel comfortable and create a caring space, without judgment. If you want someone to talk to please call me for a free 20 minute phone consultation, or write me an e-mail.
(949) 385-5297 View (949) 385-5297
Photo of Michael Gass, Psychologist in San Clemente, CA
Michael Gass
Psychologist, PhD, MFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
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.
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.
(949) 536-9310 View (949) 536-9310
Photo of Steve Rockman, Psychologist in San Clemente, CA
Steve Rockman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
The treatment methods that I use include behavior therapy,psychodynamic therapy,structural family therapy, EMDR, Bioenergetic therapy, group therapy.
Having been a therapist for over thirty years, I love being able to make a difference in people's lives. My mission is to get my patients better as quickly as possible. Although I do long term therapy,the majority of my patients significantly improve in less than ten visits. Treating adults and children, I work with relationships,families,and individuals. As the clinical supervisor of THE HOPE INSTITUTE,I am experienced in treating teens and their families. Typical problems of teens include chemical dependency,Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar Disorder,Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Conduct Disorders,Academic Problems,behavior problems.
The treatment methods that I use include behavior therapy,psychodynamic therapy,structural family therapy, EMDR, Bioenergetic therapy, group therapy.
Having been a therapist for over thirty years, I love being able to make a difference in people's lives. My mission is to get my patients better as quickly as possible. Although I do long term therapy,the majority of my patients significantly improve in less than ten visits. Treating adults and children, I work with relationships,families,and individuals. As the clinical supervisor of THE HOPE INSTITUTE,I am experienced in treating teens and their families. Typical problems of teens include chemical dependency,Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar Disorder,Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Conduct Disorders,Academic Problems,behavior problems.
(949) 230-9602 View (949) 230-9602
Photo of Leonard Szymczak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Leonard Szymczak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92673
For the past 40 years, I worked in Australia & America as a therapist and educator. I was Director of the Family Therapy Program in Sydney and later worked with the Family Institute at Northwestern University. Since I am also a writer, I see you as the main character in your personal story called to face & transform adversity into personal happiness. I help individuals overcome anxiety & depression & help couples improve communication, resolve conflict, and increase love & intimacy. I am the co-author of "Power Tools for Men: A Blueprint for Healthy Masculinity" & co-author of "Fighting for Love: Turn Conflict into Intimacy."
For the past 40 years, I worked in Australia & America as a therapist and educator. I was Director of the Family Therapy Program in Sydney and later worked with the Family Institute at Northwestern University. Since I am also a writer, I see you as the main character in your personal story called to face & transform adversity into personal happiness. I help individuals overcome anxiety & depression & help couples improve communication, resolve conflict, and increase love & intimacy. I am the co-author of "Power Tools for Men: A Blueprint for Healthy Masculinity" & co-author of "Fighting for Love: Turn Conflict into Intimacy."
(949) 625-6704 View (949) 625-6704
Photo of Julie A Davis, Psychologist in San Clemente, CA
Julie A Davis
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
For the past 20 years, I have worked in Hospitals, Inpatient and Outpatient, Eating Disorder Clinics, a Women and Children's Domestic Violence Crisis Shelter, non-profit counseling centers for families and in an extremely challenging College setting with ages 17-65.In my private practice I see Individuals, couples, children and families. My experience working in numerous settings with people from diverse backgrounds with mild to severe mental health issues, has helped me develop a level of professional competence to help you and your family members with the highest level of care. Your well-being is my highest priority.
For the past 20 years, I have worked in Hospitals, Inpatient and Outpatient, Eating Disorder Clinics, a Women and Children's Domestic Violence Crisis Shelter, non-profit counseling centers for families and in an extremely challenging College setting with ages 17-65.In my private practice I see Individuals, couples, children and families. My experience working in numerous settings with people from diverse backgrounds with mild to severe mental health issues, has helped me develop a level of professional competence to help you and your family members with the highest level of care. Your well-being is my highest priority.
(949) 287-2871 View (949) 287-2871
Photo of Arlene K Unger, Psychologist in San Clemente, CA
Arlene K Unger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
Change is an inevitable part of life. The lack of change or too much change can overwhelm us and derail our growth. No one escapes hardship and stress. During these times we need the trust, respect, and empathy of an impartial professional especially when family and friends are just too close to the matter. With more than 20 years of clinical practice, I've found that the healthier person reaches out for help beyond their immediate sphere. I see myself as a guide facilitating my patients' healthy risk taking and helping them manifest their visions for a better future.
Change is an inevitable part of life. The lack of change or too much change can overwhelm us and derail our growth. No one escapes hardship and stress. During these times we need the trust, respect, and empathy of an impartial professional especially when family and friends are just too close to the matter. With more than 20 years of clinical practice, I've found that the healthier person reaches out for help beyond their immediate sphere. I see myself as a guide facilitating my patients' healthy risk taking and helping them manifest their visions for a better future.
(949) 342-5931 View (949) 342-5931
Photo of Encompass Counseling & Recovery Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Encompass Counseling & Recovery Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92672
Every situation is unique, with unique challenges, history, and patterns, so we focus all our proven clinical efforts on each individual and his or her family.
We believe people today are reacting to an existential emptiness in our culture with negative coping behaviors such as over use of social media, substance addictions, mental health crises, eating disorders, relational failures, even suicides. Treating the cause of these issues as well as symptoms requires a psychological, mental, and spiritual approach in order for us to thrive and attain lasting transformation into wholeness. Encompass takes such an approach, sensitive to the unique needs of our attempts to thrive, and overcome with resilience, hope and optimism for our futures.
Every situation is unique, with unique challenges, history, and patterns, so we focus all our proven clinical efforts on each individual and his or her family.
We believe people today are reacting to an existential emptiness in our culture with negative coping behaviors such as over use of social media, substance addictions, mental health crises, eating disorders, relational failures, even suicides. Treating the cause of these issues as well as symptoms requires a psychological, mental, and spiritual approach in order for us to thrive and attain lasting transformation into wholeness. Encompass takes such an approach, sensitive to the unique needs of our attempts to thrive, and overcome with resilience, hope and optimism for our futures.
(949) 565-2372 View (949) 565-2372
Photo of Yoshimi Enger, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Yoshimi Enger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92673
As a marital and family therapist with 24 years of experience, I have helped countless families, individuals, and couples through major struggles with anxiety, depression, stress, communication issues and trauma.
As a marital and family therapist with 24 years of experience, I have helped countless families, individuals, and couples through major struggles with anxiety, depression, stress, communication issues and trauma.
(949) 373-3549 View (949) 373-3549
Photo of Christine Lewis, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Christine Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and their families. I bring to my practice expertise in the fields of foster care, attachment, grief and loss, adoption, trauma and parenting. I have 26+ years of experience in working with traumatized youth in a variety of setting such as Level 12 and 14 residential, hospitals, schools and outpatient settings. I believe that what kids need most is to heal within their families, and although will work with the child individually believe that family sessions are crucial is building attachments and healing past trauma.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and their families. I bring to my practice expertise in the fields of foster care, attachment, grief and loss, adoption, trauma and parenting. I have 26+ years of experience in working with traumatized youth in a variety of setting such as Level 12 and 14 residential, hospitals, schools and outpatient settings. I believe that what kids need most is to heal within their families, and although will work with the child individually believe that family sessions are crucial is building attachments and healing past trauma.
(949) 536-9832 View (949) 536-9832
Photo of Paul Gillane, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Clemente, CA
Paul Gillane
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92673
My work is solution focused. I work in a Family Systems Orientation to help bring context to what is happening today and a Cognitive Behavioral Orientation to help clients make adjustments in the present. Our past family experiences are important. What we learned in our family is very much related to how we do life today.
My work is solution focused. I work in a Family Systems Orientation to help bring context to what is happening today and a Cognitive Behavioral Orientation to help clients make adjustments in the present. Our past family experiences are important. What we learned in our family is very much related to how we do life today.
(949) 313-8353 View (949) 313-8353

See more therapy options for San Clemente

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.