Therapists in Mission Viejo, CA
It is extremely difficult to change your thoughts or feelings. However, you have 100% control over your behavior. I will teach you how to accept your thoughts and feelings as they are in the present moment and to make specific commitments to change your behaviors. We will work together to create a better life for you one step at a time. I look forward to being your therapeutic partner on your journey toward inner peace and happiness.
It is extremely difficult to change your thoughts or feelings. However, you have 100% control over your behavior. I will teach you how to accept your thoughts and feelings as they are in the present moment and to make specific commitments to change your behaviors. We will work together to create a better life for you one step at a time. I look forward to being your therapeutic partner on your journey toward inner peace and happiness.
Jacquelyn Gurrieri
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CATC IV
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Thank you for checking out my therapy services. It would be an honor to support you on this therapy journey. Here's a little bit about me and my approach to therapy. When you come into therapy, I take the time to understand the whole you, not just your diagnosis or symptoms. We look at all areas of your life and see what needs to be addressed, supported, and adjusted. When working with couples, I also want to understand the couple as a unit and as individuals and not focus only on the problem. Often communication issues are at the forefront of couples issues. Which we can unpack and understand together.
Thank you for checking out my therapy services. It would be an honor to support you on this therapy journey. Here's a little bit about me and my approach to therapy. When you come into therapy, I take the time to understand the whole you, not just your diagnosis or symptoms. We look at all areas of your life and see what needs to be addressed, supported, and adjusted. When working with couples, I also want to understand the couple as a unit and as individuals and not focus only on the problem. Often communication issues are at the forefront of couples issues. Which we can unpack and understand together.
Michael J. Kuhle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
All meaningful lives involve pain, there is no escaping this. Even if we cannot avoid pain, we can learn to rise above it and still create a life worth living. Life will never be unbearable due to circumstances, but only from a lack of purpose and meaning. My job is to help you look at your situation differently, and to develop a committed action plan to make the positive changes you have been wanting to. Like the Serenity Prayer says, we need to accept the things we cannot change, and have courage to change what we can, starting with ourselves.
All meaningful lives involve pain, there is no escaping this. Even if we cannot avoid pain, we can learn to rise above it and still create a life worth living. Life will never be unbearable due to circumstances, but only from a lack of purpose and meaning. My job is to help you look at your situation differently, and to develop a committed action plan to make the positive changes you have been wanting to. Like the Serenity Prayer says, we need to accept the things we cannot change, and have courage to change what we can, starting with ourselves.
Are you living in conflict between your lifestyle and your heart? Do you feel like your desires clash with your faith? Do you feel out of place in the church, knowing what's right but unable to find the help you need to pursue it? Most importantly, are you trying to figure out who you are? If that sounds like you, I'd love to be your counselor! I'm here to talk to you outside of a traditional pastoral setting. I love guiding people in their spiritual journey, and I'm looking forward to helping you discover your identity in Christ.
Are you living in conflict between your lifestyle and your heart? Do you feel like your desires clash with your faith? Do you feel out of place in the church, knowing what's right but unable to find the help you need to pursue it? Most importantly, are you trying to figure out who you are? If that sounds like you, I'd love to be your counselor! I'm here to talk to you outside of a traditional pastoral setting. I love guiding people in their spiritual journey, and I'm looking forward to helping you discover your identity in Christ.
My work is solution focused. I work in the Gottman Method, Cognitive Behavioral Orientation and Family Systems to offer tools to manage our emotions and improve our relationships. Our past family experiences are important. What we learned in our family is very much related to how we do life today. But sometimes, I think, people may invest an inordinate amount of their time and resources analyzing the problems of the past. In doing so they may miss the exceptions to those problems that hold the key to change.
My work is solution focused. I work in the Gottman Method, Cognitive Behavioral Orientation and Family Systems to offer tools to manage our emotions and improve our relationships. Our past family experiences are important. What we learned in our family is very much related to how we do life today. But sometimes, I think, people may invest an inordinate amount of their time and resources analyzing the problems of the past. In doing so they may miss the exceptions to those problems that hold the key to change.
Martha R Contreras-Pantoja
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
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 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?
Rosa M. Izquierdo, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Are you having problems communicating with others or difficulty calming down in the middle of an argument? Are you involved in an abusive relationship and afraid to ask for help? Are you contemplating separation or divorce or wondering if you can find peace after a tragedy? Do you feel sad or irritable? Do you have trouble sleeping or feel hopeless? Are you an adult who was abused as a child and numbing your pain with substance of any kind?
Are you having problems communicating with others or difficulty calming down in the middle of an argument? Are you involved in an abusive relationship and afraid to ask for help? Are you contemplating separation or divorce or wondering if you can find peace after a tragedy? Do you feel sad or irritable? Do you have trouble sleeping or feel hopeless? Are you an adult who was abused as a child and numbing your pain with substance of any kind?
Brittany Taylor
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I love people. Having witnessed traumas from my own life, I know what it feels like to have hurt as well as healing. I have always loved teens & adults and strive to love them right where they are. I've worked closely with people since college (over 15 years ago) through private practices, group practice, churches, rehab. centers, camps, & conferences. I have training/skills to comfortably work with teens, allowing me to get to know them in a very authentic way. I have extensive experience working using CBT & EMDR methods & I have expertise in anxiety, relationship issues, & traumatic experiences that you need to work through!
I love people. Having witnessed traumas from my own life, I know what it feels like to have hurt as well as healing. I have always loved teens & adults and strive to love them right where they are. I've worked closely with people since college (over 15 years ago) through private practices, group practice, churches, rehab. centers, camps, & conferences. I have training/skills to comfortably work with teens, allowing me to get to know them in a very authentic way. I have extensive experience working using CBT & EMDR methods & I have expertise in anxiety, relationship issues, & traumatic experiences that you need to work through!
Kristin Kay Guenther
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RDAT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
You are not alone! I know sometimes it can feel that way and I am here to say I would be honored to support you in your journey of emotional freedom. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve their goals for a more fulfilling and balanced life. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to therapy. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, we will work to identify patterns and beliefs that may be contributing to your challenges, and we will develop personalized strategies to promote lasting change and growth.
You are not alone! I know sometimes it can feel that way and I am here to say I would be honored to support you in your journey of emotional freedom. I am passionate about helping individuals overcome challenges and achieve their goals for a more fulfilling and balanced life. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to therapy. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, we will work to identify patterns and beliefs that may be contributing to your challenges, and we will develop personalized strategies to promote lasting change and growth.
Holly Merrill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope? Unexpected life events, relationship issues, and daily life stressors (just to name a few) can lead to feelings that seem unmanageable. You may have lost motivation to participate in activities you once enjoyed, feel a heightened sense of anxiety, and lack coping skills to help you through the day. As a result, you may not feel like yourself anymore and end up feeling lonely and isolated. Together we will work through the difficulties and help you regain satisfaction and hope in your life and relationships.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope? Unexpected life events, relationship issues, and daily life stressors (just to name a few) can lead to feelings that seem unmanageable. You may have lost motivation to participate in activities you once enjoyed, feel a heightened sense of anxiety, and lack coping skills to help you through the day. As a result, you may not feel like yourself anymore and end up feeling lonely and isolated. Together we will work through the difficulties and help you regain satisfaction and hope in your life and relationships.
Dr. Yvonne M Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Sometimes it's hard to be a parent; you love your child and want to help them live a healthy life. You've tried everything, but nothing seems to help. You desire answers to help your child regain that happy smile they once had. Parenting is one of the most rewarding and challenging things you will do in your life. The good news is that as a parent, you have the opportunity to shape your child's future in a positive direction. My passion is working with children and parents to regain the of life and healthy relationships that every parent desires for their child.
Sometimes it's hard to be a parent; you love your child and want to help them live a healthy life. You've tried everything, but nothing seems to help. You desire answers to help your child regain that happy smile they once had. Parenting is one of the most rewarding and challenging things you will do in your life. The good news is that as a parent, you have the opportunity to shape your child's future in a positive direction. My passion is working with children and parents to regain the of life and healthy relationships that every parent desires for their child.
15 Second Videos
Paul Gillane
Yvonne M Miller
Jennifer Riley
Evan Fewsmith
Harry C. Robinson
Paul Gillane
Lauren (Lo) Wise
Veronica Waters
Jillian Hynynen
Kiandra Hebert
AnnMarie Nelson, LMFT, EMDR
Erin Hulon
Curtis Hsia
Karen Rippy
Katherine Boelts
Danielle Roxborough
Paul Gillane
Sheryl Doering
Bahaur Amini
Vincent Nunez
Ray of Sunshine Therapy, INC
Debbie Alexander
Danielle L. Cisneros
Christophe Ngo
Interventions and Beyond / Roberto A Henderson
Tiffany Modica
Jeffrey Ly Quitting Porn Specialization
VCAT Mental Health and Detox Center
Lynda G Helfend
Elizabeth M Domingos-Shepard
Cort Curtis
Leonard Szymczak
Arash Shahangian
Janet Marie Congo
Katie Schaffer
Mark Wojciechowski
Kristy Lynn Bradford
Wave After Wave Counseling
Brittney Christie
Emily A. Majano
Danielle Ball
Deb Watt
Cathryn Wilson
Priscilla Chilian Roach
Honorary Godparent
Erika Mora
Monique Valle
Mr. Therapist, Individual and Family Therapy
Jamila Mahfudh
Meg Elam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92692
Do you feel stuck? Are you struggling with relationships and having trouble embracing life to its fullest? Does facing the day seem more challenging and overwhelming than it ought to? I would love to assist you to make some positive changes in your life.
Do you feel stuck? Are you struggling with relationships and having trouble embracing life to its fullest? Does facing the day seem more challenging and overwhelming than it ought to? I would love to assist you to make some positive changes in your life.
Hello. My name is Aliyah, and I am looking to work with clients who would like to empower themselves through honoring their culture, gender expression, and neurodiversity. As a person of color with a beautifully diverse brain, I understand the difficulties that many humans face in accepting the reality around them and finding their place. I would love to walk that journey alongside you until you feel ready to do it on your own again. Thank you for reading, and I look forward to connecting with you.
Hello. My name is Aliyah, and I am looking to work with clients who would like to empower themselves through honoring their culture, gender expression, and neurodiversity. As a person of color with a beautifully diverse brain, I understand the difficulties that many humans face in accepting the reality around them and finding their place. I would love to walk that journey alongside you until you feel ready to do it on your own again. Thank you for reading, and I look forward to connecting with you.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Steve Aird
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691 (Online Only)
Are you grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a job? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or are you lacking motivation? Are you experiencing challenges in your current relationships? Do current or past traumas make it difficult to manage daily life? If you are seeking healing, healthy and loving relationships, freedom from current and past traumas, and greater peace and joy, I would love to work with you. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and age groups.
Are you grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a job? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or are you lacking motivation? Are you experiencing challenges in your current relationships? Do current or past traumas make it difficult to manage daily life? If you are seeking healing, healthy and loving relationships, freedom from current and past traumas, and greater peace and joy, I would love to work with you. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and age groups.
Patricia Zielinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Whether this is your first time searching for a therapist or you have been in therapy before, I am glad that you found my profile. My name is Patricia Zielinski and I have over 20 years of experience working as a therapist treating a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders and addictions. People often tell me that the process of finding a therapist is challenging. I agree, and personally understand that finding the right person to trust to help you is crucial. Your time and financial investment in therapy needs to produce real results that are sustainable.
Whether this is your first time searching for a therapist or you have been in therapy before, I am glad that you found my profile. My name is Patricia Zielinski and I have over 20 years of experience working as a therapist treating a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders and addictions. People often tell me that the process of finding a therapist is challenging. I agree, and personally understand that finding the right person to trust to help you is crucial. Your time and financial investment in therapy needs to produce real results that are sustainable.
I am a clinical therapist that has been in the field of mental health for many years. I have a specialized knowledge of trauma, depression, and anxiety disorders. Some clients have high levels of anxiety that makes them feel uncomfortable. Or, they have been struggling with certain thinking patterns that are cyclical and come to no resolution. Sometimes, they are struggling with relationship conflicts that keep bringing up things from the past. Examples, such as these are often trauma related. Having a therapist who understands traumas can make the difference.
I am a clinical therapist that has been in the field of mental health for many years. I have a specialized knowledge of trauma, depression, and anxiety disorders. Some clients have high levels of anxiety that makes them feel uncomfortable. Or, they have been struggling with certain thinking patterns that are cyclical and come to no resolution. Sometimes, they are struggling with relationship conflicts that keep bringing up things from the past. Examples, such as these are often trauma related. Having a therapist who understands traumas can make the difference.
Amelie Fery
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I believe that my clients already have the answers, wisdom, and capacity within themselves. My purpose is to help them access these resources by removing the obstacles and understand why they are here in the first place. I have noticed that in many cases, the root of the negative thoughts, emotions, or behaviors is trauma. While I am passionate about helping clients reprocess traumatic experiences through EMDR, building skills like acceptance and resilience through self-awareness is at the core of our collaborative work.
I believe that my clients already have the answers, wisdom, and capacity within themselves. My purpose is to help them access these resources by removing the obstacles and understand why they are here in the first place. I have noticed that in many cases, the root of the negative thoughts, emotions, or behaviors is trauma. While I am passionate about helping clients reprocess traumatic experiences through EMDR, building skills like acceptance and resilience through self-awareness is at the core of our collaborative work.
Katie Valenti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Waitlist for new clients
I'm so happy you're here! I help adults and teens find their way back to a meaningful and joyful life. The unmanageability of feeling like your life is out of control can be overwhelming. Stress, depression and anxiety are beginning to impact your relationships, work, school, and self-esteem. If you have been attempting to manage these symptoms on your own but struggle to do so, I'm here to help.
I'm so happy you're here! I help adults and teens find their way back to a meaningful and joyful life. The unmanageability of feeling like your life is out of control can be overwhelming. Stress, depression and anxiety are beginning to impact your relationships, work, school, and self-esteem. If you have been attempting to manage these symptoms on your own but struggle to do so, I'm here to help.
I have extensive experience working with teens and adults who suffer from anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders (OCD), Autism Spectrum Disorders, and various other psychological conditions and behavioral concerns. Cognitive Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention are evidence-based practices that have proven highly effective for treating anxiety and OCD. Cognitive Therapy is a structured and direct form of psychological treatment, with each plan individually tailored to provide the best outcomes and support.
I have extensive experience working with teens and adults who suffer from anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders (OCD), Autism Spectrum Disorders, and various other psychological conditions and behavioral concerns. Cognitive Therapy and Exposure and Response Prevention are evidence-based practices that have proven highly effective for treating anxiety and OCD. Cognitive Therapy is a structured and direct form of psychological treatment, with each plan individually tailored to provide the best outcomes and support.
See more therapy options for Mission Viejo
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Mission Viejo, CA
300+
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in Mission Viejo, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
77% | Relationship Issues |
74% | Self Esteem |
71% | Coping Skills |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
71% | Aetna |
66% | Cigna and Evernorth |
55% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Mission Viejo, CA see their clients
77% | In Person and Online | |
23% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Mission Viejo?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.